A skid steer can get pricey, with new models ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. The market has seen a fundamental change. Skid steers now move about 30,000 units each year compared to 85,000 compact track loaders. This makes your buying decision even more vital.
Different models come with lifting capacities between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds. The Bobcat S86 packs 105 horsepower under its hood. Finding the right machine needs a detailed look at your options. This piece gives you a clear path to pick your next skid steer. You'll learn about key features and sizes to match your needs without making expensive mistakes.
Common Skid Steer Buying Mistakes in 2025
Smart decisions about heavy equipment purchases need multiple factors to think over. You can avoid getting into pricey mistakes during the skid steer buying process by knowing the common pitfalls.
Choosing price over quality
Buyers often make the mistake of looking at the original purchase price alone. Used skid steers can cost 30-50% less than new models, but the cheapest option usually guides you toward higher expenses down the road. A low-cost skid steer might need major repairs right away and cost more to maintain as time goes by.
The price tag doesn't tell the whole story about quality. A skid steer with 2,000 hours over four years that's managed to keep good condition gives you better value than a two-year-old machine with 3,000 hours of heavy use. So, the machine's overall condition and history are the foundations of a solid investment.
Ignoring maintenance history
Maintenance records are a great way to get a full picture of a skid steer's condition. Buyers tend to look at surface features instead of this vital information. A detailed maintenance history should include:
- Regular service intervals
- Documentation of major repairs
- Oil change records
- Filter replacement timeline
- Hydraulic system maintenance
Full-time operation usually means 5-6 hours of daily use, while part-time machines run about 15 hours weekly. These patterns help you see if the maintenance schedule lines up with how much the machine gets used.
Skipping test drives
The biggest problem comes from not doing a detailed test drive and inspection. Your evaluation should check the hydraulic system's performance by lifting the boom to see if it stays in place without dropping. The engine should start without any weird noises or smoke.
The transmission should respond quickly during your test drive without making strange sounds. Controls need to work smoothly, and all safety features should work as intended. It also helps to look at the hydraulic hoses for damage or too much moisture since these parts are vital for the best performance.
Note that tires can get pricey to replace, anywhere from $200 to $1,200 each. That's why tire condition checks during the test drive help you plan for future expenses.
How to Choose the Right Skid Steer Size
Picking the right skid steer size needs a good look at how you'll use it and where you'll work. Getting a full picture of these factors will give you the best performance for your specific needs.
Understanding load capacity needs
The rated operating capacity (ROC) helps you figure out which skid steer size works best. Small-frame skid steers can handle loads under 1,750 pounds. Medium-frame models work with 1,750 to 2,200 pounds. Large-frame skid steers are built for heavy-duty work and lift over 2,200 pounds.
Operating weight goes hand in hand with lifting power. Small-frame models weigh between 4,200 to 6,000 pounds. Large-frame units are a big deal as they mean that 9,000 pounds. The math is simple - heavier machines give you more stability and lifting strength.
Here's how horsepower matches up with frame size:
- Small frame: Under 50 hp
- Medium frame: 50-70 hp
- Large frame: Over 70 hp
Site access requirements
Your site's layout plays a huge role in choosing the right skid steer. Compact models work great in tight spaces with lots of obstacles. Small-frame skid steers are 1.5 meters wide. They shine in cramped areas like home construction or indoor remodeling projects.
Ground conditions matter too. Smaller units do their best work on solid, flat surfaces like concrete and asphalt. Larger models handle tough terrain with rocks and mud better. Big job sites with heavy-duty work benefit from large-frame skid steers that offer better stability and muscle.
Your machine must fit through all access points. Width ranges from 35.5 inches for compact models to 79 inches for bigger units. Medium-frame skid steers hit the sweet spot with widths between 64-72 inches. This makes them great for most construction and landscaping jobs.
Storage space and moving the machine around are worth thinking about. Small-frame skid steers need less room to park and fit on smaller trailers. Their compact size means they use less fuel and cost less to maintain, making them budget-friendly for the right jobs.
