Purchasing used heavy equipment is a smart business decision, especially when it’s important to preserve your budget. However, it’s crucial to understand that saving on the initial purchase should not turn into excessive maintenance costs. In this article — the real cost of maintaining used equipment, common breakdowns, and practical tips to minimize expenses.

What Affects Maintenance Costs

Maintenance expenses depend on:

  • Type of equipment (excavator, roller, loader, etc.)
  • Brand and model (availability and cost of spare parts)
  • Machine condition at the time of purchase
  • Intensity of used
  • Compliance with maintenance schedules

The heavier and more complex the machine, the higher the repair and preventive maintenance costs.

Key Cost Categories

1. Scheduled Maintenance

  • Oil changes (engine, hydraulics, transmission): from UAH 5,000 to 15,000
  • Filters: UAH 1,000–4,000 per set
  • Diagnostics and system adjustments: from UAH 1,500
  • Undercarriage maintenance: UAH 2,000–6,000

2. Emergency Repairs

  • Hydraulic cylinders: UAH 3,000–12,000
  • Hydraulic pump: UAH 10,000–25,000
  • Turbocharger: from UAH 15,000
  • Fuel system repairs: UAH 8,000–18,000
  • Engine overhaul: UAH 30,000–80,000

3. Consumables

  • Tires (for loaders): UAH 6,000–15,000 each
  • Tracks: from UAH 60,000 per set
  • Battery: from UAH 2,500
  • Starter, alternator: from UAH 3,500

How to Reduce Maintenance Costs

  1. Buy inspected equipment.
    Equipment without hidden defects can save you tens of thousands in the first year alone.
  2. Stick to the maintenance schedule.
    Scheduled service is always cheaper than major repairs.
  3. Use quality spare parts.
    Reliable alternatives with warranty protection are more cost-effective in the long run.
  4. Consider service availability.
    Choose models with simple designs and widely available service options.

Example of Annual Expenses

For a mid-range backhoe loader (e.g., JCB 3CX, 6,000–8,000 operating hours):

  • Scheduled maintenance (4 times a year): UAH 40,000
  • Minor and medium repairs: UAH 25,000–35,000
  • Tires, batteries, and other consumables: UAH 15,000

Total: UAH 80,000–90,000 per year, assuming regular maintenance.

Where to Buy Reliable Used Heavy Equipment

Maintaining used equipment doesn’t require enormous investments if you assess the machine’s condition beforehand and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
This approach not only extends the lifespan of your equipment but also significantly reduces your business expenses.

TAD Group offers only carefully inspected machines with transparent service histories and full technical diagnostics.
We import equipment directly from Europe, Japan, and China, select machinery tailored to customer needs, and provide support at every stage.

👉 Check out our catalog — high-quality used equipment is available with full documentation and fast delivery across Ukraine.