0:00 Why farmers want out of new tractor deals
3:14 The farm income and equipment money squeeze
6:53 How tractor leases create an exit
8:55 DEF failures and tractor derates
11:32 Why farmers are choosing pre-DEF tractors
14:04 Compact tractor recalls and repair access
17:41 Farm equipment lemon laws and documentation
22:23 The checklist before buying or financing

I take a straight look at why farmers are trying to get out of new tractor deals in 2026, from falling equipment values and rising farm expenses to lease returns, bankruptcy, and the move back toward simpler pre-DEF tractors.

I explain what DEF derates, recalls, repair restrictions, farm equipment lemon laws, warranties, and the right-to-repair settlement mean for tractor owners. I also cover the records and documentation that can help if a machine keeps failing.

I finish with a practical checklist covering recalls, DEF software updates, lease terms, used tractors, financing, state laws, lenders, and independent repair options before you sign your next deal.