Used Trucks: A Quick, Simple Buyer’s Guide to Finding the Best Truck

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.

About McLoughlin Chevy:

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

Common Blunders You Should Avoid When Purchasing Used Trucks in Portland

If you’re looking for a vehicle that can meet your light-duty towing, loading, and off-road transportation needs, the Chevrolet Silverado with 6.2-L V-8 can be your best bet. This 4 x 4 truck boasts of reasonably refined powertrains that provide sufficient muscles to take on heavy loads and conquer virtually all types of terrain. Inside the vehicle awaits multiple features that make driving safe, comfortable, and fun.

Because Chevrolet 6.2 is jam-packed with perks, the price of a brand new unit can be prohibitive, especially if you are purchasing on a budget. Luckily, there are dealerships in Portland that offer used trucks to give buyers affordable yet worthwhile options.

Buying a used truck, however, requires a slightly different approach when compared to buying a new truck, mainly because the vehicle’s quality has already diminished, along with all other reasons. Following are car buying mistakes that you need to avoid to make sure that the used truck you will buy has all the features you need.

Neglecting Inspection to Save Time

While you are expected to fork out less on a used truck, it is still a huge investment that is worth your time and attention. Invest time in inspection. Hire a mechanic to check every nook and cranny for dents, scratches, and other tiny details that can have a huge impact on the truck’s performance, durability, and safety.The fact that you don’t know the vehicle’s current condition makes inspection all the more necessary, so give it time. Inspection can reveal essential information, such as the vehicle’s accident history, replaced parts, repair works done, and maintenance issues.

Buying without Weighing

A Chevrolet 6.2 is perfect for carrying and towing a wide range of loads, from light groceries and camping tools to heavy construction materials. Despite this perk, it still pays to know the type and weight of cargo you will be using the truck for. Does the cargo bed have enough space for such load? Will it hold the weight without the engine or tires taking a huge toll? All these questions have to be answered before you even think about calling a dealership.

Taking Mileage Lightly

Gas mileage may seem trivial but it is actually a critical issue that you must never overlook when purchasing a used truck. You have to determine how much you will be using the truck and for how long. It wouldn’t be so much of an issue if you will be traveling short distances, but if you’ve planned on using this truck for long-distance towing from the beginning, you should rethink your options now. You may want to purchase a brand new unit instead. 

Forgetting the Past and Moving On

When it comes to buying a vehicle, especially a used truck, you should not be hasty to forget the past. Find out as much information about the truck’s history as possible before you finally make up your mind. Learn about how the previous owner used and took care of it and what type of detailing it underwent in the past. These pieces of information, no matter how inconsequential they may seem for you, are actually crucial, as they can keep you and other future passengers safe in every journey. 

To ensure that you will avoid these mistakes and succeed on your purchase, go to a car dealership instead of a private seller. Not only do dealerships like McLoughlin Chevrolet offer more options, but they also make sure their pre-owned vehicles have been thoroughly inspected and detailed before being made available on their lots. Also, there’s a chance that the original add-ons, including insurance and warranties, have also been preserved.

Sources:

3 Important Things to Consider When Buying A Used Truck, TheWeeklyDriver.com

Engine and Transmission, CarAndDriver.com

A 5-Point Inspection Checklist Every Buyer of Used Trucks in Portland Should Use

When buying any type of pre-owned vehicle, you have to thoroughly inspect it before signing the document that would close the deal. Inspection reveals a lot of important, and sometimes scary, information about vehicles, which usually affect a buyer’s final decision. For example, you may find a hidden damage that seems trivial but actually suggests a serious issue that requires a major, expensive overhaul. This is particularly helpful when purchasing a highly in-demand vehicle like a pickup truck.

Pickups do more than just take people to places they want. They can also be used for towing and carrying heavy load. If you are planning to utilize the used pickup trucks you are buying in Portland for transporting cargo, you should be more adamant in inspecting them from inside and out. Here are five of the most important aspects of a pickup truck that you need to inspect before purchase.

Fluids and Greases

A pickup truck functions pretty much like the human body. The fluids serve as its blood. When the blood doesn’t look and feel right, it means there’s something wrong with it, and it goes downhill from there. There are many types of fluid that circulate within a pickup truck—radiator fluid, motor oil, transmission fluid, AC coolant, among others. Check each one and take note of the color.

If there seems to be rust mixed in the coolant, for instance, chances are the engine will easily overheat. Also, watch out for too much thick oil and grease deposited in the system, as they may indicate that the car isn’t properly cared for. Meaning, there’s a likelihood that you’ll find other more serious problems as you move along with the inspection.

