Buying a used ATV: what to check before you pay

A used ATV can be a great deal, but these machines often live a hard life in mud, water and sand. Here is what to check before you hand over the money.

Frame and suspension

Look under the machine for bent or welded frame parts, damaged A-arms and leaking shocks. Rock the wheels side to side: play means worn bearings or ball joints.

Engine and drivetrain

Start the engine cold. It should start easily and idle smoothly without blue smoke. On 4x4 models, check that four-wheel drive engages, and look at the CV boots: torn boots let mud into the joints.

Documents and history

Ask for service records and make sure the registration matches the frame number. An hour meter, if fitted, says more than the odometer.