Buying Ex Mine Vehicles – 3 Warning Signs

Buying ex-mine vehicles can save you thousands but some vehicle components can be subject to corrosion as shown with this 2015 Toyota Hilux Dual Cab.

Firstly there are mine vehicles that get parked next to the boss’s donger (transportable cabin) and may occasionally go down to the pit like this Toyota Hilux I inspected then there are real mine vehicles that get used in the pit daily and taken underground.

Buying Ex Mine Vehicle – 3 Obvious Tell Tale Signs

Before getting down on your hands and knees to look in every nook and cranny. There are some obvious telltale signs as to whether you’re buying an ex-mine vehicle that has been used for its intended purpose and is subject to abuse or if you’re buying one that has been the boss’s pride and joy like below.

From the first appearance ask yourself, “Is the appearance of the vehicle consistent with the age and kilometres”.

3 Tell Tale Signs

1. Holes on the roof or other areas where amber beacon lights have been fitted
2. Reflective sticker work
3. Red dust in the A/C vents

This 2015 Toyota Hilux (KUN26R) SR5 4-door utility done only 27,608 km didn’t show any of the obvious signs of any real ex-mine use but when getting underneath to inspect the vehicle using a fine-tooth comb look what I discovered.

Toyota Hilux Inspection Shows Components Subject To Corrosion

So, Is Buying an Ex Mine Vehicle a Good Idea?

If the vehicle passes all other important checks like a vehicle finance check and the price reflects below market value because of its history, then buying an ex-mine vehicle could be a good buy.

Also, a bit of cleaning and protection may slow further corrosion and rust.

A final reminder, even though this Toyota Hilux was just over 12 months old when the pre-purchase vehicle inspection was carried out by BPC Auto Inspect and done only low kilometres don’t just assume no damage has been done, you still must get underneath and inspect it.