If your forklift has started to feel more like a problem than a help, you’re not alone. Many businesses reach a point where they’re unsure whether to keep repairing existing equipment or start looking at alternatives. It’s not always obvious — especially when a truck still technically works.

At Agate MHE, this is a conversation we have regularly with customers. The good news? There are some clear, practical signs that can help you decide whether it’s time to review your forklift, before downtime or costs creep up unexpectedly.

Forklifts are built to work hard — but like any piece of equipment, they don’t last forever. Knowing when to review or replace a forklift can save you downtime, safety issues, and unexpected repair costs.

If you’re wondering whether your current truck is still fit for purpose, here are some clear signs it might be time to take a closer look.

1. Breakdowns Are Becoming More Frequent

If your forklift is spending more time being repaired than being used, it’s often a sign that components are reaching the end of their working life. Regular forklift servicing and maintenance can help identify issues early before they lead to repeated breakdowns. Frequent breakdowns don’t just cost money — they disrupt operations and put pressure on the rest of your fleet.

2. Repair Costs Are Adding Up

Frequent forklift repairs, rising maintenance costs, and ongoing downtime are some of the most common reasons businesses start reviewing their equipment — and they’re usually linked.

A single repair might be manageable, but repeated spend soon adds up.

When repair costs start approaching the value of the truck itself, it’s usually worth reviewing whether continued maintenance makes sense or if replacement would be the more cost‑effective option long‑term.

3. Safety or Compliance Concerns

Safety should always come first.

If your forklift is struggling to meet current safety standards, or if wear and tear is starting to affect brakes, steering, lifting performance, or stability, it may no longer be suitable for site use — even if it still technically works.

4. It’s No Longer Right for the Job

Businesses change — equipment needs do too.

If your operation has grown, layouts have changed, or loads are heavier or handled more frequently, an upgrade could improve efficiency, manoeuvrability, or operator comfort.

5. Downtime Is Affecting Productivity

Unplanned downtime often costs more than people realise.

If equipment issues are regularly causing delays or workarounds, it’s worth reviewing whether a newer or more reliable truck could help keep things running smoothly.

What Are Your Options?

At this stage, many businesses assume the only answer is buying brand-new equipment — but that’s not always the case.

Reviewing your equipment doesn’t always mean buying brand new. Depending on your operation, a used forklift or even a short-term forklift demonstration may be enough to make a clear comparison.

At Agate MHE, we support customers with forklift sales, servicing, maintenance, and demonstrations — helping them choose equipment that suits their site, workload, and budget.

Depending on your needs, a suitable used truck, an alternative model, or even arranging a demonstration can help you make the right decision without guesswork.

Need a Second Opinion?

If you’re unsure whether your forklift is still right for your business, getting a second opinion can help avoid bigger issues later.

Sometimes, a simple conversation is all it takes to avoid bigger issues later on.

If you’d like to talk through your current setup, Agate MHE can review your existing forklift, discuss service and maintenance options, or help arrange a forklift demonstration so you can compare equipment properly.

👉 You can find out more about our forklift services and support on the Agate MHE website.