Buyer Research

2020 Big Tex 70PI Utility — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $2,500–$4,500. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.

Kestrel Take

A solid, popular single-axle utility trailer from the biggest name in the business — the 70PI hauls mowers, ATVs, and light loads, and Big Tex build quality and parts availability are excellent. On any used utility trailer the checks are simple: bearings, tires (age, not just tread), frame rust, deck condition, and lights. A well-kept Big Tex is a durable, high-resale workhorse; verify the running gear and you're set.

Known Issues for the 2020 Big Tex 70PI Utility

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

Wheel bearings / hubsMedium

Neglected bearings seize and cause dangerous roadside failures; check for play, grease, and heat after towing.

Repair cost range: $100-$400

Tire age / dry rotMedium

Trailer tires age out and dry-rot regardless of tread; check date codes and sidewalls for cracking.

Repair cost range: $150-$500

Frame / deck rust or rotMedium

Inspect the frame for rust and the wood deck for rot; both are common on worked trailers.

Repair cost range: $100-$1,000

Lights / wiringLow

Verify all lights and the wiring/connector work — corrosion is common.

Repair cost range: $30-$200

Walk-Away Red Flags

✗Bearing play or overheating
✗Dry-rotted / old-date-code tires
✗Heavy frame rust or rotted deck
✗Dead lights

Good Signs

✓Serviced bearings, fresh grease
✓Good-date-code tires
✓Solid frame and deck, working lights

Found a specific Big Tex 70PI Utility?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2020 Big Tex 70PI Utility in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.