Polaris
Polaris

Polaris Troubleshooting

Polaris Inc. is an American manufacturer of motorcycles, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, and neighborhood electric vehicles. Polaris was founded in Roseau, Minnesota, where it still has engineering and manufacturing facilities. The company's corporate headquarters is in Medina, Minnesota.


ATV Troubleshooting

Not Turning Over
If the engine does not turn over, Polaris suggests three potential problems and solutions. First, there may be low battery voltage, and owners should try to recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC. Two other problems may be that there are loose connections on the battery or on the solenoid. In either case, owners should check and tighten all connections.

Not Starting
If the engine turns over but will not start, it is possible that the ATV is out of fuel. If that turns out to be the case, fill the tank. Then turn the cycle key to "on" three times for five seconds each, at which point the engine should start if lack of fuel was the problem. It is also possible that water is present in the fuel or that the fuel is too old, in which case it must be drained and refilled. If there are defective spark plugs or no spark is going to them, then the spark plugs should be inspected and replaced as necessary. For three other potential problems (a clogged fuel filter, water/fuel in the crankcase or mechanical failure), Polaris recommends that owners see a Polaris dealer.

Backfiring
If the engine backfires, it is possible that there is a weak spark, an incorrect spark plug gap, old or waterlogged fuel, or loose ignition connections. Owners should inspect/clean/replace spark plugs, set correct gap distance, drain and replace fuel and check/tighten all connections, respectively. For other possible problems, such as incorrectly installed spark plug wires, incorrect ignition timing, or leaking exhaust components, consult a Polaris dealer.

Stalling/Misfiring
If the engine runs irregularly, stalls or misfires, it is possible that there are dirty or defective spark plugs, which must be inspected, cleaned or replaced accordingly. It is also possible that there is low battery voltage. The ATV battery must be charged to 12.8 VDC. Additionally, there may be incorrect or water-filled fuel, which must be drained and replaced. Engine stalling may happen if a rider starts/stops without adequate warm-up. In that case, a rider should allow the engine to fully warm up before operation. A dealer should be consulted if there is a clogged fuel filter, a reverse speed limiter malfunction, worn/defective spark plug wires, electronic throttle control malfunction or any kind of mechanical failure.

Overheating
If the ATV engine is overheating, it may be that there is debris stuck in the screen. The debris must be removed prior to further operation. It is also possible that the radiator is plugged. An owner can take care of this by using a garden hose to wash debris from the radiator fins. Polaris cautions that powerful hoses (i.e. from pressure washers) can damage and deform these fins and thus should not be used.

Stopping/Losing Power
When the ATV stops or loses power, this may be because there is not enough fuel. Owners should refill fuel and turn the cycle key to the "on" position three times before attempting to start the engine again. If this is not the problem, it may be that there is a damaged or clogged fuel vent line, which should be inspected or replaced if necessary. The engine may also stop if there is watered-down or incorrect fuel, which must be drained and replaced. Ignition connections should be inspected and tightened, and spark plugs should be cleaned and replaced if necessary. If the engine still loses power, it is possible that there are defective spark plug wires, reverse speed limiter or electronic throttle control malfunctions or other mechanical failure, all of which warrant a trip to a Polaris dealer for repairs.

SOURCE: https://itstillruns.com/troubleshooting-tips-polaris-sportsman-500-7520378.html


Motorcycle Troubleshooting

High Fuel Consumption
Now, this is something which concerns all the bikers as the price of fuel is hiking sky high. First of all, it depends on the way you ride your bike. Proper gear shifting & riding at a constant speed can really give you a high mileage. But this is just one part of getting a good economy. There are some small but important factors too. Proper changing of engine oil can really help you in getting good mileage. A good tuning in the carburetor is very much important too.
You should also check out your clutch plates. The radials play a vital role too. Less air pressure in radials can increase your fuel consumption. Your tires should move along smoothly. Chain sprockets, brake shoe problems, drum problems, bearings can also play a major role in fuel consumption.

Bad batteries
Like your gas going bad, if you don’t ride your bike often enough, your batteries will get drained and your bike won’t start. There are two ways to fix this; either ride more often so your battery can maintain its charge or charge your battery when you’re home. 
Be sure not to overcharge your batteries. This could damage them to the point where they explode. According to Consumer Reports, you can prevent this by buying a battery minder and charger, which can charge the batteries safely.

