Buying a used van can be a cost-effective way to expand your business or upgrade your vehicle. However, making the right choice is crucial to ensuring you get a reliable and valuable van for your needs. At Merseyside Van Sales LTD, we specialise in providing high-quality used vans across the North West of England. This guide will walk you through the process of buying a used van and what to look for to make the right choice for your business.
1. Setting Your Budget and Needs
Understanding Your Budget:
Set a clear budget, considering not only the purchase price but also ongoing costs like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. At Merseyside Van Sales LTD, we offer a range of affordable used vans to suit different price points. Remember to find a balance between affordability and quality—our selection includes vans with excellent reliability and value for money.
Identifying Your Needs:
Determine what you require from a van:
- Cargo Space Requirements: Do you need a small van for local deliveries, like a Ford Transit Connect, or a larger model like a Mercedes Sprinter for bigger loads?
- Fuel Efficiency & Daily Mileage: Choose a van that meets your fuel efficiency needs based on your business operations.
- Features & Comfort: Identify the features important to you, such as air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, or additional storage. Our experienced team can help guide you to the right van with the features that suit your business.
2. Inspecting the Exterior & Interior
Exterior Inspection Checklist:
- Bodywork Condition: When inspecting used vans in Merseyside, look for signs of rust, dents, scratches, and previous repairs. Make sure all doors and locks work properly.
- Wheels and Tyres: Check tread depth and the condition of all tyres (including the spare). Uneven wear can indicate alignment issues.
- Lights & Windows: Inspect headlights, taillights, indicators, and brake lights. Ensure all windows are intact and functioning smoothly.
Interior Inspection Checklist:
- Seating & Upholstery: Look for any rips, tears, stains, or wear on seats, especially in higher-mileage vans.
- Dashboard & Controls: Ensure all dials, gauges, and electronics (radio, air conditioning, heaters) work properly. At Merseyside Van Sales, we make sure each van is thoroughly inspected and ready for your test drive.
- Cargo Area Condition: Check for wear and tear in the cargo space—flooring, side panels, and any storage features. Our selection of quality used vans is designed to fit different business needs, from delivery services to trade professionals.
3. Checking the Engine and Performance
Engine Bay Inspection:
- Fluid Levels & Condition: Check the oil level and colour—clean oil is a good sign of regular maintenance. Check other fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and washer fluid for appropriate levels.
- Belts & Hoses: Inspect for wear, cracks, or leaks in belts and hoses, which can be signs of future issues.
- Battery Health: Ensure battery terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
Performance Inspection:
- Listen for Unusual Sounds: While the engine is running, listen for any rattles, knocking, or unusual noises. Our vans are carefully maintained, but always test thoroughly.
- Exhaust Emissions: Blue or black smoke could indicate engine trouble, so be sure to check the exhaust during your inspection.
- Under the Van: Look for any leaks or rust under the van, and check the condition of the chassis.
4. Test Drive Tips
Test Driving with Confidence:
When buying a used van from Merseyside Van Sales, we encourage you to take a thorough test drive:
- Acceleration & Brakes: Test acceleration and braking. If the van pulls to one side while braking, it may need attention.
- Handling & Suspension: Drive on different roads to assess how the van handles bumps, turns, and overall manoeuvrability.
- Comfort & Visibility: Assess driving comfort, visibility through mirrors, and ease of manoeuvring. A good test drive should mimic how you plan to use the van daily.
Pay Attention to the Dashboard:
While driving, keep an eye on the dashboard for any warning lights. Test all features like lights, cruise control, and any dashboard functions.
5. Paperwork & Service History
Check the Vehicle’s History with Us:
At Merseyside Van Sales LTD, we provide a transparent history for every van we sell, including any outstanding finance, mileage discrepancies, and past accidents.
Service and Maintenance Records:
Ask to see service records, which show the van’s maintenance history. A well-documented record indicates a van that’s been properly looked after.
Ownership Documents:
Always ensure that the van comes with all the necessary ownership documents. Our team will help you verify all paperwork to ensure a smooth buying experience.
6. Other Factors to Consider
Mileage vs. Age:
Consider whether you prioritise a low-mileage vehicle or a newer model. At Merseyside Van Sales LTD, our selection of pre-owned vans for sale includes a range of options to suit different needs.
Warranty Options:
To give you peace of mind, most of our vans come with a 3-month free warranty, ensuring that your purchase is protected from the start. We also offer extended warranty options if you’d like additional coverage beyond this initial period.
Dealer Reputation:
Merseyside Van Sales LTD is a trusted dealership in the North West, with years of experience in providing top-quality used vans. Check out our testimonials and get in touch with our team for personalised guidance on your purchase.
Conclusion
Taking the time to properly inspect and test drive a used van is crucial to making a well-informed purchase. A van in great condition, bought from a reputable dealer like Merseyside Van Sales LTD, will be a valuable asset to your business. Ready to find the right van for your needs? Explore our inventory of affordable used vans for sale in Merseyside, or contact us today for any advice or questions.