Repair or Replace: How to Know When You Need to Buy a New ATV
If you're an ATV owner, there will come a time when you have to make a decision: repair or replace? You need to consider many factors before sinking more money into costly ATV repairs or whipping out the checkbook for a new one.
We'll help you figure out when to buy a new ATV and what you can repair yourself. We'll also provide some tips on average ATV costs and some common questions.
So, if your ATV is giving you trouble and you're not sure what to repair or replace, read on!
When to Repair or Replace Your ATV
Choosing to repair or replace your ATV is a significant consideration. Repairing an ATV can be expensive, and sometimes it's not worth it. Replacing an ATV is a big investment, but it may be your only option if your old one is beyond repair.
There are several things you need to think about before making a decision:
1. How Much Does It Cost to Repair? - One of the biggest factors in deciding whether to repair or replace your ATV is cost. Repairing an ATV can be expensive, especially if you need to replace major components.
2. How Old Is Your ATV? - If your ATV is getting up there in age, it may not be worth repairing. Older ATVs may not have the same resale value as newer models, so you may not get as much back if you decide to sell it.
3. How Many Miles Does Your ATV Have? - If your ATV has more than 10,000 miles and you're facing expensive repairs, it is usually better to replace your ATV.
4. What Is the Condition of Your ATV? - If your ATV is in good condition, it may be worth repairing. But if it's been through a lot of wear and tear or been in an accident, replacing it may be your best option.
5. What Kind of Repair Does It Need? - Some repairs are inexpensive and straightforward, while others are major and expensive. You'll need to weigh the cost of the repair against the value of your ATV to decide whether it's worth it.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to repair or replace your ATV comes down to cost. If the repair is expensive, especially if it's for a major component, it may be better to purchase a new ATV.
Other factors to consider include the age and condition of your ATV and what kind of repair it needs. If your ATV is only a few years old and in good condition, you may want to repair any minor issues that come up. However, if your ATV is older or has significant damage, you may want to consider replacing it instead.
What You Can Repair on Your ATV
There are some repairs you can do yourself without taking it to a mechanic. If you're mechanically inclined, you may be able to save yourself some money by repairing your ATV yourself.
Here are some common repairs you can do:
-
Replacing the Battery - ATV batteries will lose their charge over time and need to be replaced. You can buy a new battery and install it yourself.
-
Changing the Oil - You'll need to change the oil in your ATV every few thousand miles. This is a simple repair that you can do yourself with the right tools.
-
Fixing a Flat Tire - If you get a flat tire on your ATV, you can usually fix it yourself. You'll need a tire repair kit and some time to spare.
-
Replacing the Brakes - If your brakes are wearing out, you'll need to replace them. This is a more complex repair, but it's still doable if you're handy with tools.
These are just a few of the repairs you can do yourself. You'll need to take your ATV to a mechanic for more complex repairs.
What You Shouldn’t Repair on Your ATV and When to Replace It
While there are many repairs you can do yourself on your ATV, some things are better left to the professionals.
Some examples include:
-
Fixing Body Damage- If your ATV has been in an accident or through a lot of wear and tear, it may be more cost-effective to simply replace it. Repairing body damage can be expensive and time-consuming.
-
Replacing the Engine- Repairing or replacing the engine on an ATV is usually best left to a mechanic or professional repair shop. It can be costly and complex, often requiring advanced tools and knowledge.
So if you're facing one of these costly repairs on your ATV, take some time to consider whether it's worth repairing or if you should just replace it. There are several signs that you may need to replace your ATV:
- Your ATV is more than ten years old
- It has around 10,000 or more miles
- You're facing an expensive repair
- The repair is complex
- Your ATV has been in a major accident
If you're unsure whether to repair or replace your ATV, contact a mechanic for their opinion. They can help you assess the damage and advise what to do next. With this information, you'll be able to make the best decision for you and your ATV.
Average ATV Repair Cost
The average cost of Repairing an ATV is $500. However, the price varies depending on the type of repair, model, and how badly it is damaged.
The most common repairs include:
- Replacing the battery
- Changing the oil
- Fixing a flat tire
- Replacing the brakes
- Fixing bent fenders and minor cosmetic damage
For more complex repairs, such as fixing extensive body damage or replacing the engine, you can expect to pay more than $500. These kinds of repairs can often be costly and time-consuming, so it's crucial to weigh your options before deciding whether to repair or replace your ATV.
FAQs
Here are the most common questions we get about repairing and replacing ATVs.
Is it better to repair or replace ATV?
It depends on the repair. Some repairs, such as changing the oil or fixing a flat tire, are relatively simple and can be done yourself. If you need to replace the engine or transmission and have extensive body repair, it might be better to replace your ATV (especially if you have lots of miles or if your ATV is old).
Should I repair or replace my ATV after an accident?
It depends on the severity of the accident. If you have minor damage, such as a bent fender, you may be able to repair your ATV. However, if you have significant damage, such as a cracked frame or engine problems, it may be better to replace your ATV.
Is it worth it to buy a new ATV?
Yes, a new ATV can be worth it if you're looking for an upgrade or if your old ATV requires major repairs. A new ATV will likely have more features than an older model and will be easier to maintain. If you're looking for a used ATV, do your research to find a reputable dealer.
How to buy a new ATV?
You can buy a new ATV from a dealership or a private seller. If you're buying from a private seller, inspect the ATV thoroughly and take it for a test ride before making a purchase.
Repair or Replace: The Bottom Line
Deciding to repair or replace your ATV is a tough one. There are many factors to consider, and it's not always an easy choice. But if you take the time to weigh your options, you'll be able to make the best decision for you and your ATV.