Bad drive chain
If your drive chain feels off, it likely doesn’t have enough lube or it’s become too loose. It’s important to keep your chain lubricated because you’ll crash if it snaps. Additionally, routinely tightening the chains will help prevent them from snapping. Keep in mind that drive chains will naturally loosen with age, so you’ll have to replace them eventually.

Bad appearance 
A dirty bike means poor performance, according to professionals. Not only does dirt look bad, but it can also damage your engine. The solution is obvious; wash your bike routinely. Manufacturers recommend cleaning it once a week to prevent dirt and grime from doing any lasting damage.

Bad tires
Worn-out tires are the leading cause of bikes breaking down. If your tires get too worn out, then you must replace them. However, preventing your tires from breaking down in the middle of the road is obviously crucial, too. Routinely inspect your tires to see if they’re damaged or not. If you can spot this early, then you can replace your tires from the comfort of your garage.

Fuel Tank Rust
Rust as a general issue is common in older bikes and can occur practically anywhere. If you leave your bike for a long period with a half-full tank it can lead to problems over time. It’s more likely to happen if you are parked in an area where there is relatively high humidity.
It’s important to check your tank at regular intervals and, if there is a rust problem, get it sorted straight away. The best way to stop it from developing at all is to ensure that your tank is filled with gas most of the time, especially if you are leaving your bike parked up for a while.

SOURCE: https://www.whitesbodyworks.com/6-most-common-motorcycle-problems-and-what-to-do-about-them/


Snowmobile Troubleshooting

Flooded Engine 
It’s possible to flood your snowmobile engine due to over-choking/over-priming it. If this is the case, you might smell gas or even see it running out of the exhaust pipe. While the gas will eventually evaporate, allowing you to start the engine, you’re not going to want to wait if you’re out in the cold. 
Fortunately, you can manually clear the line using these steps: 
• Hit the kill switch 
• Pull the spark plugs 
• Hold the throttle open 
• Pull the starter cord 15-20 times to clear the line 
• Wipe off the spark plugs and replace them 

Dried Out Fuel Lines and Carburetor 
On the opposite end of the spectrum are fuel lines and a carburetor that have dried out. This is common when the snowmobile has not been run for a while and can sometimes be corrected with the proper use of a carburetor cleaner and/or starter fluid. In extreme cases, where the combustion chamber is not receiving any fuel at all, you may be facing either having the carburetor cleaned or even rebuilt. 

Old Spark Plugs 
Spark plugs can be tested by removing them and grounding them on a head bolt so that when the engine is turned over a spark is visible. If a spark isn’t visible or seems weak, it’s a good indication that your plugs need to be changed. 
If the spark plugs are working, or you’ve replaced them but the engine will still not turn over, there may be a problem with the electrical system. Check the coils and wires, plug caps, the regulator, and the charging discharge ignition box. 

Low Compression 
If your snowmobile is not as powerful as it once was or isn’t running at all and you’ve ruled out the other causes above, low compression could be the culprit. In this case, you want to perform a compression test on each cylinder in your machine’s engine. 
The optimal compression is 120 psi (pounds per square inch) or greater. Anything below 110 could signal a potential issue, and an engine typically won’t run with much less than 100 psi compression. You also want to make sure the compression is equal in all cylinders. 
If you find the compression in one or all cylinders is low, the problem could be scored cylinders or pistons, a damaged crank seal, piston rings that are worn out, or a defective head gasket. 

Problems with the Clutch System 
If you are experiencing trouble with your drive belt, you’re certainly going to notice it — you’ll either feel it or hear it. If your snowmobile belt fails due to disintegration, glazing, hour glassing, or it breaks either partially or completely, your snowmobile will be rendered inoperable until this drive belt system is replaced. 

SOURCE: https://blog.upnorthsports.com/snowmobile-troubleshooting/



Polaris Troubleshooting

Polaris problems

Polaris broken

Polaris issue

Polaris difficulty


Product Reviews:

I’ve been reading a lot of the reviews on here about Polaris and they are
I’ve been reading a lot of the reviews on here about Polaris and they are all terrible. First thing is first every ATV has problems. I’ve grown up around Honda, Yamaha, and Arctic Cat. And I can tell you they are all great. But they all have problems too. Yamaha kept having driveline issues, Arctic Cat always overheated, and two of my friends had Hondas lock up on the one was the motor and one was the trans. I currently own a old three wheeler and a 08 sportsman 500 ho. Both are amazing. Everything can be good to you and everything can be bad.
Published: October 10, 2017
Caleb of Beebe, AR
Source: consumeraffairs.com

