UTV Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnosis is a key part of UTV maintenance. Identifying the source of the problem will help you direct your energy in the right direction and determine if you’ll be able to resolve things without a service visit. This basic guide from Grossenburg Powersports can help you troubleshoot UTV maintenance issues.

Battery Issues

If you’re having trouble getting your UTV to start, check the battery. Undercharged batteries can be recharged, while dead batteries will have to be replaced. If you’ve determined that the battery itself isn’t the problem, check the terminal connection and circuitry. Some UTVs use a refillable battery. If the electrolyte levels in your side by side’s battery are dropping faster than they should, check to see if there’s a crack or hole in the cell. 

Engine Trouble 

Another thing that can cause a UTV to not start as easily as it should is the engine itself. There are many things that can go wrong with an engine, so go through each part one by one until you discover which one is defective. Possible issues include a clogged injector, an empty fuel tank, a dirty or broken spark plug, a ruined ignition coil, or a wrecked crankshaft position sensor. We also recommend taking a look at the fuel system. Make sure that the fuel tank, filter, electric fuel pump, and injector are all functioning as they should. 

Overheating Engine

A UTV’s engines will naturally start to overheat if pushed too far, but an engine that seems to overheat too easily is usually a sign of something going wrong with the cooling system. Check your coolant levels and top them off if necessary. Make sure that the radiator cap is tightened and that the coolant flow path is free of corrosion. The problem might be as simple as a broken fan!

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