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Buying a secondhand truck instead of a new one has its advantages.

The biggest selling point is they’re cheaper than brand new units, giving you the chance to nab the more recent models at a lower price. Plus, you avoid the initial depreciation every vehicle goes through once you’ve driven it off the lot.

But since they’re used, a secondhand truck purchase will need scrutiny. The vehicle may be faulty, it could be a gas guzzler, or it may no longer have its warranty.

You can avoid these pitfalls when you know how to properly inspect the lineup of used lifted diesel trucks for sale.

1. Check the suspension

Lifting trucks change the vehicle’s suspension, which affects the control and smoothness of the drive. Regardless of what type of lift was used – spacer lift, torsion bar, coil spring, leaf spring, air suspension – check the suspension component to make sure it’s still in good condition. These parts deteriorate or rust over time, impacting the overall performance of the vehicle.

Check if the suspension is working as it should by bouncing the corners of the vehicle. Decent shock absorbers prevent the truck from vibrating too much. If it rebounds more than once, it means the suspension needs to be recalibrated or the component needs replacing.

2. Look at the fluids

Diesel engines use two major fluids: coolant and oil. The color and consistency of these two can tell you when there’s anything wrong with the vehicle internally. Beware if the coolant is streaky and has plenty of gunk. It should have a clear green or orange color. On the other hand, oil that has a milky white texture and color indicates that there’s a problem with the engine.

3. Check the tires

The tread wear on the tires is a good indicator of used cars. Too much wear on the inside or outside of the tire means there may be problems with handling or alignment. Tire cupping or an uneven tread wear pattern may entail excessive vibration.

Also, lifted trucks use larger, heavier tires for off-road driving. Check whether the current ones is the kind you need or you still need to replace them. This helps you tally the expenses you’ll need to make the vehicle truly roadworthy.

4. Inspect the brakes

Lifting a truck affects its tire size and height, so the brake caliper and rotor size should match the load of the vehicle. Update the current brake system if it doesn’t support the extra mass. You can do this by installing larger or higher-performing pads, calipers, or rotors. Plenty of companies design brake kits specifically for lifted trucks that carry heavy loads.

5. Ask for a history report

This document details everything the car has been through, including repairs, accidents, floods, and even recalls. A complete service record also shows the past owners of the vehicle. If the truck has gone from one hand to the next in such little time, there may be something irreparable with the unit. And the same issues may recur under your ownership.

Not all dealers and sellers will volunteer this information; you have to ask for it. If they can’t provide you a history report, that’s already a red flag.

7. Get a warranty

Most secondhand vehicles come with some sort of warranty. Ask the dealer which components are still under warranty. Check if you still qualify for the federal emissions warranty, which covers some trucks up to eight years or with a mileage of 80,000 miles.

Warranties will help you shave off several dollars from your restoration expenses, especially if you’re buying a higher mileage car, which likely needs more repairs.

When it comes to secondhand trucks, purchase only from reputable sellers to ensure the condition of the vehicle. Check customers reviews of the dealer and if they have maintenance records available. Dependable owners will have their paperwork organized, so you can rest easy knowing the vehicle was in good hands.

Trusted Used Truck Dealer in Arizona

With over 30 years in the business, Canyon State Trucks is fully equipped to supply good quality secondhand trucks. We carry an extensive selection of used SUVs and trucks, all for fair prices. Our experienced sales staff are here to make your purchasing experience enjoyable and help you choose the best unit for your needs.

View our inventory today or fill out our short contact form for inquiries.