What To Look For When Buying A Used Car or Truck *In Depth*

[@OldGoatStillGoing]

Great advice. Check oil color, see if black or brown. If it looks light, they may have added oil. Does it burn oil? Look at exhaust pipe if black inside. Also very important on 4 wheel drive; put it in low range and test. Does it go in? Any bad sounds forward or back or turning. Check All lights work. Check bed and tail gate. Does it work properly. Check each tire. Is there a wear on insides or out? Are tires brand new? Could mean alignment or ball joints needs repair. Check springs, any damage or broken. Also, check shocks, any leaks, or are they worn out. Check engine mounts: put in gear/drive holding foot on break and step on gas pedal some, Does the engine sound OK, or do you hear a clunk when you let off on gas? Could mean mounts are broken. Also, check if emergency break works at the same time while testing engine mounts. Does emergency break hold? If it has a tow hitch, is it in good condition. Also turn on heater and make sure it works and same for AC. And check the blower to make sure it works in all speeds. Remember, if you buy privately, you're BUYING AS IS.

[@mrsc6917]

I'm a single woman trying to buy a truck. This was so helpful!

[@JameGoFast27]

Thanks for letting us know ur single..?

[@gg-mercenary7104]

Hey C, you still single?

[@sailincat2822]

When truck shopping ladies, I suggest showing up prepared to get dirty (old clothes and shoes, work gloves, hair up, minimal makeup, etc.). It can help cut through some of the b.s. women are subjected to in a male dominated situation. Bonus points for grease stains and dirty fingernails.😄

[@austinreeves9112]

I'm a Chevy guy but if you are a single woman that wants to save money don't buy a newer GM trucks because of AFM issues unless the person built the motor and deleted it. The active fuel management in newer GM trucks are the reason they have went through a lawsuit, it causes catastrophic lifter failure and causes your engine to tick until it dies unless you fix it which is a lot of money, again I'm a Chevy guy I'm just honest.

[@austinreeves9112]

@@JameGoFast27 stupid

[@98ChevyK1500Z71]

- Check steering and suspension components. - In the rust belt, be careful slamming on the brakes...could blow a line (especially on pre-07 trucks) very easily. - Check and smell the transmission fluid. - Check for wet carpet...if its wet, where's it coming from (seal, sunroof, heater core, or floors rotted out). - If possible, bring your own OBD-II scan tool...the light may not be on, but there can be pending or stored codes (some codes don't even trigger the light). - Check exhaust manifold bolts for missing heads (usually only missing the one front and one rear won't mean there's a leak, yet)

[@monkeman319]

Im glad you bring up the emotional part of buying something you want, I was getting to happy thinking about buying a used truck but I’m realizing now that I need to slow down and think more on what’s wrong with it then rushing it and pulling the trigger on the purchase, thanks for all the advice man, it really does help us who don’t know much about trucks learn to not get screwed by dealers or 3rd party sellers

[@vicpetrishak1077]

If you find Kentucky Fried Chicken wrappers under the seat ,the engine oil has never been changed.

[@dasherorganix5306]

😂😂😂😂

[@Rocketperp]

Dang I'm really needed this video I'm looking for my first truck a 07-13 Silverado 4wd and it is hard not to get excited and want to look at every truck I see lol

[@chevvy52]

Don't get a 07 or 08 unless it's a steal there known for the lifters going bad

[@chevvy52]

It was the first year of cylinder deactivation and it's not a big deal to fix just costly if you don't know how to do it your self.

[@rogerdarnelljr.8973]

Nice truck if you delete AFM..Same with DOD.. Displacement on Demand

[@dejonc6z]

what abouy an 04 z71?

[@Jonathan-tb6fm]

You better off with a 2014-2018 the gmt900s are to pricy for the milage they have. At least we experience that in California.

[@hsnra4209]

I never had a dad to teach me these stuff, you posted this 3y ago and today it helped me so much thanks man god bless.❤

[@pacatack2]

Bout to buy my first truck. Glad I had my dad with me when I tested some other clunkers, but I’m riding solo today and needed this. Thanks a lot boss.