Rust Everywhere

Rust indicates aging and exposure to moisture. Once you find rust in various surfaces of the truck, it doesn’t take a genius to know that the car is crumbling. Some sellers think they can conceal rust with coat but the truth is that rusty areas reveal themselves in the form of raised spots, much like blisters on a wall that was coated without thoroughly cleaning the surface first. When you see rust, it means the truck needs further inspection.

Mileage Tampering

Most old car models have odometers that can easily be tampered with. Some car sellers, particularly the private ones, adjust their car’s odometer to lure and deceive buyers. If you think the mileage showing up on the device is too good to be true, check the parts of the vehicle that are greatly involved in driving and maneuvering, such as the brake pedal, armrest and upholstery, and the windshield. If you find excessive wear, then the car must have traveled for much longer than the odometer shows.

Start Again

One of the most important things you need to know while inspecting a vehicle is its ability to start again after being abruptly shut off. Test-drive the truck for at least 10 miles and try to halt quickly and keep it dead for about 10 minutes. If the engine suddenly hesitates to run upon restart, then there must be a serious issue with it that needs the attention of a professional technician.

Duramax Engine

Of course, there are certain dead giveaways that a pickup truck is the right one to buy. For instance, if it has the Duramax Engine, it will most likely perform well on the road and last long without the need for major repairs in the long run. The reason for this is that the Duramax Engine is arguably to most powerful diesel engine in the world. It is also a recent development in diesel engines so you are most likely buying a car that is only a few years old.

To be absolutely sure that you will be buying the perfect used pickup trucks, go to a reputable dealership like McLoughlin Chevrolet. Unlike private sellers, a dealership offers guaranteed high-quality pre-owned vehicles. Also, because they have a reputation to protect, they don’t immediately resell or accept consigned units without carefully inspecting them by themselves first. 

Sources:

Impress Your Mechanic: 6 Types of Fluid, Esurance.com

Buy a Used Truck With the 12 Point Truck Inspection Checklist, MotherEarthNews.com

A Millennial’s Simple Guide to Shopping for Used Trucks in Portland

Are you a millennial (born between the years 1981 and 1997) who has entered the workforce and is now earning a decent living? Perhaps you’re looking forward to enjoying the fruits of your labor, and what better way to spend your money than to invest in your very own mode of transportation?

When it comes to buying a car or truck, your natural inclination would probably to buy new. That said, you shouldn’t discount the possibility of buying a used vehicle. Especially when they’re in good working condition, used trucks in Portland can potentially give you more than your money’s worth.

The best thing about being millennial is that you get to take advantage of social media, blogs, and other internet channels to obtain information about the product you want to buy. That’s why your generation is found to be the most informed when it comes to buying used vehicles. To make the process of shopping for a used truck or car in Portland that much easier, use the helpful tips below.

Know What Others Are Buying

To get started on the right track, it can be helpful to look at what other millennials are buying. According to a recent study from Edmunds.com, most millennials are likely to buy used trucks and cars due to their cost advantages. One such popular used truck model is the Chevrolet Silverado, a pickup known for its reliability, strength, and comfort.

When it comes to used vehicle buying, millennials often opt for usefulness and practicality over flashiness. Should you find one car that’s to your liking, you can find out what others are saying about that particular model through car review apps.

Have an Open Mind

Since millennials are known to do extensive research online before buying a used car, there’s a chance that they’ve already made up their mind on what vehicle they plan on buying upon walking into a dealership. This can either be to your benefit or your downfall, since by focusing on cars you find online, you may be missing out on the ones at dealerships that may be better suited for your needs.

Don’t Forget the Test Drive

Test drives can be the ultimate deal closer or breaker. Of course, the experience of riding a particular car or truck can’t be replicated by conducting your online research, so do make your test drive count. Notice even the slightest discomfort (or lack thereof), and take in your actual driving experience as a factor in deciding the best vehicle for your lifestyle.

Haggle Confidently

Still got those car review apps on your phone? Use them to reveal the fair market price for the car or truck you plan on buying. The information provided by these helpful apps can be used to your advantage as you negotiate a reasonable final price.

Don’t forget these useful tips when you’re sifting through available used trucks on a dealership car lot. For the best used vehicles on the market and for your budget, check out what’s in stock in trusted dealerships, such as McLoughlin Chevrolet.

Sources:

Millennials Transform Into Major Car Shoppers, Study Finds, Edmunds.com

Millennials, how to buy your first car, CNN

Looking for a Good Off-Roading Truck? Z71 Models Among Used Trucks Around Portland Are Your Best Bet

When you are in the market for a used truck with serious off-roading capability, what you should be checking out is a Chevy Z71 model truck. Whether you want to conquer the urban trail or frequently drive to your favorite remote campground, this particular truck model can do it all while keeping you and your passenger safe and comfortable.

