5 Common ATV Issues and How to Resolve Them

Photo by Grant Durr on Unsplash

ATVs are a means of adventure, allowing riders to explore rugged terrain and the most remote areas. However, like any vehicle, they will develop problems over time that may affect their performance. Knowing what common problems your ATV will likely face and how to fix them will save any rider, old or new, time, money, and frustration. From problems with the engine down to the suspension, immediate repair allows these ATVs to run smoothly for several years. The following are five major ATV problems and the proper solutions.

Overheating Issues

Overheating problems can arise because of low coolant levels, malfunctioning radiator, or dust and debris preventing airflow. When overheating occurs, your ATV can face severe damage to the engine and several other parts if not dealt with. First, check the coolant level and fill it out if it is low.

This will help to keep the radiator and the fan free of collected dirt and dust. The thermostat and water pump must also be examined to ensure good condition. Overheating won’t be a common issue if your cooling system has been routinely serviced. 

Transmission Problems

Transmission issues like poorly shifting gears or hearing a grinding sound can affect your ATV’s performance. Common causes include worn-out clutch plates, low levels of transmission fluid, and failure in proper maintenance. If you ignore these problems, expensive repairs will likely emerge later.

Check the level of the transmission fluid and note that it should be at the manufacturer‘s recommended level. Another remedy is replacing the worn-out clutch plates, which may require professional help. To avoid future problems in transmissions, follow the schedule provided by the manufacturer for maintenance and use recommended fluids.

Engine Start Issues

Engine start issues tend to be related to a dead or weak battery, mainly in cold weather when the battery barely has enough liquid level. They also arise because of stale fuel in the tank or bad spark plugs. Check for the battery voltage to ensure it is not entirely dead. It could also be that the old spark plug is worn out and cannot produce the necessary spark to ignite the fuel.

If the issues continue after purchasing, it is important to seek help. It may be a manufacturer’s defect. Although Lemon Laws in states like California do not directly cover ATVs, a California lemon law attorney can help you by explaining if your auto qualifies as a lemon. They’ll also know the best way to develop the legal strategy. 

Brake Malfunctions

The most possible problems one is likely to have with the brakes are strange noises, loss of stoppage power, or a spongy pedal. They are caused by worn-out brake pads, air inside the brake lines, or contaminated fluid inside the brake. 

Bleeding the brakes should help extract air from the lines and restore the effectiveness. Old or dirty contaminated brake fluid should be drained, and fresh new fluid should be replaced. Safety on an ATV also depends mainly on periodic checking of your braking system. 

Tire and Suspension Issues

Uneven tire wear, flat tires, and suspension problems make this ride unsafe and uncomfortable. These usually happen in case of incorrect tire pressure, worn-out suspension parts, or being subjected to really bad terrain.

To solve these tire problems, ensure the tires are inflated to specification and replace those damaged and excessively worn out. In suspension troubles, check out for worn-out bushings and replace the shocks or springs if needed. Regular checks or tire suspensions will help you catch the problems before they get big.

Endnote

The ATV should always be in the best condition. It’s important to handle some of the most common problems that most owners face, such as starting issues, overheating problems, and faulty brakes. You must also perform regular maintenance and repair work at the time to maintain peak performance.