I'm considering a used 2000 Kodiak. It's not exactly what I want, but for $1300 less than my other choice, I must consider it.

When you buy a used ATV, should you ask that it be checked by a dealer? Should you check certain things? I'm not a mechanic and can't take it apart. Any suggestions on buying used?

 

If you insist that a dealer check it out, be prepared to spen $50-$60 dollars for them to do so.

If I was looking at a used ATV. I would ride it on flat pavement, varying the RPMs, and listen for any rattling and clunking, or anything that sounds questionable. Also, look at the air filter, if the seller didn't clean it for selling purposes, he surely didn't clean it for performance maintenance. Pull out the dipstick, as well, and wipe it on a clean rag, making sure it has a clean appearance. Grab the wheels at the 9, and 3 o'clock position, and see if they are loose. This could show you a bearing problem. I would also stand back from the quads front end, and make sure the handlebars are even, if not, it might have been rolled.

Ask the guy what, if any, regular maintenance he performed on it, and ask if he has any reciepts from repairs.