We asked 450 owners from Denmark, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway about their experiences with eight 150hp four-cylinder tractors. Here are the results.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

  • The eight featured tractors were part of an earlier 2017 group test.  This test didn’t appear in the English language version of profi.
  • 450 owners responded to the survey.
  • The owner opinion was supplemented by experiences from respective workshops.

How reliable are today’s tractors, which make stands out, and which problems are more commonplace? To find out the answer for 150hp, four-cylinder tractors, we asked owners from Denmark, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway about their opinion of these eight makes, which were on sale nearly ten years ago and in a group test in 2017. 

McCormick was originally part of this test, but there was an insufficient response to include them in the survey results. Deutz-Fahr didn’t take part in the 2017 test so were left out here, too. 

The highest response was from Fendt (23%), John Deere and Valtra (20% each) owners. Case IH made up 12% of the responses, duly followed by New Holland users (10%), MF (7%), Claas (6%), and Kubota (just 2%).  Most of the responses came from Germany (43%), Norway (25%), and the Netherlands (15%). Time constraints meant we didn’t open the survey to UK and Irish readers. 

At the beginning of the survey, we asked owners about their particular tractor’s level of specification. Over 70% of the survey participants have a continuously variable speed transmission. Only a third of the respondents drive at a top speed of 40km/hr, the rest at 50km/hr. Two thirds have a front loader, and interestingly 80% have a front linkage. 92% of the models are equipped with front axle suspension. An auto-steer system was fitted to 48% of the tractors. 70% have owned their tractor from new. 

In terms of use, 44% of the tractors had clocked between 2,000 and 4,000 hours at the time of the survey. You can find the details on each model on the following pages.

Overall satisfaction 

The owners rated their satisfaction on a scale of 1 to 10, along with how likely they would be to recommend the tractor to a fellow farmer (NPS = Net Promoter Score).  We’ve summarised these results in the table ‘USER RATINGS AT A GLANCE’.

In addition to these ratings, owners also had the opportunity to share what they did and didn’t like about their tractors. Many of the replies were consistent, which helped confirm the results. We also asked about what type of repairs were needed, and how often they occurred. Owners could allocate the various issues to specific categories (see the diagram ‘FAULTS AT A GLANCE’) and 19% of all repairs related to the engine (not including the exhaust after-treatment system). There were no complete losses, but issues including faulty turbos, water pumps, leaking hoses or the starter motor were mentioned. 

Transmission problems accounted for 18% of the faults. Repairs ranged from defective solenoid valves and software control issues to issues with the four-wheel drive clutch. In only one instance was it necessary to replace the entire transmission. 

Exhaust after-treatment systems came in third for the number of repairs, accounting for up to 16% of repairs logged. The most frequent issues were with the NOx or NH3 sensors and clogged lines due to AdBlue crystallising. Niggly software errors, frozen display screens and system crashes ranked fourth. On the brighter side, the linkage caused little to no trouble, according to the survey. 

Still a price difference 

Another interesting aspect is how prices have developed over the years. 

In 2017, the price difference between Fendt and Kubota was about £25,000. Speaking within the machinery trade, there is still a sizeable gap even after 10 years, with a Fendt 516 that has clocked a mere 1,000 hours costing around £100,000 and a Kubota M7001 about £60,000.

Summary 

We would like to thank everybody who participated in the survey. 

We are aware, that the answers are not always unbiased, so we tried to compare the answers with the 2016 measurements — for example, on the subject of machine manoeuvrability. 

Eemeli Linna, Tapio Vesterinen (Koneviesti, Finland), Per Magne Tøsse (Bedre Gardsdrift, Norway), John Christensen (Traktor Tech, Denmark), Bas van Hattum, Bob Karsten (Trekker, Netherlands). 

Easy to use

The revised Maxxum series was launched in 2016, followed by the next major update in 2018. This model stood out for its distinctive bonnet and was on the market for only two years. Despite its short time on the market, it became quite popular, as reflected by the numerous replies from users.

Most owners praised its straightforward operation, especially the CVX transmission with its three speed ranges and separate hand throttle controls. Owners also find adjusting the hydraulic spools easy. Manoeuvrability only gets a thumbs-up from owners without a front loader. The FPT engine is considered frugal and powerful. The cab and ride comfort are also impressive.

Points criticised 

The most common complaint relates to the air conditioning system — usually a faulty low-pressure sensor or clogged recirculation filter leading to incorrect temperature readings. Poor air circulation can make this problem worse. AdBlue system malfunctions, mainly from defective NH3 sensors, have also caused problems in the past, though CNH has made some improvements here. Crystallisation in the AdBlue system often occurred when the engine didn’t get warm enough and only ran for a short time. Users have found that OptiSpray, an AdBlue additive, helps minimise these issues. 

