Trucks from full-maintenance leases are attractive for their consistent maintenance history. They also tend to come from private fleets known for professional drivers and favorable operating conditions. These trucks often have less wear and tear due to operating in environments with less harsh road conditions and climate.
Upon returning a full maintenance lease, trucks undergo a thorough inspection. Any damages are accounted for, and necessary repairs are made before they are prepared for resale. Having been maintained diligently from the start, these trucks present a more reliable and well-maintained option for potential buyers.
Buyers should inquire about the truck’s history, maintenance records, and operating conditions to gauge its condition accurately. Neglected trucks often show signs of being “too far gone,” making them less viable for long-term use.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on two primary considerations: the likelihood of the truck providing maximum longevity and the extent to which its history and maintenance remove uncertainties about its condition. Trucks from full maintenance leases, having followed strict maintenance protocols, often stand out as more reliable and cost-effective options in the secondary market.
Buying California Iron
Is there a real advantage to buying full-maintenance lease returns with a California history? You bet. The obvious benefit is the drier climate and minimal snow, which means little to no rust or corrosion. Another factor is that California paves most of its secondary roads. Road conditions in states like Texas or Arizona are rocky for miles on end, taking a heavy toll on the mainframe and running gear.
The Pre-Delivery Inspection
A Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is the final check completed before the sale of the truck. It starts at Mile Zero.
PDI’s performed on new trucks at the dealership are often done with a casual attitude, knowing the customer will bring the truck back if there’s an issue, or deal with the issue himself.
A PDI for a full-maintenance lease is different: the lessor knows they’re responsible for the truck running for 500,000 miles so they want to ensure there are no issues.
Preparing a Lease Return for Resale
When a full-maintenance lease truck is returned, two things happen: first, the lessor looks for atypical damages that will be billed back to the customer; second, they identify if there are any issues they need to repair before they sell the truck. When proper protocols have been followed from start to finish, the truck will likely be a reliable used vehicle with high resale value
From day one, it’s all the little things that make a huge difference. At the end of a full-maintenance lease, the truck’s looks stock from the factory: tight door jams; a lack of rust; good wiring; clean, unspliced looms coming in from the side of the truck back into the the harnesses.
When buying a used commercial truck, customers need to ask these questions: what is its history? What did it do? Where did it work? Who did the maintenance, and how often? When a truck hasn’t been properly maintained from day one, it shows. We use the words “too far gone” because there’s no amount of money or time that can get it back to a spot that can go a million miles.
In the end, we cannot see about 80% of what is going on with a truck, but if the history and inspection look good you have a better chance of getting a reliable truck and a great value.
