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Buying a used nitro RC is fun if you approach it with the right mindset. Here are a few ground rules you should follow:

1. Every purchase is as-is

Almost every nitro RC being sold on the used market is listed as-is, which means you can’t ask for a refund if you discover a defect after purchasing. If a seller explicitly says they will refund you if the vehicle doesn’t work as described, I would still treat the purchase as-is. Take full responsibility for inspecting the vehicle and assume that when you make the purchase, there is no going back.

There are of course opportunities to get your money back if something is seriously wrong, especially on eBay which will usually rule in your favor if you simply tell them the item you purchased is “not as described”. The point is to do your due diligence so you have a good idea of what you’re buying and won’t have to resort to extreme measures.

2. What you see is what you get

Never assume that the seller will be including some component that you can’t see in the listing. If a transmitter is not in the pictures, you very likely will not be getting a transmitter which is going to cost you at least $50. Used nitro RCs are commonly sold without one or more of the following: transmitter/receiver, receiver battery, wheels/tires, engine, carburetor, air filter, and body. If a seller claims in the description that some component is included, but you don’t see it in the pictures; ask them to add a picture of the component to the listing.

In the same eBay listing pictured above, there is no exhaust header or clutch bell assembly in the pictures. Also, the engine shown looks like a Traxxas Pro .15, which is a very underpowered engine for this truck and wouldn’t even work with the stock throttle linkage. If I was buying this truck, I would assume that I would need to buy a new engine, exhaust header, and clutch bell assembly.

3. Always be ready to walk away

This is especially true for buying a used nitro RC in person via platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Maybe you drive 25 minutes to go buy a nitro RC and when you get there, you realize that something is damaged or a component is missing that wasn’t in the ad. If that kills the deal for you, negotiate or walk away. Thank them for their time and apologize for not doing the deal. If you are being reasonable, 9 times out of 10 they will stop you and make the deal.

When buying online, this rule still applies. It’s easy to fall in love with a nitro RC from the pictures and description. Then you notice something in the pictures or you ask the seller a question and realize there is something wrong with the vehicle. If the seller won’t negotiate, let it go.

4. Be okay with annoying the seller

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and negotiate. You don’t need to the seller to like you, you just need them to sell you a nitro RC with all of its issues disclosed for a decent price. Be polite and kind, but don’t let that stop you from doing your due diligence.

With those ground rules out of the way, let’s talk about where to look for used nitro RCs.

Where to buy used nitro RCs

eBay

eBay is the most consistent and highest volume platform for buying used nitro RCs. There is always multiple used nitro RCs available on eBay for a variety of models and states of condition. The disadvantage of eBay is that you cannot inspect the vehicles in person and the prices are typically higher than other used marketplaces due to fees and shipping charges.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is the most popular place people list used items for sale. Ideally, you can find a used nitro RC for sale locally, which will save you money because there is no shipping and it will be a cash deal with no fees. There’s also a smaller pool of buyers for local listings so you are more likely to find a good deal, as opposed to a good deal on eBay which is usually purchased quickly.

Local listings are great as well because you get to go see the nitro RC in person and possibly even see it run and drive. Of course there are downsides to meeting up with the seller in person. You have to take the time and gas to meet them. Sometimes people don’t show up on time or don’t show up at all. Or maybe the seller wants to meet at a time or place that makes you uncomfortable. All things to consider when buying on Facebook Marketplace.

Other Options for Buying Used

The above are the most convenient and high volume marketplaces for used nitro RCs, but there are other options out there if you really want to dig.

• OfferUp – A website and app where people list used items.
• Local Hobby Shop – Your LHS might have some used nitro RCs for sale.
• RC Swap Meets – These are typically either run by a local RC club or LHS.
• Estate & Garage Sales – If you already like to go to estate and garage sales, keep your eyes open for nitro RCs.
• Friends and Family – Someone you know might have a used nitro RC collecting dust in the basement.