Key Features Worth Paying Extra For
Modern skid steers come with sophisticated features that boost productivity and make operation easier. Knowing which premium options give you the best value helps you make smart buying decisions.
Advanced hydraulic systems
High-performance hydraulic systems are changing what skid steers can do. Today's machines deliver standard hydraulic system pressure of 3,500 psi, while premium options reach up to 4,061 psi for better performance. The latest models now offer high-flow capabilities between 30 and 34 gallons per minute. These improvements let you use demanding attachments like mulchers and industrial-grade tools effectively.
Mid and large-frame models feature an impressive dual-level suspension system. This innovative design puts independent torsion between the undercarriage and chassis to improve operator comfort and machine stability. The system keeps better ground contact, which leads to improved traction and overall performance.
Smart technology benefits
SMART technology has become a game-changer in modern skid steers. The system knows which implements are attached and shows specific control information on the machine's monitor. This smart setup lets you use the left joystick for driving and the right joystick for attachment operations. The result is a more accessible interface for operators.
Display options have evolved from 5-inch standard LCD monitors to 8-inch touchscreen versions with improved features. These advanced interfaces support multiple languages, maintenance reminders, and complete diagnostic information. Premium displays let you control the advanced touchscreen monitor through the joysticks.
Comfort upgrades
Operator comfort features have seen remarkable progress. New cab designs bring major improvements:
- A 22% increase in overall cab volume with 26% more foot space
- Better visibility through 59% larger rear windows
- Noise levels dropped by more than 60% thanks to improved engine mounts
Engineers have redesigned climate control systems with vent outlets above the operator for better cooling. Air suspension seats now come with heating and ventilation options to improve comfort during long work sessions.
The pressurized cab system keeps the interior clean and free from debris, making a big difference in operator comfort. These comfort improvements, along with better ergonomics and less vibration, help operators stay productive and less tired throughout long workdays.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
The real cost of skid steer ownership goes way beyond the reach and influence of what you pay upfront. A full picture of running costs helps you avoid surprise expenses.
Maintenance expenses
Running costs make up much of what you'll spend on ownership. A mid-size skid steer costs about $9.11 per hour to operate under normal conditions. Here are the simple maintenance needs:
- Engine oil and filter changes: $75-$80 yearly
- Hydraulic oil and filter replacement: $115-$120 per 1,000 hours
- Fuel filters: $75-$80, with pre-filters at $20 per 1,000 hours
- Yearly greasing costs: $150
Maintenance stays cheap during the first 1,000 hours of use. After that, costs rise as parts start to wear out. You'll need new tires every 500-800 hours, and a set of four heavy-duty tires will set you back about $1,250.
Fuel efficiency impact
Machine size and working conditions determine fuel use. A typical 74-horsepower skid steer uses about 2.9 gallons per hour. With today's fuel prices, that means spending $10-$15 per hour on fuel.
Your operating style affects fuel use. Letting the machine idle wastes up to 25% of fuel costs. Research shows machines sit idle 50-60% of the time, which means there's a big chance to save money by changing how you operate.
Insurance considerations
Machine use and value determine insurance needs. Liability coverage starts at $1 million, and sole proprietors pay between $525 and $900 yearly. Several things affect your premium costs:
Work type changes insurance rates. To cite an instance, excavation work adds 32% to premiums, while landscaping only adds 18% to the base rate. Location also affects coverage costs - city areas usually mean higher premiums.
Your equipment needs protection against theft, vandalism, and damage. Insurance companies suggest complete coverage that includes both liability and equipment protection. A $100,000 piece of equipment ended up costing between $600-$1,200 yearly for insurance.
Comparing Different Skid Steer Brands
Leading skid steer manufacturers in 2025 stand out because of their performance features and how well they hold their value. A full picture of brand differences gives buyers valuable insights.
Performance differences
Each brand's engineering approach creates unique machine capabilities. Bobcat controls about 40% of the global market share. They focus on versatility and advanced hydraulic systems. Their newest S86 model packs 105 horsepower with three hydraulic flow options and reaches up to 42 gpm at 4,061 psi.