Just to give you a better idea, here are some features you can expect from available Chevy Z71 used trucks near Portland:

Automatic Locking Rear Differential

The automatic locking rear differential is designed to redirect power to the wheel with better traction almost instantaneously in case you find yourself in a low traction situation. This feature activates in just milliseconds to help you handle a muddy, wet or even snowy terrain. This is done by taking power from wheel with less grip and transferring it to the wheel with more traction. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yTXAd5

Here's Why You Should Choose an All Star Chevy Among All the Used Trucks near Portland

There are a lot of available used trucks near Portland you can buy. Some are your regular class models while others are just a bit more special. This happens to be the case with the Chevrolet All Star Edition. This particular truck edition has a host of special features that you would definitely love to have. These include:

Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control

When you are out driving the truck with a passenger in the front, there's a chance that they may prefer a different temperature to what you are enjoying. In this case, the Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control feature becomes quite useful. This essentially allows for the passenger beside you to set a different air conditioning temperature for themselves since there is a climate control system that is dedicated especially to them. This way, you can enjoy a cooler temperature even if the passenger beside you likes things warmer. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2xWJ3PM

Used Trucks around Portland: The Versatile 2016 Chevrolet Silverado High Country

Buying a used truck gives you the chance to save money, yet still get a truck intended for many purposes. Out of the many used trucks on the market, the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado High Country, is perhaps the most reliable and stylish. It looks elegant from all angles and the interior keeps the premium experience going.

A Full-Packaged Interior

When you choose the High Country, you’re getting a sophisticated experience. You won’t want to leave the cushioned leather seats or take your hands off of the ergonomic steering wheel. There are premium materials and accessories everywhere.

You never have to get lost again as there is a premium navigation system, which functions via voice directions. You’ll have access to three-dimensional maps, weather updates, and traffic information that helps you take the most efficient routes. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2xMBPhF

In the Market for Used Trucks? The Chevy Z71 Package Provides Superior Off-Roading Capabilities

When you are looking for a truck destined not to fail in the harshest of terrains, you must closely examine each model's package. After all, not all trucks are built equal. This even applies when you are in the market for used trucks.

Just like brand new trucks, used trucks come in various engine sizes and capabilities. When it comes to off-road supremacy, though, you really can't find a better fit than the Z71 package from Chevrolet. This vehicle package turns a Chevrolet Colorado or Silverado 1500 into an off-road warrior.

To give you a better idea, following are some features you can expect from a used truck with a Chevy Z71 package. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2whHcE3

Refined Yet Solid, the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado All-Star Edition Rules the Market for Used Trucks

If you’re in the market for a used truck, plenty of great choices await your search. In terms of versatility and premium features, however, it’s tough to match everything offered in the Chevrolet Silverado All-Star edition. This truck is powerful, elegant, and efficient. It can accomplish so many feats if you’re open to new environments and adventures.

A Refined Interior

Just because the All-Star edition serves as a great work truck doesn’t mean it abstains from interior amenities. The inside, actually, is quite spacious and quiet on those long-distance trips to work and vacations with the family. Triple-sealed inlaid doors offer a sophisticated look and when combined with an aerodynamic windshield, you find unprecedented silence.

A lot of times when you purchase a vehicle, the seats wear down prematurely. You don’t have to worry about this with the Chevrolet Silverado as it features dual-resilient foam seats for long-lasting comfort you can’t get anywhere else. There are plenty of USB ports that your passengers can access any time they want to charge their smart devices. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2vvYRr2

Here's Why Looking at Used Trucks with a Premium Package Is a Really Smart Move

Just because your budget only affords you a used truck doesn't mean you can't score a particularly impressive model. It really depends on where you're looking. As you probably know by now, not all trucks are equal. Some are more powerful than others. Some also look more bulky than others. Others enjoy a unique premium status that may be exactly what you're looking for.

When it comes to Chevy used trucks, you may just be able to find special truck models that have the Premium Package. This often comes with Chevrolet's legendary Silverado High Country edition. Premium Package Chevy trucks are equipped with a number of special features that would make your driving all the more enjoyable and comfortable, not to mention safer. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2uRFFkM

Take Note of These Considerations First Before Setting Out to Look at Used Trucks

If you want a vehicle that’s versatile and always reliable, there's really nothing better than a pickup truck. After all, this vehicle is probably one of the most powerful ones around. Not to mention, you can take them anywhere and load just about anything you can think of in the back.

