UTV Maintenance Guide

UTVs, also called side-by-sides, are one of the most versatile off-road vehicles you’ll ever find, whether you want to use them for work or play. These machines know how to get the job done quickly, so you’ll want to keep them in top shape for as long as possible. This requires a little bit of maintenance, and while our service department is always here to guide you, there are a few tasks that you can easily perform at home.

Read the Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual contains important information that’s exclusive to your vehicle, which can be particularly helpful when you’re working on UTV maintenance. Whether you need to know the recommended tire pressure or the type of oil you should be using, you can find all the details in the owner’s manual.

Check the Tire Pressure

You’ll want to make sure the wheels on your side-by-side are in good shape before you head out for a ride. After all, tires bear the brunt of rough terrain and support the entire weight of both you and your vehicle. It’s essential to regularly check the tire pressure so you can confirm it’s at the correct level. Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure with an air compressor. Also, look for any signs of uneven wear or cracks in the sidewall. If you find that your tires are balding, you should replace them as soon as possible.

Change the Oil

Just like your passenger car, your side-by-side needs oil to prevent its engine components from grinding up against each other. The oil needs to be changed at regular intervals, which will be mentioned in your owner’s manual. To check the condition of the oil, remove the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert it, and remove it again to check the color and consistency. If you find that the oil is sludgy and opaque, change it immediately. Remember to replace the oil filter at the same time.

Coolant Levels and Leaks

Similar to the oil, you should also pay attention to the coolant. It doesn’t usually get too dirty or contaminated, so you might never need to actually change the coolant, but you probably will have to refill it. Check the levels every month or so, and if your radiator has lost any fluid, top it off right away.

Brakes

Brakes can be complicated for beginners, so if you’ve never changed brakes before, it’s not a bad idea to bring your UTV to our dealership. If you know a little about brakes though, inspect the brake pads and brake shoes after every 1000 miles. If the pads are worn-out, your vehicle should have a brake wear indicator to let you know when your brake shoes need to be replaced.

We hope that by following these maintenance tips, you’ll be able to keep your vehicle in great condition! If you still need a side-by-side, visit King Machinery in Statesville, NC, to check out our selection of UTVs for sale. Our team looks forward to serving you.