Work Truck and Used Car Dealership Serving Murrieta, California

Norco Truck Center is proud to serve the city of Murrieta, CA! We pride ourselves on our extensive inventory of work trucks, used cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and discounted vehicles. If you’re interested in our selection of work trucks, then make sure you try our custom services. You can seamlessly customize your work truck to your liking. These work truck customizations vary from stake beds, flat beds, and dump trucks to those with utility bodies, contractor bodies, an auto crane, and a man-lift! The possibilities are endless, but it doesn’t stop there. We offer vehicle financing, whether you have good credit or bad credit. You can fill out our credit applications and get pre-approved online through our website. Whatever your need may be, Norco Truck Center has your back!

Test Drive and Inspection

Test driving and inspecting work trucks before purchase, especially when customizing them, is crucial to ensure you're getting a reliable and suitable vehicle for your business needs. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to conduct a thorough test drive and inspection:

1. Preliminary Research:
   1. Research the make and model of the work truck you're interested in to understand its specifications, features, and typical issues.
2. Contact the Seller or Dealer:
   1. Arrange a test drive and inspection appointment with the seller or dealer. Ensure the work truck is available and ready for evaluation.
3. Documentation Review:
   1. Examine the work truck's documentation, including the title, maintenance records, and any warranties. Ensure the paperwork is in order and matches the vehicle's details.
4. Exterior Inspection:
   1. Conduct a visual inspection of the work truck's exterior, looking for:
      1. Signs of rust or corrosion.
      2. Paint damage, dents, or scratches.
      3. Tire condition and tread depth.
      4. Condition of headlights, taillights, and other exterior lights.
      5. Any visible customizations or modifications.
5. Interior Inspection:
   1. Inspect the interior of the work truck, checking for:
      1. Seat condition and comfort.
      2. Functionality of controls, switches, and gauges.
      3. Signs of wear or damage to the dashboard, steering wheel, and upholstery.
      4. iv. Cabin cleanliness and overall condition.
6. Customization Evaluation:
   1. If customizations have been made, assess their quality and functionality. Ensure they meet your business needs and are well-maintained.
7. Engine and Mechanical Inspection:
   1. Open the hood and inspect the engine compartment. Look for:
      1. Leaks, oil spots, or coolant stains.
      2. Corrosion on battery terminals.
      3. Signs of wear or damage to the dashboard, steering wheel, and upholstery.
      4. Fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid).
      5. Condition of the air filter.
8. Test Drive:
   1. Before starting the engine, check for:
      1. Unusual odors, such as burnt oil or coolant.
      2. Unusual engine noises or vibrations
   2. During the test drive, pay attention to:
      1. Acceleration, braking, and steering responsiveness.
      2. Transmission shifts (if applicable).
      3. Handling and stability.
      4. Noise levels inside the cabin.
      5. The effectiveness of air conditioning and heating.
      6. Any warning lights on the dashboard.
9. Brakes and Suspension:
   1. Test the brakes for responsiveness and any unusual noises or vibrations.
   2. Assess the suspension by driving over bumps or rough roads to check for excessive bouncing or clunking sounds.
10. Specialized Equipment (if applicable):
    1. If the work truck has specialized equipment (e.g., lifts, cranes, refrigeration units), test their functionality and inspect for signs of wear or damage.
11. Comprehensive Test Drive:
    1. If possible, simulate the work conditions your truck will face during regular operations. For example, if it's a construction truck, drive it on rough terrain or over a weight scale to check load-bearing capacity.
12. Vehicle History Check:
    1. Consider obtaining a vehicle history report, which can provide insights into the work truck's past accidents, title issues, or other potential red flags.
13. Ask Questions:
    1. Don't hesitate to ask the seller or dealer about the work truck's maintenance history, customization details, and any known issues. Be thorough in your inquiries.
14. Inspection by a Mechanic:
    1. If you have doubts or concerns, consider having the work truck inspected by a trusted mechanic or technician who specializes in commercial vehicles. They can identify hidden issues and provide a professional assessment.
15. Negotiate and Finalize the Deal:
    1. If you're satisfied with the test drive and inspection, negotiate the price and terms with the seller or dealer. Ensure that all necessary paperwork, including the bill of sale, title transfer, and warranty documentation, is completed correctly.

A comprehensive test drive and inspection help you make an informed decision when buying and customizing work trucks. It's an essential step to ensure the vehicle meets your business needs, is safe to operate, and represents a good investment for your company.

Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage for work trucks, including those that have been customized, is an important consideration when making a purchase. Warranties can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected issues or defects. Here's what you need to know about warranty coverage:

