Caterpillar 252B vs John Deere 317: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 252B averages $21,248 CAD at auction, compared to $14,851 for the John Deere 317. That's a $6,397 difference. Based on 51 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The John Deere 317 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $6,397 less than the 252B.
Caterpillar 252B
SSL$21,248 CAD avg
$15,179
Low
$30,359
High
14
Sales
Avg 3,874 hours · 2005–2010 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 317
SSL$14,851 CAD avg
$4,830
Low
$27,032
High
37
Sales
Avg 2,271 hours · 2004–2009 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 252B and 317?
- Price: The 317 is $6,397 cheaper on average (30% savings).
- Usage: Used 252Bs average 3,874 hours while 317s average 2,271 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 252B or 317? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 252B or 317?
Choose the Caterpillar 252B if:
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($6,397 savings)
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 252B and 317 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 252B | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | $15,872 (2) | — |
| 2009 | — | $9,691 (4) |
| 2008 | — | $19,047 (10) |
| 2007 | $20,247 (2) | $13,695 (7) |
| 2006 | $20,285 (4) | $17,759 (8) |
| 2005 | $24,016 (6) | $11,614 (6) |
| 2004 | — | $6,313 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 252B and 317 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 252B | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $29,810 (2) | $19,469 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | — | $17,703 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $21,120 (2) | $12,247 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $21,120 (2) | $15,639 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $19,172 (8) | $9,389 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 252B or 317 in Canada?
Caterpillar 252B
All Caterpillar 252B listings →More Comparisons
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