Buying a used excavator: 10 things to look out for

A certified Volvo CE excavator sold in Malaysia under the Volvo Approved Used Equipment program.

Buying a used excavator can offer many benefits, including a lower price point, immediate access to a machine and the ability to work with a proven performer. But there can also be downsides, especially if the relevant checks aren’t completed ahead of purchase.

Volvo CE launched its Approved Used Equipment program in Southeast Asia earlier this year, offering customers an OEM-backed option to acquire low-hour premium used machinery in place of alternatives from value brands. Here we talk through some of the most important aspects to review when purchasing a used excavator.

1. Wear components
   Identify all the wear parts in the excavator and request a condition report. This should help you understand the expected lifespan of these components and how much work you can expect from the current parts in the machine. 

2. Previous job site conditions (sandy or marine or extreme heat or cold)
   Seek as much information as possible on previous job sites and applications. Excavators used in demolition may experience greater wear, while marine environments can cause corrosion. Similarly, a machine used in a sandy location may experience greater wear to parts.

3. Oil analysis
   Ask for an oil sample and check for metal contamination. The analysis will indicate the level of metals (such as iron, copper, lead, tin, aluminium etc) in the oil, and this can offer insight into the excavator’s condition.

4. Undercarriage
   There are multiple checks that should be done on the tracks: for example, checking for wear on the sprocket teeth (if the teeth are sharp, they are worn out); ensuring the track guide is in place; reviewing the idlers to see if there are leaks; and looking for leaks or flat spots on the carrier roller.

5. Tracking
   While checking the undercarriage and tracks, buyers should also verify how the machine is tracking. Move the excavator forward and then back by around 10 metres – see if it returns to the same spot after it is backed up. If not, it indicates the tracking is off and this will need adjustment.

6. ROPS
   Look for damage on each of the four corner posts that form the roll over protection structure (ROPS). This includes any welding or drilling to fit accessories (for example, radios). Modifications or other damage will affect the integrity of the ROPS and its ability to protect the operator. 

7. Seats and controls
   Operator comfort is integral to on-site productivity, so spend some time ensuring that all seat functions work correctly. Inspect the rest of the cab to ensure all controls and joysticks move as expected and all displays read correctly.

8. Bucket
   Look for wear, dents and cracks throughout the bucket. It is worth turning it over to inspect both sides. Also take a look at the teeth and check they have maintained their shape and not been worn to a ‘U-shape’.

9. Hoses
   It’s worth taking time to thoroughly inspect the hydraulic hoses. Start with the fitting, to make sure it’s not corroded then check across the exterior for any visible damage. Also take the opportunity to check for leaks. 

10. Warranty
    Ask about post-delivery support. With the Volvo Approved Used Equipment program, buyers of used excavators can benefit from Volvo Extended Coverage for parts and service in the field. They also have the security of knowing that Volvo CE technicians have fully checked the machine pre-delivery.

Every machine with the “Volvo Approved Used Equipment” badge meets rigorous standards and is less than six years old with fewer than 7,000 hours on the clock. Machines must also have a complete, transparent service history demonstrating that maintenance has been handled by an authorized Volvo dealer. Finally, each machine must also pass a multi-point Volvo inspection, covering over 100 individual checks across performance, safety and structure.

Jerome Ho, Uptime Services Product Manager at Volvo CE Region Asia, said:

“With Volvo Approved Used Equipment, cost-conscious customers get a high-quality Volvo machine that meets strict, OEM-backed qualification criteria. Buyers get further peace of mind from our Volvo Extended Coverage package, an advantage that most other used machines cannot offer. It includes a full warranty for all major powertrain components, so buyers can take advantage of the industry-leading productivity and reliability that come from owning a Volvo machine.”