- Prepare to spend: Trucks are expensive. Ensure that your payment is not more than 15% of your take-home pay. You’ll also have to make a large down payment to keep the monthly payment amount low. If it’s for work, discuss it with the relevant manager and ensure it will meet the company’s needs for years to come. Consider whether to buy a new truck or a used one.
- Choose a size: This will depend on how you’ll use it. If you need to haul a lot of material or tow a large trailer, you may need a full-size. If you just want a truck for fun, then a mid-size will do too. Apply the same logic to choose between two- and four-wheel drive.
- Light, medium, or heavy: Once you know how much you’ll haul and tow, you can decide whether you want a light-, medium-, or heavy-duty truck. Ensure you also have enough power under the hood. Ideally, you should have about 10% more capacity than you think you’ll actually need.
- Engine and axle ratio: Smaller engines today, like a turbo V6, can generate more power and be more fuel-efficient than big old V8. Plenty of combinations also exist between truck size, engine size, and fuel. Keep ownership costs in mind. Remember to choose an axle ratio based on your towing requirement, so you don’t have to compromise too much on fuel-efficiency.
- Bed and cab: Ideally, get a double cab truck. They’re easier to sell in the used market; you could use the space to store things in a lockable area. You may also need passenger space. Remember that cab size affects bed length. So remember to balance the two as per your needs.
- Trim, options, and packages: Make a list of the features or packages essential for your truck. Check out the manufacturer’s website and understand all the options. Confirm that these are available with the salesperson. Keep some alternatives just in case what you need isn’t available.
- Fees and regulations: Your truck may need a special license or attract special fees depending on where you live. Check with the state motor vehicle authorities before you make a purchase, so you know what you’re buying into.
