What To Look For When Buying A Used Van

No matter what your trade is, having the right van is essential for running your business smoothly and many tradespeople opt for buying a used van as a more cost-effective solution. Buying a used van can be a great investment but there are several important factors to consider to ensure you get a reliable, durable and suitable vehicle that suits your needs. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key things to look for when buying a used van and help you make an informed decision that will serve you and your business well.

1. Know your requirements.

The first step in the buying process is understanding your specific business needs. This means considering:

• Size and capacity: Different trades have different storage and equipment requirements. A painter and decorator may need more space for ladders and paint buckets, while an electrician might prioritise smaller compartments for tools. Make sure the van has the right payload capacity and internal dimensions for your work. Consider whether a small van or a larger one will best suit your day-to-day needs.
• Fuel efficiency: For tradesmen who clock a lot of miles, fuel efficiency is key. Modern vans, even used ones, often come with better fuel economy ratings than older models, potentially saving you significant money on fuel over time. Always check the miles per gallon (MPG) for the van you’re considering.
• Driving and parking environment: If your work primarily takes place in city centres or residential areas with narrow streets, you might prefer a smaller van that’s easier to manoeuvre and park. On the other hand, if you’re often working in rural or industrial areas, a larger van with greater off-road capability might be more practical.

2. Check the van’s history.

One of the most crucial aspects when buying a used van is its history. Here’s what you need to review:

• Service history: Ensure that the van has a full service history, which gives insight into how well the previous owner maintained the vehicle. Regular servicing typically indicates that the van has been well looked after, reducing the chances of hidden issues. Look for major repairs or frequent breakdowns, as these could suggest underlying problems.
• MOT history: Check the van’s MOT history, which you can easily do online with the registration number. This will tell you whether the van has passed or failed its annual MOT test and if any advisories or major defects were noted. Consistent MOT failures or advisories should raise red flags about the vehicle’s reliability.
• Previous owners and usage: The fewer previous owners a van has, the better, as it indicates less wear and tear from different driving styles. You should also ask what the van was previously used for. Vans used for heavy-duty tasks might have more engine or suspension wear compared to those used for lighter tasks like deliveries.

3. Complete a thorough inspection.

When you’re buying a used van, it’s vital to carry out both a visual and mechanical inspection to ensure it’s in good condition. Here are some areas to focus on:

• Bodywork: Check for any signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches, door sills and under the van. Rust is a major concern with older vehicles, particularly in the UK where the roads are often salted in winter. Also, look for signs of damage, dents or poor paint repairs, which might indicate the van has been in an accident.
• Tyres: The condition of the tyres is another crucial aspect. Ensure that the tread depth meets current legal requirements. Uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or suspension problems, which might lead to costly repairs down the line.
• Engine and transmission: Pop the bonnet and inspect the engine bay. Look for any signs of oil leaks or excessive grime, which can be signs of poor maintenance. Turn the engine on and listen for any unusual noises. Ensure that the van shifts smoothly through all gears, whether manual or automatic.
• Mileage: Although mileage is an important consideration, it’s not the sole indicator of a van’s condition. A well-maintained van with higher mileage can often be a better buy than one with low mileage but a poor service history. However, vans with extremely high mileage, while cheaper, may require more frequent repairs in the future so bear this in mind.

4. Take it for a test drive.

Never buy a used van without taking it for a test drive first. This will give you a feel for how the van handles and help you identify any issues that might not be immediately visible. During the test drive, focus on testing the following:

• Steering: Ensure the steering feels responsive and there are no unusual vibrations or noises.
• Braking: Test the brakes thoroughly. The van should come to a stop smoothly and efficiently without any squeaking, grinding, or pulling to one side.
• Suspension: Drive over speed bumps and rough terrain to check the suspension. The van should handle bumps without excessive bouncing or knocking sounds.

5. Finally, try and negotiate the price.

When buying a used van, it’s important to do your research on pricing. Compare the asking price with similar makes and models online, factoring in the van’s age, mileage and condition. We’ll always try to give you the fairest price but don’t be afraid to negotiate with the seller, especially if you notice any areas that may need repairs or servicing soon.

Buying a used van can be a great investment for your business, but it’s essential to do your due diligence before signing on the dotted line. By thoroughly checking the van’s history, inspecting it for physical and mechanical issues and ensuring it fits your specific needs, you can find a reliable vehicle that serves you well for many years to come.

Are you in the market for a used van? Check out what we have to offer in our showroom.