Truck buying checklist
Buying a pickup or commercial truck? Run through this checklist before you commit.
Match the truck to the job
Start with what you'll actually do: daily driving, towing a trailer, hauling in the bed, or commercial work. Towing capacity, payload, and GVWR are the numbers that matter — make sure the truck's ratings cover your heaviest realistic load, not just the average one.
Drivetrain and cab
4WD costs more to buy and run than 2WD, but it's worth it if you'll see mud, snow, or job sites. Crew cabs hold their value best for family use; regular cabs are cheaper and common in work trucks.
Diesel vs gas
Diesel tows better and lasts longer under load, but maintenance and repairs cost more. For light-duty use, a gas engine is usually the cheaper total package.
Inspect like a pro
Check the frame for rust, cracks, or welds. Look at the bed floor, tailgate hinges, and hitch receiver. On 4WD trucks, engage 4-high and 4-low and listen for grinding. Check for a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch — heavy towing history means extra wear.
Commercial trucks
For semis and vocational trucks, maintenance records matter more than mileage. Ask about the engine overhaul history, check the air system for leaks, inspect tires for even wear, and verify the sleeper, axle configuration, and GVWR match the listing.
Paperwork
Confirm the VIN matches the title, check for liens, and look up the truck's history. On VORIMO you can message the seller directly with questions before you visit — use that.