Author: Roger Lanken

Critical. Not optional, not a nice-to-have, critical. A UTV has no doors, no airbags, and a much higher rollover risk than a car, so the harness is doing more work than a seat belt ever has to do in a sedan. It’s the difference between staying inside the vehicle during a rollover or getting thrown from it, and getting thrown is where the serious injuries happen.

Why a UTV harness works differently than a car seat belt

Most UTVs come stock with a 3-point belt similar to a car’s, and a lot of owners upgrade to a 4-point harness. A 4-point harness holds the rider at both shoulders and both hips, so the load of a sudden stop or a rollover gets spread across four anchor points instead of the two a standard car belt uses. That matters because a UTV’s open frame means there’s nothing else keeping an occupant inside the vehicle if it tips. The harness is the entire restraint system, not a backup to a door and a roof.

Fit matters as much as the harness itself

A harness that’s loose or worn wrong does almost nothing. Straps should sit flat against the body, not twisted. The lap portion needs to sit low, across the hips, not up over the stomach. Shoulder straps should sit at or just below shoulder height. If you’re running a child in a car seat or booster inside the UTV, that seat has its own harness requirements on top of the vehicle’s, see our guide on installing a car seat in a UTV for that setup specifically.

The rollover scenario is the real reason this matters

UTVs roll. It’s not a rare edge case, it’s a known risk of the vehicle type given the higher center of gravity and the terrain they’re built for. When it happens, an occupant who’s properly harnessed in stays inside the roll cage, which is built to protect the space around them. An occupant who isn’t harnessed, or is harnessed loosely, can end up with a hand or arm outside that protected space, which is how a lot of UTV rollover injuries actually happen. We cover exactly what to do if it happens to you in what to do in a UTV rollover.

The rule

Everyone harnessed, every ride, no exceptions for a short trip around the property. The harness only works if it’s on and it’s on correctly before you start moving.

Installing a car seat in a UTV takes more care than a standard vehicle, mainly because UTVs weren’t originally built with child seats in mind. The seats, anchor points, and harness geometry are all different from a car. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Check both manuals first

Read your UTV owner’s manual and the car seat manufacturer’s manual before you install anything. Some car seat makers explicitly list which vehicle types they’re rated for, and some UTV models have factory guidance on child seat use. Don’t assume compatibility just because the seat physically fits.

2. Pick the right seat for the child’s age and size

Rear-facing seats for infants and forward-facing seats for older children have different installation requirements. Choose based on the child’s actual weight and height, not just their age, since that’s what the seat’s own safety rating is based on.

3. Find a stable, secure spot

The car seat needs to sit somewhere in the UTV that won’t shift during rough terrain. Avoid spots near loose cargo or anything that could shift into the seat on a hard bump.

4. Secure it using the harness or seat belt, and test it

Route the UTV’s harness or seat belt through the car seat exactly as its manual instructs. Once it’s in, grab the base and try to move it side to side and front to back. It shouldn’t shift more than an inch in any direction at the belt path. If it moves more than that, redo the install, it’s not tight enough yet.

5. Check the harness fit on the child

Shoulder straps should sit at or just below the child’s shoulders. The chest clip should sit at armpit level, not lower on the stomach. Both matter for keeping the child properly positioned if the ride gets rough.

Once the seat’s installed, it’s worth understanding how the UTV’s harness fits into the whole picture, and if you’re still deciding whether this is a good idea at all, see our broader guide on putting a car seat in a UTV.

It is indeed possible and crucial to place a car seat in a side-by-side UTV when young ones are joining in on off-road adventures. It’s essential to ensure that the little ones are securely restrained and safe while enjoying the ride.

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I’ve learned that it’s not just about installing a car seat; it’s about considering the unique aspects of UTVs and adapting safety measures to ensure the utmost safety.

A Unique Perspective

While many articles focus on the hardware aspects of UTV safety, let’s not forget the emotional comfort of our kids. A familiar toy or blanket can make a world of difference in making them feel safe and sound in a new environment like a UTV.

