Vans are medium-sized vehicles loved by many automobile enthusiasts for their comfort, versatility, and cargo space. They are ideal for road trips, transporting families, or handling different jobs. Opting for a used van allows one to save significantly. A simple online search for “vans for sale near me” can yield promising options, but not all results will be reliable. This is why one must be aware of certain things before purchasing a used van.
1. Bodywork
Assessing the bodywork is one of the most crucial steps when shopping for used van models near one’s location. Rust is the vehicle’s biggest enemy. While it may not always be apparent, there will be telltale signs to indicate where there is rust. For instance, a bubble under the paintwork is a sign of rust underneath it, often very deep into the metal, and demands fixing. Potential buyers should also check a few parts.
- Van chassis: Inspect under the van for signs of rust. If fresh paint is observed on the chassis, immediately contact the dealership or seller because there is a chance it is a coverup to conceal the rust.
- Van roof: Rust often accumulates on the van’s roof. It is also often overlooked because the height from ground level can make it difficult to spot the rust on the top. So, it is advised to use a small ladder to check the roof thoroughly.
- Van doors: Inspect all the doors and the door frame for rust spots.
- Wheel arches: Since they often come in contact with the salt and water from the road, wheel arches are prone to rust.
- Van floor: Examine the van for rust on the floor. Although plywood flooring might cover it, visible signs of rust can still be detected from underneath.
2. Suspension
This is another crucial component to check when searching for vans for sale nearby. A simple suspension test checks if the van bounces up and down upon pressing it. If it bounces back into the position smoothly, it is a good sign. Potential buyers should look under the used van to check if the suspension system shows signs of damage. When checking if the van has bad suspension, one must keep an eye out for a few key things.
- Leaf suspension: If the leaf suspension is flat when the van is empty, it indicates failure due to prolonged overloading. This is a sign of bad suspension.
- Bump stop: If the van rests on its bump stops when empty, the suspension may be faulty, making the vehicle a bad investment.
- Shock absorbers: If one notices oil on the shock absorbers, it means they need replacement, signaling bad suspension.
- Air suspension assist: Cracks or wear in the rubber wall components indicate the need for replacement.
3. Electrical system
Examining the electrical health of a second-hand van can be challenging. But there is a simple way to determine if there is an issue with the electrical system. When the van is in motion, dimly lit headlights signal an issue. This might indicate issues with battery charging or other problems, such as poor ground terminals or faulty wires. To identify such issues, one must thoroughly check the entire electrical system. If one notices any problem, one should reconsider their purchase decision and look for a better option.
4. Tires
As the only point of contact between the road and the van, tires should always be maintained in good condition. When shopping for a pre-owned van, potential buyers should inspect for uneven wear on the front and rear tires. It can indicate issues with suspension, steering, or tracking. Ensure the sidewalks are free from damage and bulge—the primary reasons for blowouts when driving. Tires heat up during driving, causing the air inside to expand, which makes weakened sidewalls more vulnerable. So, ensure the tire’s tread depth is not below 3 mm; lower tread depth increases stopping distance and can significantly impact safety. Insufficient tread depth can make a crucial difference in emergency braking situations, potentially leading to accidents. That said, bad tires shouldn’t be a deal-breaker; they can become a point of negotiation. Ask for a discounted price or replacement tires if the rest of the van is in good condition.
5. Test drive
Lastly, potential buyers should take the used van on a test drive before purchasing. A test drive helps identify handling issues or latent problems. Test the vehicle on different road types, like city roads and highways, to examine how it drives in varying conditions and terrains. Beware of white smoke, warning lights, or any unusual sounds or smells from the engine. Additionally, ensure that features like air conditioning and cruise control function properly.
When searching for “vans for sale near me under $5,000,” using such tips will allow potential buyers to evaluate the condition and features of the vehicles they shortlist, increasing their chances of finding a reliable and well-maintained van that meets their budget requirements and preferences.
