Modern Suzuki ATVs are highly sophisticated machines with impressive technology. Just as with more simple predecessors, it is simple maintenance that will keep your ATV in top shape. There are several highly important yet very simple things you can do to maintain your Suzuki ATV. Following these recommended maintenance rules will keep your ATV running long and strong

Let It Breathe

• One of the most simple yet important things you can do to maintain your ATV is clean the air filter. Unlike cars, ATVs run in the dirt, dust, sand, mud and water. The air filters become dirty much faster than they would in your car.

  Keeping your air filter clean and oiled properly is imperative. ATVs generally have reusable foam filters. They must be cleaned and oiled with special foam filter oil. They can safely be cleaned with typical grease-killing dish washing liquid. In a sink or basin, you can submerge the filter in the soapy water and hand clean it as best you can. Once the filter is completely dry, you can oil it as per the instructions in your owner’s manual and the foam filter oil. Do not over oil the filter.

Keep It Fresh

• Regular oil changes are very important. Depending on the ATV, oil changes can be recommended by the manufacturer based on hours or operation, or a preset amount of time. On average, every six months is the recommended interval for Suzuki ATVs. Race machines like the Quad Racer 450 require much more frequent oil changes.

  It also is important to change the oil filter when you change the oil. Oil filters should not be reused. Choosing the proper oil for your machine is best done by the recommendation in the owner’s manual.

Keep It Clean

• ATVs get very dirty, and cleaning them is as much a part of any maintenance routine. Keeping them as clean as possible makes other maintenance easier, and it also makes it easier to see if something is leaking or coming loose. It is a good idea to wash your ATV after every dirty ride. A good tip is to spray all clean metal parts such as the chain and suspension, A-arms and wheels with some moisture repelling silicon based spray like WD-40. This will keep away corrosion and make it easier to clean the next time.

Nuts and Bolts

• It is a good idea to make a regular appointment with all the nuts and bolts hardware on your ATV. A quick check to make sure they are all tight and secure is a good safety practice. It also will allow you to keep an eye on any component that might be wearing out. It also is wise to inspect the brake lines and cables during this process, making sure they are all in good shape. Check all hoses and lines for cracks or signs of wear.

Fresh Fuel

• Make sure that if your ATV is going to sit for a long period of time to keep the gasoline fresh. Many ATVs require higher octane fuel, which will last longer than lower octane. In general, however, most fuels will begin to break down in a couple months. Using a fuel stabilizer in the tank is a good maintenance practice to make sure your gas is always fresh. It also is a smart idea to fill the tank completely. A half empty take will gather condensation, which will sink to the bottom of the tank and into the carburetor or fuel injectors.

Kick the Tires

• It is important to always check the tire pressure in your ATV. Too much air or not enough air will dramatically affect the handling and ride of your ATV. Most ATVs come with a low-pressure tire gauge. It is a good idea to check the tire pressure before each ride. Proper pressure will keep your tires from being punctured on the trail, and it will keep them wearing evenly and longer.

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