Truck Buying Checklist

Take this checklist with you when you go to look at a truck. Work through it in order: there is no point test driving a truck whose paperwork does not add up. For the detail behind each step, see how to inspect a used truck.

Before you go

• Confirm the truck suits the job: body type, GVM, GCM if towing, axle configuration and licence class.
• Ask the seller for the VIN, registration number, odometer reading and engine hours.
• Run a PPSR search on the VIN at ppsr.gov.au for finance owing, stolen and written-off records.
• Check the registration is current, and what roadworthy, safety or inspection certificate your state requires.
• Ask for service records and any major repair invoices.
• Ask that the engine be cold when you arrive, so you can see it start from cold.
• Arrange finance pre-approval if you need it, and get an insurance quote.

Paperwork on the day

• The VIN and engine number on the truck match the registration papers and the PPSR certificate.
• The seller's name matches the registration, or they can show they are authorised to sell.
• Compliance and build plates are present and readable.
• Service history matches the odometer and hours, with no unexplained gaps.

Outside and chassis

• Chassis rails straight, with no cracks, welds or heavy rust, especially around spring hangers and crossmembers.
• Cab and body panels evenly aligned, with no signs of major accident repair.
• Tyres matched, legal tread depth, even wear (uneven wear points to alignment or suspension problems).
• Wheels and studs undamaged; no rust trails from wheel nuts.
• Suspension: no leaking airbags, broken leaves or worn bushes.
• Fifth wheel or towing equipment in good condition and correctly rated.
• No fluid leaks under the engine, gearbox, diffs or hydraulic systems.

Engine bay

• Oil level and condition; no milky residue under the filler cap.
• Coolant clean and at level, with no oil film.
• Belts and hoses not cracked or perished.
• Cold start: starts promptly, no excessive smoke, no knocking.
• No heavy blow-by from the crankcase breather once warm.

Cab

• All warning lights come on with the ignition and go out once started.
• Gauges, air pressure build-up, heater, air-conditioning, wipers and lights work.
• Seats, seatbelts, steps and grab handles secure.
• Wear on pedals, steering wheel and seat consistent with the claimed kilometres.

Test drive

• Clean gear changes up and down, no jumping out of gear, clutch not slipping.
• Brakes pull up straight, with no pulling or noises; exhaust brake or retarder works.
• Steering tracks straight without wandering or excessive free play.
• No vibration, diff whine or knocking over bumps.
• Engine pulls strongly and holds temperature on a hill.
• Drive it loaded if possible.

Body and equipment

• Tipper, crane, tailgate loader or hook-lift operates smoothly with no hydraulic leaks.
• Fridge unit reaches and holds temperature; check unit hours.
• Curtains, doors, locks and load restraint points in good order.

Before you pay

• Get an independent heavy vehicle mechanic's report if you are not confident checking it yourself.
• Agree in writing how any finance owing will be paid out at settlement.
• Pay by a traceable method, never by gift card, cryptocurrency or overseas transfer.
• Get a written receipt with the VIN, price, date, and both parties' names and addresses.
• Arrange insurance from the moment you take ownership, and transfer the registration promptly.

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