Polaris Ranger 570 Problems – Your Ultimate Troubleshooting & Fix-It
The Polaris Ranger 570 is a true workhorse, loved by farmers, hunters, and trail riders for its nimble size and surprising capability. You count on it to start every time and haul whatever you throw at it. But let’s be honest—when it sputters, whines, or refuses to start, that reliability feels a million miles away. You’re not alone in this frustration.
We promise this guide will cut through the confusion. We’re here to walk you through the most common Polaris Ranger 570 problems, from engine hiccups to drivetrain groans, with the practical, no-nonsense advice you’d get from a seasoned mechanic.
Get ready to diagnose what’s wrong, understand why it happened, and learn how to fix it yourself. We’ll cover engine and starting issues, transmission quirks, electrical gremlins, and the essential maintenance that keeps you out of the shop and on the trail.
Engine Starting and Performance Issues: The Heart of the Matter
When your Ranger’s engine acts up, it can ruin a whole day’s work or play. These issues usually trace back to three core things: fuel, spark, or air. Let’s break down how to figure out which one is your culprit.
My Ranger Won’t Start or Cranks Slowly
A no-start condition is one of the most common problems with Polaris Ranger 570 models, but the fix is often simple. Before you panic, run through this checklist.
- Check the Battery: This is ground zero. A weak or dead battery is the #1 cause of starting issues. Use a multimeter to check the voltage. A healthy, fully charged battery should read around 12.6-12.8 volts. If it’s below 12.2 volts, it needs a charge. If it won’t hold a charge, it’s time for a new one. Also, check for clean, tight battery terminals!
- Test the Starter Solenoid: If you hear a single, sharp “click” when you turn the key but the engine doesn’t turn over, the starter solenoid could be the problem. It’s the small cylinder that sends power to the starter motor. A bad solenoid won’t transfer the high amperage needed to crank the engine.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: A fouled, worn, or damaged spark plug can’t create the spark needed for combustion. Pull the plug out using a spark plug socket. If it’s black and sooty, oily, or the electrode is worn down, replace it. They’re cheap and easy to swap.
Sputtering, Stalling, or Running Rough
If your Ranger starts but runs like it’s sick, your fuel or air system is likely begging for attention. This is a classic symptom that requires a bit of detective work.
The fuel pump is a known weak point on these machines. If your Ranger dies when it gets warm or loses power under load, a failing fuel pump is a high probability. You can test the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge; it should be around 58 PSI for EFI models.
Also, don’t forget the basics. A severely clogged air filter will choke the engine, causing it to run rich and bog down. Likewise, a clogged fuel injector won’t deliver enough gas. Running a bottle of high-quality fuel injector cleaner through the system can sometimes help.
Overheating on the Trail
The cooling system on a UTV works hard. If your temperature light is coming on, pull over immediately to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Here’s what to look for:
- Low Coolant: Check the overflow bottle. If it’s low, you may have a leak or have burned off coolant.
- Clogged Radiator: The radiator is a magnet for mud and debris. A caked-on layer of dirt prevents air from passing through the fins, making it impossible to cool the engine. A thorough cleaning with a garden hose (not a high-pressure washer, which can bend the fins) is a critical maintenance step.
- Faulty Radiator Fan: The fan should kick on when the engine reaches a certain temperature. If it doesn’t, check the fuse first, then the fan motor itself.
Drivetrain and Transmission Glitches: From Whines to Grinds
The drivetrain transfers power from your engine to the wheels. It’s a robust system, but it requires regular inspection and care. This section provides a helpful Polaris Ranger 570 Problems guide for drivetrain diagnostics.
Diagnosing Belt Problems: The Telltale Squeal
Your Ranger 570 uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which relies on a heavy-duty drive belt. This belt is a wear item and the source of many noises.
A squealing or chirping noise at takeoff is often a sign of a glazed or worn belt. If you experience slipping (engine RPMs go up but you don’t accelerate), your belt is likely shot. Inspect the belt by removing the CVT cover. Look for cracks, frayed edges, or areas that look shiny and smooth (glazing).
Pro Tip: When you install a new belt, it’s crucial to wash it with warm, soapy water to remove manufacturing residue and follow a proper break-in procedure. This ensures a long life and smooth engagement.
Clutch Engagement and Performance Issues
The clutches—a primary (drive) and secondary (driven)—are what squeeze the belt. Over time, dust and debris can build up inside, causing them to stick and leading to poor engagement or jerky takeoffs. Cleaning your clutches with compressed air during a belt change is one of the best practices for maintaining performance.
Difficulty Shifting or Grinding Gears
If you find it hard to shift between Park, Reverse, and High, the problem is almost always the shift linkage. The cable can stretch over time, or the adjustment nuts can come loose. Adjusting it is a simple fix that requires just a few wrenches and a little patience to get it shifting smoothly again.
Tackling Common Polaris Ranger 570 Problems with the Electrical System
Electrical gremlins can be the most frustrating issues to track down. However, with a methodical approach and a multimeter, you can solve most of them yourself. Here’s how to tackle these Polaris Ranger 570 problems.
