What is high hours and high mileage for a UTV – Side By Side – ATV?  Too many miles? Make it last longer!

What counts as high hours on a side by side UTV? Generally, anything over 100 hours per year should be taken into account. This is valuable information to consider when purchasing a UTV or evaluating the condition of your own vehicle. By following regular maintenance practices and utilizing your UTV responsibly, you can increase its longevity, regardless of the number of hours it has been used.

What is Classified as High Mileage on a Side by Side?

Using the 100/1000 hour/miles rule is a good benchmark for most side by sides. This rule suggests that 100 hours and 1000 miles of use per year is a reasonable estimate. For example, if you’re looking to buy a used UTV and are wondering how many hours are too many for a Polaris RZR, consider a machine that is 3 years old with around 300 hours and 3000 miles. These figures indicate that the UTV has accumulated a reasonable amount of hours and mileage. However, it’s important to note that they do not provide information on how it was driven or maintained.

Is 1500 Hours Considered High for a UTV?

Generally speaking, 1500 hours on a side by side can be regarded as an acceptable figure, assuming it has been properly maintained and driven responsibly. Adhering to the 100/1000 hour/miles rule is a useful guideline for most side by sides.

Even if a UTV has accumulated a significant number of hours, it can still be a worthwhile purchase if it has been well maintained. For instance, a 3-year-old used side by side with 4,000 miles and a good maintenance history can still offer a considerable lifespan. However, it’s crucial to consider your own usage requirements and riding conditions.

Depending on how frequently and where you plan to ride your UTV, the number of hours per year can vary. If you use your UTV every weekend, it’s reasonable to expect around 100 hours of usage per year. On the other hand, if you only ride occasionally for local errands, 50 hours per year may be more typical.

When considering the purchase of a used side by side, it’s essential to keep in mind that the average price of a new UTV ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on the model and available options for that particular year, such as limited edition colors or features. Here are 10 key factors to consider when buying a high mileage UTV:

1. Pay attention to the UTV engine, as it is typically the most expensive part to replace. Look for signs of overheating, such as burnt engine oil and crusty spark plugs. These could indicate more serious issues like bent valves or cracked pistons.
2. Check the exhaust for blue smoke, which may suggest engine trouble.
3. Evaluate the shocks and listen for any clunking sounds when bouncing the vehicle.
4. Verify the maintenance history of the UTV. If the previous owner kept good records, it’s a positive sign. It’s also a good practice to maintain thorough records yourself, as they contribute to the resale value of your UTV.
5. Look for any fluid leaks, including from the shocks and engine. Leaks can be indicative of underlying issues and possible neglect.
6. Inspect the wiring and cables, especially if aftermarket accessories have been added. Poorly wired accessories can pose a fire hazard, so be on the lookout for improper splices held together with electrical tape.
7. Change the oil as soon as possible after purchasing a new UTV, regardless of what the previous owner claims. Examine the old oil for abnormalities, such as excessive darkness or the presence of foreign materials.
8. Pay attention to the condition of the clutch, as a worn-out clutch can lead to premature wear on other parts of the vehicle.
9. Look for any cracks in the CV boots and check that the axles aren’t bent or damaged. These issues could indicate that the UTV has been subjected to harsher conditions than the seller may admit.
10. Store your UTV properly when not in use. Keeping it in a dry, covered area protects it from the elements and extends its lifespan.

How Long Can Side by Sides Last?

In the past decade, side by sides (SXSs) have become more reliable due to advancements in design and assembly techniques. It is not uncommon for them to reach 500 or even 1000 miles before needing service, and potentially even longer with careful usage.

When considering the number of hours or miles per year, refer back to the previously mentioned guidelines. The upper limit for hours per year would be around 500, and for miles per year, it would be approximately 5000. Most people use their UTVs as needed, resulting in around 100-500 hours per year for pleasure use. However, factors such as mudding or other intense activities can reduce the number of hours, despite causing more wear and tear due to the UTV’s frequent abuse or neglect. UTVs used for work purposes may accumulate high mileage, but if it primarily involves light trail riding and transporting feed, these hours and miles can be considered relatively easy on the engine and vehicle overall.

When comparing UTVs to cars, it’s important to note that UTVs don’t accumulate highway miles from long trips. Instead, they spend most of their time off-road at part-throttle. As a result, the engine doesn’t have much time to cool down, and oil temperatures can rise rapidly. To prevent potential damage, it’s advisable to avoid running your UTV for more than an hour at a time, unless engaging in serious trail riding or racing activities.

Before heading out for a ride, make sure to check our guide to UTV essentials. If you’re considering purchasing a UTV, consult our comprehensive list of UTV manufacturers.

What Constitutes High Mileage for a UTV?

As Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) continue to gain popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and workers, it’s natural to wonder about their lifespan and the determining factors. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence a UTV’s lifespan and provide tips on how to extend its life.

Tips to Prolong Your UTV’s Lifespan

Here are some suggestions for extending the lifespan of your UTV:

1. Regular Maintenance: Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule is crucial for prolonging the life of your UTV. Be diligent about tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Responsible Driving: Drive your UTV responsibly and avoid reckless habits that can lead to unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Terrain Selection: Opt for suitable terrains for your UTV and avoid rough, rocky terrain whenever possible. This minimizes potential damage to your vehicle.
4. Proper Storage: Store your UTV correctly in a dry, covered area to protect it from the elements.

Summary of What Counts as High Hours on a Side by Side

If a UTV has been well-maintained with regular service intervals, it can still be a worthwhile purchase, even with a significant number of hours. The 100/1000 rule of thumb assists in determining whether the number of hours or mileage affects the UTV’s lifespan and remaining useful life.

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