Beginner's Guide to Buying Cessna 182 Skylane: Capable Cross-Country Aircraft Manual

The Cessna 182 Skylane represents the sweet spot for serious recreational pilots. With over 23,000 built since 1956, the 182 dominates the high-performance single-engine market. For pilots ready to move beyond trainers into genuine cross-country capability, the 182 offers exceptional value—purchase prices typically $100,000-$250,000 provide real performance at reasonable cost. This comprehensive guide covers everything about purchasing, financing, and owning a Cessna 182.

Why Cessna 182 Dominates Performance Single Market

The 182's legendary reputation stems from proven reliability and genuine capability. Continental engines deliver consistent performance across thousands of aircraft. Four-to-six seat capacity (depending on model) means real family flying. Performance improvements over trainers are dramatic—faster cruise, better climb, higher altitude capability. Strong resale values reward proper maintenance. Owner community support is extensive.

However, 182s require honest assessment. Purchase prices ($100K-250K) require serious capital. Operating costs ($12,000-$16,000 annually) demand commitment. Complex systems (retractable gear, constant-speed prop) require advanced pilot proficiency. Understanding these realities prevents ownership disappointment.

Complete 182 Specifications with Buyer Impact

Realistic 182 Pricing: Market Analysis

1960s-1970s Models ($50,000-$100,000): Older airframes require careful inspection. Many have aging engines, outdated avionics. These attract budget-conscious buyers but carry higher risk. Budget $5,000-10,000 for upgrades.

1980s-1990s Models ($85,000-$160,000): Better condition, mid-time engines. Sweet spot for value. Many have retractable gear, modern avionics options. This price range attracts most serious buyers.

2000s+ Models ($150,000-$300,000+): Modern systems, lower time engines. Glass cockpit options available. Premium pricing reflects capability and condition.

True 182 Ownership Costs: Financial Reality

Direct Operating Costs Per Hour

• Fuel: 10-12 gallons/hour at $5-7/gallon = $50-84/hour
• Oil & Lubrication: $1.50-2.50/hour
• Engine Maintenance Reserve: $7-11/hour based on 2,000-hour TBO
• Airframe Maintenance: $3-6/hour covering retractable gear, systems
• Total Direct Costs: $62-104/hour typical operation

Annual Fixed Costs

• Annual Inspection: $1,000-1,500. Complex systems increase costs.
• Insurance: $2,000-3,500/year depending on experience
• Hangar/Tie-Down: $200-800/month ($2,400-9,600 annually)
• Database Subscriptions: $150-400/year
• Registration/Taxes: $200-400/year
• Total Annual Fixed: $6,500-15,000+ depending on location

Annual Operating Example

For 100 hours/year: 100 hours × $80/hour = $8,000 direct + $10,000 fixed = $18,000 total annually. Significant commitment but justified by capability.

182 Pre-Purchase Inspection Comprehensive Checklist

Airframe Critical Points

• Corrosion Check: Inspect thoroughly for moisture exposure. Repair costs $2,000-8,000+
• Retractable Gear Condition: Inspect mechanism thoroughly. Gear overhaul $3,000-7,000
• Constant-Speed Prop: Verify recent overhaul. New prop $5,000-8,000
• Control Surface Freedom: Test all surfaces for smooth operation
• Windscreen Condition: Replacement $2,000-4,000

Engine Inspection Red Flags

• Engine TSMOH: Approaching 2,000 hours requires overhaul planning ($18,000-25,000)
• Compression Test: Worn cylinders indicate poor maintenance
• Oil Analysis History: Demand complete history
• Cylinder Condition: Damage means replacement ($1,200-2,000 each)

Financing a 182: Realistic Options

Financing Example: $150,000 aircraft. 40% down ($60,000) + $90,000 financed at 6.5% over 15 years = $860/month payments. Add $10,000 fixed + $8,000 direct = total ~$1,977/month ownership.

Where to Buy: 182 Market Options

Aircraft Dealers: Inspection, warranty, financing help. Higher prices but lower risk.

Private Sales: Best prices, highest risk. Require professional inspection.

Cessna Specialists: Dealers focusing on Cessnas offer expert knowledge.

182 vs Alternatives: Honest Comparison

182 vs Piper Archer

Archers cost less ($80K-120K) but 182s offer better performance and resale. For serious cross-country, 182 justified.

182 vs Cessna 210 Centurion

210s offer more capability but cost significantly more ($150K-250K). 182 represents better value for typical use.

Common 182 Issues & Repair Costs

• Landing Gear Problems: $2,000-7,000 repairs or overhaul
• Alternator Failure: $1,500-2,500
• Vacuum System Issues: $400-1,500
• Prop Overhaul: $3,000-5,000
• Engine Overhaul: $18,000-25,000

Maintenance Schedules & Prevention

Annual inspections $1,000-1,500. Every 100 hours expect $2,000-4,000 service. Every 1,000 hours budget $6,000-12,000. Engine overhaul at 2,000 hours costs $18,000-25,000.

Insurance & Regulations

Insurance companies rate 182s favorably. New pilots pay $2,000-3,500/year. Experienced pilots enjoy $1,200-2,000/year. Hull value insurance recommended.

Maximizing 182 Resale Value

Well-documented maintenance commands premium resale. $150K with excellent records sells for $160K-170K. Poor maintenance reduces value 20-30%.

Red Flags When Buying 182

• Missing maintenance records
• Engine approaching 2,000 hours
• Gear mechanism problems
• Corrosion or weather exposure
• Multiple owners in short timeframe
• Overdue annual inspection
• Accident history

Conclusion: Is 182 Right for You?

The Cessna 182 Skylane represents excellent value for serious pilots ready for genuine cross-country capability. Performance improvements over trainers are dramatic. Strong resale values reward proper maintenance. However, $18,000+ annual costs and complex systems demand commitment. Buyers with $60,000+ down payment, $2,000+/month budget, and genuine cross-country mission find 182 ownership rewarding and justified.