Some people love snow, while others loathe it. No matter which category you fall into, a UTV can be useful in the winter. However, whether you enjoy riding in the snow or simply need to plow your drive, snow and ice can present challenges for utility terrain vehicles. Thankfully, by following a few precautions, you can use your UTV with confidence and safety in the snow.

How to Use a UTV in Snow

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Preparing your vehicle ensures it can withstand colder temperatures and winter weather conditions and reduces the chance of a breakdown. You can start by following the instructions in your owner's manual for your specific model. Generally, checking and filling the oil as needed ensures that internal parts are lubricated, preventing friction and overheating in the engine. Another routine task that will keep your UTV operating optimally is checking and filling the antifreeze before winter to regulate engine temperatures. Finally, you can keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent the lines from freezing.

2. Pack an Emergency Kit

Whenever you go offroad, it's best to expect the unexpected. For this reason, packing an emergency kit can help you stay safe and warm until assistance arrives if you were to break down. You can fill a sturdy box with a first aid kit, extra winter clothing, a blanket, a small shovel, a battery-pack cellphone charger, water, and some shelf-stable foods. If you've got room to spare, you can include a backup GPS device, towing straps, and a small supply of sand, which will be helpful if you get lost or stuck.

3. Drive With Care

Driving in the snow is a very different experience than driving on dry land, and it can make steering and navigating your vehicle much more challenging. You can take turns slowly and avoid ice whenever possible to ensure you retain control. Since the conditions and terrain will likely change throughout the ride, letting your guard down could result in an accident. Therefore, try to maintain vigilance and take breaks when you need to for safety's sake.

Whether you'd like a UTV for work or pleasure this winter, visit Performance PowerSports of Indiana. Located in Frankfort, they provide the Indianapolis area with a wide range of outdoor power equipment. From UTVs and ATVs to lawn mowers and golf carts, they have the vehicles you need for outdoor adventures and professional-grade yard work. They even offer a convenient trade-in program that makes equipment upgrades easy and hassle-free. Visit them online to browse current inventory, or call (765) 325-5979 to speak with a team member.