Americans have had a long-standing affection for pickup trucks—and it’s
not hard to see why. The combination of unique design, powerful engine, and
amazing extra features can sometimes be irresistible, even if you’ve never
driven a pickup truck before.
If the idea of becoming a pickup truck owner for the first time is simply
too much to resist, it may be a good idea to visit a trusted car dealership in
Portland, like McLoughlin Chevy, and take a look at used trucks. A brand new pickup truck is often
quite expensive, but a used pickup truck in good condition often offers amazing
bang for your buck.
Of course, buying a pickup truck is a little different than buying a
sedan or even an SUV. As such, there are a few things you should keep in mind
as you check out the lineup at the dealership:
Towing Power Is the Name of
the Game
For the most part, people who purchase pickup trucks intend to haul
heavy loads. People who enjoy the outdoors often love pickups because the
vehicle can easily be loaded with equipment, as well as haul a trailer when
necessary. If you plan to use your pickup for this purpose, let the dealership
staff know so they can recommend used trucks that have enough power for your
needs.
Did It See Off-Road Usage?
One of the joys that pickup trucks provide, which other vehicles can’t,
is that pickup trucks are designed to withstand off-road adventures. Keep in
mind that the previous owner may have taken the opportunity to enjoy this
advantage. Off-road wear and tear is something you won’t want to have to deal
with when purchasing a used truck. The best way to check would be to look into
the underside for dents and scratches. These signs often indicate heavy
off-road use. In such cases, you definitely want to have a mechanic take a
closer look at the suspension, chassis, etc.
Fuel Economy Is Never an
Afterthought
Fuel economy isn’t something that pickup trucks are known for, but that
doesn’t mean that you should turn a blind eye to that aspect. Take the time to
research online several trucks that are known for decent fuel economy and see
if those models are available at your dealership. This is also a good time to
read up on the experiences of people who have purchased those models as used trucks to gain a better
understanding of how well a particular model has withstood the test of time.
What to Look for in a 4x4
Trucks that boast four wheel drive have some of the more powerful
options available, but this also means that there are a few other factors you
should look out for. To start off, push down on each corner of the truck. If
the truck bounces more than once before leveling off, there is a good chance it
needs a new set of shock absorbers. Rust and other forms of corrosion are an
even bigger concern, so be sure to look underneath the car and under the hood.
These are just some of the tips that can help you keep your used pickup
truck in tiptop shape. For more helpful advice, go to a reputable dealership
and talk to an experienced technician. Most dealerships would love to maintain
good relationship with their clients by being helpful to them in anyway.
McLoughlin Chevy is a respected new and used car dealership serving
Portland, OR. We carry the latest vehicles from Chevrolet, as well as a wide
range of used cars that are in fantastic condition. We also have a service
center on-site and offer in-house financing.
Sources:
Pickup Truck Buying Guide, ConsumerReports.org
How to Buy a Used 4X4, FieldAndStream.com
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