Buying a new or used pickup truck is a complicated and costly affair, with many factors to consider. Given the dizzying variety of brands and models available in the market, it’s important to do one’s research thoroughly. Whether you are looking to purchase a heavy-duty truck to carry massive cargo or a light-duty pickup truck to get around town, avoid these three common mistakes people make to crack the best deal.

Not test driving
Test driving a truck, whether old or new, is crucial before buying it. A thorough test drive includes getting the transmission and the engine up to operating temperatures, driving on bumpy and curvy roads, working the brakes well, and accelerating hard. There are multiple systems that affect a truck’s performance on the road. A test drive will bring forth any issues with steering, acceleration, etc., and help one get a better idea about the vehicle’s condition.

Failing to check history and records
For used trucks, it is important to look through their maintenance records and determine whether any significant repairs were made or original parts were replaced, or if the pickup received routine tune-ups. Oil change records can help one predict the engine’s longevity, while accident records can show the extent and severity of damage, replacements, etc. Digging up the history can bring up issues that will help you make an informed decision, especially if a truck is priced suspiciously cheap or comes with no records.

Not getting the right engine size and strength
You need to consider two factors regarding strength when buying a pickup truck: payload and towing capacity. Payload is the total weight a truck can transport, including the items in the bed, the passengers, the gasoline, etc., and towing capability refers to how much weight it can tow using a hitch. Check the truck’s specifications to ensure it will be strong enough to transport whatever it is you want.

Pickups come in various sizes and strengths, so it shouldn’t be challenging to find the one that best suits one’s needs. For example, the full-size Dodge Ram, aka RAM pickup trucks, come with varying hauling potential. RAM 1500 offers a half-ton capacity. It is a light-duty truck that’s suitable for one’s everyday needs, while the 2500 with its three-quarter-ton capacity, and the 3500 with a one-ton capacity are suitable for more heavy-duty and robust hauling work. All three are known for their reliable road performance, spacious interior, and attractive technological features.