[@jerrydecouto184]

This was a major eye opener for me

[@lukelong9796]

Its also a good idea to visually and physically inspect steering components. Get under and pull and rock the tie rods to check for play. Maybe even bring your own jack and raise the nose up and rock the tire and spin it to check ball joints, idler arm, pitman arm, wheel bearings. Just to get an idea of what ,if anything, would need replaced

[@davidfranco1308]

Hey BTG! I wanted to give you a huge thank you. I was going to check out a Chevy truck today and I’ve been so nervous about it because I’ve been burned on several bad cars. I reviewed your video twice on the 4.5 hour drive there. I got there and took all the steps you said and I was pleased to have found no issues, and got a great deal on it. Thanks again for making this video!

[@acejanitorialservices6559]

Good info! Also check front steering and suspension components. Open the tailgate and check for rust and also check to make sure your tail lights and headlights are properly secure. Sounds crazy but it happens lol

[@kcscustom9759]

Great info! Contain your excitement, I like that one. I think that is very important especially if it’s going to be your first vehicle/it’s your first time buying a vehicle. There’s a ton of little things that can easily be missed if you are not taking your time and paying 100% attention to every little detail. A few more things I might add along with looking for leaks, oil or transmission fluid coming from in between the engine and transmission is probably the worst leak you could find but also check things like axle seals. Also open & close all of the doors make sure they all close properly and then take a GOOD look at the vehicles body lines and panel gaps. Chances are if some look off compared to the rest the vehicle has more then likely been in an accident. To go along with that make sure there are no cracks/damaged areas in the frame! In a lot of states once the vehicles frame is damaged it is no longer legal to drive on public roads and will not pass state safety inspection, even if it has been repaired. One more very important thing, look under the seats at the seat brackets, if they have ANY more then a little bit of surface rust, then the vehicle has likely been in a flood or underwater at some point in its life and that can potentially have caused a lot of damage to the vehicle.

[@cameronmcnulty8732]

Dang, this is overwhelming!

[@michaelhartman2645]

Another thing ive noticed is going incredibly slow straight and around turns, like creeping to 10 mph can expose some things as well. Thats a tip i wish i knew a long time ago. Some problems seem to hide when going a little faster.

[@elmerfitch6203]

I am looking for a decent used Red 4 door offRoad Truck.

[@builtbyme]

I'd say also check the wheel bearings, it's one of them hidden things that people forget about. Most of the newer chevy trucks are bolt on hub assembly but other cars and trucks differ. And it's easy to miss. But can cause serious issues down the line if you dont know or are unaware.

[@robinzsoder8609]

Great video , very informative and helpful yet underrated. Keep up the good job and thanks for the upload !

[@jaredjolivette5048]

I’m about to get a 2007 Chevy and this video is PERFECT for knowing what i should be looking for Thank you!

[@throttletherapy89]

Chevys look at the exhaust bolts for the headers they are known to break the front or rear bolts

[@stupidthefish1979]

Something my teacher told me was go to the nearest mechanic that requires a highway drive, that way you’ll know how it handles in a variety of speeds and the mechanic can tell you if they found any problems.

[@sweetj16real]

Turn the steering wheel all the way each direction, listen for whining and watch the rpm's. 👌🏾

[@randybain7023]

Don't forget steering check, wheel bearings and rear end problems. Best to change spark plugs at 75,000 miles instead of 100,000. Good video.

[@MissLionRose]

This is GOLD ✨ I so appreciate you for sharing this info. Wish me the best, we’re looking for a truck for our mom! 🙏💥💃🏻

[@CHARLES1500Turner]

I’m going out to look at a truck I’m considering buying thank the stars I found this video

[@JameGoFast27]

Did u put it in 4 hi or low??? Idk what the difference is are they both just 4wd?

[@DS-zo8xs]

Honestly the video could've essily been twice as long. Theres so much to look out for. But you covered a good amount of it

[@raubinger55]

Should i be worried about engine tick in a 5.3?

[@frenzleo01]

I find this really helpful... We are on a process of truck hunting. Thanks man!

[@pmg622]

Thank you - very reassuring! Great advice. Will use tomorrow morning!

[@olekaw8765]

qhats up mang! hope yall havin a good holiday , happy new year to yall!

[@xristinamilly]

Thanks for the vehicle gonna try to test drive a ram 2500 today , hopefully they let me drive it for 30minutes to an hour !

[@findyourinnertube124]

This was a great and informative video. It has stuff in it that normal people (not mechanics) can check. Lots of good advice. A+.

[@Maleificsoul]

fantastic video, instantly subbed for the great content. Would you recommend buying from a dealership or a private seller? or when would that make a difference?

