A Guide to UTV Maintenance
Not all UTVs are built the same. This means the maintenance of your UTV vehicle might differ. But here are a few maintenance tasks every owner should prioritize.
Inspect the UTV for Problems
Do a regular and short inspection of the machine.
- Check high-wear parts like UTV bearings, fittings and joints. Look for any stuck particles that can damage these components.
- Take a look at your UTV’s body and frame to see any visible signs of damage like dents and cracks.
- Consider checking the lights and brakes.
- Check under the vehicle for signs of fluid leaks.
- Inspect the tires’ pressures for optimal performance.
Engine Oil and Filter Change
UTV maintenance requires an engine oil change every 1500 miles. Using a clean and well-lubricated oil is crucial for smooth engine performance. Monitor the oil levels by checking the dipstick frequently to see if it is within the recommended range. Also, examine the oil’s color and consistency. Change the oil if it is dark and dirty or has a foul odor. To do so, take off the top and change the oil and its oil filter regularly. If the oil looks discolored or grainy, change the oil completely and add an oil filter to keep the engine clean and well-performing.
Check the Cooling System
Check the coolant level in the reservoir before each ride. It must not be hazy, discolored, or contain particles. Inspect the radiator cap and hoses for brittleness, cracks and leaks. In case of a consistently low coolant, look for signs of loose fittings and leaks. If you spot any of these, consult a professional for repair. Regularly maintaining and replacing the coolant once every season will help keep the seals cool and well-lubricated. It will also help extend the life of your UTV’s engine.
Air Filter Maintenance
For your UTV to function smoothly, you should ensure a clean air filter and radiator. Use an air gun and compressor to clean the filter. If your air filter is dirty, replace it after approximately fifty hours of usage to keep the engine running.
The type of air filter may vary based on your UTV model so check your user manual to identify the exact model number.
Lubricate the Fittings
UTVs have multiple moving parts that pivot, rotate or slide against each other during operation. Correctly lubricating these fittings reduces metal-on-metal friction. Look through your manufacturer’s instructions to locate the fittings and identify the type of grease recommended for your UTV. Use a vehicle grease gun with the manufacturer's recommended lubricant. Grease all the fittings you can locate to help the vehicle run smoothly.
Inspect the Tires
Your UTV's tires naturally lose air pressure over time. It is recommended to keep a tire pressure gauge in your UTV’s glove box for prompt use on the go. You can precisely check and inflate them to adjust pressure and stability. Remember to check the owner’s manual to identify the specific tire pressure requirements of your UTV. Use a pressure gauge for accurate readings. Rotate your tires every 5000 miles to ensure they wear out evenly. This helps extend the tires’ life and balance of your UTV. In cases of prolonged flat, you can see damage on the sidewall. You might want to replace such tires soon.
Don’t over-inflate your tires, as their tread may wear unevenly.
Inspect and Replace the Drive Belt
Several UTVs use a continuously variable transmission (CVT) drive belt for providing torque. If this belt slips, the power to the wheels will decrease. The belt can endure a lot of wear and tear but might need to be replaced eventually. The replacement frequency of the belt depends on the amount of wear and tear your UTV experiences. If you spot any glazing or cracking, it is time for replacement.
Check the Battery
If your vehicle UTV has not been used for a while, the battery might pose a problem. If a battery goes too long without being used, the battery will no longer hold a charge and will need to be completely replaced. To prevent this, charge the battery regularly. Use a battery maintainer during storage. The maintainer doesn’t overcharge your battery, prevents battery self-discharge and keeps your battery ready whenever you need it. Check for loose wire connections, damaged lines, dirt build-up, terminal corrosion and low electrolyte levels in unsealed batteries to extend their life.
Check the Brakes
Check the brake pad thickness in your brake system. It should be at least an eighth of an inch and anything less will need you to replace it. Additionally, inspect the lines’ quality and levels of the brake fluid. Ensure a good condition of the fluid by looking for any debris that is contaminating the reservoir. Also, examine the rotors for bends, chips, or wear and tear. This is because the rocks and other debris can damage them. Finally, check the master cylinder for leaks.