Other points of user criticism are the sometimes difficult to control accelerator pedal and the 10km/hr range shift. The electronic parking brake also occasionally fails — often due to worn brake pads or low oil levels. Hence, the recommendation is to maintain and check oil levels regularly. Some of these weak points have been addressed on later models. 

Little to complain about

In the comparison test carried out in late 2016, the Claas Arion still didn’t have the Cebis Touch terminal. This was introduced in 2017, when the range was updated to meet the new emissions standards.

Even then the spacious five-post cab and simple operation were praised by the test team, and Claas owners replying to the survey agreed with us. The central hand rest with thumb control for the most important functions, surrounded by logically placed buttons, has been well received in practice.

The comfortable ride provided by the good front axle and cab suspension was another item praised by the surveyed owners. About 55% of operators use the Hexashift powershift transmission, while the rest prefer the continuously variable Claas CMatic box. 

Points criticised 

In the original test, the Arion 550 impressed with its high pulling power and easy transmission control — qualities that are confirmed by users. Yet, some owners did complain about poor torque, especially at low engine speeds. This may be due to the fact that 64% of the owners were running one of the smaller Arion models. Since 2017, Claas switched to a twin turbo set-up on the Stage IV engines to overcome this criticism. The choice of available tyres has also expanded over the years. 

44% of the reported faults relate to the engine, 19% concern electronics or software. Interestingly there’s no clear pattern, which suggests there are no typical common faults. It’s worth making the point that the number of Claas owners was comparatively small, making the survey results less conclusive. The most common engine-related issues are in regard to leaks in the cooling system, such as porous hoses or expansion tanks.

Many hours of Vario

The 500 S4 took first place in the big 2017 comparison test. Today, owners are still full of praise for three things in particular: the small turning circle, the excellent ride comfort and the smooth, precise and controllable Vario transmission. Further details frequently mentioned as major plus points are the low noise level, impressive fuel efficiency and user-friendly operation —especially the straightforward and logical GPS control system.

Most of those responding to the survey had clocked more hours — more than 30% had done more than 6,000 hours. 87% of Fendt owners chose the top model, the 516 Vario. 

Points criticised

Users of the 512, 514 and occasionally the 516 noted that the engine could be livelier. Fendt says this impression may be to do with the tare weight (6.4 tonnes) and the fact that the tractor is somewhat light at the front, which often makes a front weight necessary — others, however, see this as a weight-saving.

The air filter has been a source of trouble: it clogs quickly and is difficult to access when the front loader is attached. Axle issues account for 19% of the reported faults, typically involving wear parts such as ball joints or bearings. Some front loader tractors experienced a broken bolt on the front axle suspension, an issue Fendt says it addressed in a model update.  

Reported several times was the electronic control for the Vario transmission, which is poorly positioned, causing condensation from the cab to drip onto it (now changed, according to Fendt). Additionally, the air conditioning evaporator under the seat has been known to leak due to corrosion.

Comfortable and simple

In the original comparison, John Deere sent a 6130R — the most powerful of the three 6R models with the smallest frame at the time. The 6R achieved the second-highest overall score in the test, largely due to its cab and comfort.

Even today, ten years after it was introduced, users confirm our thinking. The most frequently mentioned features include the spacious and quiet cab, ease of operation and convenient transmission. Strong engine performance, low diesel consumption, good suspension and a reliable GPS system were also positively highlighted. 

There was a high level of response from John Deere owners and the majority had clocked between 2,000 and 5,000 hours. 

Points criticised 

Many John Deere users criticised the low lift capacity at the rear. Just under 30% of all reported faults concern the engine, and 15% relate to the cab. The high-pressure fuel pump was particularly prone to giving trouble, which according to the workshops we spoke to related to poor quality fuel. The variable geometry turbo also had its share of problems when loads frequently changed. Issues in the cab were frozen screens and leaking air-con hoses; yet regular software updates helped prevent screen issues.

A known weak point is the oil pump in the AutoPowr gearbox, which lacks a filter element so using high-quality oil is essential. The AdBlue pump is also a weak point — experts recommend not filling the tank completely in winter to allow for the liquid to expand in freezing temperatures.

Great visibility but noisy

Kubota built the M7001 in France, primarily using European components such as a ZF transmission. The proportion of Kubota owners in the survey was the lowest, which is worth noting when interpreting the results. As with the other models, we also consulted workshops about the problems they encountered.

