Guides · New or used
Buying a used quad or ATV: what should I look out for?
Buying a used quad or ATV? We show you what to look out for when it comes to condition, maintenance, wear, vehicle documents and the test ride.
Buying a used quad or ATV: what should I look out for?
A used quad or ATV can be a good alternative to a new vehicle. With used vehicles in particular, though, you shouldn't be won over just by a low price, low mileage or good looks.
Off-road use, towing, poor maintenance or improper modifications can cause wear that isn't always visible at first glance. That's why you should check a few points more closely before you buy.
Check the maintenance and service history
A traceable maintenance history is particularly important on a used quad or ATV.
Ask to see any invoices, service receipts or a service book. That makes it easier to tell whether the necessary maintenance was carried out regularly.
Low mileage doesn't automatically mean a vehicle is in better technical shape. Long periods standing idle and a lack of maintenance can also cause problems.
Inspect the chassis and suspension
Quads and ATVs are sometimes put under heavy strain off-road. That's why you should take a closer look at the chassis and suspension.
Look out for things like:
- unusual play in the wheels and chassis
- worn bearings or bushes
- damaged or leaking shock absorbers
- damaged CV boots
- noticeable noises while riding
Worn chassis parts in particular can lead to extra costs later on.
Check the tyres and brakes
Check the condition and tread of all the tyres. Unevenly worn tyres can also be a sign that something isn't right.
The braking system should be checked too. Look at the condition of the brake discs and brake pads, and check that the braking effect is even.
Check the engine and drivetrain
The engine should start cleanly and run smoothly both cold and warm.
Listen for unusual noises and look out for smoke or visible leaks.
On an ATV with four-wheel drive you should also check that the different drive modes engage properly. The gearbox, reverse gear and, if fitted, low range should also be tested during a test ride.
Take a test ride
If at all possible, you should always test ride a used quad or ATV before buying it.
Among other things, you can check:
- does the vehicle start without any trouble?
- does the engine run cleanly?
- does the gearbox work perfectly?
- does the four-wheel drive work?
- does the vehicle track straight?
- are there any unusual noises?
- do the brakes and steering work properly?
- do the display, lights and electrics work?
A test ride can reveal problems that a purely visual inspection won't pick up.
Take a close look at accessories and modifications
Many used quads and ATVs have been fitted with accessories or modifications.
A winch, storage boxes, additional lights or other add-on parts can be a real plus. At the same time, you should check that the parts were fitted properly.
Where technical changes have been made, you should also clarify whether the necessary approvals or entries in the vehicle documents are in place.
Check the vehicle documents
Before you buy, the vehicle documents should match the vehicle and be complete.
In particular, check that the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the vehicle matches the documents.
The registered vehicle class and type of registration are also important. With older quads and ATVs in particular, the registration can differ significantly from that of current new vehicles.
Kilometres aren't everything
A vehicle with few kilometres on the clock isn't automatically the better buy.
A regularly serviced ATV with higher mileage can be in better technical condition than a low-mileage vehicle that stood idle for years or was used exclusively under heavy loads.
So what always counts is the overall picture: condition, maintenance, use and mileage.
Buy privately or from a dealer?
A private sale can mean a lower purchase price. In return, the buyer should check the vehicle and its condition especially carefully.
With a dealer, on the other hand, you are dealing with a business and the purchase is generally easier to trace. Even so, you should clarify before buying which services are included in the purchase price.
Conclusion: condition matters more than looks
A shiny vehicle and low mileage don't tell you everything about the actual condition of a used quad or ATV.
The maintenance history, chassis, engine, drivetrain, brakes, tyres, vehicle documents and a test ride should all be checked before you buy.
If you have little experience with quads and ATVs yourself, when in doubt you should have the vehicle checked by someone who knows this type of vehicle.