1. Manufacturer's Warranty:
   1. Most work trucks come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period or mileage limit. This warranty typically covers the vehicle's base components, such as the engine, transmission, and chassis.
2. Customizations and Warranty:
   1. When customizing work trucks, it's crucial to understand how the modifications may affect the manufacturer's warranty. Some manufacturers may void specific parts of the warranty if customizations are not approved or performed by authorized upfitters. Always check with the manufacturer and upfitter to ensure compliance with warranty terms.
3. Customization Warranty:
   1. Some custom upfitters offer their own warranties on the modifications they perform. These warranties can cover the custom components, such as specialized equipment, shelving, or racks. Be sure to review and understand the terms and duration of any customization warranties.
4. Extended Warranties:
   1. Consider purchasing extended warranties or service contracts, which can provide additional coverage beyond the manufacturer's warranty. Extended warranties can be tailored to cover specific components, including customizations, and may offer protection against unexpected repair costs.
5. Component Warranties:
   1. Ca. For customizations like refrigeration units, lifts, or cranes, inquire about separate warranties provided by the manufacturers of those components. These warranties may have different terms and coverage than the vehicle's warranty.
6. Warranty Inspection:
   1. Before customizing a work truck, have it inspected by the manufacturer's dealership or an authorized service center. This can help identify any pre-existing issues or warranty concerns that need to be addressed before customization.
7. Maintenance Requirements:
   1. Keep in mind that most warranties require regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Failure to adhere to these maintenance requirements can void the warranty.
8. Read the Fine Print:
   1. Thoroughly read and understand the warranty documents, including any exclusions, limitations, and required maintenance. If you have questions or concerns, seek clarification from the manufacturer or dealership.
9. Warranty Transferability:
   1. Consider whether the warranty is transferable if you plan to sell the work truck in the future. A transferable warranty can be an attractive selling point.
10. Aftermarket Parts and Accessories:
    1. If you plan to add aftermarket parts or accessories to your work trucks, be aware that these modifications can impact warranty coverage. Some manufacturers may void the warranty for components affected by aftermarket parts.
11. Keep Detailed Records:
    1. Maintain thorough records of all maintenance and repairs, including invoices and receipts. This documentation can be valuable in case you need to make a warranty claim.

When buying and customizing work trucks, it's essential to strike a balance between getting the customizations you need and preserving warranty coverage. Work closely with the manufacturer, upfitter, and dealership to ensure that the customizations are performed in a way that complies with warranty terms. Additionally, explore extended warranty options to provide added protection for your investment.

Documentation and Records

Maintaining accurate documentation and records when buying and customizing work trucks is essential for managing your fleet effectively, ensuring compliance, and facilitating future transactions. Here are some key documents and records to create and maintain throughout the process:

1. Purchase Documents:
   1. Purchase Agreement: A written agreement detailing the terms and conditions of the purchase, including the price, payment terms, and any warranties or guarantees.
   2. Bill of Sale: A legal document that transfers ownership of the work truck from the seller to the buyer. It includes details such as the vehicle's identification number (VIN), purchase price, and date of sale.
   3. Title and Registration: Keep copies of the vehicle title and registration documents, which are necessary for legal ownership and operation.
2. Customization Documentation:
   1. Customization Agreements: If you hire a company to perform customizations, maintain contracts or agreements that outline the scope of work, costs, and timelines.
   2. Customization Invoices: Keep copies of invoices or receipts for customizations, including the cost of materials, labor, and any warranties provided.
   3. Customization Plans: If applicable, retain plans, drawings, or schematics of the customizations made to the work trucks. These can be valuable for reference and future modifications.
3. Maintenance Records:
   1. Service and Maintenance Logs: Document all service and maintenance activities performed on the work trucks. Include details such as date, mileage, type of service, and the service provider.
   2. Repair Invoices: Keep records of repair invoices, including details of parts replaced and labor costs. This documentation is essential for warranty claims and resale value.
   3. Oil Change and Fluid Service Records: Track oil changes, fluid top-ups, and other routine maintenance tasks. Regular maintenance records demonstrate responsible vehicle care.
4. Warranty Documents:
   1. Manufacturer's Warranty: Maintain copies of the manufacturer's warranty documentation, including terms, coverage details, and contact information for warranty claims.
   2. Extended Warranty: If you purchase an extended warranty or service contract, keep all related documents, including terms and conditions.
5. Inspection Reports:
   1. Pre-Purchase Inspection: If you had the work trucks inspected before purchase, keep the inspection report for reference and potential warranty claims.
   2. Customization Inspection: After customizations are performed, obtain inspection reports to verify that the work was completed to your satisfaction and meets safety and compliance standards.
6. Compliance Records:
   1. Regulatory Compliance: Maintain records of compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, such as emissions testing, safety inspections, and weight certifications.
   2. Customization Compliance: Document any compliance with vehicle customization regulations and standards, especially if the customizations involve safety-related modifications.
7. Vehicle History Reports:
   1. If available, obtain and keep vehicle history reports to provide insights into the work truck's past ownership, accidents, title issues, and more.
8. Financial Records:
   1. Payment Records: Keep records of all payments related to the purchase and customization of work trucks, including invoices, receipts, and bank statements.
   2. Budget and Cost Tracking: Maintain a detailed budget that tracks expenses related to acquiring, customizing, and maintaining the work trucks. This helps with financial planning and cost management.
9. Insurance Documents:
   1. Insurance Policies: Keep copies of all insurance policies, including commercial auto insurance, liability insurance, and any coverage related to customizations or specialized equipment.
10. Driver and Operator Records:
    1. Driver Training: Document driver training and certification records, including the date and type of training received.
    2. Driver Logs: If required for your industry, maintain driver logs, which track hours of service and compliance with regulations.
11. Warranty Claim Records:
    1. If you make any warranty claims, retain records of the claims, including correspondence with manufacturers or warranty providers and details of repairs or replacements.

Effective record-keeping is vital for ensuring the safety, compliance, and efficient operation of your work trucks. Proper documentation also supports warranty claims, facilitates resale transactions, and provides valuable insights into the history and condition of your fleet. Consider using digital tools or software to organize and store these records securely for easy access and retrieval when needed.

Visiting From Moreno Valley, CA

If you are visiting us from Murrieta, then you will want to hop on the I-15 N. Continue on the 15 North until you reach exit 98/Second St. After making a left on Second St., you will take a right onto Hamner Ave. After that, you have arrived! If you need further information on how to reach us, visit our maps and directions page.