Flickering Lights and Weak Power
If your headlights dim at idle or your battery is constantly dying, you have a charging system problem. The system has three main components: the battery, the stator, and the voltage regulator.
After confirming your battery is good, use your multimeter to check the charging voltage. With the engine running at a high idle, you should see between 13.5 and 14.5 volts at the battery terminals. If it’s much lower, your stator or voltage regulator is likely failing.
Sensors and Check Engine Lights (CEL)
Modern Rangers are full of sensors. When one fails, it can trigger a check engine light and cause poor running conditions. A common failure point is the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), which can cause stalling or hesitation right off idle. The T-MAP sensor (Temperature and Manifold Absolute Pressure) is another frequent culprit.
Wiring Woes: Chafing and Corrosion
Your Ranger’s wiring harness is subjected to vibration, mud, and water. Over time, wires can chafe through their insulation and short out against the frame. Pay close attention to areas where the harness is zip-tied or runs along sharp edges. Corrosion in connectors is also a major issue. Unplugging key connectors and applying dielectric grease can prevent a world of headaches.
Suspension, Steering, and Brake System Care Guide
The parts that connect you to the ground take a serious beating. Ignoring them can lead to sloppy handling and unsafe conditions. This Polaris Ranger 570 Problems care guide focuses on keeping your chassis tight and your stops confident.
Worn Bushings and Ball Joints: The Source of Sloppy Steering
If your steering feels loose or you hear clunking from the front end over bumps, you likely have worn A-arm bushings or ball joints. To check, safely jack up the front of the machine and try to wiggle the wheel top-to-bottom and side-to-side. Any significant play indicates worn components that need replacement.
Brake System Maintenance: Spongy Levers and Grinding Noises
Brakes are a non-negotiable safety system. If your brake pedal feels spongy, you have air in the lines that needs to be bled out. A brake bleeding kit makes this a simple one-person job. Grinding noises mean your brake pads are worn down to the metal backing plate. Replace them immediately to avoid damaging the expensive brake rotors.
Axle and CV Joint Clicks
That repetitive clicking sound you hear when turning sharply is the classic death song of a Constant Velocity (CV) joint. This is usually caused by a torn rubber CV boot, which allows dirt and water in and lets the vital grease out. Inspect your axle boots regularly. Replacing a boot is much cheaper than replacing an entire axle.
Proactive Maintenance: The Best Practices for Preventing Problems
The absolute best way to deal with problems is to prevent them from happening. A little time spent in the garage saves a lot of time and money dealing with breakdowns. Adopting these habits also promotes sustainable Polaris Ranger 570 Problems management, as a well-kept machine lasts longer and creates less waste.
Your Pre-Ride Checklist
Before every single ride, take five minutes to do a quick walk-around. It’s the easiest way to spot trouble early.
- Tires: Check pressure and look for damage.
- Fluids: Check engine oil and coolant levels.
- Visuals: Look underneath for any new leaks or drips.
- Controls: Test your brakes and throttle for proper operation.
The Importance of Regular Fluid Changes
Clean fluids are the lifeblood of your machine. Follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual for changing the engine oil, transmission fluid, and front/rear gearcase fluids. Using the correct, high-quality fluids is a small investment that pays huge dividends in longevity.
Sustainable Ownership: A Clean Machine is a Happy Machine
Washing your Ranger isn’t just about looks; it’s a critical diagnostic tool. Cleaning off mud and grime allows you to easily spot oil leaks, torn boots, loose bolts, or cracked welds. When you change fluids, always dispose of the used oil and coolant responsibly at an auto parts store or local recycling center. This is an easy way to practice eco-friendly Polaris Ranger 570 Problems prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Ranger 570 Problems
What is the most common problem with a Polaris Ranger 570?
While experiences vary, two of the most frequently discussed issues are premature drive belt wear and fuel pump failures. Proactive maintenance, like keeping clutches clean and using high-quality fuel, can significantly reduce the likelihood of these problems.
Why does my Ranger 570 die when I give it gas?
This is a classic symptom that can point to a few things. The most common culprits are a failing Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), a clogged fuel injector, or a weak fuel pump that can’t provide enough pressure under load. Start by checking your fuel pressure and ensuring your air filter is clean.
How often should I change the drive belt on my Ranger 570?
There is no exact hour or mileage rule, as it depends heavily on your riding style. A good rule of thumb is to inspect the belt every 50 hours of operation. Plan on replacing it preventatively every 100-150 hours for hard use (heavy towing, mud) or 200+ hours for light use to avoid being stranded by a broken belt.
Is the Polaris Ranger 570 a reliable machine?
Yes, absolutely. The Ranger 570 is a very reliable UTV when properly maintained. Like any complex piece of machinery, it has known weak points, but addressing them proactively and sticking to the service schedule will result in a machine that provides thousands of hours of dependable service.
The Polaris Ranger 570 is a fantastic and capable machine. By understanding its common quirks and learning how to diagnose them, you empower yourself to keep it running in top condition. Regular checks and preventative maintenance are your best defense against unexpected breakdowns.
Grab your tools, stay safe, and keep that Ranger running strong on the trail!
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