Six Things To Look for When Buying a Used Forklift

You’ve spotted a used forklift at a price that seems too good to pass up. The savings look great until a hidden defect appears during your first demanding job. The right approach helps you catch warning signs before money changes hands.

Canada Powersports Financing has created the following checklist to help buyers avoid bad deals before applying for forklift financing.

What Every Buyer Should Check Before Choosing a Used Forklift

Knowing what to look for when buying a used forklift helps you target the parts that drive most ownership costs. These six checkpoints can help you judge the vehicle’s condition, so you know what you’re getting into.

Forks and Mast Wear

Look for cracks or bends near the heel, where the blade meets the upright shank. Have the seller raise the mast under a typical load to watch for hesitation. Worn rollers and stretched chains often cause a jerky lift motion.

Tire Condition Inspection

A proper tire inspection can reveal chunking or deep cuts that may affect forklift stability. Check the wear line printed on the sidewall to see if any tread life remains. Damaged rims usually point to rough handling by the previous owner.

Hydraulic System Leaks

Open the engine compartment and scan for any hydraulic system leaks around the mast cylinders and hoses. Wet patches or pooled fluid mean a seal has likely failed somewhere. Brushing up on how a forklift works also helps you spot leaks before they affect lifting power.

Battery and Engine Health

For electric models, ask the seller how many charging cycles the battery has undergone and its age. A standard battery pack lasts roughly five years under single-shift use. For combustion engines, you’ll want to check the dipstick and inspect each belt for cracks.

Safety Features and Controls

Every truck must pass a full test of its safety features and controls before you buy. The horn and seatbelt should work as designed, while the brakes need to grip evenly on both sides. Damaged overhead guards pose a serious risk to the operator.

Forklift Maintenance History and Hours

Always request the forklift maintenance history along with the meter reading. Compare the forklift operating hours against visible wear on the seat and pedals to spot any tampering. 

Matching the Forklift to Your Workload

Choose a forklift that can handle your heaviest pallets with room to spare. You should also measure aisle widths and ceiling clearance before committing to a purchase. Daily usage also matters, since heavier workloads may require a stronger model.

Finance Your Forklift With Canada Powersports Financing

Now you understand what to look for when buying a used forklift, including how to compare different types of forklifts before choosing one. A careful purchase can help you avoid repairs that cost more than expected.

Canada Powersports Financing helps individual buyers across Canada find flexible financing options through 30+ trusted lenders. Call us at (437) 900-0010 or fill out our application form to get approved today.