Purchasing a used bus can be a stressful experience, especially if you are buying your first used vehicle. Here are several important things you need to pay attention to when deciding on a particular bus to get your money’s worth and go home with a reliable vehicle.
Assess the situation
The important thing to inspect is the chassis because it determines the lifespan of your bus and proves to be the most financially draining part of bus ownership if something goes wrong. If you do not feel comfortable with your level of experience, ask a professional mechanic to accompany you while you inspect your potential purchase. That will help you avoid making the wrong choice, as well as serve as a bargaining opportunity. Inspect the body of the bus as well because it affects the safety of your passengers. Search for rust, corrosion, and unstable flooring.
Research the history of the bus you are considering
Review the mileage of your bus and ask to see all the records of previous ownership. This documentation can show you how the previous owner(s) managed the bus and what you need to be careful with. It is important to know if the owners changed any of the vital parts of the chassis and the engine because it changes the effective age of the bus.
Consider the upgrade
Buying an older and used bus usually means that the equipment ensuring the safety of passengers might be obsolete or missing. To be able to use your new purchase, you might need to upgrade the equipment, making this an unforeseen expense you will need to cover before going on the road. From mirrors and safety belts to tires, don’t forget to set aside a bit of money for these requirements.
If you have questions about how to choose the perfect bus for your business, family, community or school, contact Colorado/West Equipment, Inc for help. Browse our online store for an exclusive selection of used buses that will be perfect for your conversion!