UTV Bump Seats

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UTV Mini Bucket Seats

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UTV bench seats

Now for the more expensive option but it is the nicest look for your UTV, the bench seat. Now this is going to require a lot more work to install than a typical car seat. But if you are like me you like modding your UTV and getting your hands dirty.

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Many states require UTV youth helmets for children under the age of 18

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Don’t forget the grab bar

Give those tiny hands a sense of security and steadiness with the installation of grab bars. Adding one to your vehicle is simple, convenient, and requires only minimal effort. With an aftermarket grab bar in place, toddlers can feel more relaxed as they explore trails ahead – there’s no stopping them!

Kemimoto Grab Bar (Check price on my Amazon affiliate link)

Keep your kids neck safe in a side by side

If not secured correctly, riding on uneven ground can be detrimental to the necks of young riders. Neck collars are perfect for supporting your little ones head and neck.

Also When selecting a reliable UTV booster seat for your child, the most essential element to consider is whether or not it matches their age and size. Booster seats are specifically designed for those youngsters who are too large for an ordinary car seat but still too small to use a standard-sized safety belt without additional help. Accordingly, selecting the correct booster seat for your child’s age and size is a must. Verifying that the booster seat is compatible with your UTV’s seating system and restraint protocols as well as ensuring proper installation based on manufacturer guidelines are also essential steps to take before you go out for a drive. When selecting a booster seat for your UTV, the most critical aspect to consider is whether or not it is suitable for the age and size of the child who will be using it. Designing with these two characteristics in mind can ensure that you make the best decision possible when purchasing a seat.

What Kind of Booster Seat is Suitable for a UTV?

Booster seats are essential for children under 8 years old. In most states, it’s illegal for a child to ride in a UTV without a booster seat. I’ve found that seats designed specifically for UTVs, like the ones available for Polaris or Can-Am UTVs, offer a better experience than trying to adapt a regular seat.

Is a Helmet Necessary?

Absolutely, helmets are non-negotiable. In fact, in many states in the US, it’s required by law for riders under the age of 18 to wear helmets. I always make sure my kids wear full-face off-road helmets that are strong enough to support their head from bouncing and straining their neck.

What About Harnesses?

A 4-point harness is far more secure than a regular seat belt and is one of the best ways to keep your kids safe in their seat. Aftermarket harnesses are available that are specially designed for young ones, and they’re well worth the upgrade.

Why is a Seat Belt Not Enough?

A seat belt might seem sufficient, but it’s not designed to keep a small child safe in an off-road vehicle like a UTV. A harness is much more secure and prevents your child’s head from bobbling around, especially when you’re navigating through rough terrains in your Polaris Ranger or Can-Am UTV.

What About Other Safety Gear?

Safety gear like goggles and handholds are also crucial. The saying goes, “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” So, make sure your UTV child is equipped with all the necessary safety accessories like air pumper systems.

Using a Booster Seat: Is it Different in a UTV?

Yes, using a booster seat in a UTV is different than in a car or truck. UTVs are off-road vehicles, and the seats and booster seats need to be compatible with the UTV’s roll cage and other structural elements to ensure child safety.

What are the Legal Requirements?

Always check your local laws before heading out. Legal requirements can vary from state to state, and you don’t want to find yourself on the wrong side of the law. For instance, some states require all riders under the age of 18 to wear helmets.

Conclusion

Keeping your little ones safe while enjoying a ride in a UTV involves more than just strapping them into a car seat. From booster seats and helmets to harnesses and other safety gear, proper preparation is key. And remember, safety starts with you—so lead by example and make sure you’re also equipped with the proper safety gear. Before you buckle in, make sure you understand how crucial the seat belt is in a UTV and how to securely install a car seat in a UTV. Happy trails!

Driving or riding in a UTV is risky by nature, and we cannot be held responsible for any injuries or accidents caused as a result of our writing. Please note that this information should only be used for entertainment purposes.

You should service your UTV at the beginning of each riding season. Be sure to check your fluids, air filter, lubrication, and brakes regularly

Maintenance is often overlooked on a UTV, which can lead to some bigger problems in the future and put a pretty big dent in the old wallet. So preventative maintenance is key, especially when it comes to keeping your vehicle in good shape and helping you to avoid costly repairs down the road.

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paraphrased transcript below

I’ll be covering with you my top five UTV maintenance tips to help you protect your investment and keep your vehicle ready to rock for the trails to come. Now, a lot of these same serviceable items that are found on this machine can be found on a lot of the other UTVs that are out there. So here are my top five UTV maintenance tips.

Should I Grease my UTV Joints?

My first tip is greasing your zerks. Yes, you heard me right. I said zerks. And you’re probably wondering what the heck that is. Well, it’s a grease fitting that’s attached to a pivot point on your vehicle that usually experiences a lot of movement and friction. So you want to locate the grease zerks on joints and fittings and lubricate them with your manufacturer’s recommended lubricating grease.

Should I grease my UTV joints? Yes you should grease your UTV joints.  Keeping these joints and fittings lubricated will help you to eliminate friction and excessive wear on these items. The grease works are usually located at the front of the vehicle, around the A-arms, and at the sway bar, if you have one.  At the rear of the vehicle they are located around the rear sway bar and the drive line connections.

They can be found in various other locations. And if you need help locating those, be sure to reference your service manual for that specific information. So while you’re going through hitting all of your grease fitting locations, there are some other high-wear items that you want to inspect, which would include your ball joints, bushings and bearings.  Once these parts wear out, they’re definitely going to affect your machine.  So while you’re giving it a good once over, be sure to give these parts an inspection and add proper lubrication to each area as needed.

How often do I change my UTV Air Filter?

Change your UTV air filter after about 50 hours of use, but if you ride in especially sandy or muddy conditions, then you should check it more often. 

This tip seems like a no-brainer, but it’s something that I see get overlooked way too often, and that’s the air filter. So if you’ve got a serviceable one, that’s a fabric like a K&N you’ll want to clean it. Or if you have a paper type that’s an OEM or aftermarket, you’ll want to change it out regularly.

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The air filter is what cleans the air that is fed to your engine. So you want to keep that air clean. So keeping up on your vehicle’s air filter maintenance is key, especially if you want to keep it in good shape

There are many aftermarket products that will help to extend the life of your air filter, and one of those products that I like to use are the outerwears pre-filter. The outerwear pre-filter makes a great addition to an aftermarket or stock filter that really helps to filter out the fine particles and dirt, especially if you like to ride at the sand dunes.  There are plenty of options for pre-filters or for replacement filters and intake accessories, so be sure to check those out. 

How often should I change my UTV Oil?

You should change the oil in your UTV every 100 hours or 1000-1500 miles.  This will kep your side by side in top condition.  The engine oil is like the lifeblood of your engine. So before each major ride, you definitely want to give the final engine oil level a check. Making sure there is not too much engine oil or too little engine?

All can definitely cause some problems for you. Changing how the engine oil and the engine oil filter is a good thing to do that will help you to keep your engine in good shape and so that you can get the most out of it.  If you’re out there racing your machine or subjecting it to some really extreme riding conditions, you may want to change out that engine oil a little more often than the manufacturers recommend.  UTV oil change kits are an easy option for the DIY guy they’ll come with all the oil that you’ll need. The oil filter, crush washers and O-rings. 

Shop UTV Oil Change Kits (affiliate link)

It’s good to keep an eye on the level and condition of Other fluids like engine coolant, because it keeps your machine running cool. Now, when it comes to servicing it, most manufacturers recommend that you change out the coolant once every five years.  Now, depending on how hard you run your vehicle, you may want to change out the coolant more often. Some people change it up once every year, once every 2 to 3 years, or they just follow the vehicle manufacturers recommendation and change it out once every five. 

When it comes to transmission and gear case oils, they’re not changed out nearly as often as the engine oil, but they are just as important to service.  Now, it’s always good to follow the vehicle manufacturer recommendations as to how often you should be changing them. But again, if you’re subjecting your vehicle to some really harsh conditions, it’s always good to keep up on the maintenance of these fluids. And remember, it’s a lot cheaper to replace the engine, oil transmission, oil, coolant and other fluids than it is to replace the engine transmission or gear case.

How often do I change my UTV drive belt?

