When the temperatures drop in Pennsylvania, many riders store their ATVs until spring. But simply parking your quad in the garage and walking away can lead to hard starts, rust, battery failure, and expensive repairs. That’s why properly winterizing your ATV is essential—it protects your investment and ensures it’s ready to ride the moment warm weather returns.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to winterize your ATV step-by-step, and why so many riders in Dunmore, Scranton, and Northeast PA trust North American Warhorse to handle the job professionally.

Why Winterizing Your ATV Matters

Leaving your ATV untreated through freezing temperatures can cause:

Fuel system clogs
Dead batteries
Cracked lines or seals
Engine corrosion
Flat or dry-rotted tires
Rust and moisture damage

A little maintenance now saves a lot of money and headaches later.

Step 1: Clean Your ATV Thoroughly

Mud, dirt, and salt can corrode metal and eat away at components over time. Before storing:

Wash the entire machine
Clean underneath the fenders
Dry completely
Apply a protective spray or wax

A clean ATV is a long-lasting ATV.

Step 2: Treat or Drain the Fuel

Untreated fuel turns into varnish and clogs your carburetor or injectors.

You have two options:
✅ Add fuel stabilizer, run the engine to circulate it
✅ OR drain the fuel tank and lines completely

At North American Warhorse, we clean and treat the entire fuel system for maximum protection.

Step 3: Change the Oil and Fluids

Old oil contains contaminants and moisture that can cause internal corrosion.

Be sure to:

Change the engine oil & filter
Check coolant levels and freeze protection
Inspect brake fluid and differential fluid

Fresh fluids protect your engine while it sits all winter.

Step 4: Protect the Battery

One of the most common spring problems? Dead batteries.

To avoid this:

Disconnect the battery
Store it in a warm place
Use a battery tender or trickle charger

North American Warhorse can maintain and test your battery for you, so you’re ready to go.

Step 5: Inspect and Lubricate

Don’t skip the moving parts! Before storage:

Grease suspension and pivot points
Lubricate the chain
Check cables and controls
Inspect air filter

This prevents rust and keeps everything operating smoothly.

Step 6: Tire Care

Tires lose PSI in cold weather. Flat spots can form during long storage.

To prevent damage:

Inflate tires to the correct pressure
If possible, store ATV on stands or blocks
Avoid direct contact with cold concrete

Step 7: Store It the Right Way

Choose a storage location that is:

Dry
Covered
Away from rodents
Climate-controlled (if possible)

Use a breathable, high-quality cover—not a tarp, which traps moisture.

Want It Done Right? Let North American Warhorse Handle It.

Winterizing an ATV can be time-consuming, and missing just one step can cause expensive problems.

That’s why so many riders in Scranton, Dunmore, and across Northeast PA trust North American Warhorse for professional ATV winterization.

Our Winterizing Service Includes:

✅ Full inspection
✅ Complete fluid and filter service
✅ Fuel system treatment
✅ Battery testing and maintenance
✅ Lubrication and grease service
✅ Tire pressure check
✅ Storage prep and protection
✅ Expert recommendations

We treat your machine like it’s our own—so it’s ready to ride the first day of spring.

Bonus: Ask About Winter Storage Options!

Don’t have space at home? North American Warhorse may also offer safe, secure storage options—just ask! Keep your ATV protected from the elements and professionally maintained all winter long.