Crazy to buy used without test drive?

[stickshifter]

I like some of the simpler options you can get in the 2022-model year Power Wagon (manual transfer case, 8.4 screen). I found one at a dealership with low-miles, at a good price, and it is only 14-months old - so it has nearly two years left on the factory warranty. Unfortunately, it is 1,000 miles away. I'm thinking about buying it without actually laying hands on it. I could fly out there, or I could hire a local mechanic to check it out, but both those options have some downsides. Am I crazy for considering buying a used PW without driving it first?

P.S. I know it comes down to my decision - I'm just curious to hear what people think. Maybe someone has some thoughts I hadn't considered.

 

[Poolmonkey]

I didn’t test drive mine when it was right in front of me, but Covid.

 

[AH64ID]

I bought my 2018 that way. I put a deposit down, flew out, test drove it and then signed papers.

 

[stickshifter]

I bought my 2018 that way. I put a deposit down, flew out, test drove it and then signed papers.

Yeah - I've thought about doing that. Probably the smartest option. Thanks!

 

[flan]

Same here as ah64id. Twice.

 

[Crusty old shellback]

I ordered my 21 PW without ever driving one. I did drive my buddies 1500, but they are not the same ride. But it gave me a sense of the interior layout and comfort which was the main thing.
76K miles latter and I still like the truck.

 

[stickshifter]

Thanks folks!

 

[techman]

100% Refundable deposit pending test drive/inspection. Why would you buy it outright? No safety net there.

 

[SolidAxleorBust]

I have bought vehicles that way. If you know what you are getting, not sure its a big deal.

 

[stickshifter]

Thanks everyone. I decided not to buy used, but I wanted the manual lever for the t-case, and the 8.4-inch screen with simpler HVAC controls. That put me into a 2024 Tradesman with the Power Wagon package. I am really bummed that I did not get the heated steering wheel, and there are some other things that are pretty nice with the Power Wagon trim that I am missing, but I prioritized the manual t-case and 8.4 screen. I love this truck!

P.S. Yeah - I know that the dealer forgot to do the winch-prep. I'll take care of that soon.

 

[SolidAxleorBust]

Manual T case is nice, and the Power Wagon one is smooth as butter. Winch prep? LOL, not sure most dealers know it has a winch

 

[Dark Knight G45]

I bought a few exotic cars sight unseen. Always worked out fine (so far)

 

[stickshifter]

Manual T case is nice, and the Power Wagon one is smooth as butter. Winch prep? LOL, not sure most dealers know it has a winch

Ha ha! Yeah... I'm trying to figure out how to get the end of the winch line off the spool without taking things apart. Any one have any ideas, or do I need to remove the plate that covers the winch? Thanks!