New truck with hail damage

[RojoGrande]

Would you buy a new truck with hail damage? I've been pondering a new truck for the past 6 months or so to replace my 13 year old truck that has 170+K miles. Its a 2012 Ram 1500 5.7l. It's been a great truck. Only one issue with the shift solenoid at 75K miles. Looking to replace the truck before something expensive goes.
Through online searching, a dealer in the area has a number of new trucks with hail damage selling at a substantial discount ($12 to $17K depending on the truck and level of damage). Damage looks to be primarily to hood and assume roof as well. Otherwise the trucks are new, no miles, with full factory warranties, etc. If a truck met all your criteria for drive train, trim line, features, towing, etc., would you consider buying a truck with hail damage given the deep discount? Maybe spend a little on PDR (paintless dent repair) after purchase.

 

[Dave N]

Sure, why not? It's only new until you drive it off the lot!

 

[SD_Prairie_Goat]

How much value is left in your ram?

If it's working run it into the ground and then buy new? Truck might shock you and give you another five years without issues

 

[mtmuley]

I do damage just hunting in my truck. I considered a hail damage rig before I bought my current truck. Went the used Government way. Pretty happy. mtmuley

 

[Redmt]

Buy it. You won't have to worry about the first dent.

 

[RojoGrande]

How much value is left in your ram?

If it's working run it into the ground and then buy new? Truck might shock you and give you another five years without issues

Locally I could sell my truck for $10 to $12K as a private party seller, I might only get $7 as a trade-in. I live in a rural area, 40 miles to the closest major town with gas and groceries, so reliability is key. I think the truck still has a lot of life left in it, that's why its taken me over 6 months of pondering. My thought is to replace the truck before it starts needing major repairs. I know a new truck doesn't guarantee reliability these days but at least I'd have a warranty.

 

[mtmuley]

Locally I could sell my truck for $10 to $12K as a private party seller, I might only get $7 as a trade-in. I live in a rural area, 40 miles to the closest major town with gas and groceries, so reliability is key. I think the truck still has a lot of life left in it, that's why its taken me over 6 months of pondering. My thought is to replace the truck before it starts needing major repairs. I know a new truck doesn't guarantee reliability these days but at least I'd have a warranty.

If you can live with the damage I would do it. Bet you could negotiate even lower. mtmuley