Basic UTV Troubleshooting Tips

Problems that impact the performance of your UTV can be frustrating if you do not know how to address them. You might not have the extra money or time to take it to a UTV mechanic. Thankfully, many of the issues that might come up with a UTV are things you can check for yourself at home. We put this guide together to offer some basic troubleshooting help. Visit us at SoCal Honda Powersports, and our staff can provide more detailed advice for your problems. Our dealership, located in Carson, California, welcomes customers from Long Beach and Los Angeles, California. 

Clogged Air Filter

One of the common causes of unusual noises in the engine of a UTV is a clogged air filter. A clogged air filter causes too much fuel to run compared to the amount of air intake. The engine of your UTV will start up and run rougher than usual. To fix this issue, let your UTV cool off completely. Then you can replace the clogged air filter with a new one.

Oil or Coolant Problem

Low levels of oil and coolant or leaks in the engine can create serious problems. The oil in the engine is the blood of a UTV, and you need to keep it flowing for a well-maintained UTV engine. Coolant is another important fluid that helps keep the engine cool and allows for high performance. Monitor the fluid levels consistently, and make sure to change fluids according to the maintenance schedule. 

Problems with the Battery

If your UTV is starting to stall, you might be dealing with a battery problem. UTV batteries last between three and five years, depending on quality and maintenance. If you use your vehicle a lot or do not properly store it in the offseason, the battery can deteriorate even quicker than expected. To check to see the specific issue, you can use a multimeter. 

Spark Plug and Radiator Cap Issues

Spark plug issues are linked to sputtering noises coming from the UTV engine. Regularly monitor the condition of the spark plugs. They should not be corroded or loose, or else you will need to replace them. The radiator cap also causes problems if it is not in top shape. Tighten the radiator cap to avoid overflowing coolant, which can cause an engine to overheat. 

You want to make sure that your UTV is reliable for all your daily activities. We hope that you can use these tips to troubleshoot your UTV the next time something happens. You can also visit us at SoCal Honda Powersports in Carson, California. Our team is happy to offer more advice to customers in Los Angeles and Long Beach, California.