Owners liked the large displacement engine and the cab for its excellent all-round visibility. The large diesel tank is ample for long working days, and both lifting power and engine performance received positive ratings. Participants also noted the manufacturer’s five-year warranty as a significant benefit. 

Points criticised

All of the owners criticised the noise level in the cab. Some also reported leaky and difficult-to-close doors and that the cab filters were too small and difficult to access. Kubota later addressed the door design issue with an upgrade.

43% of all reported defects related to the exhaust system — primarily the AdBlue tank where it houses sensors and heaters. This was insufficiently sealed, allowing AdBlue to seep in and corrode the sensors — Kubota later switched to a new header housing. Caution is advised when lubricating the rear lift arms, because excessive pressure may damage the position sensor. The tension pulleys on the front of the engine were not properly sealed on the first series and tended to seize up, causing the belt to slip over the pulley and wreck the belt. Reinforced bearings are now standard.

Solid, but complicated operation

The Massey Ferguson 6700S series is based on a tried and tested concept, with many owners still operating relatively new models. Users frequently praised the cab comfort, not so much for its size, but for the nice seating position. The engine performance is perceived as powerful. 

The transmission — whether semi-powershift or continuously variable — was also well appreciated. The high lifting power and good power-to-weight ratio also received positive comments.

The pie chart reflects fairly uniform rates for the various models. The top model, the 6718S, does not stand out as much as the top models of the other brands. The air-con has sufficient power, but the cab temperature isn’t maintained. 

Points criticised 

Owners criticised operating the hydraulics and lift. The functions are varied but not intuitive or only accessible via hidden settings in the screen. As for the cab, the low roof lining was criticised, especially for loader work. 

Also, frequent issues with the braking system were reported: air in the system, problems with the booster or recurring error codes. The exhaust system (especially the AdBlue pump and crystallisation) caused downtime when the tractor wasn’t warmed up enough. 

Sensor problems included the steering angle sensor and the diesel tank level indicator — one user had these replaced five times (four times were under warranty). The main gearshift was also criticised — it didn’t always work reliably.

Nice operation, but sensor errors

When the T6 series took part in the comparison test, it was still brand new. Technically, it shares many components with the Maxxum. The main differences relate to the cab and controls. Users of both brands agreed: the operation of the continuously variable CVT transmission is exemplary while the hydraulic spools and settings are also considered straightforward.

New Holland operators praised the cab for its comfort and good all-round visibility. Plus points were also awarded for manoeuvrability, fuel economy and ride stability.

Points criticised 

The CVT was frequently criticised for its range changes in the main field work speed range as well as the relatively harsh gear shifts. Unfortunately, it is not clear which mechanical transmission was being referred to — the ElectroCommand (four range, four powershift) or DynamicCommand (24 speed dual clutch).

The suspension, both on the front axle and in the cab, was also rated as needing improvement. Further criticism goes to the narrow steps, the limited lift range at the rear and the poor quality paint. According to the manufacturer, the latter has been addressed on the more recent models.

23% of all reported defects related to exhaust technology, followed by gearbox faults at 21%. Sensors for NH3, NOx or AdBlue circulation, in particular, caused initial error messages, often leading to the tractor going into limp home mode. These problems are said to be less common today, thanks to the use of better quality sensors.

Some owners had to replace the multifunction joystick or the shuttle control under the steering wheel. As with the Maxxum, there were occasional reports of the electric parking brake not releasing.

Valtra’s N4 series was barely a year old when it took part in the comparison test with its new cab. Many of the Valtra owners in the survey live in Finland, Norway and Denmark. Two thirds of them drive the top of the range N175. 20% of the 450 respondents were Valtra owners, which is good.

Users particularly praised the N4’s great manoeuvrability. Ride and cab comfort were also favourably mentioned. Other highlights include the powerful hydraulics and linkage, good visibility of the front loader, easy handling and the reliable GPS system. Typical Valtra, the TwinTrac reverse drive system is used by some owners.

Points criticised

The biggest criticism of the continuously variable transmission is that you have to manually shift between the ranges. The noise level in the cab is also described as high. And some participants miss a button for changing the direction of travel on the loader joystick.

Around a quarter of all reported problems relate to the engine, and a further quarter to the gearbox. The most well-known weak point is the water pump — many users have experienced this, however Valtra’s goodwill arrangements have eased the pain. The problem was that the pump was not altered for use with the larger radiator pack, even though the new engine required more cooling.

Further issues reported were damage to the exhaust manifold and issues with three gearbox sensors that detect the current selected range. If the sensors are not precisely adjusted, the electronics as well as the pto refuse to work. User recommendation: replace all three sensors not just one or two. A rare but more serious issue was a nut working loose in the rear diff.

For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save.