The Complete ATV Maintenance Guide
Sport or utility. Trail or track. Keep your quad running strong with practical maintenance schedules that actually work.
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Backed by Real Service Manuals
This guide is based on research from approximately 100 service manuals across major ATV manufacturers, categorized by machine type and engine configuration (2-stroke and 4-stroke). While we recommend always checking your specific service manual for exact specifications, these schedules represent real-world best practices that work for everyday riders.
Pre-Ride Checks
Every ride. Every time. Five minutes now prevents hours of repair.
Track Your Pre-Ride Checks
LookOver lets you create custom checklists for each machine. Never forget a critical check again.
Break-In Period: First 100 Miles
New ATV? The first 100 miles (20 operating hours) determine engine life.
- •Vary engine speed (don't cruise at constant RPM)
- •Avoid wide-open throttle
- •No hard acceleration or high speeds
- •Light loads only (utility ATVs)
- •Continue varying speeds
- •Avoid prolonged full throttle
- •Still light loads (utility ATVs)
- •Change engine oil and filter
- •Inspect air filter
- •Check all fluid levels
- •Tighten all fasteners
| Service Task | 10 hours 100 miles or weekly | 50 hours 500 miles or monthly | 100 hours 1,000 miles or 6 months | 200 hours 2,000 miles or annually |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Check engine oil level | ||||
Change engine oil and filter | — | |||
Clean/inspect air filter | ||||
Replace air filter element | — | — | — | |
Inspect/replace spark plug | — | — | ||
Check valve clearance | — | — | — | |
Check coolant level | ||||
Change coolant | — | — | — | |
Clean radiator fins | — | |||
Check brake fluid level | ||||
Inspect brake pads/shoes | — | |||
Change brake fluid | — | — | — | |
Inspect CVT belt utility | — | — | ||
Clean CVT case and clutches utility | — | — | — | |
Check/adjust chain tension sport | ||||
Lubricate chain sport | ||||
Replace chain and sprockets sport | — | — | — | |
Check tire pressure | ||||
Inspect tire condition | — | |||
Check wheel bearings | — | — | ||
Check steering play | — | |||
Check battery condition | — | |||
Check all lights function |
Never Miss a Service
Set reminders based on hours, miles, or calendar time. LookOver tracks it all, even without internet.
Engine Oil: The Most Critical Service
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Get this wrong, and nothing else matters.
Log Every Oil Change
Build a complete service history. Know exactly when your last change was and what oil you used.
Air Filter: Your Engine's Lifeline
A dirty air filter is the fastest way to kill an engine. In dusty conditions, check after every ride.
Why It Matters
Your air filter stops dirt from entering the engine. Even tiny particles cause wear. A clogged filter restricts airflow, reducing power and increasing fuel consumption.
Inspection
Remove and inspect the filter element. Hold it up to light. If you can't see through it, it needs cleaning or replacement.
- Check for tears or holes
- Look for oil contamination
- Inspect the seal/gasket
Foam Filter Care
BothMost ATV filters are oiled foam. Clean with filter cleaner (not gasoline), let dry completely, apply fresh filter oil evenly.
Paper Filter Care
UtilitySome utility ATVs use paper elements. Don't oil these. Tap out dust, replace when dirty. Never blow with compressed air as it damages the media.
Coolant System: Preventing Overheats
ATVs work hard and generate serious heat. A properly maintained cooling system is essential.
Check Level (Cold Only)
Check the overflow reservoir when cold. Should be between MIN and MAX marks. Never open radiator cap when hot due to serious burn risk.
- Check weekly
- Top up with same type coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Signs of Problems
Catch cooling issues early before they become expensive engine damage.
- Temperature gauge runs hot
- Coolant on ground after riding
- Sweet smell while riding
- Overflow tank constantly low
Coolant Change
Replace coolant every 2 years or 200 hours. Old coolant loses its protective properties and can cause corrosion.
- Drain, flush, refill
- Use ATV-specific coolant
- Check hoses while draining
Radiator Maintenance
Mud and debris clog radiator fins, reducing cooling capacity. Clean after muddy rides with low-pressure water. Check fins for damage.
Brakes: Stopping Power You Can Trust
Your brakes are your most important safety system. Don't neglect them.
Drivetrain: Power to the Ground
Sport ATVs typically use chain drive. Utility ATVs use CVT belt systems or shaft drive.
Chain Maintenance
SportChain-driven ATVs need regular attention. A loose or dry chain wears quickly and can break.
- Check tension every ride
- Clean and lube every 10 hours
- Adjust to 1-2 inch slack
- Replace with sprockets when worn
CVT Belt System
UtilityCVT belts wear gradually. Inspect for cracks, glazing, and width. A worn belt slips and loses power.
- Inspect every 100 hours
- Keep CVT case clean
- Replace belt at first sign of damage
- Clean clutches when dusty
Shaft Drive
UtilityShaft-driven ATVs are low maintenance. Check fluid level and change on schedule.
- Check gear oil level monthly
- Change every 200 hours
- Inspect U-joints for play
- Look for leaks at seals
4WD System
UtilityUtility ATVs with 4WD have additional maintenance needs. Check front differential fluid and hub engagement.
- Check diff fluid every 100 hours
- Test 4WD engagement regularly
- Inspect CV boots for tears
- Grease fittings if equipped
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