Owned about 45 different motorcycles in the last 52 years, Concours 10,R100
Owned about 45 different motorcycles in the last 52 years, Concours 10,R100,Gold Wings,Road King,Vstrom 1000, Bonnevilles, Norton's and many others. I was run over by a drunk driver head on and have much steel on my body. I'm getting old and finicky about the bike I ride, it must not be to heavy but heavy to resist cross winds and truck wakes, it must have adequate wind protection with a good windshield and intergrated luggage that doesn't look like an after thought. It needs low end grunt but doesn't have to keep up with a Hayabusa, it looks like a motorcycle not Darth Vader, reliable with shaft drive has to have higher reliability than BMW, no over complex ECM, fuel mapping but carberated simple. Handle good at slow parking lot speed and confidence inspiring in the Twisties, comfortable and light enough for an old man to ride. Cost < 20,000 US dollars right, well I bought one 3 months ago with 8,000 miles on it for 2500, think it's a keeper if do it will last longer than me good night
Published: April 25, 2011
Russell Ray, Tennessee
Source: cycleinsider.com

I am amazed at the bad reviews I’ve read. I currently have a 2001 Sportsm
I am amazed at the bad reviews I’ve read. I currently have a 2001 Sportsman 500, 2015 Sportsman 570 Hunter, 2017 Sportsman 850sp, 2017 Sportsman 1000xp Hunter, and 2017 Scrambler 1000. Just sold a 2008 Sportsman 500 that I loved but ran out of room for. All of my newer machines have extended warranties although none have ever had to even go to the dealer for service. We travel up north multiple times a year and have had many family vacations always with our Polaris machines averaging over 400 miles a weekend. Like any off-road vehicle maintenance is key. I do all my own with factory Polaris products. If we ride for a full day and the dust is really heavy I will clean or replace the air filters before the next ride out. I track all of my maintenance through Polaris Ride Command App.
Published: December 29, 2017
Jamie of Enfield, CT
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I've been a Harley rider for 45 years and I was skeptical to ride anyt
I've been a Harley rider for 45 years and I was skeptical to ride anything else. But I gave this Victory a ride and was amazed at the comfort, performance and horsepower. The ride is much better than most cruisers. The bike is all steel and quality built. I bought this one as an investment and if I could afford to, is keep it! Amazing bike!
Published: August 29, 2021
Jon, Florida
Source: cycleinsider.com

When I was 14 my dad bought me a Polaris Apollo 340 and ever since I have b
When I was 14 my dad bought me a Polaris Apollo 340 and ever since I have been hooked on them I own a 500 Indy and a 600 edge...i also have children and want to get them into sledding and was VERY disappointed to here that Polaris was NOT going to be bringing out a 200 youth class sled ...so I had to buy her the new Yamaha snowscoot...I love Polaris but I must say you dropped the ball on this one guys
Published: November 23, 2017
Jaycee Edwards
Source: facebook.com

I have always purchased Polaris snowmobiles, but this is my first year snow
I have always purchased Polaris snowmobiles, but this is my first year snow checking one. This has been a terrible experience. I will never recommend snow checking with Polaris to anyone. Between this year and last year alone, my dealer has sold 15 sleds (some snow checked and some stock sleds) at our recommendation, as the group we ride with regular upgrades our machines. We have always been loyal and loved the ride and reliability of our machines. That being said, never would I recommend Polaris after my experience. My snowmobile has been delayed for shipment four times, and I was told during my recent telephone conversation that it would be shipped no later than February 15. Today I received another notice that it wouldn’t be shipped until February 28. At this point, I have no faith that I will receive my sled for this season nor in the ability of your call centre to provide accurate and truthful information. When I contact the call centre for information, there is limited information provided, false promises and a lack of ownership and accountability on the part of Polaris. We were told that you would focus on production of snow checks to ensure clients that paid for their sleds receive them in a timely manner. This is untrue. You have produced some stock sleds for dealers and many of us have yet to see our orders. We were assured we would get up to date information on production and yet when I contact the call centre I am told the agent has no information at their disposal and I will have to wait for a call back. When I get a call back, I am told it is estimated that they will honour the ship date. We are now ending this season, and I have yet to receive a snowmobile that I paid for one year ago and you have the audacity to promote your 2023 line up. The real point of contention I have at this point is that I am told Polaris is offering NOTHING as far as “good will” to its loyal and patient customers who have now missed an entire season and had to cancel trips. I don’t see how you will continue to make sales in a competitive market when you treat your customers like they’re disposable. Your client service is atrocious. Get it together!!!
Published: February 16, 2021
Kimberly Lawrence
Source: facebook.com

Spent $17k on a sled I can’t seem to get delivered… stop using the supp
Spent $17k on a sled I can’t seem to get delivered… stop using the supply chain excuse, we’re not buying it!! I ordered a 2022 Ford Superduty platinum 3 weeks after I snow checked my Polaris XCR, I’ve been driving my new truck for 5 months but won’t have my Polaris until winter is done… After decades of being a loyal Polaris owner, I’m done with you…
Published: January 13, 2021
Lisa Sammons-Hulten
Source: facebook.com

These models will fail and Polaris will not repair under warranty because t
These models will fail and Polaris will not repair under warranty because they do not have any parts for these motorcycles. They will only offer to buy back the motorcycle a devalued price of what you paid or possibly trade for a base model of one of their lower priced gas powered Indian motorcycles. This was an experiment in the REV arena that Polaris failed miserably.
Published: September 9, 2021
Jim, Texas
Source: cycleinsider.com

Love this bike. Fit and finish is excellent. Handling is great at both high
Love this bike. Fit and finish is excellent. Handling is great at both high speed and low. Add pegs for long distance touring and you have one comfortable ride. Best bike of the five that I have owned.
Published: October 15, 2021
John, Ontario
Source: cycleinsider.com

Absolute junk. I have bought 5 Polaris snowmobiles in the past two year and
Absolute junk. I have bought 5 Polaris snowmobiles in the past two year and only 1 of them is still in running condition, I have 2 2022s that are on a do not ride recall and one in the shop for a new long block as well as a lost motor today with less than 100 Lbs. of compression.. These sleds are junk and meant to be thrown away at 1500 miles. 70K in sleds for one that runs...... The next 70K I will spend will be on attorney fees
Published: February 4, 2021
Shannon Abelseth
Source: facebook.com

The Axys Polaris is the most fun sled to ride! I have the Pro X Switchback
The Axys Polaris is the most fun sled to ride! I have the Pro X Switchback 860. And it is so fun, easy to move around. Trail rides awesome, and most fun off Trail! It jumps and ditchbanger awesome and great in powder!! Polaris FTW!!
Published: October 29, 2017
Tim Brunner
Source: facebook.com

this bike is lighter then other touring bikes so it handles well. has a lot
this bike is lighter then other touring bikes so it handles well. has a lot of get up and go power for being a stock bike. the comfort gives a relaxing and enjoyment ride when riding for hours. has a lot of storage for your getaway weekends. this bike is showtime, you get a lot of thumbs up.
Published: October 10, 2021
manuel garcia, California
Source: cycleinsider.com

2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP - First of all I do not work and never have for
2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP - First of all I do not work and never have for Polaris. I live in Mississippi. I was scared to buy Polaris because of all these crazy reviews but I know that Polaris is the most abused vehicle of all the UTVs made, you should not get mad at Polaris for making a great vehicle when you abuse it so badly. I have had two Polaris is so far and they both have been incredibly hard-working machines for me, but I do not drive my Polaris or any other vehicle through the middle of rivers or through the middle of the lakes full of water and expect them to function normally, we have rivers and lakes where I live but I have boats for that. When I get on my tractor or in my car or my truck I do not punch the accelerator all the way to the floor. I have been in the rain, in the mud and snow, gravel, sand, pool, hills with a trailer load, a post, build bridges and how many things. I don't have a problem with Polaris. They are good vehicles.
Published: October 10, 2010
Phillip of Meridian, MS
Source: consumeraffairs.com

I broke both rear CV joints by jumping and not letting off the gas (my bad
I broke both rear CV joints by jumping and not letting off the gas (my bad nothing like dirt bikes). Polaris gave me a voucher to cover one axle. Next ride, the front gear box tanked. After review, they replace both front axles and gearbox. Haven't had it out yet but appreciate what Polaris has done. Thank you
Published: April 21, 2017
troy of Riverton, Other
Source: consumeraffairs.com

The front differential and front axels on my 2016 Polaris 570 crew went out
The front differential and front axels on my 2016 Polaris 570 crew went out. We had bought the extended warranty and the people went out of their way to cover all of the expense for replacing all the parts and labor. This is my second Polaris and it won't be my last. Great job.
Published: April 18, 2018
Gene of Phoenix
Source: consumeraffairs.com

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