Although your UTV was built to survive the abrasion of rugged terrain, maintaining a clean UTV air filter is crucial for optimal performance.

While UTVs make for delightful recreational vehicles, they are also essential for many outdoor jobs. By keeping your equipment in good shape, you can extend its lifespan and spend more time on the trails and less time troubleshooting. Regularly cleaning and changing your air filter is one key way to keep your UTV in pristine condition.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about maintaining and cleaning your UTV air filter.

What Does a UTV Air Filter Do?

A UTV air filter is critical because it helps to remove dust, dirt, and other particles from the air before it enters the engine. This helps to protect the engine from damage and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, a clean air filter can improve the performance of the UTV by allowing for more efficient airflow and combustion. Cleaning a UTV air filter regularly is essential for keeping your UTV in working order for years to come.

Why Should I Clean my UTV’s Air Filter?

Here are a few key reasons why you should prioritize keeping a squeaky-clean air filter in your UTV:

• Engine protection - A dirty UTV air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can cause it to work harder and potentially break. Changing the air filter can help prevent this by ensuring that the engine is getting a sufficient amount of clean air.

• Improved performance - A clean air filter allows for more efficient airflow and combustion, which can improve the overall performance of your UTV. This can result in better fuel efficiency, more power, and smoother operation.

• Longevity - A dirty UTV air filter can cause damage to the engine over time, which can shorten the lifespan of the vehicle. Changing the air filter regularly is preventable care to help prolong the life of the UTV.

• Cost savings - Replacing a dirty air filter is far less expensive than repairing or replacing a damaged engine. Regularly maintaining the air filter can help you save money in the long run.

Remember to check the owner's manual of your UTV to know the recommended interval for cleaning the air filter. In general, most UTV air filters should be checked and cleaned or replaced after about 50 hours of use. If you ride in particularly muddy or sandy conditions, you should check it after each ride.

What Are the Different Types of Air Filters?

You must understand the different types when searching for the best UTV air filter. Here are some of the filters you might choose for your vehicle:

• Foam air filters - These are made of foam and are designed to trap dirt and debris. They can be cleaned and reused multiple times.

• Paper air filters - These are similar to foam air filters, but they are made of paper. These are disposable and need to be replaced when they become dirty.

• Oiled air filters - These filters are coated with oil to help trap smaller particles. They can be cleaned and re-oiled multiple times.

• Dry air filters - These are similar to paper filters, but they are not oiled. These are also disposable air filters.

• Reusable air filters - These are made of materials like cotton or synthetic fibers that can be washed, dried, and oiled again. These are becoming more popular among UTV enthusiasts because of their durability and ability to be cleaned and reused multiple times.

It's important to check the owner's manual to find the best UTV air filter for your UTV.

How to Clean and Oil Your Air Filter

Cleaning and oiling your UTV's air filter are relatively simple processes but be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific filter. Here’s a general guide to cleaning and oiling a foam air filter:

1. Locate and remove the air filter - The air filter is typically located in the airbox, which is a rectangular or cylindrical housing located near the engine. The airbox is usually located on the side of the engine or under the seat.
2. Clean the filter - Use a cleaner specifically designed for air filters or mild detergent and warm water to clean the filter. Gently agitate the filter to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the filter thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
3. Oil the filter - Use an air filter oil specifically designed for foam filters. Pour a small amount of oil onto the filter and use your fingers to evenly distribute the oil throughout the filter. Pay extra attention to the edges of the filter, as these areas tend to be the most exposed.
4. Reinstall the filter - After the filter is completely dry and oiled, reinstall it into the UTV.

If you are using a paper or dry air filter, you don't need to oil them, just replace them with a new one when they are dirty. It's important to check and clean or replace the air filter at regular intervals, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure that it is functioning properly and to keep your UTV running smoothly. Cleaning your UTV air filter regularly will ensure you have the best UTV air filter.

Visit Terra Rider UTV Windshields and Accessories

If you have any questions about cleaning a UTV air filter or need the necessary upkeep tools required to keep it secure and ready for your upcoming adventure, TerraRider UTV Windshields & Accessories has everything you require!

Our shop is in Salt Lake City, and we'd love to meet you there. But even if you live far away, you can still shop from us because we provide free shipping in the US. We provide Can-Am, Kawasaki, and Polaris brands along with accessories and windshields. We have what you need on hand or can get it for you if you need it. Contact us by phone at 801.923.6347 or online using the form. We're happy to hear from you!