An ATV or UTV is like the modern dog, always by your side and a great addition when it comes to handling livestock with the benefit of being able to lug the loads and cover ground much faster.
For the many farmers not in the position to buy new, there are always good machines on the secondhand market to suit all budgets. As is the case when buying any secondhand machine, it is important you know what to look out for and assess each machine based on its condition and work done respective of its price.
Before we get into the nitty gritty, it is important that potential buyers consider a recognised brand with a proven track record. There are many knock-off brands advertised new for the price of a proven secondhand machine, appearing to be good value initially. Our advice is to proceed with caution. Reliability and the availability of spare parts may be an issue here.
For the most part, the points to look out for when buying either an ATV or UTV will be similar. The main difference is that some UTVs are fitted with a liquid-cooled diesel engine instead of the typical air-cooled petrol engine found in most ATVs.
1 General appearance
As always, the general condition of the ATV/UTV will tell you a lot about it and how it was maintained by its previous owner. Check the frame or chassis for severe corrosion, cracks or strain. Strain can occur if a machine has been used for towing heavier loads than it is rated for or pulling from the wrong location, such as cargo racks. Seriously consider opting out of a machine with any of the aforementioned.
Inspect the ATV's frame for signs of severe corrosion, cracks or strain.
Most ATVs and UTVs have moulded plastic body panels, ensure that these panels are intact and in good shape. Take into account that broken panels can be costly to replace.
Check the seat(s) for nicks or tears. Although reupholstering is an option, a new seat depending on make and model will cost anywhere up to €250 including VAT. Factor tyre condition into the price of the machine. New tyres will set you back from €75 to €110 including VAT depending on brand and size.
A machine in respectable original condition for its year or hours clocked up will generally indicate that it has been well cared for.
2 Engine
A machine that is in a dealer’s yard will typically have been through the workshop and serviced. Check oil level when cold and air filter condition, especially when buying private.
The engine should start easily and idle smoothly. A little white smoke on startup can be normal for a machine that hasn’t been started in some time once it disappears within 30 or so seconds. This is water vapour burning off. A petrol engine that is hard to start has generally either a worn out spark plug or an exhausted starter motor. You will typically get a feel for how an engine is running by its sound and how it drives from a response and performance aspect.
Diesel engines tend to be liquid cooled so inspect the coolant system and liquid levels.
3 Transmission
The common transmissions are manual pedal shift, electric power shift, automated powershift and belt-driven CVT, with the latter becoming more popular. Manual shift tends to be trouble-free while electric shift, depending on how the machine was operated (starting off in high gears, labouring, etc) by its previous owner, can slip or fail to select gears due to worn brushes in the electric shift motor. This can be costly to repair so ensure all gears can be selected. A lazy gear can indicate problems.
Automated power shift generally tends to be switchable between electric button shift and automatic.
Where the ATV is programmed to switch up or down gear depending on engine rpm, beware of the same issues just mentioned. Belt-drive CVTs are most commonly found in many UTVs and ATVs now. These are generally maintenance-free once not abused.
Look closely for wear in swingarms on machines fitted with independant suspension.
If there is selectable 4WD, check that it engages and disengages at the press of the button. If this is not working it may be a 4WD shift motor, shaft or coupling issue. It is not uncommon for the 4WD to not disengage instantly. Coming to a stop or engaging the brakes generally does the trick. Be prepared to fork out anywhere up to €600 including VAT to resolve a 4WD issue in the worst-case scenario.
4 Steering, suspension and brakes
Check the handlebars or steering wheel for play. Ideally, the steering should not move without response from the front wheels. A little (5mm) play is acceptable, but excessive play would indicate possible wear in ball joints, track rod ends and or wheel bearings. Wheel bearings can be checked by rocking each wheel. Ensure all these areas are tight or be prepared to fork out. A worn wheel bearing gone unnoticed can result in hub damage, meaning replacement. Clicking or cracking sounds of the machine on the go will indicate worn CV joints. Ensure differentials are working and oil levels are OK.
Check over the machine’s suspension system. ATVs and UTVs fitted with independent suspension will naturally have a lot more moving parts. Check bearing condition in each swingarm and that linkages and pivots are not severely damaged. Check that the suspension returns to its normal position after being compressed. Replacement shocks can cost in the region of €150 including VAT.
The condition of brakes should be examined. Disc brakes should have both pads and discs examined for wear and proper functionality. Many machines with foot brakes and/or drum brakes are prone to seizing. With foot brakes in particular, the brake cable generally seizes from lack of use or buildup of dirt, which results in brakes sticking. It is vital that brakes are working correctly.
5 Has the machine a clear history?
Over the past six or so years, financing of new and secondhand ATVs and UTVs has become very popular. Carry out a finance check to ensure there is no remaining debt on the machine. Ensure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) has not been in any way tampered with as this is a prime sign that a machine has been stolen at some point.
The condition of plastic body panels should be examined as replacements can be costly.
Finally, having made the investment in a genuine well-minded machine, consider investing in a tracking device. These are relatively inexpensive devices that are fitted to the machine and record its location at any given point in time, helping with relocation in the unfortunate event where theft may occur.
