Special equipment, like any complex mechanism, loses reliability over the years. Even if a machine has been operated according to rules and undergone scheduled maintenance, after five years, most models start to exhibit typical problems. In this article, we’ll examine the malfunctions most frequently encountered by special equipment owners, what causes them, and how to reduce risk when buying on the secondary market.

Why Exactly 5 Years Is a Critical Mark

The five-year mark is a conventional point after which:

  • the equipment falls outside warranty coverage;
  • cumulative loads begin to take their toll;
  • equipment requirements change (e.g., environmental standards);
  • the need for repair of special equipment hydraulics, electronics, and other key components sharply increases.

This is especially acute in segments where machines are operated year-round: municipal, construction, and road maintenance equipment.

Typical Problems After 5 Years of Operation

1. Hydraulic System

Even with quality models, after 4–6 years of active operation, you might encounter:

  • wear of seals and hoses;
  • loss of pressure;
  • oil leaks;
  • deterioration of system responsiveness.

All this reduces productivity and can lead to emergency breakdown. Without proper diagnostics, special equipment hydraulic repair can be very costly.

2. Electronics and Sensors

Modern equipment is equipped with complex electronic control systems. With age, the most common failures include:

  • temperature, pressure, and position sensors;
  • control modules;
  • wiring harnesses, especially when exposed to moisture and vibration.

Professional special equipment electronics repair requires qualification, and replacing original units is expensive. Some owners resort to re-flashing or installing universal controllers.

3. Undercarriage

After 4–5 years of operation, it often requires:

  • replacement of bushings, pins, and idlers;
  • overhaul of gearboxes, especially for swing platforms;
  • restoration of shock absorbers, tires, and tracks.

Wear can be critical, especially on machines with irregular maintenance or when operating on aggressive surfaces.

4. Leaks and Corrosion

Minor leaks eventually escalate into major problems:

  • corrosion of frames and bodies;
  • compromised tank and hose seals;
  • wear of cabin and glass seals.

This is particularly evident in equipment stored outdoors.

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How to Avoid Problems When Buying Used Equipment

If you’re considering used special equipment excavators or other machinery after 5 years of operation, pay attention to:

  • service history (presence of records and receipts);
  • visual condition of main components;
  • operation of all systems at idle and under load;
  • presence of adaptation for Ukrainian operating conditions.

It’s important to remember: the age of the machine is not a death sentence. Everything depends on the conditions of use and maintenance.

What to Do if the Equipment Is Already “Aging”

Regular diagnostics and preventive maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of even old equipment. Key recommendations:

  • change oil and filters according to schedule;
  • check hydraulic system pressure every 500–1000 engine hours;
  • clean electrical connections from oxidation;
  • monitor the condition of the undercarriage and working attachments.

With a timely approach, equipment can operate reliably even after 8–10 years of use. If you are looking for verified machines with a clear history, we at TAD Group will help you select used special equipment that has undergone professional diagnostics and is ready for work without unnecessary risk. We know where to look for weak spots—and offer only those machines we can vouch for.