Mechanic Buys the Worst Truck Ever Lesson to Shoppers

Work for Torque News, follow on Twitter, Youtube and Facebook.

The importance of a thorough walk-around cannot be overstated as shown in this lesson to used truck shoppers showcasing the worst truck ever bought sight unseen for $5,000 with plans to fix it up for a $20,000 resell!

In previous articles we have repeatedly been reminded about the importance of having a prepurchase inspection of not just the occasional---BUT ALL---used vehicles regardless of who is selling it or where it came from.

In a recent Car Wizard YouTube channel episode titled “I bought the worst truck ever! Even Hoovie doesn't approve. What did I get myself into?!?” the host of the show and a guest appearance by another well-known automotive YouTuber take a gander at what both agree is the worst truck ever---a used 2005 Chevy Silverado that was bought sight-unseen for $5,000.

Related article: Never Buy a Used Chevy Silverado As-Is

The Problems with This Truck Purchase

Was it worth the risk of buying a used truck essentially sight-unseen and taking a chance on that it might not be such a bad buy after all? And whether it really makes any sense to put work into it for resale?

Follow along with the hosts and find out the answer to these questions as they discover a range of problems that include:

  • Rattle can and deck screw repairs and rust issues
  • Previous owner anger management issues
  • Stolen rims (Yep, it’s a “Hot Wheels” truck!)
  • Miscellaneous mods and mismatched replacement parts
  • Bullet holes
  • Engine runs after 191,000 miles, but transmission does not have functional 3rd and 4th gears
  • Zip tie repairs
  • Pot odors
  • Air bag and check engine light warnings
  • And more…

And, if it can realistically be turned over as a $20,000 resell vehicle.

I bought the worst truck ever!

For additional articles related to unpleasant used car finds, here is an interesting one for your consideration:

Why You Should Avoid Used Cars That Smell Like a Cat Litter Box

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

COMING UP NEXT: Harbor Freight’s Secret Weapon is Deception

Image source: Deposit Photos