Caterpillar takes a different approach by focusing on control response and improving operations. Their skid steers come with smart leveling systems and electronic throttle control. The hydraulic system design is different between manufacturers. Case offers pressure ratings of 3,500 psi. JCB machines have the best horsepower-to-operating capacity ratio in the industry.
Brands set themselves apart through their control systems. They offer three main control types:
- Bobcat grabbed 8 of the top 20 auction price spots
- A 2022 Bobcat S770 sold for $78,200, the highest auction price
- Used skid steers are getting newer, dropping from 9.1 to 8.1 years old on average
Cat and Bobcat get top resale prices because they have strong dealer networks and parts are easy to find. John Deere machines also benefit from great dealer support, but they cost more to buy new.
Location plays a big role in resale values. California leads new skid steer sales with 8%, and Texas follows close behind at 7.8%. The Midwest dominates used sales, with Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois showing the strongest numbers.
Financing and Purchase Timing
Smart timing and financing know-how can cut down the cost of buying a skid steer in 2025. Manufacturers now offer competitive financing packages and seasonal deals. You need to understand these opportunities to get the best value.
Best times to buy
Major manufacturers are offering great financing terms through February 2025. Bobcat gives 0% financing for 48 months with rebates up to $11,000 on skid steer models. New Holland matches this with 0% financing for 60 months plus cash back on 2024 and 2025 equipment.
Winter months give buyers the best deals. ASV offers bonus cash discounts up to $9,000 or 0% financing for up to 60 months between January and March 2025. Notwithstanding that, these promotional periods often line up with manufacturers' fiscal year-ends and model transitions.
The seasonal timing matters beyond just promotions. Buyers have better bargaining power during off-peak seasons. Dealers want to boost sales during slower winter months, which leads to better deals.
Negotiation strategies
Good price negotiations start with solid research and prep work. Buyers should do these things before talks begin:
- Know current manufacturer incentives and rebates
- Check local dealer's inventory levels
- Look at financing options from multiple lenders
- Keep records of trade-in maintenance
- Get business operation documents ready
A good dealer relationship helps during negotiations. Dealers give their repeat customers better perks, including priority service and special promotions. Your bargaining position gets stronger when you talk about future equipment needs or possible referrals.
Price evaluation goes beyond the original cost. Dealers might throw in:
- Free extended warranty coverage
- Free maintenance packages
- Training and operator certification
- Payment terms that fit business cycles
Knowing what motivates dealers gives you an edge. Dealers push harder to close deals at quarter-ends and year-ends. On top of that, dealers with too much inventory often flex more on pricing and terms.
Down payment needs change based on credit score and business history. Buyers with top credit might get financing with just 5% down. Those with fair credit need 10-20% down. Right now, financing terms run from 24 to 72 months, and many manufacturers let you delay payments up to 90 days.
Trade-in values can make a big difference in final prices. Dealers value equipment more when it has proper maintenance records. Getting quotes from different dealers creates competition and leads to better offers.
Note that deals involve more than just price. Ask for extras like specific attachments, longer warranties, or maintenance packages. Dealers often budge more easily on these add-ons than on cutting the price.
Conclusion
Buying a skid steer is a major investment that needs you to think over several factors. Smart buyers look past the original price tag. They focus on maintenance history, performance capabilities, and what it costs to own one long-term.
You need solid research and evaluation to make the right choice. Your skid steer should be a match for your specific operational needs with the right mix of features and capabilities. It also helps to time your purchase during winter months or manufacturer promotions. This can save you money through special financing offers and rebates.
The key to success lies in avoiding common mistakes while making smart choices about size, features, and brand selection. Take time to inspect properly, do test drives, and compare dealers. This ensures your investment gives you the best value and performance over time.
Note that a skid steer becomes a valuable business asset when you choose it wisely. Smart decisions about specifications, timing, and financing options today will affect your equipment's performance and value tomorrow.
