UTV Maintenance Tips

Proactive maintenance is the best way to keep your UTV (also known as a side by side, side x side, or sxs) on the trail where it belongs, rather than stuck in a service shop waiting for repairs. Sure, there are some maintenance tasks that you will need to leave to the professionals, but there are plenty of projects that even beginners can tackle. We've rounded up the top beginner's side-x-side maintenance tasks below. If you want more advice or need a UTV service, visit the experts at Mike Cooper Tractors. Our dealership is in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. We also proudly serve those in Tulsa and Muskogee, Oklahoma.

1. Consult Your Owner's Manual

Before you tackle any side-x-side maintenance tasks, you will want to glance over your owner's manual. This guide will inform you of any projects your specific model requires. You may even discover some recommended products (or products you shouldn't use). It may not be the most engaging read, but it is a valuable one.

2. Monitor the Battery

Without a well-functioning battery, your UTV is not going to run. Check out your battery posts about once a month. These metal parts connect your battery to the rest of your side-by-side and it's important that they are kept clean. When they get corroded, you will likely need a new battery. Proactively inspecting and cleaning them can help extend your battery's life.

3. Check the Driveline

Your sxs contains a driveline that gets engine power to the wheels. It's a chain or belt that can end up stuck if you don't care for it. Regularly apply a chain lubricant to keep it running well. Then check the tension every so often. If it gets too loose or too tight, take it in to a service department to get adjusted.

4. Inspect the Tires

There are two key things to inspect on your UTV's tires. First, make sure the tires have enough tread. Tread helps your powersports vehicle maintain traction with the trail, but it gets naturally worn down over time. Eventually, the tread is worn down so much that it can't offer the traction needed and the tires will need to be replaced. Your owner's manual will tell you what the tread level needs to be at for safe riding.

Second, check the air pressure. If the tire is improperly inflated, you could end up with a flat or blow out. A tire pressure gauge is a small and cheap tool that allows you to measure the air pressure before a trip. You'll want to make the adjustments before you head out to ensure a safe ride.

5. Change the Filters

Your UTV contains filters that keep damaging particles from reaching your engine. The oil filter should be changed each time you change your oil. The air filter should be changed every three to four oil changes. The fuel filter does not need to be changed often, but should be checked every once in a while on older side-by-sides.

6. Inspect the Wiring

A thrilling UTV ride involves plenty of quick acceleration and bouncing down the trail. This leads to a memorable ride, but it can also end up shaking wires loose. Check your wiring harnesses that keep your electrical components running well to ensure everything is in its place. It also doesn't hurt to bring duct tape on your rides. If a wire ends up out of place, you can secure it before it gets ripped out by a reaching branch.

We hope you found this sxs maintenance guide helpful! If you have any questions or need a side-by-side repair, head over to Mike Cooper Tractors. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you with whatever you need, from repairing your UTV to providing parts and advice so that you can do it yourself. Whatever you need, you will find with us. Our dealership is based in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, and we also serve those in Muskogee and Tulsa.