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How to Inspect a Truck Before Purchase

How to Inspect a Truck Before Purchase

When purchasing a used truck, especially from overseas, conducting a proper inspection is essential to ensure you get a reliable vehicle that meets your business needs. At EVERYCAR.jp, we support customers from over 100 countries in selecting high-quality Japanese used trucks, and one of the most common questions we receive is: “How can I inspect a truck before buying?” This article outlines key areas to check before committing to a purchase.

1. Exterior Condition: Check for Rust, Dents, and Paint Quality

Start with a walk-around inspection. Look for:

  • Rust and corrosion, especially on the chassis, undercarriage, and wheel wells.

  • Paint quality – uneven or faded paint may indicate repairs.

  • Dents or signs of accidents, which could suggest structural damage.

Use high-resolution photos and videos if inspecting remotely. Japanese trucks are often in excellent cosmetic condition due to strict domestic maintenance standards.

2. Engine Condition: Listen and Look

The engine is the heart of the truck. Check for:

  • Unusual noises when idling or revving.

  • Excessive smoke from the exhaust, especially black or blue smoke.

  • Oil leaks around the engine block and under the vehicle.

  • Engine oil condition – black or sludgy oil may indicate poor maintenance.

  • Coolant level and color – milky coolant may suggest engine issues.

If you're buying through EVERYCAR.jp, our team can provide a detailed engine video and service history on request.

3. Transmission and Clutch Test

For manual trucks:

  • Ensure the clutch engages smoothly.

  • Test the gear shift for smoothness across all speeds.

  • Check for slippage or delay when changing gears.

For automatic trucks:

  • Ensure smooth and timely gear changes.

  • Look for warning lights or transmission hesitation during acceleration.

4. Suspension and Undercarriage Inspection

The undercarriage reveals the vehicle’s real condition:

  • Check for rust on suspension parts and frame.

  • Inspect shock absorbers and springs for wear or leaks.

  • Ensure the truck sits evenly on level ground.

EVERYCAR.jp offers underbody inspection reports and video walkthroughs for all units upon request.

5. Tires and Brake System

Don’t overlook the tires and brakes:

  • Tire tread depth and wear patterns – uneven wear could signal alignment issues.

  • Brake pads and discs – look for thickness, warping, or scoring.

  • Air brakes (common in heavy-duty trucks) – test for air pressure buildup and leakage.

6. Cabin Interior and Dashboard Warning Lights

The interior can tell you a lot about how well the truck was maintained:

  • Check the odometer reading and ensure it's consistent with wear.

  • Turn on the ignition and check if any warning lights stay on.

  • Test AC, heater, lights, and wipers to confirm functionality.

EVERYCAR.jp always verifies dashboard indicators before shipment.

7. Auction Sheet and Maintenance Records

Japanese trucks often come with official auction sheets and maintenance logs, offering:

  • Verified mileage

  • Past accident history

  • Grade evaluation from certified inspectors

We always recommend buying from exporters like EVERYCAR.jp who provide transparent documentation.

8. Test Drive or Virtual Inspection

If you're inspecting in person, a test drive is crucial. Pay attention to:

  • Steering response

  • Brake sensitivity

  • Engine acceleration and idling stability

For international buyers, EVERYCAR.jp provides live video inspections and expert walkarounds so you can confidently assess the truck remotely.

Conclusion: Trust Matters

Inspecting a truck before purchase is not just about checking boxes—it’s about making a smart investment for your business. At EVERYCAR.jp, we pride ourselves on transparency, inspection quality, and buyer satisfaction. Whether you’re purchasing a HINO, ISUZU, MITSUBISHI, or TOYOTA truck, we help ensure that what you see is exactly what you get.

If you're unsure about a specific unit or want expert advice, feel free to contact our inspection team today.

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