What to check when buying a new van

Whether your current transport has seen better days or you’re just looking to upgrade to a larger vehicle, choosing a new van can make a huge difference in your everyday life. But with so many different options on the market – not to mention some unscrupulous dealers looking to make a quick buck – how can you make sure that you’re getting a good deal? Of course, the best way to check a new vehicle is to view it in person, with plenty of time to look it over and ask questions of the current owner. One of the most important things to examine is the bodywork, so make sure that you check carefully for signs of rust. Typically, telltale indicators can be found in places such as wheel arches, door frames and the areas around the windscreen. And while rust itself isn’t necessarily a massive problem, if you hear a cracking sound when you push down on the area it could mean that the metal beneath is corroded. Another thing that can only be checked in person is the vehicle’s suspension – a good push on each corner of the van should give you an idea about the shock absorbers and what state they’re in. So whether you’re looking to purchase outright or sign a van leasing contract, try and spend some time with the vehicle and see how it feels. If you’re unsure, ask to take it for a test drive. While these are the two most important things to check, there are other things that need to be examined before making a final decision. In fact, before agreeing to purchase or lease you should ensure that the lights, brakes, tires and engine are all in good working order. And if they’re not, make sure that you negotiate a price that reflects these issues – and how much they will cost to fix. While there’s no substitute for checking over a new vehicle yourself, choosing a reputable dealer can stop you from wasting time and money on vans that would be better off in the scrapyard. At Rapid Vans, we offer a selection of affordable leasing packages on both new and used vehicles, providing low-cost vans that you can really trust.