The Difference Between Buying a New or Used Generator

If you’re ready to purchase a power system solution, you may consider investing in a new power generator vs. choosing a used generator. While purchasing new equipment comes with the convenience of selecting the exact make and model you need with a quality guarantee, there are also benefits to buying used generators. Preowned equipment often provides significant cost savings when purchased from a reputable dealer.

Mustang Cat is your local source for new and used power generation options with the legendary reliability of Cat® equipment. As an authorized Cat dealer, we offer a reliable catalog of power systems backed by industry-leading product knowledge and technical support. Before you decide between new and used options, we’ll walk you through the differences between new and used generators and which option will best meet your needs. 

New Generators

The main benefit of purchasing a new generator is receiving a machine in perfect working order straight from the factory. Since the generator has never been used or changed hands, there’s no need to consider how previous owners treated the equipment. 

You also receive a manufacturer’s warranty and up-to-date technology meeting modern specifications. Generators manufactured after 2007 meet EPA Tier 4i and Tier 4F emissions standards. Any equipment produced before this time may not meet the emissions regulations necessary to operate in certain states, like California.

New generators generally cost 30% to 70% more than the same makes and models in pre-owned condition. Many new generators are made to order, so there can be significant lead times when you must wait for your equipment. It’s also crucial to consider that modifying new equipment will void the manufacturer’s warranty. 

New Generators

Used Generators

The most significant advantage of choosing a used generator is the reduced capital investment. Selecting a unit that has received regular maintenance, has been rebuilt or remanufactured and is the right model for your needs equips you with the perfect machine for your operations at a lower cost.

The most important factor to weigh is the past treatment of the equipment and its current state. A generator in poor condition can require costly repairs, making the purchase less cost-efficient. Dealers like Mustang Cat stand by our work with a quality guarantee so that you can have peace of mind when selecting a pre-owned power generator model. 

Another key advantage is that there is virtually no lead time to receive your equipment, so you can use it immediately for an emergency project. Consider whether the equipment meets EPA regulations based on its manufacturing date and whether you can use an older model based on your state’s emissions regulations.

Used models often have a wide variety of upgrades and aftermarket additions to meet specialty applications. You can further modify your equipment as needed since there is no warranty to void.

Contact Mustang Cat Today for New and Used Generator Options

New and used generators have unique advantages and considerations. The experts at Mustang Cat have served the Southeast Texas construction community with generator solutions as a family-owned business since 1952. We understand that proper maintenance is key to extending your equipment’s life. We’ve created a free walkthrough guide to help you learn the ins and outs of power generator maintenance and maximize your equipment’s value.

Want to purchase new or used generator equipment or sell your used equipment? Reach out to us online today with any questions, from service requests to product pricing. You can also search for a location near you to visit our team in person today or us a call at 800-256-1001 for help upgrading your fleet.