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Winter can be a down time for your UTV, as most are not equipped to handle harsh conditions. Many owners in northern states store their UTVs to protect them from the perils of ice, snow and extreme conditions. While you can purchase a vehicle that performs well in the cold, many popular models are best stored for the winter. Before taking your UTV out of commission for the season, it is important to properly winterize it so that it is ready to go in the spring. Tips for Winterizing and Storing Your UTV Here are some important maintenance steps you should take to help your UTV survive the winter: 1. Wash and deep clean the vehicle to prevent dirt and oil from eating away at exposed surfaces. Don't forget the wax for extra protection. 2. Change the oil and oil filter to prevent excess dirt from lodging in your engine. 3. Grease suspension and drive components, especially around the pivot points in the suspension and driving system, A-arm bushings and shock bushings/bearings to prevent corrosion. 4. Disconnect and remove the battery after topping off the electrolytes and fully charging it. Make sure to store it where it cannot freeze. The best location is on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet, away from children. Since concrete causes battery drain, do not store it on concrete. 5. Clean the air filter and prepare the vehicle for storage by adding fuel stabilizer to the tank and topping off the tank with fresh premium fuel. These steps will reduce condensation formation inside the tank. Allow the stabilizer to run through the fuel system by running the engine for a few minutes. After shutting off the engine, turn off the gas valve. 6. Pull out spark plugs and add a drop of oil in the hole before reinserting them. 7. Lubricate cables and levers to prevent corrosion and keep them moving smoothly. 8. Tighten loose hardware, steering linkage, suspension and motor mounts and lug nuts. 9. Inflate tires to the proper PSI to reduce the chance of cracking. 10. Cap off the exhaust pipe to keep insects and small animals out. Where should you keep your UTV after you perform all these steps? Storing a vehicle outside will not give it enough protection, so make sure to put it on cinderblocks or jack stands and house it in a shed or garage. Cover it with a tarp to keep it clean and free of mice. Some experts suggest that leaving an open can of car wax on the floor under the tarp will repel chipmunks, mice and other small vermin with its smell. Use the Winter to Consider Upgrades When your UTV is stored for the winter, take a little time to determine what accessories you would like to add in the future. If you think you'd like to use your vehicle next winter, this is a good time to evaluate the best tracks, heater, enclosure, a durable new windshield, or even a plow blade.
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