Buying tips and guidance for used ATVs
Posted on Mar 08th 2015
Thousands of used ATV are waiting for those owners to whom the price of a new ATV is quite an issue. According to a recent search of prices the average cost of a new ATV is just under $10,000. Regardless of your budget, buying a new ATV is going to drain your bank account a bit. But it’s unfortunate that many people will issues with their machines to get a better price for them. If observed carefully you may be able to spot the cloaked problems, but some could come out in general conversation by accident. The first and the foremost thing you want to know from any used ATV or UTV owner is how long have they owned the machine and why are they selling it. By taking your time and checking the following tips, you can make the best decision when it comes to purchasing your used ATVs.
Where to purchase used ATV: Just look for online marketplace vehicle classified sites or can visit a dealer. There are also few private sellers who are willing to sell their ATV’s. You must be careful that whatever ATV you're looking at purchasing, the advertisement - be it dealer website, paper advertisement at a track, or Craigslist - should include photos and general specifications like the model and its model year, brand, engine size and type.
Check the ATV for Rust and Cracked Welds: All external steel parts on an ATV are always coated, painted or otherwise treated to prevent rust with the possible exception of brake disks and the chain. But if you find rust there's a high chance of damage.
Check for abuse: Very carefully inspect the overall condition of the machine. If it is beat up cosmetically, it was probably abused. Obviously you’d rather have one that looks well cared for. The cosmetics of a machine usually indicate of how the machine was cared for.
General look: Get the quad off the ground so as to check the suspension and wheels. Spin all the tires. Hold each of them with your hands and try to twist, bend and shake the tire while listening and feeling for problems in the ball joints, suspension, brakes and other areas like rattles, knocking, grinding and looseness.
Check the air box: To check the air box take the seat off and remove the air box cover. Remove the air filter and inspect the air intake area. If water, dirt or other debris exists in this area it is never a good sign for the vehicle.
Check the Engine: Check the condition of the coolant as the liquid cooled engine is very popular in the ATV world. Make sure the engine is cool before removing a radiator cap as it can be under pressure and cause severe burns if the engine is hot. Dirty engine oil is not necessarily a deal breaker, but should be a valid concern. Pull the dipstick and see what you’re buying. Very clean engine oil in a machine that is old can also be alarming as it could mean the owner has flushed out potential issues. Check the engine oil for a burnt smell, lack of viscosity, contaminates or excessive darkness. Check all the lights and switches, levers and anything else that moves.
Test Ride and Mechanic check: Never forget to do a test drive if everything seems to be fine. Consult a mechanic to look in to the finer issues before the final purchase.
Ask questions to the seller: Keep asking questions till you are fully satisfied. Do your homework well before asking questions.
Finalizing the purchase: Ensure to get a valid invoice or a bill which lists the VIN. Finally, find out if your state requires ATV registration. This is also known as Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) registration. Many states require it and if yours does, you'll need to get the title from the seller for your new ride too. Visit your local DMV and ask what paperwork is needed to buy a used ATV.
If all the above conditions are fulfilled and you’re satisfied with the price just go ahead with the deal.
Enjoy your ATV purchasing!