UTV Maintenance Tips
Utility vehicles, also called UTVs or side-by-sides, provide you with thrilling recreational riding as well as powerful transportation around the farm or job site. These vehicles are versatile and rugged, but they need to be properly maintained in order to serve you well. Hoffpauir Polaris® is your local UTV dealership located in Goldthwaite, TX. To help you keep your side-by-side in great condition, we’ve provided our list of top maintenance tips.
Tires
The four tires on your UTV carry the whole weight of your vehicle over all that tough terrain, so it’s vital that they remain in good shape. Never ride on bad tires or ones that aren’t evenly pressured. Check the pressure before each ride and air up your tires to the recommended pressure levels. Look for embedded objects and worn-out treads that indicate a need for repair or replacement. After all, you don’t want to suffer a flat tire or a blowout while you’re riding.
Battery
As your UTV’s battery ages, it will not be able to hold a charge as well as it once did. This is particularly true when the battery is exposed to extreme conditions, such as drastic temperature shifts. However, if your battery seems weak before its time, this could indicate a more serious issue that requires professional attention. Check your battery’s terminals regularly for signs of corrosion and loose connections.
Oil
All engines need oil to function and the one on your UTV is no different. Inspect the oil on a regular basis by removing the dipstick, wiping it down, re-inserting it, and then checking the color. If the oil is dark and sludgy, it’s time for an oil change. Make sure the oil filter is also replaced at this time. You can top up oil between changes, but be careful not to put in too much, since a UTV’s engine is smaller than the one on your passenger vehicle. Also, if you see metallic shavings in your oil, this requires immediate professional maintenance.
Spark Plugs
Changing spark plugs is a complex process that should be done by an expert unless you have the tools and know-how to do it yourself, but you can check them for signs of wear at home. Use a wrench or socket to remove a spark plug for examination. Make sure that the metal gaps are dry and clean and that the ceramic housing is not broken. Anything that looks amiss here should be addressed by a pro, so contact our service department if you need assistance!
Coolant
The coolant is another vital fluid in a UTV, as it keeps the engine from overheating. Top this off regularly. If you find that you’re often low on coolant, look for fluids pooling under your side-by-side that could indicate a leak in your radiator. Make sure the radiator cap is always screwed on tightly after you refill the coolant.
If it’s time to upgrade your side-by-side or you’re looking to become a first-time UTV owner, visit Hoffpauir Polaris® in Goldthwaite, TX, to browse our inventory. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Waco.