So the next item on my list is the drive belt. Now, the drive belt is what transfers the power that’s made from your engine through your clutches to your transmission. Now, keeping up on the inspection and condition of your drive belt, along with knowing how to properly operate your vehicle, will help you to get many enjoyable miles out of your machine.

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When it comes to inspecting your drive belt, you want to be looking for excessive signs of wear, which would include glazing cracks or brakes, missing car, flat spots or any signs of abrasion. Along with the inspection of the belt, you’ll want to check and inspect your inlet and outlet ducts to make sure that they’re clean and clear of any obstructions.

While you’re in there, take some compressed air, clean off the pre-filter that provides that cool air, as well as blow off the clutch sheaves to remove any fine dust, dirt and particles. The drive belt and the CVT clutches experience a lot of wear, so it’s good to keep an eye on them and give them a good inspection.  The wear items that are inside of the clutch as well as the belt you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on because if they go bad, they can really cause you some problems down the road. Now, if you need help with inspecting your clutch, be sure to see our video on how to do just that.

How Often Do I Change UTV Brakes?

You should replace your brakes when you’re down to about an eighth of an inch of pad left, you’re going to want to replace your UTV brakes.  When inspecting your brake pads, once you’re down to about an eight inch of pad left, you’re going to want to look into replacing those sooner rather than later. It’s really fun to be able to go fast, but it’s even more terrifying if you can’t stop now when it comes to inspecting them. There’s a few things that you want to check. You want to check your brake pad thickness, the routing of your lines, as well as the quality and level of your brake fluid.  You’ll also want to double check the rotor. If your rotors start to get grooved, you might want to be replacing that along with the brake pads.  

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When it comes to the routing of the brake hose, you want to inspect its routing and make sure that the hose itself isn’t experiencing any excessive wear or getting any holes in it. That would be really bad. Now, if you have any loose brake lines, you’ll want to make sure to get those nice tight and secured to the frame or inappropriate location and keep them away from any sharp edges or objects. 

Now for your brake fluid, most manufacturers recommend that you replace it every two years, but when it comes to your vehicle, you want to make sure and double check with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Conclusion

Every manufacturer recommends services specific to their vehicles. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, but a good general rule of thumb is to service your vehicle once a year or every 500 hours. If you’re the type who likes to do everything on your own, or you don’t have access to a technician and want to save some money, then you can service your UTV yourself.

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Have you ever considered purchasing a pre-owned UTV, but didn’t know where to begin? If so, this guide is for you! We will discuss everything from what factors to consider when buying used Side by Sides and how to get the best deal. By the conclusion of this brief yet guide, preparing yourself for your next off-roading vehicle purchase has never been easier – you’ll be an authority in buying used UTVs!

Decide what you need a UTV for

Before purchasing a secondhand UTV, take the time to evaluate what you plan on using it for. If your purpose is simply recreational riding and touring, there’s no need to invest in a vehicle that has advanced characteristics. On the other hand, if you’re intending to use it while on hunting or fishing trips then make sure that your chosen model comprises all the components needed during such expeditions.

Our Pick

Nilight 6.5Inch 2PCS 120W Spot & Flood Combo Bar Driving Waterproof Led Work Light Triple Rows with 5 Pin Rocker Switch Power 16AWG Wiring Harness Kit-2 Leads for Off-Road Truck , 2 Years Warranty

• Brightness: Powerful 120 watts LED light bar, high-quality Led chips and clear PC lens, this LED pod emits 600
• Combo beam: Appropriate combination of spot beam and flood beam for wide spread and further distance illuminat
• Waterproof rate: IP67 rate, smooth protective housing with waterproof glue, great performance of waterproof,

Check current price on Amazon

Do your research

Prior to hitting the “buy now” button on a pre-owned UTV, ensure that you have completed your due diligence. Prioritize the following criteria when making this important decision:

• Take a close look at the previously used UTV to make sure it is in top condition. Ensure that there are no visible signs of deterioration, and verify that its frame isn’t rusted or punctured.
• Before you purchase, it is important to be mindful of which manufacturers offer warranties for their machines. As some do not provide this coverage, ensure that your desired item does come with a warranty before placing any bids!
• If you plan on riding with your family, investing in a larger UTV is essential. Although it may cost more than the smaller machines that have fewer riders, making this purchase will ultimately prove worthwhile for those times when all of you ride together!

