The Complete Utility & Work UTV Maintenance Guide
Hour-by-hour care for machines that earn their keep.
Jump to section
Backed by Real Service Manuals
This guide is based on research from approximately 100 service manuals across major utility UTV manufacturers, categorized by machine type and application (ranch, farm, and work). While we recommend always checking your specific service manual for exact specifications, these schedules represent real-world best practices that work for everyday riders.
Every Day: Pre-Work Inspection
Three minutes before you load up saves hours stranded in the field. Utility UTVs break when you skip the basics.
Track Working Hours
Log your hours and know exactly when service is due.
| Service Task | Daily Pre-work check | 25 Hours Break-in | 50 Hours Regular service | 100 Hours Major service | 200 Hours Deep service | Annual Seasonal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Check tire pressure | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect tires for damage | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect cargo bed and tailgate | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check engine oil level | — | — | — | |||
Check coolant level | — | — | — | — | ||
Check fuel level | — | — | — | — | — | |
Test brake function | — | — | — | — | — | |
Change engine oil and filter | — | — | ||||
Check all fasteners for tightness | — | — | — | — | ||
Clean/inspect air filter | — | — | — | |||
Inspect spark plug | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect drive belt | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect brake pads | — | — | — | |||
Inspect CV boots | — | — | — | — | ||
Grease prop shaft U-joints | — | — | — | — | ||
Replace spark plug | — | — | — | — | ||
Change front differential fluid | — | — | — | — | ||
Change rear differential fluid | — | — | — | — | ||
Check/change transmission fluid | — | — | — | — | ||
Flush and replace coolant | — | — | — | — | ||
Flush brake fluid | — | — | — | — | ||
Replace drive belt | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check valve clearance | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect/repack wheel bearings | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect suspension bushings | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check battery condition | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect winch cable/rope | — | — | — | — |
Never Miss a Service
Set reminders for oil changes and differential service. LookOver tracks hours, miles, and time.
Engine Oil: The Workhorse's Lifeblood
Utility UTVs work hard hauling loads. Regular oil changes are essential.
Drivetrain: Power to the Ground
4WD systems, differentials, and drive belts keep your machine working.
Drive Belt
- Inspect every 50 hours
- Replace at 200 hours or when worn
- Check for cracks, glazing, fraying
- Heavy loads wear belts faster
Differentials
- Check fluid level at 50 hours
- Change fluid at 100 hours
- Front and rear have separate fluid
- Use manufacturer-specified fluid
CV Joints
- Inspect boots every 50 hours
- Torn boots = joint failure soon
- Grease fittings if equipped
- Replace at first sign of clicking
Towing and Hauling Capacity
Know your machine's limits to avoid damage.
Cargo Bed Capacity
- Ranger XP 1000: 1,000 lbs
- Viking: 600 lbs
- Mule Pro: 1,000 lbs
- Center heavy loads over axles
Towing Capacity
- Ranger XP 1000: 2,500 lbs
- Viking: 2,000 lbs
- Mule Pro: 2,000 lbs
- Use proper hitch, safety chains
Overload Signs
- Transmission slipping
- Belt burning smell
- Overheating
- Poor braking performance
Seasonal Prep
Prepare your machine for hunting season, winter work, or storage.
Hunting Season
- Full service before season
- Check all lights work
- Verify winch operation
- Pack basic tools and supplies
Winter Prep
- Check antifreeze strength
- Battery fully charged
- Consider block heater
- Verify cab heater works (if equipped)
Storage
- Stabilize fuel or drain
- Change oil before storage
- Charge battery or remove
- Cover to protect from dust
Log Seasonal Prep
Document what you did before hunting season or winter. Know your machine is ready.
READY TO RIDE MORE?
Download LookOver now and take control of your machine maintenance. It's free to use. No credit card required.