How To Buy an ATV—What Should
We Check Before Leaving the Lot?

An ATV, or all terrain vehicle, is a three- or four-wheeled vehicle designed to handle different types of terrain. Also called three-wheelers, four-wheelers and quads, ATVs are great for recreational use or for work.

In many areas of the world, people use ATVs to get around fields planted with crops and on ranches and farms. They are versatile, easy to drive, and fairly easy on the terrain, leaving less long-term evidence behind that they have been there.

ATVs are very popular with people of all ages. They are easy to operate, too. This type of vehicle works very much like a motorcycle, but with three or four wheels, which give much more stability, especially at lower speeds. There are many engine sizes for ATVs, and there are even six-wheeled models available.

ATV Popularity

While they can be used for work, ATVs are most popular for recreation. People from the age of young teenagers on up make use of ATVs as recreation vehicles. Low-power ATVs are approved for use in children as young as 6 years of age.

Some people purchase land to use for riding an ATV as they might a dirt bike. Those with private land may also permit use of the land for ATV use.

The price of an ATV can vary, but they usually start at about $3,000 for a used one. The make and model as well as the power (cc) of the vehicle help to determine the price.

However much they cost, it is very important to be sure that you know as much as possible about the ATV before purchasing it. Just as it is when purchasing a car, certain things must be checked before you take one home from the lot.

How To Buy an ATV—What To Check

When looking at an ATV, check the outside first. Many people hesitate to examine the outside of a used ATV as they get scratched and dented in the normal course of use. While this is only partly true, the exterior of any vehicle and how it is kept say a great deal about how well the current or previous owner took care of the vehicle. Check the condition of the seats, the mirrors (if any), the handlebars (and the grips), and the gas tank. Is the ATV comfortable for you?

Also, check out the tires. ATVs have specialized tires and they are not cheap. Unless specified otherwise, the tires should be in good repair with plenty of tread. Ask about a spare tire.

Of course, the power of an ATV is a great deal of the appeal. Before you purchase an ATV, "check under the hood." If possible, have things checked out by a mechanic.

You can tell a few things about the health of the engine by looking at it. If the previous owner cared for it, it will be obvious. For example, if the engine is covered with oil, it is probably leaking oil. If wires are frayed, there's the possibility of a short circuit.

Never skip the test drive. A test drive can tell you more about an ATV than any other type of inspection that you might do. It is very important that you take the time to drive the vehicle before you sign any papers. If the dealer or owner won't let you test drive it, don't buy it.

Ask about a warranty and be sure of what it covers. Take the time to make sure that it is a worthwhile purchase before you take it home.

An ATV can be a lot of fun when used safely. It can be disappointing to purchase one and find out that it doesn't work properly. Use this guide to learn how to buy an ATV so that you can avoid getting a lemon ATV.

Make sure that everything is in working order before leaving the lot and you may be able to save yourself a great deal of frustration and anger down the dirt road.