Maintenance Misconceptions

By Joel Hicks, product line manager – tractors, KIOTI

Reliable and strong, tractors are the workhorses that keep a farm running smoothly. However, even the most durable machines require consistent care to keep parts running smoothly and the machine operating at its best. Unfortunately, many operators overlook or underestimate the importance of maintenance routines, often leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided.

In this guide, we’ re debunking six of the most common tractor maintenance myths and sharing the right ways to keep your equipment running smoothly all season long, so you can save money and complete your tasks on time.

Common Misconceptions

Myth 1: Pre-operation tractor inspections are optional.

With a mile-long to-do list, it can be tempting to immediately hop into the operator’ s seat and get to work. However, skipping a quick pre-work inspection can lead to overlooked issues that can snowball into bigger and more expensive repairs down the road.

Before you even think about starting your tractor each day, take five minutes to walk around your machine. Look for visible damage, check for loose bolts and hose connections and clear the radiator screen and air filter of debris. Make sure your fuel is fresh to prevent debris from getting caught in the fuel system, and confirm your oil and tire pressure levels are where they should be.

That quick, five-minute daily check can help save you money down the line. Be sure also to review your owner’ s manual for maintenance tasks that may be unique to your machine and adhere to recommended maintenance intervals, such as oil changes and lubrication schedules.

Myth 2: A running tractor means no problems.

Just because your machine starts doesn’ t mean everything is running properly. A slight squeak or occasional leak may not seem significant initially, but these minor issues can indicate more serious problems later.

Keep your eyes and ears open when starting your machine and note any unusual noises, hard starts or leaks. If any of these issues persist or worsen across the next several days, take your machine to a dealer immediately. Any abnormal machine behavior should be investigated quickly to reduce the risk of downtime and unexpected repair costs in the future.

Myth 3: Tractor joints and hydraulics don’ t require regular attention.

Some operators believe they can get away with occasional preventive maintenance, such as greasing joints and inspecting the hydraulics. High-usage parts, including steering systems or

20 | 800-247-2000 | 515-955-1600 | December 2025