How to Inspect Your ATV After Winter Storage: A Step-by-Step Guide
After a long, cold Maritime winter, it’s crucial to properly inspect your all-terrain vehicle (ATV)
before taking it out on the trails. Maritime provinces like New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince
Edward Island have plenty of challenging terrains, making it essential that your ATV is in top
condition to handle the rugged landscapes safely.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the necessary inspections, and also include some
insights on riding conditions specific to the Maritimes.
Step 1: Clean Your ATV
Due to harsh winters in the Maritimes, where salt from roads and moisture can accumulate, your
ATV is more prone to rust and grime build-up. Start by thoroughly cleaning your ATV.
This will allow you to spot any signs of rust, wear, or mechanical damage that may have occurred
during storage. Pay special attention to areas where salt and moisture might have collected,
especially near the chassis and joints.
Step 2: Check the Battery
Cold winters can take a toll on ATV batteries, especially if they weren’t stored properly. Battery
issues are a common problem in the Maritimes due to extended cold weather.
• Inspect the battery terminals for any corrosion that might have occurred from the
moisture. A damp storage environment, often found in Maritime homes and sheds, can
lead to quicker degradation.
• Check the battery chargeusing a voltmeter. If your battery isn’t holding a charge well, you
might need a replacement, especially if it sat idle in the cold for months.
Step 3: Inspect the Tires
ATVs in the Maritimes often face rocky, wet, or muddy terrain, so tire health is critical.
• Check tire pressure: Cold temperatures cause air to contract, so your tires will likely need
inflating. Riding with low-pressure tires can affect your control, which is particularly
dangerous on uneven Maritime terrain.
• Look for cracks or flat spots: Salt and cold weather can cause tire rubber to harden,
making it more prone to cracks. Make sure you inspect for any signs of wear, especially if
you ride on sandy beaches or rocky trails often found in PEI or Nova Scotia.
Step 4: Check Fluids
ATV fluids, such as engine oil and brake fluid, degrade in cold conditions and over time. This is
particularly important for Maritime riders, as long winter months can cause condensation and
moisture to build up inside fluid reservoirs.
• Engine oil: After winter, your engine oil may have absorbed moisture, reducing its
effectiveness. Consider an oil change if you spot any cloudiness or a milky texture.
• Brake fluid: Check for any signs of water contamination in your brake fluid, which can
occur due to condensation in cold, humid storage environments typical of the Maritimes
Step 5: Inspect Brakes and Cables
Safe braking is crucial, especially for ATV riders in the Maritimes, where unpredictable weather can
create slippery trail conditions.
• Brake pads: Check for uneven wear or rust. Maritime ATVs, which often deal with wet conditions, are more susceptible to brake corrosion.
• Brake lines and cables: Inspect for cracks or brittleness, which can be exacerbated by
freezing temperatures common in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and PEI.
Step 6: Inspect the Drive Chain or Belt
The Maritime provinces’ varying landscapes—from rocky shorelines to dense forests—demand a
reliable drive chain or belt.
• Check tension and lubrication: Winter storage can cause your chain to stiffen or rust.
Lubricate the chain or belt to ensure smooth operation.
• Inspect for rust or wear: This is especially important for Maritime riders who often
encounter sand, saltwater, or mud.
Step 7: Test the Electrical System
Electrical issues are more common in colder climates, so Maritime riders should be diligent about
testing their ATV’s electrical system after storage.
• Test all lights: Ensure that your headlights, tail lights, and indicators work, as low visibility
on Maritime trails can be an issue with frequent fog and mist.
• Inspect wiring: Rodents might have chewed through wires during storage in rural areas,
which is common in many parts of Nova Scotia and PEI.
Step 8: Inspect the Air Filter
After months of inactivity, your air filter might be clogged with dust or debris.
• Check for dirt and replace if necessary. The salty, moist air in some coastal areas in the
Maritimes can also speed up the deterioration of the air filter.
Step 9: Check the Suspension
Maritime trails can be particularly rough and varied, making suspension quality essential.
• Test shocks: Push down on the ATV to see if the suspension compresses and rebounds
smoothly. Check for any stiffness that might have developed during storage.
Step 10: Final Safety Check
Given the unpredictable weather and terrain in the Maritimes, it’s important to test your ATV
thoroughly before setting out on any adventures.
• Perform a test ride: Find a safe, open space and check for any unusual sounds, vibrations,
or performance issues.
• Check emergency shut-off: This is crucial for safety, especially on more challenging trails
found throughout New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
A Maritime Perspective on ATV Riding
The Maritime provinces are known for their beautiful yet demanding ATV trails. From the Fundy
trails in New Brunswick to the rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, your ATV will face a variety of
terrains that can take a toll on the vehicle. With over 4,000 km of trails in New Brunswick alone,
regular maintenance is vital to ensure your ATV performs well in these conditions.
ATV-related injuries and accidents are not uncommon in the Maritimes, especially as more riders
explore off-road areas.
According to Transport Canada, improper maintenance is a contributing factor to ATV accidents
across the country. In New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and PEI, this is especially relevant due to the
unique challenges posed by coastal conditions, salt air, and rough terrain.
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