The global off-road vehicles market reached a value of $15 billion in 2020.
Off-road vehicles can be a lot of fun, and if you want to save some money, buying a used vehicle is a good option. If you’re interested in used dune buggies for sale, you could find yourself a good model at a reasonable price, but there are some things you need to think about before making a purchase.
For 5 key tips for buying a used dune buggy, keep reading.
Check the Tires
With any used vehicle, the wheels are often one of the most worn-down components. They need to be changed more often than other parts, so if someone hasn’t looked after a dune buggy, this is one of the first places you might be able to notice it.
If the tread of the tires is too worn down, it could present a safety risk, which is something you always want to avoid. While inspecting the wheels, you should also take a look at the suspension.
There are various other things you need to think about when it comes to dune buggy safety. These tips can give you an idea of what to be aware of.
Inspect the Frame and Chassis
If the tires are in poor condition, replacing them is relatively easy. The frame and chassis, however, can be a much larger problem if they’re in a state of disrepair.
Cracks could allow moisture to seep through, leading to some potentially significant issues such as rusting. The frame needs to maintain its integrity to make sure the buggy is safe to drive.
Dune buggies are often used on very rough terrain, so any structural issues could quickly lead to serious accidents or injuries.
Check the Gas Tank
If the gas tank is rusted or damaged, it can contaminate the fuel. As the fuel runs through the engine, any contaminations can cause a lot of damage to the whole system. Engine repairs are rarely cheap, so this is something you want to avoid.
Cracks or holes in the gas tank can be even worse. They increase the risk of an accident, and in some cases, can even cause an explosion.
Be Aware of the Legality
All dune buggies can provide outdoor entertainment, but some are limited in terms of how you can use them. Some dune buggies are road legal, but others can only be used for off-roading.
If you only want it for off-roading, then this isn’t much of an issue. However, if you want to be able to drive it on the road, you need to make sure it’s legal.
Bear in mind that even if you only want to use it for off-roading, you may still need to transport it. For a dune buggy that isn’t road legal, you’ll need to transport it another way, such as by using a trailer.
Bring a Mechanic
Whenever you buy a vehicle, it’s a good idea to bring an expert with you. If you know dune buggies inside out, this won’t be necessary, but there are often things a mechanic will look for that the average person won’t.
A professional mechanic will be able to spot any issues more easily and determine how significant said issues are. They can stop you from buying a bad dune buggy, or help you negotiate the price based on what they see.
Looking at Used Dune Buggies for Sale
Signs of damage or wear and tear are the key things to keep an eye out for when looking at used dune buggies for sale. A mechanic can help you spot such things more easily. You also need to think about your needs, and if the legality of a dune buggy matches up to what you intend to use it for.
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