Whether you are looking for a beater truck to haul things or a nice one to drive around town or take away on some weekend fun, buying repo trucks from auctions is a great way to save money on just what you are looking for. Since most auctions have a wide variety of inventory, you need to thoroughly inspect each truck you are interested in. They will not all be in the same condition or have been maintained the same way.
There are three major things you want to avoid: trucks that need engine work, have been flooded, or were in a major accident. While all of these things can be fixable, major repairs are usually costly and time-consuming. With the frequently changing inventory at auction, you are better off waiting for another truck in better shape to come along.
Here’s how to spot those major problems in repo trucks and repo cars.
Needs Engine Work:
Turn on the engine and listen as it runs, idles and revs. A deep rattle, knocking or other unusual sound are signs that the engine needs to be repaired or possibly replaced. Also check the oil. Oil that has bubbles (water is in it), is very thick or is particularly dirty means the engine needs work.
Been Flooded:
Check for mold, mildew or staining from them on the upholstery, especially under the floor mats. Any wetness, even just slightly damp, often means the vehicle was flooded. A musty or mildewy smell can also be a warning sign. If the all the upholstery is completely new, check very carefully for anything else that points to flooding because it is very common for someone to put in new upholstery when they are trying to sell a flooded truck.
In a Major Accident:
Look for indications of extensive bodywork such as welding marks on the frames of the doors or tailgate, re-painting (look for poorly matched paint shades, overspray, and bubbles), and mismatched, different colored or newer parts or fittings on the outside of the truck.
