American vs European, cab-over vs conventional, 4×2 vs 8×4 – there are lots of decisions to be made when purchasing a prime mover. Use this list to help formulate your plan and the questions you’ll have for the people trying to sell you a truck.
What type of prime mover?
As we mentioned, there are advantages and disadvantages related to the configuration of the cab, the number of axles (and how many of those are driven or steerers), and what brand you choose (in terms of your servicing options). Also consider how much power you will need to tow the loads you want to tow; an over-powered truck is simply using up more fuel than necessary.
Cab over vs conventional – read the advantages and disadvantages here.
Cash or finance?
Your first consideration is your budget and your asset philosophy. How much can you afford, and do you want to own the asset outright by paying cash, or do you want to take advantage of the tax and cashflow advantages of financing a truck.
Your initial research should take in all the current vehicles for sale within your search parameters so you have a good idea of a fair price.
Age, mileage and service history
An older truck with higher mileage can still be a great buy if it’s been serviced regularly, has had items replaced when necessary, and is priced fairly. Trucks to steer clear of are those where the history is dubious, or there are some potential large jobs to do (for example, engine replacement), but the price doesn’t reflect this. Also bear in mind that older trucks are likely to use more fuel, may suffer from more noise, vibration and harshness, and won’t necessarily have the safety technology of newer trucks.
Turntable and towing connection
Is the turntable at the right height for your trailer? Do you need an adjustable height turntable? Do you need a bolt and pin connector such as a Ringfeder, too.
Do you need a warranty?
If it’s a low-mileage, recently produced second hand truck, it may still have some warranty remaining. Ensure you transfer it to your name. Alternatively, you can look to purchase a warranty if you want peace of mind.
Exterior features
Check the tyres. Having to replace 10 of them in the near future will drain your finances.
Check the paint. Is it cracked or peeling, are there any major dents or issues?
Check underneath the prime mover. Look for rust and corrosion, dents, leaks, etc.
Check all lights work.
Listen to the engine for rattles, air leaks, etc.
Check the engine for leaks and obvious signs of damage. You can also get a full mechanical check.
Does the description in the ad match the truck you are looking at?
Interior features
Check the seat is in good condition and all controls work (seats are expensive to replace).
All switchgear and gauges should work.
Test all binnacles, blinds, buttons and handles.
Check items in the sleeper cab.
Does the description in the ad match what you can see in the truck?
Will you need anything to be added?
If you have some specific requirements where you’ll need work to be done on the truck, is there a supplier available? Are parts available? This could be a bull bar, for example.
Private sale vs dealership vs auction
A private sale has the advantage of better negotiability on the price as there’s no dealer margin to include. However, private sales aren’t always conveniently located, don’t offer a range of vehicles in the same location, and cannot offer the security of purchasing from a dealer. A dealer may be able to provide other services like finance and maintenance plans.
If you are purchasing from a private seller, ensure that they can supply all the documentation including proof of ownership, service history and proof of ownership.
Auction are a hunting ground for a truck bargain, but you must have done your research beforehand.
Take a test drive
Does it drive as you would expect? Are there any knocks or rattles? Does the engine accelerate as expected, do the gears change smoothly, does reverse work, and do the brakes work well? Check for play in the steering. Ensure that you couple a trailer to test the turntable works; the release handle shouldn’t jam, and the locking jaws should lock around the kingpin.
Do the deal or walk away?
If you’ve done your research, you’ll know when to walk away. Usually, if a truck is priced well below market value, there is something wrong with it. Does the price reflect the overall condition, the type of truck, and the mileage?
The above advice should ensure that you avoid ‘buyer’s remorse’, but you may also need to consider the impact of waiting. If you have a contract that you’ll lose without the truck, your hand may be forced and you’ll end up buying a truck that has a risk of being difficult in the future.
Darren is an expert on driving and transport, and is a member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists
