10 ATV Maintenance Tips for Riders in Georgia

You’re just about to squeeze the throttle on your new ATV at Possum Creek when – all of a sudden – the engine stalls after sluggish acceleration. Did you forget to replace your air filter according to the schedule printed on your owner’s manual? 

Don’t worry, all new riders go through these tough lessons. This guide will give you 10 maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running in tip-top shape for the best trails in Georgia. For additional peace of mind, consider purchasing an ATV insurance policy. 

1. Read Your Owner’s Manual (It’s Not That Bad) 

The owner’s manual is the best source of information on how to properly maintain your ATV. Make sure you read it thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. 

It may not be the summer’s hottest fiction, but this helpful book can help save you a lot of money and keep your ATV running in tip-top shape! 

2. Make Sure Your ATV Breathes Clean Air by Checking Its Air Filter 

Like you, your ATV needs fresh air. The air filter prevents dust, dirt, and debris from entering the engine. Check it regularly and clean or replace it as needed. 

Signs of a bad air filter include: 

• Residue buildup in engine oil 
• Hard starts and stalling 
• Slow acceleration 

Additionally, to help keep debris from making it through your engine oil and into the engine itself, you may need to also change your oil and oil filter. Replacing the filter per your owner’s manual can pay off, especially when it’s time to take a ride on the trails in the summer! 

3. Regular Oil Changes Keep the Mechanic Away 

Regular oil changes are essential for the longevity of your ATV. Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and change intervals. Again, the owner’s manual has everything you need to know about proper maintenance! 

4. Bad Brakes Can Break Your ATV 

Make sure the brakes are functioning properly and have enough brake pads. Replace the brake pads if they are worn out. 

After all, the last situation you want to be in is taking a tight turn at Fat Daddy’s ATV Park when your brakes stop working. 

Don’t neglect your brakes – they’re your ATV’s most important safety feature. If you feel uncomfortable about your brakes, bring your ATV to a certified mechanic as soon as possible for inspection. 

5. Bad Tires Will Make You Tired (When You Walk Back Up the Trail) 

Check the tire pressure and inspect the tires for damage, such as cuts or punctures. Replace tires that are worn out or damaged. 

If you do blow a tire and lack a spare, you can at least be thankful that you will get plenty of exercise on the walk back to the trailhead! 

Other essentials include checking tire pressure periodically and especially after rough rides as well as determining the ideal PSI and lug nut torque level. All of this information is available in – you guessed it – the owner’s manual. 

6. A Charged Battery Is a Happy Battery 

If you don’t use your ATV regularly, make sure the battery is charged. A dead battery can damage the charging system. 

And, well, it isn’t easy to enjoy a ride on the trails without a functional battery. Unless your idea of fun is shouting “vroom vroom!” while pretending to gun the accelerator. 

Replacement batteries are also not too expensive for ATVs, fortunately, but it’s easier just to keep your existing one in shape and fully charged. 

7. Give Your ATV Regular Baths 

Dirt and debris can accumulate on your ATV and cause damage over time to your brakes, electrical components, and engine. Clean your vehicle regularly with soap and water, especially after you take it out on muddy trails. 

8. Give Your ATV a Good Home 

When not in use, store your vehicle in a dry, well-ventilated area. Cover it with a protective cover to prevent dust and debris from accumulating. Ideally, your chosen location should be temperature controlled, but if not, you should follow the procedure described in tip 10 below for properly storing the vehicle in colder months. 

9. Lubricate Moving Parts Or Those Parts Won’t Be Moving for Long 

The moving parts of your vehicle should be lubricated regularly to prevent wear and tear and ensure smooth operation. These parts include: 

• Drive chain (take note of whether your vehicle has an O-ring chain or a non-O-ring chain) 
• CV joints, if applicable 
• Suspension 
• Linkage arms on rear shock if applicable 
• Cables 
• Steering stem 

Rust and corrosion can quickly bring your dreams of riding trails across Georgia to an end, so be sure to follow this tip closely! 

10. Use a Fuel Stabilizer Before Your ATV Hibernates for the Winter 

A fuel stabilizer is a chemical additive to prevent fuel degradation over time. Fuel can break down and become less effective due to the evaporation of volatile compounds, oxidation, and the growth of microorganisms. 

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a fuel stabilizer, as the amount of stabilizer needed can vary depending on the type of fuel, the amount of fuel, and the length of time it will be stored. 

Your four-wheeler will be in much better shape for the winter months if you use this additive!