Upgraded Features: When searching for the perfect UTV, ensure it comes with all of your desired accessories or ask about their cost to add on. Many models come ready with lights and other desirable features, but if not included you can easily buy them from the seller at an extra fee.

Consider your budget

As you search for a used side by side, budgeting is key! Not every model suits your wallet, so look over reviews and compare prices. Afterwards, when you know exactly what type of UTV you want to purchase, visit Craigslist or eBay for an outstanding bargain on a quality pre-owned vehicle.

Pay attention to the condition of the vehicle

Check for engine issues

Before you make the purchase of a pre-owned UTV, it is essential that you take the time to investigate and consider various factors which could affect its worth. Here are some important points to remember:

• If you are considering acquiring a pre-owned UTV, the status of its individual parts should be one of your primary considerations. A damaged engine or faulty components can drastically reduce its value, so it’s important to inspect every aspect before making a purchase.
• Engine issues can be a major red flag, and it pays to inspect your engine thoroughly. While some signs of an issue may appear immediately (think smoke billowing out the exhaust or subpar performance), many don’t show up until later down the line. Taking time to look over any possible problems before you invest will help ensure that you are getting your money’s worth in the long run.

Check the suspension and steering components

When searching for a pre-owned UTV, it’s essential to inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Make sure to identify any potential dings and scratches on the exterior, check if there is stiffness in tires or bearings, and take note of any rust around screws or bolts. Pay attention to sounds originating from within the vehicle as well as strange smells; if you find indications of damage regarding suspension or steering components – without fail locate another option!

Take it for a test drive

What to Look for When Test Driving a Used UTV

When investing in a pre-owned UTV, it is essential to be mindful of the following considerations:

1. Roll cage and frame
2. Suspension and steering components
3. Engine and transmission functions
4. Braking systems
5. Storage capacity. 

Make sure to carefully assess factors like seating space, weather-proofing features, and entertainment choices. If you can’t find the details you need on the UTV itself or in its documentation, reach out to your relatives or friends who have recently rented or purchased a similar vehicle for their own use.

Tips for Test Driving a Used UTV

Before committing to a purchase of your used UTV, make sure you take it on a test drive. To ensure the ride is as effortless and comfortable as possible, here are some tips:

1. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. A tired suspension will show in poor handling and could lead to a dangerous crash.
2. Check for loose or damaged components before taking the vehicle out on the open road. A ripped seat might not seem like a big deal, but if it causes instability during turns or higher speeds, it can be downright dangerous.
3. Be familiar with the controls before hitting the trails or open roads – even veteran drivers should review basic operations in advance! Knowing exactly where your levers and buttons are can make for a more pleasurable ride.

If you’re a beginner at operating a UTV, ensure that an experienced individual accompanies you while taking the vehicle out for a spin. Knowledgeable drivers are aware of how to adjust their driving on trails and roads to stay in control – plus they won’t panic if they can no longer spot you! An extra pair of eyes will be beneficial as you become accustomed to driving your new ride.

Making the Most of Your Test Drive

Before making an offer on a pre-owned UTV, be sure to take it for a spin first. This is the only way you can guarantee that the vehicle meets your requirements and is free from any potential repair costs. Also, if you chiefly have eyes for a particular make or model year of UTVs, taking one out for testing will give you greater insight into what to expect in terms of price point and overall condition when shopping around.

One more thing beginners forget: once you’ve bought it, you still have to get it home. Unless the seller delivers, you’ll want real tie-downs on hand before you tow it off on a trailer.

Have a mechanic check it out

Looking to purchase a pre-owned UTV? Before you commit, make sure it’s been inspected by an experienced mechanic. While buying used can be an economical solution, you should always research the vehicle and ensure that it is in optimal condition. After all, your safety comes first! If possible, securing a warranty as well would provide extra security for any unforeseen issues down the road – making your investment even more worthwhile. Once you’ve settled on a model, our breakdowns of whether side-by-sides are worth it and how much a Polaris side-by-side weighs can help you compare options.