Tips when buying a used tractor
We will show you what you should definitely look out for when buying a used tractor.
Buying a tractor is an expensive business. So it's no wonder that many people look for used agricultural machinery to save money. But if you're not careful, you can quickly fall into a trap: Undetected defects, poor maintenance and costly repairs can turn a supposed bargain into a money-eater. To prevent this from happening, you should always pay attention to the following tips when buying a tractor.
Short:
You should bear this in mind when buying a tractor:
- Check vehicle documents, registration and MOT
- Check maintenance log
- Check for visible damage
- Check engine block
- Take a test drive
- Check spare parts for originality
- Ask about accessories
- Record purchase contract in writing
Tip 1: Check papers
Vehicle documents and registration for road traffic? What sounds like a matter of course is not the case for every used agricultural machine. Particularly in the case of very old tractors or models from abroad, vehicle documents, operating license and registration for road traffic may no longer be available. You should keep your hands off such vehicles.
If you have a bad feeling, always check whether the papers, type plate and chassis number match. The vehicle should also have a valid MOT. For newer models, it is also advisable to ask about any remaining warranty and the corresponding warranty certificate.
Tip 2: Care & maintenance
A tractor is a working machine. To keep it running smoothly, care and maintenance are the be-all and end-all. If you are thinking of buying a used tractor, you should definitely take a look at the maintenance book. Have the inspections been carried out regularly? It can also be useful to check the oil and filters: If the oil is old and the filters are clogged, this is not a sign of good maintenance and you should pay particular attention to possible consequential defects when buying the tractor.
Tip 3: First impression
External values matter - at least when buying a tractor. You can find out a lot about possible defects from the outside. In addition to a well-maintained condition, you should take a look at the tires, for example: Even tread wear, same tire type on both axles, age and condition of the tires should be checked. The paintwork, lights and driver's cab should also be checked for obvious defects or damage.
Tip 4: A look at the inner values
The engine and batteries should always be inspected when looking at a used tractor. Even if you don't have a high level of technical understanding, you can already recognize major defects here: Are there leaks in the engine or hydraulics? Is the battery undamaged and are there no kinks in the hoses? Are the fluid levels correct? If there are any discrepancies, it is worth presenting the machine to an experienced mechanic before buying.
Tip 5: Take a test drive
A test drive is not only worthwhile with a car - you should also insist on a short drive with a tractor if possible. This not only allows you to check the driving behavior of the tractor, but also to hear any noticeable noises. Important: Don't just try out the brakes, clutch and accelerator, but all of the tractor's functions. This will quickly show whether the electronics and hydraulics are working properly.
Tip 6: Fix or botch?
If a tractor has already been used for several hours, it is normal that repairs have already been carried out on it. Ask the seller about previous repairs and check the tractor for noticeable paint touch-ups or other signs of repair. If repairs have already been carried out, these should have been entered in the maintenance book and carried out with original spare parts. On the other hand, you should keep your hands off tractors that have been improperly repaired with wire and adhesive tape.
Tip 7: Don't forget the accessories
The tractor has been inspected and approved. But there is one more thing to consider before buying: Is the tractor complete? Especially if the top link, weights etc. are not currently being used by the seller, they are often forgotten in the barn. You then have to buy them at home at great expense. So make sure it is complete before you buy and ask whether there are any accessories for the tractor that are also being sold.
Tip 8: Sales contract
One handshake and the tractor is yours - that's how sales transactions used to be conducted. Today, however, you should proceed a little differently: A written purchase agreement is a must, as it protects both buyer and seller. Care should be taken to ensure that the purchase contract states exactly which items (e.g. additional accessories) are included in the purchase and which delivery and warranty periods apply.
Tip 9: Better from the retailer?
Private or from a dealer - a question that many people ask themselves before buying a used tractor. If you are well versed in agricultural machinery and mechanics, you can certainly get a bargain from private sellers from time to time. For everyone else, however, it is worth going to an agricultural machinery dealer: the machines they offer are usually freshly checked and serviced, so there are no nasty surprises waiting for you at home. In addition, many dealers offer a warranty period of two years from purchase of the machine, which is often excluded for private sales.