Top 4 Things to Look Out For When Buying a Used Bus

June 28, 2019 | By Chase Schetky

used bus for sale Today, a lot of schools and institutions prefer buying used vans and buses instead of purchasing a new heavy-duty bus. Whatever your reason may be, buying a used bus is not as straightforward as buying a new vehicle. There are a lot of factors you must consider to find the right bus. Whether you want to purchase medical vans or hotel shuttle vans, you must make the following considerations before you purchase.

  1. Check if the law will protect you: A lot of people have heard about the “lemon law,” which protects consumers after they buy a used item. In cases where you are protected, you will be entitled to a refund or replacement. However, your warrant must write that you are protected by law in a single, clear, and easy to read the phrase. If you find a used bus for sale that interests you, be sure to ask the retailer if you will be protected or not. You can ask them to show you the warrant and check for yourself to be sure that the protection phrase is indeed included.
  2. Protect yourself by hiring a mechanic: The disappointment of making a wrong purchase is worse than the trouble of having a backup plan. Professional dealerships always have an in-house mechanic to check that the vehicle is in running condition before selling, but if you are not sure about it, always hire your own mechanic to do a run through for your peace of mind.
    Once you identify a used bus for sale, ask the bus dealer to allow you to take the bus for inspection. Most dealers will not have a problem with this unless of course, they have something to hide. Another option to protect yourself is by asking for a vehicle history report. The report will give you information about the bus title, any accidents, and other vital information that may help you make a buying decision.
  3. Check out the bus exterior: There are some basic issues you can spot on your own once you identify a used bus for sale that looks like a good fit for you. Look at the tires, paint job, and general condition of the bus. The tires should be of the same brand and worn equally. The body should be scratch and dent free. Check for any large patches of rust. A small spot here and there is typical of used vehicles, but a large patch should be a deal breaker.
    The bus should not have frame damages. It’s doors, fenders, and lines should be even and working correctly. Another hack is to run your finger in the exhaust pipe. If you find a grease like a residue, it means that the engine is burning oil, a big no-no.
  4. Check the interior: This part is probably handled best by your mechanic, but there are a few things you might be able to spot by yourself. The interior should be free of dents, and rust, just like the exterior. Obvious cracks in the hoses and belts mean they are close to snapping, and you’ll need to get them fixed. Turn everything on to make sure it’s in working condition. This includes lights, air conditioning if it has one, windshield wipers, signals, audio system, and everything else. Make sure they are working.

Spotting a good-looking used bus for sale is the first step in making a purchase, but having it well inspected will tell you if you have a deal or not. Be sure to check everything we have stated before you buy. This is especially vital because traditionally, buses are driven by older people majority of who are between 70-74 years who are likely to be involved in a fatal accident.