Maintaining your ATV
Look after your ATV and it will look after you.
Maintenance matters
Try a little TLC
An authorised Honda Dealer is best qualified to maintain and service your ATV. But there’s also a lot you can do day-to-day to keep it in perfect (and safe) operating condition. Time you spend caring for your ATV is not time wasted, as it reduces running costs for you in the long term.
Keep it clean
A little scrubbing goes a long way – clean your ATV regularly with a neutral soap solution and rinse it well, especially through the winter months. Cleaning not only removes mud and grime, it also helps show up damage or wear and tear, which you might not otherwise see.
Fuel deterioration
Unleaded petrol can quickly deteriorate over time, leaving behind a residue that can cause problems. We recommend you drain the fuel system completely if you are storing your ATV for any length of time.
Service record
It’s a good idea to keep your machine’s service record up to date in the Owner’s Manual – this is important both for your own reference and warranty purposes. Make sure servicing is always done by an authorised Honda Dealer; that way you can be sure that high-quality genuine Honda parts – purpose built for your machine – are being used.
Important safety precautions
- Make sure the engine is off before your begin any maintenance or repairs.
- Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
- Let the engine exhaust system cool before touching.
Make sure you have the tools and skills required before you begin. - Keep cigarettes, sparks and flames away from fuel related parts.
Six pre-ride checks
Every time you start a day’s work on your ATV try to perform the following pre-ride checks:
- Check the engine oil level daily using the dipstick or oil level indicator on the. Check coolant level (where applicable) and look for fuel, oil, water or brake fluid leaks.
- Check the condition of all four tyres and ensure correct inflation pressure.
- Check brake fluid levels and brake lever tension – there should be no more than 25-30mm free play on the front brake lever and 15-20mm on the rear brake lever. If in doubt consult your owner’s manual for model-specific tolerances.
- Check steering for unobstructed lock-to-lock movement and that all exposed parts are free from dirt and debris.
- Make sure the wheel axle nuts are secure.
- Check the emergency stop switch is working, plus the operation of all lights.