UTV Troubleshooting Guide
Diagnosis is perhaps the most important step in the UTV maintenance process. Once you’ve identified the source of the problem, you’ll have a better idea of where to direct your energies, what kinds of parts you might need to fix your UTV, and whether you’ll need to schedule a service appointment. This guide from Windy City Motorcycle Company can teach you some of the basics of UTV maintenance troubleshooting.
Battery Issues
If your side by side isn’t starting the way that it should, charge the battery to see if that helps. If the battery won’t recharge, it’s dead and needs to be replaced. If the problem persists even after the battery is recharged, try greasing the terminals and treating them with an anti-corrosive before tightening them. If your UTV has a refillable battery and the electrolyte levels are dropping more quickly than they should, there is likely a hole in the cell. If this is the case, you;ll need to replace the battery.
Engine Trouble
If your UTV is still slow to start even with a fully functional and intact battery, the problem might lie with the engine itself. There are a number of things that can go wrong with a UTV’s engine, including a clogged injector, an empty fuel tank, a dirty or broken spark plug, a ruined ignition coil, or a wrecked crankshaft position sensor. If everything seems to be working fine, take a look at the fuel system. Make sure that the fuel tank, filter, electric fuel pump, fuel tank cover, and injector are all intact and doing their jobs.
Overheating Engine
A UTV that overheats too easily is usually the result of a malfunctioning cooling system. Check the coolant. If the levels seem low, top them off. If the coolant looks or smells strange, flush the system. If the problem persists, the cause might be a broken cooling fan or loose radiator cap.
General Problems
UTV’s brakes that don’t function properly or make a grinding sound when used may be the result of air in the braking system, a lack of brake oil, or a loose plate or clippers. If your UTV’s transmission starts making odd noises, check the gears and swap out any that appear worn out. Finally, a UTV that appears to be underpowered might be suffering from a sliding CVT transmission, a malfunctioning parking brake, or disc brakes that aren’t uncoupling completely.
Shop UTVs at Windy City Motorcycle Company. We have several dealership locations, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chicago, Illinois, and Detroit, Michigan. We’re proud to serve areas like southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois