How Long Do Electric UTV Batteries Last?

 Thinking about buying an electric UTV?

If there’s one thing you should take into consideration, it’s how long the battery is actually going to last. The last thing you want is to be out in the middle of nowhere with a dead battery and no cell service.

Battery life is a big topic in the EV world these days, and if you plan on having long-term ownership over any type of electric vehicle, you’ll want to make sure that it provides you with the same long-term usage.

Your UTV battery isn’t something you’re going to throw away after a few months, and if you don’t know how long it’s good for, you might be in for a surprise when it’s time for a replacement.

Since we’re in the business of helping you make good decisions when it comes to your UTV and ATV purchases here at StarknightMT, we’ve created a little guide that gets into the nitty-gritty of how long electric UTV batteries really last and what you can do to make sure yours sticks around for the long haul.

Average Lifespan of Electric UTV Batteries

Most electric UTV batteries will last around 3 to 5 years, though the longevity can vary based on a few factors. Just like with any other battery-powered vehicle, the way you treat your battery and how often you use it can have a big impact on how long it will last.

In general, you can expect a good battery to serve you well for several seasons.

As for battery types, the most common choice for electric UTVs today is lithium-ion.

These batteries tend to last longer, charge faster and have a higher energy density than older lead-acid or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. They usually last for around five years. Compared to lead-acid batteries, which tend to degrade at around the three-year mark, it’s a pretty solid jump.

But what about range?

A fully charged lithium-ion battery can typically power a UTV for anywhere between 30 to 100 miles per charge, depending on the size of the battery and how you’re riding. The smoother the ride and the trails, the more mileage you’ll get out of your battery.

Factors That Affect Battery Longevity

Beyond the age of your battery, there are several factors that can impact how long it lasts. Here are some of the most common:

Frequency of Use

This one is pretty simple:

The more you use your UTV, the quicker the battery will wear out.

If you use it every weekend for long rides or work, you can expect the battery to degrade faster than if you only use it occasionally. Of course, regular use keeps the battery active, so you’ll have to find the perfect balance between use and non-use.

Terrain and Environment

Where you ride plays a big role in how hard your battery works.

As we said before, mellower trails will be easier on the battery than rugged, rocky terrain, where your motor has to work harder.

The same goes for the type of weather you’re riding in. The more extreme the weather conditions, the bigger the impact they’ll have on your batter. Riding in extreme heat can cause the battery to overheat and shorten its life, while cold temperatures can reduce its performance and range.

Charging Habits

The way in which you charge your battery is one of the most important factors that can impact its longevity.

Don’t ever let your battery completely die or leave it plugged in for too long after it’s fully charged.

Both of these can accelerate wear, which is why we recommend charging your battery when it’s around 20-30% and unplugging it when it hits 100%.

Battery Maintenance

Just like any vehicle, regular UTV maintenance is key. Keep your battery clean, check for corrosion around the terminals, and make sure the connections are tight.

A little bit of TLC can go a long way, so create a UTV maintenance schedule and stick to it!

Riding Style

How aggressively you ride can also impact your battery.

If you’re constantly flooring it in dynamic trail environments, you’ll likely drain the battery faster. The best way to maintain your batter is to drive in a smooth, controlled manner.

Age and Technology of the Battery

Older and cheaper batteries tend to wear out quicker.

A lithium-ion battery is much more efficient and has a longer lifespan than older lead-acid or AGM batteries.

If battery life is a priority, look for newer technologies. They’ll last longer and perform better over time.

Signs Your UTV Battery Needs Replacement

Even the best-maintained batteries will eventually show signs that it’s time for a change. If you notice any of these red flags, it’s probably time to think about changing your battery:

● Decreased Range: If your UTV isn’t going as far on a single charge as it used to, it’s one of the first indicators that your battery is reaching the end of its lifespan.

● Slow Charging: If your battery is taking longer than usual to charge, it’s probably because it’s struggling to hold a proper charge.
Battery Warning Lights: Most UTVs have indicators or warning lights to let you know if something’s wrong with your battery. If these lights are flashing or you’re seeing error messages related to the battery, take it as a sign that you need to swap it out.

● Frequent Breakdown of Power: If your UTV’s battery cuts out mid-ride or you experience sudden drops in power, that’s a definite sign your battery might be on its last legs.

Eventually, no matter how well you take care of it, your battery is bound to wear out. All batteries have lifespans, which usually equate to a certain number of charge cycles. Do your research and find a battery that has a longer average lifespan. If you have that battery and it’s dying sooner than expected, it might be an issue other than age.

Conclusion

As you can see, the lifespan of your electric UTV battery depends on several factors. Luckily, all you need is the right maintenance schedule and riding style to extend your battery’s life!

Make it a habit to keep an eye on how your battery is reacting when you ride, so you know if you need to replace it sooner than later! Happy riding!

FAQs

Q1: How do I know when it’s time to replace my electric UTV battery?

A1: There are several signs that it’s time to replace your UTV battery. Some of the most common include:

● Reduced range

● Slower charging times

● Mid-ride breakdowns

● Warning lights on the dash

Overall, if your battery is struggling to hold a charge or provide consistent power, it's probably nearing the end of its life.

Q2: Can I extend the battery life of my UTV beyond 5 years?

A2: Yes!

With a little bit of TLC (aka proper care and maintenance), you can extend the lifespan of your battery beyond what you might think.

Make sure to follow good charging habits as well, avoiding deep discharges and overcharging. If you’re not using your UTV during the off-season, make sure it’s stored away in a cool, dry place.

Q3: Are lithium-ion batteries better for UTVs than lead-acid batteries?

A3: Yes, lithium-ion batteries are generally better for UTVs than lead-acid batteries. Not only do they last longer than your typical lead-acid or AGM batteries, but they also charge faster and perform better.  

Q4: How long should I wait to charge my UTV battery after a ride?

A4: We recommend waiting a little bit before charging your battery after a ride, especially if it's hot from use. As a rule of thumb, let your battery cool down for around 30 minutes to an hour before plugging it in.

 

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