[@sailincat2822]

Know approximate blue book value, or have web access to it, and know how to look up fast. Might get a lower price from a private seller, maybe also help with delivery. But watch out for buying someone else's problems and wildly optimistic asking prices. (I won't even bother to contact if they're completely unrealistic.) Private seller may honestly not understand true condition or fair market value of the vehicle they're selling; may take pointing out flaws, counter offers, and other routine price negotiations and legal precautions personally. Honest, well established dealerships have a reputation to protect, and are eager for word-of-mouth advertising and repeat business. Dealership may have a better selection, in better condition, likely inspected, maybe with a limited warranty. They may be more comfortable letting you take a long test drive, or take home overnight. (They know you're less likely to back out after showing it off to your family and friends.) If they have a lift, then you might be able to get a vehicle up in the air so you can look around underneath. Trading in may seem convenient, but you'll almost always be money ahead by selling your previous vehicle yourself. Dealer may be able to locate what you want if not on the lot. Or they may try to talk you into buying what's in stock, and may try to pile on b.s. fees. I make it clear up front, I'll walk away at the first sign of irritating or sleazy tactics. Don't underestimate the value and convenience of a dealer temp tag to get you home and on the road while you're awaiting new tag and paperwork! Happy truck hunting!

[@mikeobrien5516]

Thanks, very informative. Recently got screwed over on a car and took a $2800 loss to return it. Wouldn't have happened if I had seen your video first.

[@BlackSupranoMDHTHC]

What happened

[@mrfelix2510]

Battery, I purchased a used truck in 2009 with 2 year Battery that according to the sticker on the battery, was about a year past due. It still worked okay so I wasn't in a hurry to change it. I live way up north where winter is hard on batteries and my truck is always outside. It kept going until late 2020. That was a good 2 year battery :-)

[@dailys1979]

I’d be looking for another one just like it! I’ve had cheap batteries last 7-8 years and top end ones last 1 year

[@aidantong9572]

This is a great video, thank you. Extremely helpful and actually interesting to watch.

[@theackid7887]

great video thank you friend. i am going to test a truck out tomorrow.

[@2502860]

Great video. What truck would u recommend buying thats maybe between 4 to 7 yrs old

[@dannymartinez8522]

Toyota

[@joseestrada9416]

What do you think about a 2004 Sierra single cab with 180k miles

[@grahamdugan]

Wow, this video is amazing!!! Thank you so much!!!

[@jasonmumma4042]

i got it up to 3000 rpm and a check engine soon light came on and my belt started squueling and 2 gaskets near cat convertor blew

[@joshm2787]

on the earlier year of trucks what should i be looking at you said something about trucks that are little older have some more type of problems im just curious on what years im looking at a ford 2006 f150 v8 5.7 liter and rams can ya help me out on what is a good year for ford and ram please lmk thanks

[@CrampinPommets]

Thank you so much, man! Good on ya!

[@sluggingbread]

Great, great video. Thank you

[@BrotherJonathan123]

Thanks sir for making this video! I needed to know all of this

[@Ediane27]

Amazing video! So many important information! Thank you!!!

[@MattsContraptions]

Amazing video mate!!

[@butterfrogfarms]

Great video, thanks!

[@Eric.boozh101]

Thanks for the info brother,really helpful big bro

[@davidmiller8766]

why is the engine light on?, isn't that something that should be said before you test drive!

[@just_your_localguard9612]

Inform the person you riding with about brake check thing. Guy was not happy

[@inkman234]

Check engine light is on, that's not good right?

[@BrotherJonathan123]

You mentioned dealerships giving ample time to let you test drive, but what about individual sellers?

[@DS-zo8xs]

If they try to rush you, just walk away from the deal. It's your money, better them mad then you.

[@jessewilson9782]

Wow.. Thanks I have learn so much watching this video really appreciate appreciate this what is the oldest year you should buy and how many miles it should be before out of range of buying 😀

[@Carloss80k]

would yu still get one even with today’s gas prices?

[@kgermen]

In the video, the valve sign is on in the driver panel while the test drive.

[@dailys1979]

People!!! Please listen to this!!!

[@taylorgarrett8502]

why is the tach and radio lights flicker.....also right after the 4 wd test ....the engine light came on

[@dannymartinez8522]

Watch out for the collapsing lifters on gm trucks other than these trucks are reliable

[@josephkuser3998]

Thx for the tips man!

[@Jc-bt7me]

Really in depth thank you

[@outlawgamer239]

What happend to the single cab Sierra (Race Truck), the one you put a cold air intake 7 months ago???

