UTV Maintenance Tips
Whether you’re a new UTV owner or you’ve had your vehicle for years, it’s important to take excellent care of your investment. At Big Country Powersports, we’re here to help you do just that. Read our UTV maintenance tips, then visit our dealership. If you’re still shopping around, we can help you find the perfect side by side. We’re located in Bowling Green, KY.
Tire Pressure
One of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is to regularly check the tire pressure. After all, your tires support the weight of your UTV while navigating rugged terrain. As you can imagine, they’re more likely to experience wear and tear sooner than a standard passenger vehicle.
Before each ride, check the tires to confirm they’re correctly aired up. You can use a tire pressure gauge to do this. If necessary, air up the tires to the manufacturer's recommended psi level. This is also a good time to check for other problems, including embedded objects, lower treads, and bald spots.
Battery Inspection
Another critical aspect of UTV maintenance has to do with inspecting the battery. You’ll want to check it regularly and make sure there’s no corrosion. Examine the battery posts each month to confirm that all of the wires are properly connected. Over time, your battery will eventually hold less of a charge.
The good news is there are steps you can take to prepare. If you notice a sudden and significant decrease in the battery’s performance, you may need to replace it. If you’re unsure, you can consult a professional to inspect it so you know how to proceed.
Coolant Refill
Keep your eye on the coolant level when performing UTV maintenance. Refill it as needed, which will prevent your vehicle from overheating. Remember to secure the radiator cap when you’re done and confirm that it’s not damaged or cracked.
As you may know, this component is responsible for drawing coolant into your engine. If the cap seal is damaged or even a bit loose, your side by side may not perform as expected and will be vulnerable to overheating. Look for leaks, which can be identified by pools of fluid beneath your parked vehicle.
Check Fuel & Oil Levels
Your UTV will perform best when it’s full of high-octane fuel. Ethanol is often used to stretch fuel supplies, but it can lead to corrosion and buildup in the engine. You’d be wise to use pure gas without any added ethanol. If you opt for standard fuel, you should always drain your carburetor after a ride. Last but not least, add a fuel stabilizer to your vehicle before you put it in storage.
The oil is important as well. Keep it regularly topped off and change it as needed. Check the oil with a dipstick to get an accurate reading. If it’s dark or sludgy in color, it’s time to change it. This is also when you should change the oil filter. If you discover any metal shavings or debris in the oil, you should consider having your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
If you’d like some more UTV maintenance tips, don’t hesitate to contact us at Big Country Powersports. We also have a team of skilled professionals who can assist with parts and services. We welcome customers all the way from Nashville, TN, and Louisville, KY. We look forward to serving you!
