What should I inspect on a used truck?

Buying a truck for sale can be an exciting process. When you work with a reputable South Bend, Indiana car dealership, choosing a used truck is a great way to save significant cash. RB Car Company is proud to offer a robust selection of used trucks for sale near you. Our selection of pickup trucks for sale includes options for every customer's needs. Whether you're in the market for a brawny diesel truck for sale or a compact truck, RB Car Company has you covered. But buying a used truck isn't always as straightforward as buying a new model. Let's review the most important components to inspect when shopping for a used truck near you. 

Used Truck Buying Checklist

• First, inspect the body of the truck for sale. Do you notice any signs of rust? While some rusting is a mere cosmetic problem, look out for rust near the exhaust pipes, muffler, wheels, frame rails, and floor plans. Evidence of rust in these locations can be a sign of a more serious issue. Do the body panels match perfectly, or do some parts of the exterior look newer than the rest? Do the doors and fenders align properly? Don't forget to open and close the trunk, doors, and hood to ensure they operate properly! Of course, all the used trucks at our South Bend, Indiana car dealership will be in remarkable condition.

• When the engine is cool, pop the hood of the truck for sale and take a look. Look out for battery corrosion, loose wires, and oil splatters. Although you won't find these problems in any truck at our South Bend, Indiana car dealership, they're all red flags. Make sure that the belts are intact and not frayed, and that the hose is still elastic. Look for stains outside the radiator of the used truck for sale near you, because they can indicate leaks. 

• The braking system is one of the most important components in any used truck near you. Start by taking a look at the brake pads to confirm they're in good condition. When you test drive the pickup truck for sale, test the brakes for firmness. Any sponginess or bumpiness should be treated as a cautionary warning.

• Check the suspension of the truck by bouncing the corners while it is standing level. The truck shouldn't bounce very much, and if it does, there may be an issue with the suspension or the shock absorbers.

• Take a look at the glass on the used truck for sale. Cracks and scratches can spread over time, putting you in an unsafe position. Take note of any imperfections in the auto glass on the truck.

• Finally, check out the tires for even wear and uniformity. 

When you shop at RB Car Company, you can count on a huge selection of high-quality trucks. Visit our car dealership in South Bend, Indiana today to explore our current inventory!