Which ATV Repairs Can You Do Yourself?

And Which Ones Should You Leave to the Professionals

The ATV market has projections of increasing 1.5 billion between 2020 and 2025. The outdoor power sports industry has thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic as more people flocked to their local trails in attempts at social distancing.

Owning an ATV can present you with many opportunities to explore the great outdoors, but ATV repairs can seem intimidating and costly. Luckily, there are some simple ones you can start doing yourself.

Are you still interested? We have compiled a complete guide on common ATV repairs, so keep reading for more information!

Most Common ATV Problems

ATVs are meant for the rugged outdoors, and proper care can help your ATV last approximately 20 years. Here are some of the more common problems your ATV can have:

ATV doesn't start
Dead battery
Slipped clutch
Tire punctures

Determining if the problem requires a professional or your own two hands can be a bit challenging. Here are some problems you can safely fix yourself.

Problems You Can DIY

Typically, ATV projects you can do yourself depend on your comfortability, space, and expertise. With the internet, many people are taking to fixing simple problems.

If you have a knack for maintenance or want to fix common ATV problems, you can quickly start with an oil or air filter change. Additionally, make sure you constantly check tire pressures and look for any nails or punctures after every ride.

Inability To Start-Up

It may seem like an easy solution, but make sure your ATV is in the park before starting your engine. Additionally, double-check that the kill switch is plugged in and switched 'on.'

After these two simple checks are performed, you can move on to more significant problems. Your battery could be the next target, and you may need to replace it or use a smart battery charger.

The latter is a much easier fix you can perform yourself. If your ATV starts turning over but won't start, you likely have issues with your spark plugs, fuel, or air systems.

Oil Change

Standard ATV maintenance starts with an oil change. Like your car, maintaining an ATV through regular checks and oil changes can prolong the life of your ATV.

If you want, this is something you can perform yourself. Start with running your engine for a minute to warm your oil. Next, drain the oil into a pan.

After draining the oil, remove the filter or cap and replace it with a new one. Make sure you put a small amount of oil around the seal or clean the replaceable one first.

Clean and replace the drain bolt before adding the new oil, but check with the manufacturer's guidelines beforehand!

Changing the Air Filter

Your manufacturer's guidelines should tell you how often to change your air filter. As a good rule of thumb, check your air filter after any heavy ride. Dirt, debris, and mud can creep into your filter and clog up the system.

Most ATVs use foam filters, and you will need a special cleaning solution and let it dry all the way before. You can spend this time cleaning out the air filter box before putting it back in.

Repairs You Should Leave to Professionals

Engine and battery problems could indicate more significant problems. If you can't locate simple solutions, or it has been a while since you have brought your ATV in for maintenance, call on the professionals.

Loss of power, brakes, and tire replacements should be performed by a qualified technician. Here are some reasons why the big problems are best solved in the repair shop.

Loss of Power

Typically, a loss of power means the clutch slipped. The only main solution here is replacing it, and you want that completed by professionals. While you will have to fork out some money, it shouldn't be a complex repair, and a local, qualified repair shop can get the job done swiftly.

Loss of Braking Performance

Brakes that stop working can be an extreme safety hazard for you and those around you, but identifying the problem can be time-consuming. Some of the reasons your brakes aren't working are:

Trapped air in the brake line
Leak in the brake system
Master cylinder problems
Limited fluids
Clogged lines

In some instances, you may need your brakes completely replaced. Since many components help brakes work efficiently, you should leave it to the professionals. They can check your brake lines, padding, and mechanical systems.

Why Is Regular Maintenance Important?

Your car needs regular maintenance to keep driving smoothly on the road and avoid major breakdowns. Owning an ATV is similar, and it usually experiences more rugged terrain. Mud, dirt, rocks, and more can wear down your machine if you don't take proper precautions.

You should be aware of tire pressures, bolts, oil, gas, and other levels in your ATV. For common services, repairs, and winterization, call on the experts for ATV maintenance.

Is It Expensive To Fix an ATV?

Repairing an ATV can be costly if you let problems continue for multiple rides. For example, clogged air filters can back up the system and lead to other failures. Squeaky brakes could eventually lead to complete brake replacements.

Simple tune-ups shouldn't cost you too much, but a complete engine or transmission rebuild can cost hundreds of dollars. Clutch replacements can also add up as one of the more expensive items, and you may want to weigh the pros and cons of buying a new ATV versus costly repairs.

ATV Repairs Near You

Do you own an ATV and have been wondering about ATV repairs? Some simple maintenance like oil and air filter changes are easy enough for home garages and simple tools.

Bring it to our shop if you need your ATV winterized, tuned up, or have more significant problems at hand. We specialize in all things related to power sports and can help you get your ATV backup and running smoothly.