What is a lot of miles for a UTV?

In a nutshell, a UTV can be considered to have high hours if it has been run over 100 hours per year. In terms of mileage, using the 100/1000 hours/miles rule can help you assess if a UTV has high mileage or not. This rule suggests that 100 hours and 1000 miles of use per year is a good average for most side by sides.

NOTE: Most would consider anything over 5,000 miles to be getting a lot of miles, but UTV’s can certainly last over 10,000 miles. Any side by side with under 5,000 miles has some years left on and it and we consider it a “younger” machine! Cheers

For instance, if you're considering buying a 3-year-old used Polaris RZR, you would expect to see around 300 hours and 3000 miles on it. This indicates that the UTV was used fairly regularly but not excessively. However, these figures won't provide you with information on how hard it was driven or how well it has been maintained.

If a UTV has been well-maintained and driven correctly, even a high hour count like 1500 hours might not be an issue. To gauge the condition of a used UTV, you should inspect various factors. Check for overheating, signs of engine issues like burnt engine oil and crusty spark plugs, and inspect the exhaust for blue smoke, which can indicate an engine problem. You should also check the shocks, the maintenance history, and look for any leaking fluids.

Keep in mind that a UTV's wiring and cables can be a point of concern if aftermarket accessories have been added and wired incorrectly. Once you've purchased a used UTV, it's a good idea to have the oil changed as soon as possible, regardless of what the previous owner claims about its maintenance. Also, inspect the clutch and CV boots for wear and tear, as these could indicate the machine was ridden harder than the seller claims.

While UTVs have become more reliable in recent years, the lifespan of a side by side depends heavily on how it's used and maintained. On average, a UTV driven for pleasure might run between 100 to 500 hours per year. However, if you're regularly doing tough tasks like mudding, the number of hours may be lower, but the wear and tear will be significantly higher.

The key to extending the lifespan of your UTV is regular maintenance. Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule, drive responsibly, choose appropriate terrain, and store your UTV properly to protect it from the elements. These simple steps can go a long way in ensuring your UTV stays in good condition for years to come.