Now, when you have a limited budget, you can always opt for a used truck instead of a brand new unit. These are typically priced lower so that both downpayment and monthly payments should be more manageable. That said, there are still some factors to be considered when trying to decide on which one is the perfect unit for you among all the used trucks available. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2uRvNr9

Heed These Solid Reasons for Choosing Used Trucks with Duramax Engines Instead of a Powerstroke

Buying a pickup is not as easy as it seems. There are many features and specs to assess—the engine being one of the most important. If you’re looking for reliable power, you can’t go wrong with a Duramax. It offers many advantages over a PowerStroke.

Low-End Torque

Torque is the rotational force of an engine. Some engines need to build torque over a period of acceleration, such as internal combustion engines, while others produce torque at zero RPMs. Diesel trucks equipped with a Duramax engine produce torque designed to for hauling heavy loads, including trailers, large boats, or even other vehicles. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2te1mL9

Find Off-Roading Paradise in Used Trucks When You Upgrade to the Z71 Package

There may be times when you need to head to the road less traveled, on terrains unsuitable for most rides. These unpredictable environments call for a reliable truck, one that gets you there and back—like the Chevrolet Z71. This truck is uniquely designed to handle foreboding terrain safely and efficiently.

Off-Roading at Its Finest

The joys of off-roading rise a notch when choosing the Chevrolet Z71 package. Starting out, all-terrain tires provide maximum traction on any surface you may encounter: dirt, rocks, mud, snow, and ice. Wheel slippage and loss of control can leave you literally off the road or stranded on this type of terrain.

The Z71 counters such terrain with Rancho Brand shocks to guarantee a smooth ride despite surfaces littered with rocks, twigs, divots, rivulets or other obstacles. The underbody is specifically designed to take punishment, thanks to its underbody transfer case shield. You can travel over virtually anything and still experience a forgiving ride. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2ul4sRG

Used Trucks Offer More Than Just Power - They Offer Premium Features, Too!

When you hear the word “truck,” the first thing that probably comes to mind is an image of a rugged vehicle that can conquer the toughest terrain and tow the heaviest load. After all, trucks are the preferred ride of people who love off-road driving, or those who need to haul oversized loads such as boats and other recreational equipment.

The next thing that comes to mind where trucks are concerned is probably the cost. All that extra power and hauling capability expectedly comes at a premium.

But did you know that trucks can offer more than just pure brawn—that they can actually offer premium features that make driving them safer and more delightful? Or that you can actually purchase used trucks in Portland so you can enjoy power and comfort without having to break the bank? Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2tdXLN3

The Ultimate Guide to Boosting the Trade-in Value of Used Trucks

If you are considering the purchase of a new vehicle and putting your old truck up for sale, a trade-in can be the perfect answer. The frequency of trade-ins continuously rises at U.S. dealerships. However, before you choose to walk the same path, you need to know how to make the most of the deal.

First, know the factors that determine the value of used trucks, such as age and mileage, the make and model, as well as desirability. Generally, older vehicles overloaded with miles receive the lowest trade-in value. They are considered to be on the cusp of breaking down.

While factors such as mileage are unchangeable, there are some conditions you can change to positively affect your deal for a new truck. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2uxYXie

Discover the Perks of Buying New or Used Trucks from Your Car Dealer

Car shoppers are becoming more discerning with their choices in vehicles. While many people go easy on their budgets and opt for compact city cars, many are still dreaming big and levelling up with the ever-reliable pickup truck. With powerful engines and endless functionalities, who wouldn’t be enticed to get behind the wheel of one of these machines?

Eye-Catching Features

Nothing intimidates more than a powerful and tough pickup truck. Modern trucks today are built to be beyond functional, but also to exhibit the alluring curves that most luxury cars possess. Even as you step inside, you’ll admire the plush interiors with power-adjustable leather seats, soft touch surfaces, fine detailing, durable matting, and more.

Road Capabilities

Thinking of going off-road? You can go for a 4x2 or a 4x4 truck. If you’re planning to haul large items with your vehicle, you’ll be glad to know that many trucks can now be fitted with trailer hitches. Stability and traction control are standard in several new truck models as well as in used units from a few years back. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2roQUQg

Check Out the Perfect Guide to Finding High-Quality Used Trucks at the Right Price

Contrary to what you may be thinking, buying a used truck is a little different from buying a used car. Trucks, often used for work-related purposes, have probably gone through more wear and tear. For this reason, you need to be extremely careful when trying to find the right truck for your needs. Here are a few pointers that will help you make the right choice.

Consider Off-Road Use

When looking at used trucks, you need to assess what the truck was used for. This is particularly true if the truck has been used for off-roading. Typically, this type of abuse adds up and won't be visible right away. The chassis, suspension, and other parts underneath the truck may be structurally compromised because of off-roading. Read more from this blog. http://bit.ly/2nKgPDe