Shuttle buses are a versatile and affordable transportation option for a variety of businesses and organizations. They can be used for church activities, airport shuttles, employee transportation, tour buses, and more. If you’re considering buying a used shuttle bus, it’s important to know what to look for to ensure that you’re getting a good quality vehicle.
Here are some key attributes to look for in a used shuttle bus:
Mileage: Shuttle buses can have high mileage, so it’s important to check the odometer carefully. A good rule of thumb is to avoid buses with more than 200,000 miles.
Maintenance history: Ask the seller for the bus’s maintenance records. This will give you a good idea of how well the bus has been cared for. Ask about records of regular oil changes, brake inspections, and other routine maintenance tasks.
Condition of the body and interior: Inspect the bus for any signs of damage, such as dents, rust, or cracked windows. Also, check the interior for cleanliness and condition of the seats, flooring, and upholstery.
Mechanical condition: Have the bus inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. This will help you identify any potential problems with the engine, transmission, brakes, and other mechanical components.
In addition to the above attributes, you should also consider the following factors when buying a used shuttle bus:
Size and capacity: Make sure that the bus is the right size and capacity for your needs. Consider how many passengers you need to transport and the amount of space you need.
Features: Consider the features that are important to you, such as air conditioning, heating, a sound system, and wheelchair accessibility.
Price: Shuttle buses can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the age, condition, and features of the bus. Be sure to shop around and compare prices before you buy.
Once you’ve found a used shuttle bus that meets your needs, it’s important to have it reconditioned before putting it into service. Reconditioning involves inspecting and repairing the bus, as well as addressing any necessary cosmetic defects. This will help to ensure that the bus is safe, useful, and reliable for many years to come.
Here are some of the tasks that are typically included in a shuttle bus reconditioning:
Servicing: The bus’s engine, transmission, brakes, and other mechanical components should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This may include changing the oil, filters, and fluids, as well as inspecting and repairing any worn or damaged parts.
Detailing: The bus’s body and interior should be cleaned and repaired. This may include washing and de-identifying the exterior, repairing any dents or rust, and cleaning and reupholstering the interior.
Inspection: The bus should be inspected by a qualified mechanic or inspection service to ensure that it is safe and reliable. This inspection should include a thorough examination of the engine, transmission, brakes, steering, and other critical components.
By having a used shuttle bus that has been reconditioned, you can be sure that you’re getting a safe and reliable vehicle that will meet your needs for many years to come.
Here are some additional tips for buying a used shuttle bus:
Do your research: Before you start shopping, learn as much as you can about shuttle buses. This will help you to identify the right type of bus for your needs and to avoid buying a bus that is not in good condition.
Get a pre-purchase inspection: Before you buy any used vehicle, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. This inspection will help to identify any potential problems with the vehicle.
Ask questions: When you’re talking to the seller, be sure to ask as many questions as possible about the bus. This includes questions about the bus’s maintenance history, condition, and features.
Pricing: Don’t be afraid to make an offer, especially if you find any problems with the bus during the pre-purchase inspection. Because good used shuttle buses are scarce, many dealers are following a one-price sales approach.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of buying a used shuttle bus that is in good condition and that will meet your needs for many years to come.