Used Truck Purchase Inspection Checklist

Absolutely. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified diesel mechanic costs $200-$500 and can save you from a $20,000+ mistake. They will catch issues you might miss, and their findings give you negotiating leverage. Never skip this step, especially on trucks over 5 years old or 500,000 miles.

Mileage alone does not tell the whole story — maintenance history matters more. A well-maintained truck with 800,000 miles can be a better buy than a neglected truck with 400,000. That said, most major components (engine overhaul, transmission, DPF) tend to need attention between 500,000-750,000 miles. Budget accordingly.

For reliability and parts availability, the Cummins X15, Detroit DD15, and PACCAR MX-13 are all solid choices. Pre-2010 engines (before DPF/EGR) are simpler but harder to find and may face emissions restrictions in some states. Research the specific engine year and known issues before buying.

Dealers typically charge more but may offer limited warranties and financing. Private sellers are usually cheaper but sold as-is. In either case, always do a thorough inspection. Dealer does not mean safe — many dealer trucks are trade-ins with the same issues a private seller would have.