Tips for Buying Used Equipment
Whether you’re the owner of a mechanic shop or a car enthusiast, you know the importance of having good equipment. But often, new equipment can be outside your budget, so you may consider purchasing used equipment for your shop (or home garage). So, if you’re considering buying used equipment, the following tips can ensure you make a solid investment that will serve your business well.
Evaluate Your Business Needs
When evaluating your business needs for auto repair equipment, there are a few things to consider. To identify the specific equipment you need, consider the types of vehicles you work on, the tasks you need to complete, and the space you have. In addition, before deciding on a specific piece of equipment, you also want to ensure it is compatible with your existing tools and machinery.
Once you’ve evaluated your business needs, choose reputable brands and models known for their durability and reliability. Look for reviews and feedback from other users to understand how well the equipment performs.
Research the Seller’s Reputation
When purchasing used equipment, it’s essential to research the seller’s reputation to ensure you are dealing with a trustworthy seller. Other than word of mouth, online is the best way to evaluate the seller. Check Google or Yelp reviews and look at the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any negative complaints from other customers.
Another factor is how long the seller has been in business- often, a seller that’s been in business for a long time is more reliable than a newer company. You can also ask the seller for references from other customers.
Get an Inspection of the Product
It’s a good idea to have any used equipment you are considering purchasing for your auto shop inspected by a qualified professional before making a final decision. Checking the equipment can help you identify potential issues or problems that may not be immediately apparent during a visual inspection.
An inspection can also help you determine if the equipment is in good working condition, if any parts need to be repaired or replaced, and if any safety issues need to be addressed. The inspector can also provide you with an estimate of any repair costs that may be required, which can help you decide whether the equipment is worth purchasing.
When scheduling an inspection, be sure to choose a qualified professional experienced in inspecting the type of equipment you are interested in. A qualified inspector can provide a detailed report with all the relevant information you need to decide whether to purchase the equipment.
Conditions: Check for Wear
When purchasing used equipment for your auto shop, inspecting the equipment for wear and tear is crucial.
· Inspect the exterior
Inspect the exterior of the equipment for any signs of damage, rust, or wear. Also, look for dents, scratches, or other damage signs indicating the equipment has been misused.
· Check the moving parts
Check the moving parts of the equipment, such as the wheels, gears, and pulleys, for cracks, chips, or other signs of damage that may indicate that the parts are worn and need replacement.
· Review the electrical components
Review the electrical components of the equipment, such as the wiring and connectors, for frayed wires, loose connections, or other signs of damage that may indicate that the electrical system needs repair.
· Inspect the hoses and belts
Inspect the hoses and belts of the equipment for cracks, tears, or other signs of damage that may indicate that the hoses and belts need replacement.
· Check the oil and fluids
Check the oil and other fluids in the equipment to ensure they are clean and debris-free. Dirty or contaminated fluids can indicate that the equipment has not been well-maintained.
Inspect Operating Hours
Another important tip when purchasing used equipment for your shop is to check the operating hours. While it’s not always an indicator of the equipment’s condition, it’s an excellent place to start.
It’s also imperative to know the maintenance history of the equipment. Used equipment with low operating hours can seem like a fantastic investment, but if it hasn’t been maintained well, that changes things. You don’t want to purchase used equipment for a seemingly reasonable price but pay for repairs shortly after buying the equipment.
Purchasing equipment with more operating hours may be a better choice if you know that its maintenance history is reliable.
Ask to Test Drive the Equipment
When purchasing used equipment for your auto shop, it’s essential to test drive or test run the equipment to ensure it is in good working condition. Here are some steps you can follow to test drive the equipment:
- Familiarize yourself with the controls, features, and operation of the equipment.
- Choose a safe location to test drive the equipment, such as an open area with level ground and no obstacles or hazards.
- Before starting the equipment, perform a visual inspection to ensure all components are secure and in good working condition.
- Start the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay attention to how the engine starts (if applicable), runs, and any noises or vibrations you hear or feel.
- Test the equipment in various conditions to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
- Monitor the gauges on the equipment to ensure that they are functioning correctly and that the equipment is not overheating or experiencing other issues.
Price
When purchasing used equipment for your auto shop, it’s essential to determine if the asking price is reasonable. First, research the market to determine the typical price range for the equipment you are interested in purchasing. Then, look at similar equipment from different sellers to understand the average price.
Check the condition of the equipment to determine if it is worth the asking price. If the equipment is in excellent condition and well-maintained, it may be worth paying a higher price. On the other hand, if the equipment is in poor condition and requires significant repairs, the asking price may be too high.
Compare the asking price of the equipment to similar equipment from other sellers to determine if it is a reasonable price. If the price is significantly higher than the average, you may want to negotiate or consider purchasing from another seller.
SVI- Your Partner for Automotive Equipment Repair Parts
If you decide to purchase used equipment, you may need to replace some of the parts before using it. SVI is the industry leader in automotive equipment repair parts, and with two warehouses, we can get them shipped to you ASAP. Whether you’re a car enthusiast with a garage full of cars at your home or you own a large mechanic shop, we’d love to be your partner for auto equipment repair parts. Contact us today for more information- our experts can help you find what you need!
