Top 10 Used Motor Grader Brands Worth Investing In (With Pros & Cons)
Jun 4
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Investing in a used motor grader is a smart move for construction businesses looking to save costs while still getting the job done efficiently. However, not all graders are created equal. Choosing the right brand is critical when purchasing second-hand machinery, as it can directly impact your productivity, maintenance costs, and resale value.
Here’s our curated list of the top 10 used motor grader brands worth investing in—each known for their durability, availability of spare parts, and performance on challenging terrains. We’ve also included pros and cons to help you make an informed choice.
1. Caterpillar (CAT)
Country of Origin: USA Popular Models: CAT 12H, 140G, 140H, 140K
Pros:
Industry leader with unmatched global support
Easy access to spare parts
Reliable engines and hydraulics
High resale value
Cons:
Higher initial investment, even for used models
Some older models have outdated tech
Verdict: If budget allows, Caterpillar is a safe bet for long-term use and minimal downtime.
2. Komatsu
Country of Origin: Japan
Popular Models: GD655, GD705A, GD675
Pros:
Known for fuel efficiency and smooth operation
Modern ergonomic cabins even in older models
Robust parts and components
Cons:
Slightly less resale value compared to CAT
Not as widely available as other brands
Verdict: A great alternative to CAT, especially if you're looking for cost-effective performance.
3. Volvo Construction Equipment
Country of Origin: Sweden
Popular Models: G930, G940, G960
Pros:
Excellent fuel economy
Superior operator comfort
Strong environmental standards compliance
Cons:
Parts availability may be limited in some regions
Repairs can be costly due to European engineering complexity
Verdict: Best for companies emphasizing operator safety and low emissions.
4. John Deere
Country of Origin: USA
Popular Models: 670G, 770G, 872G
Pros:
Intuitive controls
Dependable performance in harsh environments
Well-supported in North America and Latin America
Cons:
Fewer service centers globally compared to CAT
Some models are expensive to maintain
Verdict: Ideal for buyers in the Americas looking for a solid workhorse with good tech integration.
5. CASE Construction
Country of Origin: USA
Popular Models: 865B, 885B, 845B
Pros:
Cost-effective used prices
Simple, rugged build
Easy-to-service designs
Cons:
Not as tech-advanced as premium brands
Some models feel outdated
Verdict: A budget-friendly option for small to mid-scale contractors.
6. Liugong
Country of Origin: China
Popular Models: CLG4180D, CLG4165
Pros:
Affordable even when nearly new
Reliable for light to medium-duty work
Growing global support network
Cons:
Lower resale value
May require frequent servicing for heavy workloads
Verdict: Best for buyers prioritizing upfront cost and willing to handle frequent maintenance.
7. XCMG
Country of Origin: China
Popular Models: GR180, GR135, GR215
Pros:
Competitive pricing
Decent build quality and fuel economy
Available globally with increasing support
Cons:
Limited service options in some regions
Electronics may not be as reliable as Western brands
Verdict: A solid mid-range choice that offers value for money in fast-growing markets.
8. Mitsubishi (Motor Grader Division - now part of Caterpillar Japan)
Country of Origin: Japan
Popular Models: MG330, MG430
Pros:
Strong engine and transmission performance
Sturdy frame and long-life components
Compact size ideal for tight job sites
Cons:
Older models can be hard to source parts for
Not many new models in the market post-merger
Verdict: Great for buyers looking for dependable older machines at good prices.
9. Tata Hitachi
Country of Origin: India (Joint Venture)
Popular Models: TG180
Pros:
Built for Indian subcontinent conditions
Cost-effective with robust construction
Decent local support in Asia and Africa
Cons:
Limited global presence
Older machines may have basic operator cabins
Verdict: A strong contender for those operating in developing countries or emerging markets.
10. Sany
Country of Origin: China
Popular Models: SMG200, SMG170
Pros:
Good hydraulic systems
Cost-effective and relatively modern
Operator-friendly cabin design
Cons:
Still building global reputation
Resale value not as high as premium brands
Verdict: A good starter grader brand with growing market recognition.
Bonus Tip: Where to Source Quality Used Motor Graders
If you’re in the market for trusted second-hand motor graders, look for suppliers that offer:
Inspection reports
After-sales support
Warranty or guarantees
Global shipping options
One reliable option is to source your motor graders from a trusted supplier of second-hand heavy equipment. Look for sellers that provide detailed inspection reports, verified service histories, and offer international shipping and after-sales support. Partnering with a reputable source ensures you get a well-maintained machine that delivers performance and durability.
Final Thoughts
When investing in a used motor grader, your decision should hinge on three critical factors:
Brand reputation
Spare parts availability
Your job site needs
Whether you’re looking for the power of Caterpillar, the affordability of Liugong, or the reliability of Komatsu, there’s a machine on this list to fit your needs and budget. Always evaluate the pros and cons before committing, and prioritize machines with a known maintenance history.
FAQs
Q1: Are used motor graders a good investment?
Yes, especially if bought from reputable brands with proper documentation. They can save costs while delivering solid performance.
Q2: How do I ensure I’m not buying a faulty used grader?
Request an inspection report, ask for service history, and buy from trusted suppliers.
Q3: Which brand has the best resale value?
Caterpillar typically has the highest resale value due to its global support and reliability.