[@nicholassmith6711]

What’s the main differences between a 4.8 and 5.3 chev and which one is better?

[@multi.d.mensional6993]

Amazing video! I learned a lot, thank you.

[@thomasjefferson2934]

Ur check engine light is on?!?!?

[@gabrielowusu3388]

Hello, I looking to buying a Dodge Ram Dully for a Three Car Haul.My bank is going to finance it and my question is that should I go for a NEW OR USED ONE?Thanks and hope to hear from you

[@sailincat2822]

Used!

[@jakephillips6520]

Appreciate this a lot brother. ✊🤟

[@joshetherton5875]

Are those 20" wheels on the 1500?

[@jin6000]

So helpful, thanks bud!

[@drummer6219]

Your the man God bless you hope all is well stay strong enough for your journey in life 🙉🙈🙊🙏🏿⚖🥁🦈

[@brendanbutkus2392]

trading my jeep in for a truck, appreciate the knowledge brother

[@michaelschwartz812]

Awesome insight thanks for sharing.

[@grahamdugan]

What’s a cat eye?

[@badbeatking80]

Good info brotha 👍

[@fitter70]

Good advice! Thanks

[@smalltownpirate]

Thanks! I appreciate the video.

[@imserious2187]

Does those have the actuator clicking noises?

[@nateholton]

Appreciate it Brother

[@garrycoleman2494]

Can u do a video on grounds

[@Therealestrunnerluda]

You did get an engine light when you went fast lol

[@traciejones3375]

I thought I saw that too! I was waiting for him to mention it but he didn't 😂

[@mantiscity]

Your check engine light was on

[@dannymartinez8522]

That's what I noticed too lol

[@joelkevinstewart5594]

Good video; but remove those tinted taillight covers off thw white truck. Very dangerous.

[@btcniceo]

Very helpful video!!

[@nystate_ofmind_]

I'm BRAND NEW to the truck industry. I'm planning to sell my car by the end of the month and get my first pick up truck. My options are between chevy and ford. Ford seems to be more widely available than chevy in my area. I have no knowledge of what engines or years to look for. I want something that'll be reliable, I'm not planning on using it to tow super heavy things. Just want it for practicality and to be able to have it when I need it. My budget is 15k and it has to be 2010 or newer. Any help, suggestions? What should I look for or stay away from. Thanks everyone!

[@jknow7269]

Ford

[@sailincat2822]

To me, overall condition and matching my wants and needs are more important than a specific brand name. I'm looking at full size pickups from Chevy/GMC, Ford, Nissan, Chrysler/Dodge/Ram whatever, and Toyota.

[@bobmcmahon6765]

Very informative video

[@RichStmarie]

Good job, great in information

[@dannymartinez8522]

It could be the oil seals

[@freespeechless380]

kelly's blue book is not worth referencing. Kelly bluebook was bought by a parent company that sells used cars. Kelly's bluebook values are really over valued, always offer 20% less than kelly's blue book value. 20% is usually the used car dealers commision on top of operating cost. It's like referencing JD power and associates, they are a PR firm bought by car manufactures for their endorsement.

[@socal8475]

What about miles ?

[@KrazyKrafter]

Check oil using dipstick before purchasing any truck.

[@Carloss80k]

would yu still get one even with today’s gas prices?

[@why6212]

Pro tip: the truck is never worth what the seller is asking.

[@user-rs4wi3qc4f]

🤦🏾‍♂️ so basically my car got a head gasket problem and burning oil

[@sniggitty]

You need to run a pro obd reader to see what's going on. I see you have a CEL light on and you did not mention it nor analyze it.

[@btgperformance9234]

Buddy not everyone freaks out when a light comes on like you 😂

[@mantiscity]

Good knowledge

[@kevinwoods3487]

Nice video

[@onastajiabridgemon8046]

He kinda looks like the guy off teen mom

[@hippo-potamus]

cold air intake = red flag. engine mods = red flag. exhaust mods = red flag. 5th wheel hitch = red flag.

[@Astrox326]

If you find blunt roaches just forget about it owners was probably to stoned to upkeep their vehicle

[@jeezburns7177]

All used vehicles have bugs buddy

[@Carloss80k]

would yu still get one even with today’s gas prices?

[@DanielLopez-qm7kn]

First

[@jeezburns7177]

Nice softball video... non mechanic informing non mechanics