Things to Consider Before Buying a Second-Hand Pickup Truck

The truck industry in India has shown significant growth over the years, with more than 228000 heavy and medium truck sales in 2022. While the demand for both new and second-hand trucks is on the rise, businesses have got a handful of options to consider. While there are several options available in the market, choosing the right truck for your business can be an arduous job. The rise in the price of new pickup trucks has compelled several business owners to opt for second-hand pickup trucks. However, the question is, is it a viable option? To help you make an informed decision, here are some pros and cons of buying a second-hand pickup truck for your business.

Disadvantages of Buying a Second-Hand Pickup Truck

The primary purpose of pickup trucks in India is to carry heavy loads, mainly for export and import goods services. Although the second-hand pickup truck is pocket-friendly, it has its own drawbacks.

• Poor Truck Condition: Even after you check the truck and take it on a test drive, inspecting the truck’s condition from the inside is not always possible. There might be problems, and you might inherit a truck with damages.
• Poor Performance: Driving a second-hand truck is never the same as driving a new one. Since vehicle parts wear off with time, the truck might break down frequently, costing you money to repair.
• Zero warranties: With a new pickup truck, the company provides a few years of warranty. However, with second-hand pickup trucks, the option is rarely available.
• Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs: Frequent breakdowns and repairings will lose you money and not be suitable for business. Since these vehicles are integral to business, second-hand trucks might not always be the best option.
• Durability: Compared to new pickup trucks, second-hand vehicles have a short life span. It either requires repair or a replacement within months of purchase. The durability of used trucks is low.

Advantages of Buying a Second-Hand Pickup Truck

There are several pickup truck models on the market today. If you plan to buy a second-hand pickup truck, here are some advantages that might favour your business.

• Second-Hand Trucks are Cheap: Second-hand pickup trucks offer similar performance, features as good as new modems, and capability, all at a much lower price. However, you can only get all the good features after proper research.
• More Options: Since new models are few in the market, buying a secondhand pickup truck provides various options. You can find your desired truck with the required features.
• Avoid Early Devaluation: When you buy a new pickup truck, the price immediately drops. However, if you buy a second-hand pickup truck, the first owner will take the early depreciation, and you can avoid it. Moreover, you also get the benefit of buying an almost new pickup truck at a much lower price.
• Certified Pre-owned Truck: Certified pre-owned trucks, or CPO trucks, are best as they cost less than a new vehicle but also come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
• Low Insurance: With a newly owned truck, the insurance amount is high and often lasts for years. However, the insurance is way lower with a second-hand pickup truck due to its initial depreciation.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Second-Hand Pickup Truck

Before you buy a second-hand pickup truck for your business, it’s vital to consider the advantages and the disadvantages. However, to help you better assess the situation, here is a comprehensive guide on a few things to consider before making the purchase.

Look for a Trusted Seller

When looking forward to buying a second-hand pickup truck, it’s crucial to look for a reliable seller. A trustworthy seller will ensure that the vehicles have undergone tests and procedures and are in good condition. The dealers often offer after-sales services; they assist with name transfers and other necessary documentation. However, before making the purchase, it’s crucial to gather information about the truck and look for why the previous owner sold the truck.

How Old is the Pick-up Truck?

The age of the truck is a vital thing to consider, especially when you buy a second-hand pickup truck. Since most companies have a ten-year procedure of financing, a truck above ten may not qualify for financing. Moreover, these trucks may not capitulate to the new emission criteria, making getting in instalments challenging. Moreover, if you need to replace any part of the truck, it might not be easy to find the parts in the market. Therefore, it’s crucial to inspect the truck parts and check the age of the truck before making the purchase.

Check the Engine Condition

Old engines are weary and often develop leaks due to damaged oil rings and gaskets, which causes the lubricants to leak. A shiny and clean old engine demonstrates regular supervision. Ensuring good mileage for a new driver with the truck is vital. A truck requires occasional maintenance even when it is not in use. Coolant checks, oil changes, filter and radiator cleaning, diesel checks etc., require time-to-time care. Other parts, such as the axles, leaf springs, shockers, brakes, air tanks, clutch, propeller shaft, etc., also require periodic checks. Although these are small parts of the truck, they all play a crucial role in maintaining it.

Insurance/Warranty of the Truck

When you plan to buy a second-hand truck, it might not be covered under insurance or a manufacturer’s warranty. Therefore, it is crucial to look for other options to ensure the truck’s security, especially when the warranty has expired. Often the number of kilometres or the warranty period is completed, which results in the expiry of the warranty. The previous owner usually takes the vehicle to another area for servicing, violating the policy. Although a warranty only covers a few essential internal parts of the vehicle, insurance covers the entire vehicle. Therefore, having insurance is a necessary investment.

Vehicle Body and Engine Fluid Condition

In comparison to a new truck, a second-hand pickup truck requires high maintenance as it has already undergone a heavy load and travelled thousands of kilometres. With proper maintenance given to the vehicle, you can find a secondhand pickup truck in great condition. The lifespan and replacement schedule determine the part conditions of the truck. The thermal, viscosity, and oxidation stability of oils decline with time, which leaves a non-oily liquid. It’s crucial to check all the lubricants, including diesel when you purchase a secondhand pickup truck. Old lubricants and oils often lead to corrosion and rust in other parts of the truck and engine.

The Bottom Line

Purchasing a second-hand pickup truck had its own set of advantages in comparison to buying a brand-new truck. Moreover, a used truck has already been on the road, making it comfortable to travel on long terrain. However, warranty, maintenance history, truck age, engine condition, and insurance coverage are some critical things to consider. After evaluating every aspect, make an informed decision while choosing the best second-hand pickup truck for your business.

We hope we have been able to clarify your doubts regarding the best second-hand pickup truck for your business and its benefits. For any further assistance with regard to the transportation and logistics sector, you can reach out to our team at Vahak. As one of the top leading online transport marketplace, Vahak ensures that truck owners can network and gain collaborative opportunities with business owners.