Whether for work or recreation, UTVs are great to have around, but UTV maintenance is important to keep in mind as well. There are some things, like your fuel, that you should check every time you ride your UTV. Other things don’t need to be checked as often, but you’ll need to maintain them to keep your UTV healthy. Today’s blog covers ten reasons you should maintain your UTV–and why you shouldn’t cut corners. Keep reading to learn all about UTV maintenance to help your UTV last for years to come.

Change the Oil and Oil Filter.

You should check your oil levels every time you ride your UTV to see if you need to top off your oil. You should also regularly change your oil and oil filter. As much as we all dread oil and filter changes, they’re necessary for the engine to run correctly, without strain. Topping off your oil is essential, but you won’t want to overfill it, either, as this will overheat the engine. Overfilling can be easy since UTV oil tanks are pretty small compared to your average car.

Check Coolant Levels.

Your engine coolant regulates the temperature in the system, so it’s vital to stay on top of it. However, it doesn’t need to be checked as often as your oil. We recommend checking it every few times you ride your UTV, whether once a month or every three months. Of course, you’ll want to check coolant levels if you haven’t ridden in a while. While checking your coolant levels, it’s also good to look at the lines and fittings. Make sure there are no cracks or breaks in the radiator cap. A well-cared-for system will help everything run smoothly. Cracks in any part of your system can prevent effective sealing and lubrication, which means your engine won’t last as long.

Change the Engine Air Filter.

The engine air filter should be changed when it collects dirt and dust or can’t do its job. Filtering out dirt, bugs, and debris keeps the engine running smoothly, so this is one task you’ll want to stay on top off. Unlike some vehicles, UTV engine filters are easy to access, so it shouldn’t be too difficult. When changing your engine filter, check if your filter is reusable or single-use. You’ll either need to clean it out or replace it. It’s a good idea to clean out the filter box, too. It’s easy for dirt or debris to get trapped in the container.

Keep Fittings Lubricated.

If there’s a pivot point, there should be a grease/zerk fitting to go with it that sticks out from the UTV ever so slightly. There are multiple pivot points on every UTV, and they need to be lubricated. Greasing them will do the trick. You’ll want to be careful to use the proper grease for your UTV. This information should be listed in your user manual. If you can’t find it, try contacting the manufacturer.

Change Out Spark Plugs.

You wouldn’t have power without spark plugs, so they’re pretty important! How often you change your spark plugs depends on how much you drive your UTV. If you only use it during the summer or winter months, it won’t be as essential as it would be for year-round use. Are you changing your spark plugs yourself? Many UTV owners do. Just be sure to use a feeler gauge so that the gap is where it should be, or your spark plugs won’t work correctly. When checking your spark plugs, look for carbon corrosion. If you spot any, take your UTV in for maintenance, as this can be a sign of a more severe engine problem.

Inspect Tires.

Inspecting your tires is like changing your oil or getting gas–no one wants to do it. But it’s just as essential! Your tires allow your UTV to move, so they need to be in good working order. You’ll want to check the air pressure in your tires before taking it out, especially if it’s been a while since you last rode. You can easily do this by using a pressure gauge.

Check Fuel.

Before you hit the trails, you’ll want to check your fuel levels to ensure you have enough for your trip. We recommend filling up your tank. The last thing you want is to run out of fuel in the middle of nowhere, miles from where you parked. It’s happened before. We don’t want it to happen to you!

Maintain or Replace the Battery.

Your battery can die and need replacement if you haven’t turned on your UTV for some time, like during the colder winter months. We recommend getting a battery charger to prevent it from dying or starting up your UTV, even if you aren’t going for a ride. Either option will hopefully prevent your battery from dying. Of course, batteries sometimes die from old age, so you’ll want to make sure that your UTV starts.

Check Brakes.

You need good, strong brakes on your UTV to ensure you can stop or slow down when you need to. Focus on the brake pad’s thickness, line quality, and brake fluid when checking your brakes. Ensure there’s plenty of brake fluid and that there isn’t anything contaminating the fluid.

Replace Belt.

Most UTVs have a CVT drive belt system. You’ll want to check on it every so often to ensure it’s in good condition. Check for signs of tension, wearing, cracking, or glazing, as these are all signs that you should replace the belt.

TerraRider UTV Windshields & Accessories

There you have it! As you can see, UTV maintenance is essential for staying in good condition for years to come. If you need parts or accessories for your UTV, come by TerraRider UTV Windshields & Accessories. We have every part you could need. We’re located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and we ship for free anywhere in the United States. Contact us today to get what you need for your UTV!