Whether you’re purchasing the engine alone or the entire truck, take care when buying a used Powerstroke. While you can certainly find a good deal on an older Powerstroke engine, and it may be the only way to acquire a particular model, it’s not a trouble-free process. Here’s what to look for when buying a used Powerstroke so you don’t experience buyer’s remorse.

Read Its “Biography”

Almost all vehicles have a comprehensive vehicle history report that details ownership, accidents, repairs, and maintenance. Acquire it through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) website. They provide links to several places where you can request a report.

Make sure the engine has been well cared for. Naturally, a clean record is preferable, though take a too-clean record with a bit of salt. Look for oddities and anomalies, and compare what the report says about engine maintenance or mods to the engine itself. Knowing what an engine has already been through will give you an idea about its remaining lifespan.

Inspect, Inspect, Inspect

After you get the report, look at the engine with a cynical eye. Examine the engine and truck for evidence of corrosion, rust, oil and other fluid leaks, excessive wear and tear, and dirty coolant and transmission fluid. Check connections, and see if the hoses, belts, and other visible parts are secure and look good. If you can get underneath the truck or engine and take a gander, do so. If you’re less adept at the inner workings of Powerstroke engines, ask a friend or family member of friendly mechanic for their insight.

Run the engine and see it in action, noting if the exhaust is excessive or discolored. Naturally, take it for a test drive. Never buy a used engine sight unseen without an ironclad guarantee. In fact, consider buying a fresh 6.0 Powerstroke crate engine instead.

Many Modifications?

Diesel engine owners like to tinker with their vehicles to increase horsepower and more. That could be the sign of a conscientious owner, but it can also indicate someone more interested in modding their engine than taking care of it. Products and processes like engine tuning, lift kits, upgraded exhaust systems, and other doohickeys can boost engine horsepower and torque, but they can cause damage if installed incorrectly. Some modifications may even interfere with the truck’s ability to pass emissions tests—something you don’t want to deal with down the line.

Be Suspicious

Congratulations! You now know what to look for when buying a used Powerstroke and have found the perfect engine. Or have you? If the price seems too reasonable or the engine feels slightly hinky on the test drive, it might be a good idea to walk away. Unless you enjoy a do-it-yourself project or have plenty of personal funding to handle engine issues, save yourself the time and hassle and skip the deal. There are plenty of fish in the sea, and there are plenty of used engines to choose from, as well.