Used Truck Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Buy
The short answer: start with what you need the truck to do, then look for signs of how it was used. Trucks are often worked hard, so service records, towing and payload history, and a thorough inspection matter more than the odometer alone.
Match the Truck to the Job
Size and capability differ by class. See midsize vs full-size trucks, half-ton vs three-quarter-ton vs one-ton and payload vs towing capacity. Ratings depend on the exact configuration, so check the specific truck.
Used Truck Checklist
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| History and records | Accidents, title status, maintenance and recall repairs |
| Signs of heavy use | Bed wear, hitch and wiring condition, suspension sag, brake and tire wear |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD operation; confirm 4WD engages. See AWD vs 4WD |
| Rust and frame | Especially frame, bed and brake lines in salted-road regions |
| Cab and bed configuration | Confirm it fits your crew, cargo and parking needs |
| Engine and transmission | Smooth operation; ask about any towing history |
More general guidance is in what to look for in a used car and how many miles is too many.
Used or Certified Pre-Owned?
Eligibility and criteria depend on the manufacturer and the vehicle. See used vs certified pre-owned and ask the store about any specific truck.
Financing, Trade and Business Use
Review financing, value your trade or see commercial vehicles for work needs.
Shop Used Trucks
Browse used vehicles, used inventory and trucks across Dial.
Keep Researching
- Half-Ton vs 3/4-Ton vs 1-Ton
- Payload vs Towing
- Used vs Certified Pre-Owned
- Trucks Across Dial
- Research Center
Shop at the Right Dial Location
Dial Auto Group has five Chicago dealerships. Each brand is sold at specific stores, so start with the store that carries the vehicle you want.
| Dealership | Brands | Address | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dial Chevy of Chicago | Chevrolet | 6603 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Dial Nissan of Chicago | Nissan | 7410 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| INFINITI of Chicago | INFINITI | 2711 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616 | New | Used |
| Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago | Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram | 7340 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Jeep of Chicago | Jeep | 5950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 | New | Used |
See all Dial Auto Group locations or search new and used inventory across the group.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Dial Auto Group. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Vehicle features, availability and pricing vary by model and dealership; confirm details with the store.