Buying a used truck? Inspect before you commit

The inspection checklist

• Odometer and engine hours. Compare the figures with the age and the wear you can see on the cab interior, pedals and seat. Ask how the figures are evidenced. Hours and kilometres tell part of the story; condition tells the rest.
• Service records. Look for regular servicing, major component work and who did it. Gaps are worth asking about.
• Chassis and frame. Look for cracks, repairs, rust, bends and poorly made welds, particularly around mounting points and the fifth wheel on a prime mover. Have it checked by someone qualified.
• Suspension and steering. Check for worn bushes, leaks, sagging, uneven ride height and play in the steering. Take it for a drive if the seller allows.
• Tyres and brakes. Check wear patterns, age, matching and damage. Uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension issues.
• Engine, gearbox and drivetrain. Check for leaks, smoke, noises, hard shifting and clutch condition. A cold start tells you more than a warm one.
• Emissions and compliance. Ask what emissions standard the truck meets, whether modifications are compliant, and whether it suits the work and any access rules you need. See NHVR for national heavy vehicle information.
• Body, tray, tipper or crane. Test hydraulics, PTO, tailgates, tie-down points, and any crane certification or inspection history that applies.
• PPSR and ownership. Do a PPSR search using the VIN to check for finance owing or other registered interests. Confirm the seller can legally sell the truck.
• Paperwork. Match VIN and engine numbers with the registration and compliance plate.

Before you pay

• Get the agreement in writing, including what is included in the sale.
• Be cautious of unusual payment requests. See Scamwatch.
• Check insurance and registration transfer requirements in your state or territory.
• If you need finance, speak to a lender early. See our finance guide.