Buying used or refurbished farm equipment is one of the biggest capital investments you'll make—and a bad unit can cost you thousands in downtime and repairs during harvest season. A thorough inspection before purchase protects your margin and keeps your operation running. This checklist walks you through the critical areas you need to evaluate.
Engine and Fuel System
Start with the engine itself. Check the oil level, color, and consistency—dark, gritty oil signals poor maintenance or worn internals. Listen for unusual knocking, grinding, or rattling when it runs. Ask the seller for service records going back at least two years; reputable dealers on platforms like Mercoly provide full maintenance histories.
Inspect fuel filters and look for water contamination in the tank. Diesel equipment in particular is prone to water buildup, which causes injector problems costing $1,500–$3,500 to repair. Ask when the fuel was last changed and whether the tank has been drained recently.
Hydraulics and Fluid Systems
Check all hydraulic hoses for cracks, leaks, or brittle sections. Pinch test the hoses—they should have slight give but not feel spongy. Look for fluid stains under the machine; small drips are normal, but pooling indicates a failing seal or cracked line.
Test all hydraulic functions: boom lift, bucket curl, blade angle, and implement movement should be smooth and responsive. Jerky or sluggish action means the pump or cylinders are wearing out. Hydraulic repairs run $800–$4,000 depending on the component.
Tires and Undercarriage
For wheeled equipment, check tire tread depth with a penny test—tread should measure at least 4/32 inch. Uneven wear suggests alignment problems or worn suspension components. Look for cracks, bulges, or repairs; replacement tires cost $200–$800 each depending on size.
For tracked equipment, examine the tracks for broken links, bent teeth, or excessive slack. Tracks require full replacement at $2,000–$6,000 depending on the machine size and type.
Inspect the frame and welds for cracks, especially on used equipment over 10 years old. Structural repairs are expensive and compromise safety.
Cutting, Digging, and Working Edges
The condition of your working components directly impacts productivity.
- Bucket teeth (excavators, loaders): Check for wear, missing teeth, or cracked buckets. Teeth cost $15–$40 each to replace; a full bucket replacement runs $800–$2,500.
- Plow blades and cultivator tines (tillage equipment): Blades should be sharp and straight. Bent or severely worn edges reduce efficiency and increase fuel consumption.
- Mower decks and blades: Inspect blade sharpness and balance. Unbalanced blades cause vibration and damage bearings.
- Combine headers and cutterbar: Check for bent or loose components; these are expensive to replace and critical for harvest timing.
Cab, Controls, and Electrical
For operator comfort and safety, test all lights, wipers, gauges, and warning systems. A non-functional air conditioner means miserable harvest days; repair or replacement costs $1,200–$3,000.
Check the steering response and power steering fluid level. Steering problems create fatigue and safety risks. Test all controls—throttle, brakes, clutch—for responsiveness and smooth operation.
Look for corrosion on the battery terminals and inspect battery age; a new battery costs $150–$400.
Documentation and Ownership
Never skip the paperwork. Verify the VIN or serial number matches the title. Request service records, original purchase documentation, and any warranty information. Ask about pending recalls or known mechanical issues with that model year.
If buying privately, consider a pre-purchase inspection by a certified technician ($300–$600) to catch hidden problems before you sign.
Price Reality Check
Used equipment typically sells at 40–60% of new value, depending on age and condition. Run prices against recent sales on marketplaces to avoid overpaying. A 2015 John Deere excavator might list $35,000–$45,000; a 2010 model $20,000–$28,000. Don't anchor on the asking price—most farm equipment is negotiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's a reasonable price drop for equipment with minor hydraulic leaks? A: Budget 10–15% off the asking price if seals are failing but the pump itself is sound; major hydraulic work costs $1,500–$4,000, so deduct accordingly.
Q: Should I buy equipment with unknown service history? A: No. Unknown maintenance means hidden wear and a higher risk of failures during peak season; always request records or have a technician inspect before purchase.
Q: How do I compare prices across different sellers? A: Use equipment comparison platforms to see multiple listings with specs and pricing in one place, making it easier to spot overpriced or undervalued units in your region.
Ready to find inspected, verified farm equipment? Start comparing trusted suppliers on Mercoly today.