Strategies for finding used nitro RCs for sale

Your sense of urgency is going to determine how you go about buying a used nitro RC. If you really want to buy a nitro RC today, then consider buying new as that will be the simplest and quickest way to own a nitro RC that is in good condition.

If you are not in a rush, then you have time to research the market, ask questions, negotiate deals, and wait for even better deals to pop up.

The easiest thing to do is set up a couple of “saved searches” on eBay and Facebook Marketplace for the nitro RC model(s) that you are interested in. Then make sure you are checking those searches as often as you are willing to. When you see something interesting, you can start evaluating it as a potential purchase (more below).

Other things to consider when searching for a used nitro RC

• The fall and winter are going to be the best time to get a good deal on a used nitro RC. There are far less buyers at these times as the weather is not great for running a nitro RC in many areas of the country and most nitro RC enthusiasts are busy spending their money on Christmas gifts. If you live in an area with cold winters, there will be even less competition for local listings.
• The longer a listing has been on the market, the less likely it is that it will be a good deal. Typically when a nitro RC is sitting on the market, it’s because the seller is asking too much for it and isn’t accepting reasonable offers. The best deals are always from motivated sellers and those deals don’t last long. This is why it is so critical to check listings as often as you can and act quickly when you find a good deal.

Buying a used nitro RC

You’ve found a used nitro RC for sale that you are interested in, now it’s time to inspect it to decide if you want to make an offer.

Evaluate the Seller & Description

First thing you should do is look at the seller’s profile. If they have a really poor rating, it’s probably someone you don’t want to deal with or if you do decide to go forward, at least you know who you are dealing with.

The description will often have clues as to the condition of the vehicle and its history. A well-written description that sticks to the facts is a good sign, as opposed to a description that says very little and just tries to get you excited bout the purchase. At the least, the description should tell you the condition of the engine and what is needed to complete the vehicle.

Online Inspection

After you have looked at the seller and their description, it’s time to inspect the pictures. It’s best use computer or larger monitor so you can really see what is in the pictures. You want to look at each picture carefully and zoom in so you can see all the imperfections and issues. From the pictures, you can tell how clean the vehicle is and the condition of the various components. Here are the main things you want to look at during an initial inspection.

Engine Condition

Nitro RC engines are the most expensive single component of the vehicle and therefore the condition is usually disclosed by the seller in the description. You might see one or more of the following phrases to describe the engines condition.

• Needs repair – the engine needs a complete rebuild or possibly needs to be replaced
• Has compression – means the engine still has pinch and therefore doesn’t need a new piston and sleeve, which is one of the more expensive engine components to replace. The problem is that just because an engine feels like it has compression, it doesn’t mean it will actually have compression when you start it and warm it up.
• “Seized” or “turns over” – this is telling you whether or not the piston and crankshaft are free. A seized engine has likely been sitting for a long time and was not stored properly. Seized engines can be unstuck, but they require disassembly and it is likely engine components like bearings will need to be replaced.
• Starts but won’t stay running – usually means there is an air leak in the system or the engine does not have enough pinch to stay running when warm. Very likely the engine needs a rebuild or replacing.
• Starts and runs – the engine is in working condition.

If you buy a Traxxas 3.3 engine retail, it will be $220+tax. If you buy it from a kit basher like Jennys RC, it will be $120+shipping & tax. Engines from HPI, Kyosho, and other name brands are typically more expensive.

Another consideration is that many nitro RC engines have poor parts support. Traxxas 2.5 and 3.3 engines are pretty much the only engines you can guarantee will have parts support now and into the future. If the nitro RC you are buying has any other engine, do a search online for various engine components (e.g. connecting rod, piston, sleeve) and see if you can find them for sale. Unfortunately, even popular nitro RCs that are still in production come with engines that have little to no parts support. This is important to know because if you buy a used nitro RC with one of these engines, it will eventually fail and then you will need to buy a whole new engine instead of rebuilding it for cheaper.

