Side-by-side Maintenance Tips
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Side-by-side Maintenance Tips

Keep Your Side-by-Side in Peak Condition with Expert Maintenance Tips from Lake City Cycle !

Your side-by-side is your adventure partner, built to conquer challenging terrain and tackle demanding tasks. To ensure it performs at its peak, prioritize proper maintenance. This includes regular checks of fluids like engine oil and coolant, timely replacements of air and fuel filters, maintaining proper tire pressure and inspecting tread depth, and regular brakes, steering, and suspension safety checks. At Lake City Cycle in Warsaw, IN, our expert service team provides comprehensive care, from routine maintenance to complex repairs, keeping your side-by-side ready for any adventure.

Importance of Regular Maintenance on Your SxS

Proper side-by-side maintenance is essential for safety, performance, longevity, and peace of mind. Regular maintenance checks prevent costly breakdowns and ensure critical systems like brakes and steering function correctly. They also optimize performance, enhance fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. By investing in regular maintenance, you ensure your side-by-side is ready for any adventure, preserves its value, and enjoys worry-free rides.
  • Fuel Efficiency
  • Preserve Value
  • Extend Lifespan
  • Maintain Peak Performance

Importance of Regular Maintenance on Your SxS

Don't Forget to Check Your SxS' Fluids !

Maintaining the proper fluid levels in your side-by-side is crucial for optimal performance. Start by having the engine oil and filter changed according to the manufacturer's recommended intervals, ensuring you use the correct type and viscosity for smooth engine operation. For the transmission fluid, follow the owner' s manual to check and change it as needed to maintain smooth shifting and overall transmission health. Additionally, it's important to regularly check coolant levels and ensure the proper mix to prevent overheating and protect your engine. Consistently caring for these fluids will help keep your side-by-side running smoothly for years and Lake City Cycle is here to handle all of these tasks!
  • Oil Change
  • Change Oil Filter
  • Transmission Fluid Change
  • Check & Top Off Coolant Levels 
Don' t Forget to Check Your SxS' Fluids!

Side-by-Side Filter Maintenance

Maintaining your side-by-side filters is essential for ensuring optimal performance. The air filter should be cleaned or replaced regularly, especially when riding in dusty conditions. A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can diminish engine efficiency. The fuel filter also plays a crucial role in maintaining smooth operation, so it' s essential to inspect and replace it as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent fuel system issues. Keeping these filters in top condition will help your side-by-side run more efficiently and prolong its lifespan.
  • Swap Ait Filter
  • Replace Oil Filter
  • Change Fuel Filter
  • Increase Performance
Side-by-Side Filter Maintenance

Which Belts Need to be Checked on My Side-by-Side?

Regular inspection of your side-by-side's drive belt (CVT) is key to maintaining smooth performance. Check for any signs of wear, such as cracking, fraying, or glazing, which can affect the belt' s ability to transfer power efficiently. If you notice any of these issues, it's essential to replace the belt promptly to avoid further damage to the transmission and ensure reliable operation. Keeping the drive belt in good condition will help your side-by-side perform at its best and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
  • Prevent Engine Seizing
  • Check Drive Belt (CVT Belt)
  • Avoid Transmission Damage
  • Replace Secondary (Clutch) Belt
Which Belts Need to be Checked on My Side-by-Side?

Proper Battery Care for Optimal Side-by-Side Performance!

Proper battery maintenance ensures your side-by-side starts reliably and performs well. Keep the battery fully charged, particularly during storage, to avoid draining. Regularly check the terminals, cleaning any corrosion and tightening them to ensure a strong connection. Performing these safety checks can help prevent electrical issues, ensuring your side-by-side is always ready for the next adventure or task. Taking the time for these simple steps can extend the life of your battery and avoid unnecessary repairs.
  • Inspect Terminals
  • Replace If Expired
  • Check Electrical Connections
  • Keep Charged During Storage
Proper Battery Care for Optimal Side-by-Side Performance!

Steering & Suspension Checkups are Essential for SxS Safety!

Regularly checking your side-by-side' s steering and suspension system is essential for maintaining safety and performance. Look for any play or looseness in the steering, which can affect control and handling. Additionally, inspect the suspension components for signs of damage, wear, or leaks, which could lead to decreased ride quality or handling. Addressing any issues in these areas promptly will ensure your side-by-side continues to provide a smooth, stable ride and that you can easily handle challenging terrain.
  • Tie Rod Ends
  • Steering Rack
  • Power Steering
  • Steering Wheel Play

Steering & Suspension Checkups are Essential for SxS Safety!

What Can I Check on My Side-by-Side at Home?

As a side-by-side owner, you can perform several key maintenance tasks to ensure optimal performance and safety. First, tire pressure must be regularly checked to maintain proper inflation, which is crucial for handling and traction. It's also important to test the brakes frequently, ensuring the brake pedal feels firm and that stopping distances remain consistent. Ensure all lights, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights, function properly for visibility and safety. Lastly, inspect the brake fluid for contamination and top it off or flush it as needed to maintain proper brake performance. You can enjoy a safer and more reliable ride by staying on top of these tasks.
  • Test Brakes
  • Tire Pressure
  • Inspect Lights
  • Check All Fluid Levels
What Can I Check on My Side-by-Side at Home?

How Can Lake City Cycle Help Maintain Your Side-by-Side?

At Lake City Cycle, we' re passionate about helping you experience the thrill of the ride. Our experienced technicians are dedicated to keeping your SxS in peak condition, whether you're cruising the highways, tearing up the track, or tackling challenging trails. We offer top-notch maintenance and service to ensure your investment delivers years of enjoyment. From routine checks to major repairs, our expertise and commitment to quality will keep you riding strong. Contact us today at (574) 269-4199 to schedule your next service appointment or ask any questions you may have. Let' s work together to keep your Side-by-Side performing at its best !