Based on your situation and needs, buying a used tractor could be an ideal decision. Many John Deere dealerships have used tractors on their lots that look and run nearly as good as new, and are sold at a lower cost than brand new equipment.
However, whether you’re buying your first tractor or you’re adding another model to your fleet, there are some things that should be considered before doing so. Deciding to buy used might be an easy decision, but deciding on a tractor that’s the best fit for you may be more of a challenge.
In this guide, we’ve provided some helpful tips to consider before buying a used tractor, including:
- Remember: It’s a Tractor, Not a Car
- Choose the Type of Tractor You Need
- Do Your Research
- Seal the Deal
Here are some helpful tips to consider before buying a used tractor:
Remember: It’s a Tractor, Not a Car
When you go out to the dealership with the intention of buying a used tractor, curb your car-buying attitude. While having car-buying experience could be beneficial in a few ways, buying a tractor is fundamentally different. The biggest difference between the two is lifespan.
While a reliable car might last 10-15 years on the road, a tractor can last several decades, or more. Buying a 25-year-old used car might not be a good idea, but a 25-year-old tractor that has been well-maintained could be the perfect fit for your financial window and operation.
Choose the Type of Tractor You Need
Before you leave for the dealership or start looking around the lot, you need to understand that not all tractors are the same. There’s a wide variety of tractor types available on today’s market. Ask your dealer the right questions to help narrow down the type of tractor that’s best for you.
When buying a tractor, you’ll likely be looking in one of the following categories:
- Compact Utility Tractors – These models will look like a smaller version of agricultural tractors. They’re primarily used for landscaping and taking on other smaller tasks like nursery work.
- Utility Tractors – These tractors are slightly bigger and more powerful than compact utility tractors. The number of attachments that can be added makes these models excellent for taking on general chores like (excavation, livestock or hay production) around the property.
- Row Crop Tractors – If you’re in the business of crop production, these pieces of equipment might be where you want to start. These larger tractors are designed to take on specialized field tasks and have the ability to haul field-use implements.
- Articulated 4WD Tractors – These are some of the largest tractors on the market. They’re designed to pull planting and tillage implements and can also be beneficial when looking to level land.
Do Your Research
After you’ve decided on the type of tractor that will be best-suited for the jobs you need to take on, it’s time to really dig into the details. Make sure you understand all of the tractor’s capabilities, its history before the time of your purchase, as well as what repairs and replacements might have been done in the past.
John Deere dealerships have Certified Pre-Owned programs for late model Row Crop and 4WD tractors in place, which include a thorough equipment inspection. This allows the dealers to sell equipment knowing all parts of the machine are working as advertised. Consult your dealer regarding warranty and maintenance programs.
Seal the Deal
When it comes time to make the purchase, work with your dealer to leave the lot with peace of mind. Discuss financing terms, ask if transport will be available from the dealership to your location, and be sure you’re comfortable with the maintenance and parts process. John Deere dealerships take pride in service, so once you’ve made a purchase, you will likely enjoy years of operation.
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