This used Traxxas Nitro Rustler is for sale on eBay. The description says, “Engine got excellent compression, it was tested and it rips super fast”. Visually it looks it has quite a few tanks on it, so I wouldn’t expect this engine to last for gallons and gallons of fuel. The nice thing about the description is that it is very clear and if you have any problems with the engine on arrival, the seller will have to make it right or you can ask for a refund.

Completeness

Make a note of anything that is missing and a look up how much it will cost to buy that component new or used. See What do you need to buy to have a fully operational nitro RC? for a complete description of all components you’ll need.

Cleanliness

Is the vehicle covered in dust, dirt, and grime? That’s not necessarily a bad thing as it might lower the price and nitro RCs are easy to clean, but it also gives you a clue to how the vehicle was maintained. A big thing to look at is the condition of the air filter, as it should be cleaned after every hour of use. If the air filter is really dirty or non-existent, you will probably need to take apart the engine for cleaning and inspection after purchase.

Condition of other components

• Chassis – how scratched is it? does it look bent or cracked? are the screws in decent shape?
• Wheels & Tires – what does the tread look like, are the wheels cracked, and are the tires cracked? If a tire or wheel is bad, you’ll probably want to replace at least two or possibly all of the wheels and tires which can cost $50-$100.
• Transmitter – Is it an old style transmitter with a telescoping metal antenna? If so, you’ll probably want to replace it and the cheapest transmitters are $50.
• Fuel tank and lines – does it look like there is old fuel sitting in the tank or fuel links? If so, you’ll probably need new fuel lines and possibly a new tank. This could also mean the car wasn’t properly stored or maintained.
• Engine cooling head – is the head all scratched up? That means the vehicle was flipped a lot and it’s possible other components like suspension are damaged.
• Shocks – Are any of the shock caps cracked or are the shocks leaking oil? Do the shocks look like the factory shocks or are they knock-off aluminum shocks that likely leak?

This used Traxxas T-Maxx for sale looks really clean. Notice the fuel tank is empty and the generally cleanliness of the air filter, suspension arms, and everything mounted to the chassis. Chances are it was well taken care of.

Upgrades

In general, any aluminum suspension upgrades are not desirable. They add weight to the vehicle and when you inevitably crash your nitro RC, they bend and have to be replaced.

Is the engine and exhaust stock or is it after market? A bigger, faster engine might sound cool, but the car wasn’t designed for that and it is more likely to put extra stress on drivetrain components. Also, they might have put an engine in the vehicle that has poor parts support, which means you won’t be able to rebuild the engine when something breaks internally.

In general, you don’t want to pay extra for any upgrades on a used nitro RC, especially if you are new to the hobby. That said, upgrades can paint a picture that an RC was well cared for. The following upgrades along with cleanliness and a well written description by the owner (not an RC reseller) are good signs that a nitro RC was well-maintained:

• RPM plastic suspension arms
• Rechargeable receiver pack
• CVD drive shafts
• Upgraded servos
• 17mm wheel hexes

Fact Finding

Before you go see a vehicle in person or make the purchase online, I would ask the following questions of the seller if they aren’t answered in the description.

• How many tanks have you run through the engine? Have you replaced any parts in the engine?
• Are the wheel hexes rounded out at all or any cracking/tears in the wheels or tires?
• Does the vehicle have any quirks or is there anything else I should know about it?

How the seller answers these questions can tell you a lot. Pretty much every nitro RC has minor things that no seller would mention in the description or be able to show in pictures. An honest seller will let you know what those little things are and if they claim there are none, then the pictures should be showing a super clean vehicle to match.

The truth is that most sellers don’t want to screw anyone over and if you take a second to let them know you are a a real person that is going to be owning and maintaining the vehicle, they are likely to give you more information.

As an extreme example, I once sold a T-Maxx to a 14 year old kid who was using all of his summer job money to buy it. After I learned this from his mom, who was brokering the transaction, I made sure the truck was in the best possible condition and that he knew exactly what he was getting.

