buy used bobcat skid steer

Buying a Used Bobcat Skid Steer: A Practical Guide

Purchasing a used Bobcat skid steer can be a smart move for contractors, landscapers, and homeowners who need the power and compact versatility of this machine without the higher price tag of new equipment. Yet not all used units are created equal; the key is balancing budget, reliability, and expected performance. Here’s how to approach the purchase with confidence.

Understand Your Workload

Before digging into listings, define the tasks your skid steer must handle. Are you moving pallets, grading soil, clearing snow, or digging foundations? Match those duties to the appropriate model size, lift capacity, and hydraulic flow. Bobcat offers a wide range—from compact models such as the S70 to heavy-duty models like the S650—so knowing your required runtime and attachment needs helps narrow the field.

Verify Machine History and Hours

Unlike cars, skid steers are rated largely by hours rather than miles. Look for units with fewer operating hours relative to their age, but also consider how those hours were accumulated. Machines used for light landscaping may show different wear patterns than ones used daily on a demolition site.

Request the service records and inspect maintenance history. Regular oil changes, new filters, and documented hose replacements are positive signs. You should also ask about any structural repairs, past accidents, or hydraulic hose replacements. If possible, inspect the machine yourself or hire a trusted technician to do a pre-purchase evaluation.

Inspect Key Components

A thorough inspection will reveal the true condition of the skid steer. Focus on these critical parts:

• Hydraulics: Look for leaks from hoses, fittings, or cylinders. Check the hydraulic oil level and color—dark or gritty fluid can signal deferred maintenance.
• Engine Compartment: Check the coolant level and radiator condition. Assess belts, pulleys, and air filters. Start the engine to listen for knocking, stalling, or smoke.
• Undercarriage and Bucket: Examine wear on the loader arms, pins, bushings, and bucket edges. Excess play in pivot points may mean upcoming replacements, while cracks or worn teeth indicate heavy usage.
• Tires or Tracks: Inspect tread depth and sidewall condition. Worn tires might be inexpensive to replace, but damaged rims or bolts could require more labor.

Evaluate Attachments and Controls

One of the Bobcat’s advantages is its attachment ecosystem. If the seller includes attachments (like buckets, forks, sweepers, or augers), confirm they fit your intended jobs. Test the quick-attach system for smooth operation.

Inside the cab, check the controls, display, and safety features. Joysticks should move freely without jerkiness. Verify that the seat belt, backup alarm, and lighting all function correctly. An ergonomic, well-maintained cab contributes to longer, safer shifts.

Confirm Market Value and Warranty

Research comparable used Bobcat skid steers in your area to benchmark pricing. Websites such as MachineryTrader or Ritchie Bros. provide fresh listings and historical sale data. Compare the asking price against the machine’s year, model, hours, and condition.

Some used dealerships sell certified pre-owned units with extended warranties or finance packages. While these may cost slightly more, they can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re counting on the machine for critical projects.

Negotiate Smartly

When negotiation begins, reference the inspections, maintenance gaps, and needed repairs to justify your offer. Don’t hesitate to ask for replacement of worn components or a fresh set of filters as part of the deal. Be ready to walk away if the seller isn’t transparent or pressured to close without documentation.

Finally, finalize the purchase with a clear bill of sale and, if applicable, transfer the machine’s service records and warranty paperwork. This documentation is invaluable when scheduling future maintenance or claiming potential coverage.

By matching workload needs, thoroughly inspecting the machine, and validating value, you can secure a used Bobcat skid steer that delivers dependable performance while staying within budget.