ATVs can range anywhere between $500 used to $10,000 new. It's a sizable investment that many don't take the time to protect. Like with any other vehicle, you have to perform regular maintenance on your ATV. 

If you store your ATV while it's covered in mud, the metal will rust. Not checking for loose bolts before you take your vehicle for a spin is dangerous for both you and the ATV. 

You also can't neglect your tire pressure, fluid levels, filters, radiator, and belt. 

These are only a few ATV maintenance mistakes that owners make. Continue reading to learn more. 

1. Not Checking Your Fluid Levels 

Like any vehicle, ATVs need clean oil to function. That's why you should check your fluid levels before every single ride. 

After a long period of use, the oil will become dirty and gritty. It's the job of your filter to catch particles of dirt and debris, but it can only handle so much before it becomes overwhelmed and stuff begins to slip through the cracks. Contaminants will do a number on your engine. 

You can perform the oil change yourself, but if you don't feel comfortable doing so, you can let a professional handle it instead. 

2. Not Changing Your Filters 

The more you use your ATV, the faster your filters are going to clog. Again, when your oil filter becomes overwhelmed, particles of dirt will get through and interfere with the inner workings of the machine. 

Your oil filter isn't the only one that you have to worry about changing. Dust and debris have the potential to wear down an air filter as well.

Check and clean your filters after about 50 hours of use. If you begin to notice performance issues with your ATV, you may need to replace your filters altogether. 

3. Neglecting Your Tire Pressure

ATV tires hold in less air than regular vehicle tires. That doesn't mean you should allow your tire's air pressure to get too low, however. That will increase your risk of experiencing a flat. 

You'll have greater difficulty controlling your ATV as well. Be sure to keep a portable pump and tire gauge handy at all times. You never know when you're going to need to adjust your tire pressure. 

3. Failing to Look for Loose Bolts 

The primary use for ATVs is to take them on off-road adventures. The vibrations from the bumpy terrain have the habit of knocking bolts on a vehicle loose. 

Before getting in your ATV, walk around your vehicle to check all the nuts and bolts, paying extra attention to the ones around the steering and suspension.

Since your tires take such a beating when you're off-road, you should also take a look at your wheel hubs. Tighten any loose parts you find to avoid accidents or injuries. 

4. Storing a Dirty ATV

When you're done with your ATV, hose it down and allow it to air dry for a while before you store it. 

Dried mud can get into all sorts of crevices. That includes your air intake. It can trap moisture against your ATV and rust the metal parts. 

Mud can hide damaged parts and degrade your suspension. It can contaminate your oil and lead to a clogged filter. All of these things will take a toll on the lifespan of your ATV. 

If the dirt on your ride is particularly stubborn, there are ATV cleaning supplies you can pick up. 

5. Ignoring the Smell of Burning Rubber

As you drive your ATV, you put a strain on the belt. As time goes on, the belt will stretch and wear down to the point where there's no saving it. The good news is that your ATV will tell you when it's time to replace your belt long before it snaps. 

Be on the lookout for the smell of burning rubber. Your vehicle will also become a bit harder to steer. 

6. Not Emptying Your Fuel 

When the ATV season comes to a close, don't forget to make emptying the fuel part of your ATV maintenance routine. The unused gas will begin to break down as the months go on. At some point, it will start to eat away at your fuel lines. 

If you're planning on only storing your ATV for a few weeks, you can add a gasoline stabilizer to the tank. Doing so will stop the fuel from breaking down. 

If you're not going to be using your vehicle for over a month, you'll need to turn off your fuel valve and run the ATV until there's no gas left in the tank. 

7. Neglecting Your Radiator 

The last thing you want to do is allow your engine to overheat. When it comes to replacing ATV parts, it's one of the most expensive you can buy. To avoid the hit to your piggy bank, keep your radiator clean. It's also wise to check your coolant before taking your ATV out. 

If it's dirty or an unusual color, you know there's something wrong with your radiator. A damaged radiator will also give off a nasty burnt smell. 

Sometimes if your radiator begins to fail, your coolant will mix with your oil. When this happens, your coolant will turn a milky color. 

ATV Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid 

Buying an ATV is an investment. If you don't take care of your off-road vehicle, you could be throwing thousands of dollars away. 

To keep your ride in good working order, there are several ATV maintenance mistakes that you need to avoid. Don't neglect your radiator, empty your fuel before you store your vehicle at the end of ATV season, check the tire pressure, and above all else, keep your ride clean. 

Do you need to replace a worn-out ATV part? Let us be your one-stop shop! Contact us today to find out how we can help you.