Evaluate the Price

After you’ve inspected the vehicle and learned everything you can about it, make notes on any components that will need to be repaired or replaced. Look up the cost for the parts on a site like amain hobbies and come up with a total amount of money that needs to go into the car to restore it working order.

You’ll want to repeat this process for at least 2 other used nitro RCs of the same model. Then you can compare your evaluations and determine which one is the best deal. You can also compare these evaluations to the retail price of a new vehicle to see how much you are actually saving by buying used.

If you are comfortable with the price, then move onto buying the vehicle. If not, then you either have to wait for a better deal or consider buying new.

First Negotiation

If you want to buy the vehicle, now is the time to do a first negotiation. This is basically a negotiation based on the price they are asking and what you have learned from the online inspection. If you feel they are asking too much, make an offer for less and tell them why. If you’re buying online, this is your only opportunity to negotiate.

If you are buying in-person, it saves everyone time to bring up any issues before you meet in-person. If you aren’t comfortable with the price as it stands, bring that up now so you can establish a new baseline price before taking the time to meet in-person.

In-Person Inspection & Negotiation

When meeting in person, meet somewhere safe in public and during the day so you can see the vehicle easily. Ask the seller if they are willing to start and drive the vehicle for you. It’s not a red flag if they don’t want to, but it’s a big plus if they will start it up for you as you’ll learn a lot about the condition of the engine and drivetrain. Bring this up before meeting so they have everything ready to start and drive the vehicle.

When you inspect the vehicle in person, you want to confirm that what you saw in the pictures is what you’re seeing in-person. Have your notes with you and make sure you check anything that you weren’t able to see in the pictures. If the receiver runs on AA batteries, bring 8 AAs with you so you can confirm the transmitter and receiver work properly.

As you inspect the vehicle in person, make notes of any discrepancies between what you are seeing and what the pictures or the seller has told you about the vehicle. Do not be afraid to point out these discrepancies.

If everything looks good and there are only minor issues, then go ahead and buy the vehicle for the price that was established before you met.

If you have discovered any new issues, now is the time to calmly explain the issues you are just now becoming aware of and ask for a discount. In general, I’ve found the best strategy is to list the issues you are seeing and then ask them how low they can go. They will generally offer a discount which you can accept or counter if you feel the price is still too high. If they aren’t willing to budge, take a second to think about it and walk away if you need to. It is very unlikely they will let you walk away, especially if they have had it listed for more than a day or two and they aren’t a reseller.

Of course, you don’t have to do any negotiation. Some people just aren’t comfortable asking for a discount face-to-face. We are probably talking about $20-$50, so it might simply not be worth the discomfort. That said, a lot of people feel regret later when they know they could have paid $50 less.

Making the Purchase

If buying in-person, have the cash on so you can pay the seller and be on your way. Either that or meet up in your bank parking lot or somewhere very close so you can quickly get the deal done.

If buying online, it’s just a matter of completing the checkout process and waiting for the vehicle to be shipped.

After Purchase Inspection

Once the vehicle is in your possession, do a complete inspection as soon as possible to confirm everything you saw during your pre-purchase inspection.

Know that you are likely to find minor issues you didn’t know about before buying and the best thing to do is let it go. If something major like the transmitter doesn’t work or some component is completely missing, contact the seller. Often times a seller, whether local or online, will make it right.

If you bought in-person and the seller won’t cooperate, there isn’t anything you can do. Take it as a learning experience and move on.

If you bought on eBay and the seller refuses to make it right, tell them that you’re going to have to report the transaction to eBay as “not as described”. This should get them to act as eBay will rule in your favor almost 100% of the time. The seller will be forced to refund you for the item and pay for the return shipping.

After any major issues are sorted, do a complete teardown of the vehicle and engine for cleaning and inspection so you have a complete list of needed parts. If the vehicle is in driving condition, put it back together and do a few test drives which is likely to bring a few other issues to light.

Once you have a complete idea of the state of the vehicle, you can order parts and begin the restoration, if needed!

Back to: Buyer’s Guide to Nitro RCs