Just as you would any other vehicle, an ATV needs routine care and maintenance to keep it performing at a peak level. Similar to maintaining a car, ATVs need frequent oil changes, air filter replacement, regular inspection of nuts and bolts, tire checks, and ensuring that handlebars are secure. Keep your ATV running like new with our ATV maintenance guide!
ATV Maintenance Tips
Check & Change Oil
Like all other vehicles, ATVs require regular check-ups. The benefit of ATVs is that they need a lot less oil than other vehicles. Be sure to follow your owner’s manual to find out the type of oil, and how much, is best for your ATV.
Replace the Air Filter
Every now and again is is recommended to check, clean, and eventually replace your ATV’s air filter. This will allow clean are to continue flowing without obstruction, thus prolonging the efficiency of your engine.
Review the Nuts & Bolts
This is step might be the most important when it comes to preventing damage. During regular or heavy use, it is very easy for nuts and bolts to loosen on an ATV. The result could be damage to an assortment of parts. Do yourself a favor and thoroughly check the nuts and bolts before each ride.
Maintain Tire Pressure
As with other motor vehicles, having properly filled tires increases the optimization of your ride. For ATVs, even a slightly under-inflated tire can affect your ride. Monitor your tire pressure with a pressure gauge, and keep a portable tire pump handy to keep your tire pressure at optimal levels.
Review and Re-Glue Handlebars
Every now and again is is recommended to check, clean, and eventually replace your ATV’s air filter. This will allow clean are to continue flowing without obstruction, thus prolonging the efficiency of your engine.
Like all other vehicles, ATVs require regular check-ups. The benefit of ATVs is that they need a lot less oil than other vehicles. Be sure to follow your owner’s manual to find out the type of oil, and how much, is best for your ATV.
Additional Recommended ATV Maintenance Tips
Break the ATV In
When you buy an ATV or replace any of the fluids (oil, brake, steering, etc.), you need to give the ATV time to get used to running and operating. This “Break-In” period gives the oil and other fluids time to flow and do what they’re intended to do. Basically, don’t take your brand new ATV to the mud pit to spin donuts without having previously run it to “break it in.”
Routinely Wash Your ATV
Sure, there’s nothing more fun than taking your ATV our mudding and wearing it like a badge of honor around town. But you know what doesn’t mix well? Moisture and steel! Moisture can get trapped underneath the mud and dirt you so proudly spun up, and if not washed away in a suitable amount of time, could conjure up those nasty rust demons.
Additionally, mud and dirt can harm your engine’s performance. If your air filter isn’t regularly cleaned or replaced, mud and dirty can clog up vents and other parts of your machine. Take pride in your ATV and wash it regularly!
Treat Your Gas
Similar to maintaining your air filter, you should routine treat your gas. Keep water and other contaminants out of the fuel system and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines about octane ratings. Unless specifically called for, there’s no need for Premium gasoline in your ATV.
When gas breaks down, it can cause clogs in fuel lines, thus causing the fuel system to fail. To prevent this, make use of a gas stabilizer. A few bucks upfront can save you big bucks down the road.
SM Motorsports: Your Home for ATV Sales and Parts
SM Motorsports is your home for brand new ATVs and ATV replacement parts. We have been serving individual customers and dealers for decades with the best available ATV parts and models. Contact us to learn more.