Oil Changes: Essential for Engine Longevity and Performance
Maintaining fresh, clean oil in your ATV or UTV is essential for a healthy engine, just as it is in any vehicle. Powersport engines are particularly susceptible to wear because of the heavy loads and rugged conditions they endure, which makes regular oil changes even more crucial. The oil lubricates the engine’s internal components, reducing friction and heat, while also helping to clean out impurities, prevent corrosion, and optimize performance. For ATVs and UTVs that often run at high RPMs or under heavy loads, like trail riding or off-road racing, old or contaminated oil can rapidly lead to engine wear or even failure.
The frequency of oil changes for ATVs and UTVs can depend on various factors, including the manufacturer’s recommendation, riding conditions, and intensity of use. For most models, changing the oil every 50 hours of use or 6 months is common, but more frequent changes may be necessary in extreme environments—such as sandy, dusty, or wet conditions. Using high-quality synthetic oils designed for powersports can also help improve performance and extend maintenance intervals, as these oils better resist breakdown under stress and extreme temperatures.
Signs that you may need an oil change
1. Dark or Dirty Oil: Check the color and consistency of your oil using the dipstick. If the oil is dark, gritty, or has debris in it, it’s time for a change.
2. Engine Noise or Knocking: If your engine is louder than usual or you hear knocking sounds, it could mean the oil is no longer providing proper lubrication, leading to increased friction and wear.
3. Overheating Engine: Old or low oil can cause your engine to overheat due to insufficient lubrication, making the engine work harder and run hotter than normal.
4. Oil Change Reminder Light: Some UTVs and ATVs have oil change reminder lights. If this light comes on, it’s a direct signal that your oil needs to be changed.
5. Poor Performance: If your UTV or ATV isn’t performing as well as usual (such as sluggish acceleration or reduced power), old oil may be affecting engine efficiency.
6. Burning Oil Smell: A burning smell when the engine is running could indicate that the oil has degraded, or that the engine is running too hot due to lack of fresh oil.
7. Oil Level Drops: If you notice that the oil level is consistently low, even if there are no leaks, it could be a sign that the oil is breaking down or being consumed by the engine, signaling the need for an oil change.
8. Excessive Exhaust Smoke: If you notice thicker or darker smoke coming from your exhaust, it could mean the oil is too old or the engine is burning oil due to internal issues.
9. Rough Idling or Stalling: If your UTV or ATV is idling rough or stalling, it could be a sign that the oil isn’t lubricating the engine properly, affecting its smooth operation.
10. Time or Mileage: Even if you’re not noticing specific problems, most manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 50-100 hours of use or every 6-12 months, depending on your riding conditions.
Manufacturer Recommendations
When it comes to manufacturer-specific details for ATV and UTV oil changes, each brand tends to have their own recommendations regarding oil type, change intervals, and filter requirements. Here are a few examples:
Can-Am: Can-Am recommends changing the oil on most of their ATVs and UTVs every 100 hours, 6 months, or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, for vehicles used in extreme conditions, such as off-roading through mud, water, or sand, more frequent changes are suggested. For Can Am's we use Amsoil 5W-40 100% Synthetic ATV/UTV oil. All of our changes include oil filled to recommended level and a new filter.
Polaris: Polaris advises oil changes every 50 to 100 hours of riding, depending on the model and its use. For Polaris ATVs & UTVs, we use Amsoil 5W-50 100% Synthetic ATV/UTV Oil. All of our changes include oil filled to recommended level and a new filter.
Honda: For Honda ATVs, such as the FourTrax series, oil changes are generally recommended every 600 miles or 100 hours of operation. For Honda ATV/UTVs, we use Amsoil 10W-30 100% Synthetic ATV/UTV Oil. All of our changes include oil filled to recommended level and a new filter.
Yamaha: Yamaha recommends oil changes every 1600 miles or 6 months, but like other manufacturers, this can change based on the riding conditions. For Yamaha ATV/UTVs, we use Amsoil 10W-40 100% Synthetic ATV/UTV Oil. All of our changes include oil filled to recommended level and a new filter.
