A big part of riding and owning a UTV is taking care of it. One of the most important parts of caring for your machine is changing the engine oil. If you want your UTV to work its best for years to come, it is important to change the oil in your machine every ten hours of riding. Whether you are new to do-it-yourself UTV care or are a seasoned vet, it is not uncommon to make a few mistakes along the way.

Avoid the following five common errors the next time you head to the garage to change your UTV’s oil.

MISTAKE #1 — Skipping Oil and Filter Changes 

One of the biggest, worst mistakes you can make is, unfortunately, one of the most common mistakes. Many people go too many miles between oil changes or completely overlook them. Oil is an integral part of your engine. It is responsible for maintaining lubrication and keeping components of your engine cool. It also helps remove particles and sludge that can build up in your engine. When engine oil is old and grimy, it cannot do its job efficiently. Make sure to stay on a regular maintenance schedule, especially when it comes to oil changes. It will save you time and plenty of money in the long run!

MISTAKE #2 — Using the Wrong Oil

To ensure your machine runs its best and to avoid erosion, clogs, and damage to your engine, it is essential to use the correct type of engine oil. Regular oil changes won’t do much for you unless you are using the right kind of oil. Check your user’s manual to ensure you use the oil that is best suited for your UTV.

MISTAKE #3 — Not Replacing Caps and Plugs

This is a step that is easy to overlook and one that many people skip. Before you pour in your new oil, make sure to replace your drain plug. Additionally, once you’re done with the oil change, avoid a big mess by replacing your cap. 

MISTAKE #4 — Forgetting to Replace O-Rings

When you swap out your oil filter, make sure you grab the O-ring with it. You’ll use the new O-ring that comes on your new filter. If you forget to do this, there will be two O-rings on there.

MISTAKE #5 — Failing to Clean Before Starting

Before you begin your oil change, take a moment to clean the area around the dipstick, external filter, and refill location. If you skip this step, dirt, dust, and other small debris can make their way into the oil and, in turn, right into the engine. Some will say, “That’s what filters are for!” However, we can’t help but think about all the damage it could do before making its way to the filter. Avoid any headaches down the road with a quick and simple clean up.

Contact TerraRider UTV Windshields

Change your oil like a pro by avoiding these easy-to-make mistakes. Once you’ve completed the job, you’ll be ready to hit the hills again. For all of your UTV accessories and windshield needs, contact the experts at TerraRider UTV Windshields. You’re sure to love the wide range of accessories your machine needs and the high-quality aftermarket windshields that better fit your machine. Check out our online shop today!