Learn how to spot a lemon before paying for a full-blown lemon check.
No matter the make or model, even buying a “cheaper” used semi-truck isn’t exactly cheap—especially if it needs some work! Because this rig needs to not only pay for itself, but also make money, it’s important to thoroughly inspect any truck before committing to a purchase. But it is also nice to be able to remove a few from consideration before ponying up for the professional inspection. This guide is designed to scratch that itch.
Let’s take a look at a few “eyebrow raisers” that may make you reconsider purchasing a particular used semi-truck for sale.
What are some deal breakers to keep an eye out for when shopping for a used semi-truck for sale?
Look at the ground beneath any parked used semi-truck for sale with a flashlight to look for evidence of leaking fluids. Coolant leaks, oil leaks, transmission fluid, or brake fluid leaks can all denote issues you may not be equipped to tackle later. Look for wetness anywhere under the hood—especially at connection points such as gaskets and hoses. Any evidence of leaking fuel—whether around the tank, lines, or fuel pump—should definitely be cause for concern.
While worn belts are easy enough to spot, check out the belt tension as well. Belts that are too tight can overload bearings in the alternator. Belts that are too loose can cause slippage in the alternate and result in inefficient battery function.
Some damage may be cosmetic but can still result in bigger problems. If a used semi-truck for sale has any body damage or a repair of said damage is noted, this means that additional damage could be possible elsewhere—such on engine mounts or the frame. Look for cracks or signs of bent components that could have been the result of a collision but were hidden beneath the bodywork.
Used semi-trucks for sale may sound different than newer models but there are some sounds you will want to keep an ear out for.
- Chirping or squealing sounds, especially high-pitched, may denote a faulty belt or belt tensioner. A whining may indicate an issue with fuel or oil pumps.
- Rattling sounds may indicate loose parts or inadequately lubricated or worn timing chains.
- Grinding sounds, especially while shifting, may spell worn transmission gears—which can be a migraine for automatic transmissions.
- But the mother of all bad-news sounds for a semi-truck is engine pinging or knocking—which can may denote cylinder damage due to a faulty air or fuel mix.
As batteries age, they will produce sulfuric acid. This can corrode the battery terminals and cause battery leaks—which can spell trouble not only for the battery but all surrounding components. Some of these can simply be explained with age but a lack of proper maintenance may also be to blame.
When test-driving a used semi-truck, make sure to check the performance of all lights—not just the headlights. While issues with some of the lights may just mean some bulbs need to be changed, this could also denote major electrical issues throughout the truck.
Most used semi-truck for sale will contain at least a little bit of rust—especially in body panels or bumpers, where exposure to the elements is the highest. This is to be expected. However, if you spot abundant rust on the truck frame or chassis, this should is noted. Some rust can be easily repaired but if rust damage is extensive, that may mean this isn’t the truck for you.
The state of a used semi-truck transmission can certainly make or break your decision to go ahead with a purchase. If upon running and test-driving a used semi-truck for sale, you notice any buzzing or grinding noises from the transmission, this should be cause for concern. If shifting is not smooth or there is any evidence of transmission fluid, this alone may make you reconsider purchasing a said vehicle.
While used semi-trucks are known for having much higher mileage than consumer-grade vehicles, there is such a thing as a high-mileage rig. If a semi-truck’s odometer is reaching beyond 700,000 miles (or 1,126,540 kilometers), this means the truck is likely due for an overhaul if it hasn’t received one already. This isn’t necessarily a deal breaker but could help you negotiate a lower price.
Though tires are one of the most commonly replaced components of a truck, an odd wear pattern or bizarre condition of the sidewalls can tell a bigger story about the long-term mistreatment of the truck or denote an issue that may persist even after mere replacement.
All semi-trucks will have an extensive record of all maintenance, accidents, and repairs. If a truck you’re looking at for sale does not, feel free to assume the worst. Your fears will be as founded as anything else says.
Semi-trucks are major business investments and will have extensive ownership documentation. They should, anyway. Any semi-truck for sale should have a record of all past owners—from “new to you,” so to speak. Any gaps in ownership records may also mean a gap in accident reports—or even fraud or theft.
By carefully evaluating these and other factors, you can ensure that you're making a smart investment in a used semi-truck that will serve you well for years to come.
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