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The Best Advice for Buying a Used Side-by-Side

Are you getting ready to make your summer bucket list? If it includes 4WD, ATV, and off-road tours, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of great places to go in the U.S. 

Whether you enjoy getting out on the trails for adventure or to enjoy wildlife and the great outdoors, doing it on an all-terrain vehicle or side by side is a thrilling way to spend your downtime. 

Summer is right around the corner and there’s no better way to enjoy it than having some fun on a side-by-side. If you’re in the market for a used ATV, you might be wondering what to look out for. Keep reading to discover the best advice when buying a used side-by-side.

Think About Your Needs 

What are you going to do with your side-by-side? Is it strictly for fun and adventure? Or are you going to use it to complete tasks on your property or at your company? 

You’ll be able to match the machine to how you’re going to use it. 

Timing

The best time to buy a used vehicle is right before or during the release of new models. People are getting ready to upgrade their current vehicles so they’ll want to sell what they have to get the newer model. 

Ask Questions

Sellers are more at ease with fewer questions, but you want to get them talking to get all the details you need to know. Check out this list of questions to ask. 

  • Why are you selling? 
  • Are you the original owner? 
  • How was it used? 
  • Do you have the maintenance history? 
  • Have you made any upgrades? 
  • Any accidents? 

If you feel comfortable with the answers, you’ll have a good idea if you want to go on with exploring the vehicle. 

Complete an Inspection

Bring your tools or an expert to look over the machine. Check the frame, look at the engine and the brakes, and check the fluids. Look for signs of damage to the frame that can indicate that it’s been in an accident. 

The engine should start right up and sound normal on a test drive. Pump the brakes and listen for squeaking or grinding. Check the oil level and the coolant. Take off the gas cap to check for a rotten smell that could mean trouble with the fuel injection system. 

ATV Summer Fun

If you want to get in on some summer fun with a used side-by-side, you’re now armed with helpful advice as you shop around. Take the time to make sure you get the exact ATV to meet your needs and how you intend to use it. When you find the one that will be trusty and durable, it will be worth the trouble. 

Once you have your side-by-side, you’ll want to outfit it with some offroad accessories. Check out a leader in the off-road aftermarket industry. We at Offroad Armor are your source for the accessories you need. We offer free shipping to the lower 48 U.S. states, easy returns, and great customer service. Contact us today