How to Inspect a Used UTV

Buying a used UTV is a great way to save money on a big purchase! While buying a used UTV is pretty similar to being a new one, there are a few key differences, most notably the inspection process. While you’ll need to inspect and test your new UTV, inspecting a used one requires a little more diligence. We here at Gina’s Motorsports of Monee want you to walk off our lot in Monee, Illinois with a high-quality vehicle! We’ve included this inspection guide so you can make sure everything is up to your standards. 

Ask Questions

No matter how thorough your inspection is, there are always little details that can be missed. It’s important to ask your seller as many questions as possible about the used UTV you are interested in buying. While an odometer provides key info on how far or often a UTV might have been ridden, it won't provide information like accident history or how many previous owners a vehicle has had. At Gina’s Motorsports of Monee, we have an experienced and knowledgeable sales team that will be able to answer any of your UTV questions!

Pre-Test Drive Checks

There are a few UTV components that will need to be tested on a test drive. Most of the other pieces of equipment a UTV has will need to be inspected beforehand. Before hopping on your UTV for a quick drive, make sure to check these parts:

Frame

If the frame of the UTV has any cracks or bends, it’s likely been in an accident or rolled over. While this might not be a deal breaker for you, it is still an important piece of information to have.

Fluids

There are several different types of fluids you’ll want to check in the UTV. First, take the top off the gas canister and make sure that it smells appropriately. A bad smell is a sign of trouble for your fuel injector system or carburetor. Much like you would with a car, check the oil of the UTV and ensure it isn’t dirty or old. Lastly, confirm that the coolant is a bright green or orange, and not diluted in color. 

Tires

Confirm that your tires not only have a good tread on them, but that the tread isn’t worn in different places. This likely means the wheels need to be realigned. Check that the tires also have no cracks, punctures, or objects stuck in them. 

Shocks 

Probe your shocks for wet areas. If the shock is wet and your fingers come back oily, they’re leaking and will need to be replaced. 

Driveline

Lastly, check the driveline of your UTV; this is especially important if you’re buying a side-by-side as the axles will be longer and more likely to take on damage. Double check that there are no bent axles and no cracked CV boots on the UTV.

After reviewing our guide, we hope to see you here at Gina’s Motorsports of Monee for all your used UTV needs! If you are located nearby in Chicago or Kankakee County, and are having trouble with mechanical problems or replacing parts, feel free to make an appointment with our helpful service department, here.