Trucks in Alberta work for a living. Many have towed, hauled or spent time on lease roads. A careful look tells you which ones were cared for.
Start with how it was used
Ask directly: was it a work truck, a tow vehicle or a commuter? Check the CARFAX Canada report for commercial or fleet registration and for accident claims. A fleet truck with complete service records can be a better buy than a private truck with none.
Frame and underbody
- Look along the frame rails for heavy scale, flaking or fresh undercoating that could be hiding rust.
- Check skid plates and the bottoms of the bumpers for off-road hits.
- Look for oil or fluid on the differentials, the transfer case and the back of the engine.
Four-wheel drive
Engage 4-high and 4-low during the test drive. It should shift in without grinding, and the indicator light should stay steady. Make slow, tight turns on a loose surface and listen for clunks or binding.
Signs of towing
- A worn hitch receiver, a brake controller under the dash or fifth-wheel rails in the box.
- Ask what it towed and how often.
- Check that transmission and differential services were done on schedule.
Know your numbers
The sticker on the driver's door jamb lists the payload for that exact truck. Towing capacity depends on the engine, axle ratio and equipment, so confirm it for the specific truck instead of relying on a brochure figure. Match both numbers to what you plan to carry and pull, with room to spare.
The box and tailgate
Dents and scratches in the box are normal. Look for a bent tailgate, damaged tie-downs, or a spray-in liner covering fresh repairs.
Tires and suspension
Uneven tire wear points to alignment or suspension wear. Lift kits and oversized tires change how a truck rides and can affect warranty coverage, so ask who did the work.
Paperwork
Read the Mechanical Fitness Assessment, check for liens on the history report, and get any promised repairs written on the bill of sale.
Questions about a specific vehicle?
Text me at 780-953-7887 with the stock number, or request a quote. I answer in English or Mandarin.
General information for buyers, not legal or tax advice. Rules and tax rates change, so confirm the details with AMVIC, an Alberta registry agent or your home province before you buy.
