Many Philly residents rely on used trucks — from professionals who need a reliable and powerful workhorse to weekend warriors who require a durable and dependable truck for their adventures. If you’re looking for used trucks in Philadelphia, you’re in good company. Buying used can be a great option, and it doesn’t have to be a hassle. There are just a couple of things to consider during your search for used trucks in that area. This guide to shopping for used trucks in Philadelphia makes the process easier.
1. Know What You Need Before You Shop
Before you even begin shopping for used trucks in Philadelphia, ask yourself what you want the vehicle for. Do you need a vehicle that can haul heavy tools and building materials, tow enormous trailers, or transport your entire family on a road trip? Or do you need all three? These different scenarios will require different sizes, engine types, towing capacities, and more.
Here’s a simple list to start:
- Heavy- or light-duty?
- What’s the towing capacity?
- What’s your fuel preference: gas or diesel?
- What kind of cab?
These are just a few of the questions you should ask before shopping for used trucks. If you have a good answer to each one, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and money by not accidentally buying a truck that doesn’t fit your needs.
2. Establish and Stick to Your Budget
Used trucks in Philadelphia are available at a wide range of price points. Consider the truck’s model year, condition, trim level, and mileage when determining how much to spend. Also consider tax and title fees, insurance costs, and routine maintenance.
Don’t give in to the temptation to spend a little more than you’d planned. Leave yourself a little wiggle room in your budget for an emergency, which could range from buying different kinds of tires to paying for unexpected repairs after you bring the truck home.
3. Inspect the Vehicle
Philadelphia has a diverse used truck inventory — some with years of life left in them, and others that are duds. Here’s how to tell which is which:
- Rust: Look at the undercarriage, wheel wells, tailgate, and anywhere else rust can hide.
- Tire wear: If the tires don’t have an even wear pattern, the truck may have an alignment or suspension problem.
- Service records: Has the owner maintained the truck? If they have, that’s a good sign.
- Frame damage: Look under the truck to see if it’s been in an accident or off-road adventure that caused damage.
The best step is to take the truck to a mechanic or ask the seller to allow a pre-purchase inspection.
4. Go for a Test Drive and Trust Your Gut
Though the truck may look like it is in good shape, you will never know for sure unless you give it a test drive. How does it feel as you drive it down the road? Is it quiet? Accelerating quickly and smoothly? Stopping correctly? Can it zip through traffic and swing through tight turns? How does it park? You’d be shocked at how low visibility and a bad turning radius can affect you.
5. Ask the Right Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the seller or dealership. You have the right to be as inquisitive as you want.
- Has it ever been in an accident?
- Why are you selling it?
- When was the last time it had a major service?
- Are there any recalls on it right now?
A trustworthy dealership should be happy to answer all your questions and more. Your best bet for finding the right used truck is a local dealership in Philadelphia. Looking online is good, but a reputable dealership will allow a test drive, give trade-in information, and possibly offer a short warranty.
The Perfect Ending
There’s no reason to be scared when buying a used truck. Just remember, with a proper mentality, some hard-hitting questions, and the right checklist, you’ll drive away in a workhorse truck that’s bound to serve you for as long as it takes.