An ATV or UTV is like the modern dog, always by your side and a great addition when it comes to handling livestock with the benefit of being able to lug the loads and cover ground much faster.
For the many farmers not in the position to buy new, there are always good machines on the secondhand market to suit all budgets. As is the case when buying any secondhand machine, it is important you know what to look out for and assess each machine based on its condition and work done respective of its price.
Before we get into the nitty gritty, it is important that potential buyers consider a recognised brand with a proven track record. There are many knock-off brands advertised new for the price of a proven secondhand machine, appearing to be good value initially. Our advice is to proceed with caution. Reliability and the availability of spare parts may be an issue here.
For the most part, the points to look out for when buying either an ATV or UTV will be similar. The main difference is that some UTVs are fitted with a liquid-cooled diesel engine instead of the typical air-cooled petrol engine found in most ATVs.
1 General appearance
As always, the general condition of the ATV/UTV will tell you a lot about it and how it was maintained by its previous owner. Check the frame or chassis for severe corrosion, cracks or strain. Strain can occur if a machine has been used for towing heavier loads than it is rated for or pulling from the wrong location, such as cargo racks. Seriously consider opting out of a machine with any of the aforementioned.
Inspect the ATV's frame for signs of severe corrosion, cracks or strain.
Most ATVs and UTVs have moulded plastic body panels, ensure that these panels are intact and in good shape. Take into account that broken panels can be costly to replace.
Check the seat(s) for nicks or tears. Although reupholstering is an option, a new seat depending on make and model will cost anywhere up to €250 including VAT. Factor tyre condition into the price of the machine. New tyres will set you back from €75 to €110 including VAT depending on brand and size.
A machine in respectable original condition for its year or hours clocked up will generally indicate that it has been well cared for.
2 Engine
A machine that is in a dealer’s yard will typically have been through the workshop and serviced. Check oil level when cold and air filter condition, especially when buying private.
The engine should start easily and idle smoothly. A little white smoke on startup can be normal for a machine that hasn’t been started in some time once it disappears within 30 or so seconds. This is water vapour burning off. A petrol engine that is hard to start has generally either a worn out spark plug or an exhausted starter motor. You will typically get a feel for how an engine is running by its sound and how it drives from a response and performance aspect.
Diesel engines tend to be liquid cooled so inspect the coolant system and liquid levels.
3 Transmission
The common transmissions are manual pedal shift, electric power shift, automated powershift and belt-driven CVT, with the latter becoming more popular. Manual shift tends to be trouble-free while electric shift, depending on how the machine was operated (starting off in high gears, labouring, etc) by its previous owner, can slip or fail to select gears due to worn brushes in the electric shift motor. This can be costly to repair so ensure all gears can be selected. A lazy gear can indicate problems.
Automated power shift generally tends to be switchable between electric button shift and automatic.
Where the ATV is programmed to switch up or down gear depending on engine rpm, beware of the same issues just mentioned. Belt-drive CVTs are most commonly found in many UTVs and ATVs now. These are generally maintenance-free once not abused.
Look closely for wear in swingarms on machines fitted with independant suspension.
If there is selectable 4WD, check that it engages and disengages at the press of the button. If this is not working it may be a 4WD shift motor, shaft or coupling issue. It is not uncommon for the 4WD to not disengage instantly. Coming to a stop or engaging the brakes generally does the trick. Be prepared to fork out anywhere up to €600 including VAT to resolve a 4WD issue in the worst-case scenario.
4 Steering, suspension and brakes
Check the handlebars or steering wheel for play. Ideally, the steering should not move without response from the front wheels. A little (5mm) play is acceptable, but excessive play would indicate possible wear in ball joints, track rod ends and or wheel bearings. Wheel bearings can be checked by rocking each wheel. Ensure all these areas are tight or be prepared to fork out. A worn wheel bearing gone unnoticed can result in hub damage, meaning replacement. Clicking or cracking sounds of the machine on the go will indicate worn CV joints. Ensure differentials are working and oil levels are OK.
Check over the machine’s suspension system. ATVs and UTVs fitted with independent suspension will naturally have a lot more moving parts. Check bearing condition in each swingarm and that linkages and pivots are not severely damaged. Check that the suspension returns to its normal position after being compressed. Replacement shocks can cost in the region of €150 including VAT.
The condition of brakes should be examined. Disc brakes should have both pads and discs examined for wear and proper functionality. Many machines with foot brakes and/or drum brakes are prone to seizing. With foot brakes in particular, the brake cable generally seizes from lack of use or buildup of dirt, which results in brakes sticking. It is vital that brakes are working correctly.
5 Has the machine a clear history?
Over the past six or so years, financing of new and secondhand ATVs and UTVs has become very popular. Carry out a finance check to ensure there is no remaining debt on the machine. Ensure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) has not been in any way tampered with as this is a prime sign that a machine has been stolen at some point.
The condition of plastic body panels should be examined as replacements can be costly.
Finally, having made the investment in a genuine well-minded machine, consider investing in a tracking device. These are relatively inexpensive devices that are fitted to the machine and record its location at any given point in time, helping with relocation in the unfortunate event where theft may occur.
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