You’re in the market for a used truck but don’t want a gas-powered one. Unless you’re ready to make the jump to an electric pickup, that means buying a used diesel truck. But what do you need to know about buying a used diesel truck before actually finalizing your purchase? 

How to properly inspect a used diesel truck

This goes without saying. If you’re going to buy a used diesel truck, you need to know what to look out for. According to CarsDirect, when shopping for a used diesel truck, you should be doing things like checking out the truck’s exhaust system to make sure that it works properly. You should also check the vehicle’s oil and take a gander at its radiator. 

You’re going to want to keep an eye out for rust too. Driving Line reports that while some surface rust is acceptable, you should make sure that you’re not buying a used diesel truck with structural components that are well passed the point of repair. To check for rust, Driving Line says to take a look at the inside of the truck’s frame, not just its exterior too. 

And if you’re not confident in your inspection abilities? Edmunds recommends that you enlist the help of a mechanic. According to Edmunds, having a professional inspection done will give you a good understanding of what might be wrong with the used diesel truck you’re looking at. It will also help familiarize you with the vehicle itself.

Ask why the owner is selling their used diesel truck

This is an easy one. Why is the truck’s current owner looking to sell it? Gauge Magazine reports that depending on the seller or dealership’s answer, asking this question will shine some light on whether or not you’ll be responsible for any current or future mechanical problems.

So, what’s a good answer to this question? Gauge Magazine reports that if the used diesel pickup is being sold because the owner wants to upgrade to a new or different model, then odds are you don’t have much to worry about. But if the owner is getting rid of their diesel truck because there’s something wrong with it? That should raise a few red flags.

All used diesel trucks should come with a paper trail

Before buying a used diesel truck, CarsDirect recommends asking the seller or dealership for the truck’s vehicle history report. This report will give you valuable insight as to what the truck has been through. It’ll tell you about any repairs or accidents the truck has been in. It’ll also make note of any recalls associated with the vehicle. Additionally, a vehicle history report will tell you how well the truck has actually been taken care of. After all, regularly scheduled maintenance is the key to a used diesel pickup’s longevity.

Don’t forget to get behind the wheel for a test drive

There’s a lot that goes into buying a used diesel truck. From inspecting it to combing through its maintenance records, finding the perfect used diesel truck for satisfying your driving needs is going to take some effort. But amidst all that effort? Don’t forget to get behind the wheel for a test drive. In the end, taking a used diesel pickup out for a test drive is the best way to find out if it’s a good fit for you.