Polaris Ranger 700 XP Common Problems [Reasons and Fixes]

Undoubtedly, Polaris Ranger 700 XP is one of the most powerful UTVs out there. But the 700 XP model has gained some negative reviews over the years. The Polaris Rangers owners complain about the functionality of the UTV.

So, what are the Polaris Ranger 700 XP common problems?

There are 4 common Polaris Ranger 700 XP problems that impact the riding experience. For example, starting issues, running issues, UTV shifting problems, and clunking noise problems while riding the UTV.

 You can fix these issues once you get to know the reason behind them. And in this article, I’m going to share some insights into what causes these problems and how to fix them. Stay tuned till the end!

Polaris Ranger 700 XP Common Problems: Quick Overview

The Polaris Ranger 700 comes with numerous problems. I’ve listed the most common problems that Polaris Ranger owners face with explanations and fixes below: 

Is the table confusing you? Scroll down below and read each segment to get a detailed explanation of each problem. 

Problem 1: Starting Issue in Cold Weather

It’s a common Polaris Ranger 700 XP problem that it doesn’t start in cold mornings. The engine gets jammed and doesn’t power up. There are two reasons why this happens. One is if there’s a damaged TPS, and the other is having low fuel pressure. 

Reason 1: Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

One of the most common problems you’ll face with your Polaris Ranger 700 XP is it won’t start in cold weather. This happens mainly when the TPS fails to read responses. Many Polaris Ranger owners found that they have damaged TPS sensors. So, the engines don’t receive signals to start the vehicle. 

Solution

If you find a faulty TPS, you must figure out what’s causing the trouble. Look for any broken wiring or clogged sensor. Then, troubleshoot the TPS to solve that particular problem. If it’s not worth troubleshooting, replace the TPS by taking it to a nearby auto repair shop.   

Reason 2: Low Fuel Pressure

Another prime reason your Polaris 700 XP won’t start is when the fuel pressure decreases. It usually occurs when the fuel pumps age. And if the fuel pump isn’t old, it’s possible that the pump is damaged.   

Solution

To solve this issue, you have to inspect the fuel level. Make sure there’s enough fuel to start the engine. Then, you have to check the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system. Sometimes dirt and debris clog the fuel line. If this is the case, you should take the help of a professional injector cleaner and inject fresh fuel.  

Problem 2: Starting Issue in Warm Weather

Now, even if the weather is warm and the engine is functioning, the Polaris Ranger might not start. This is a common issue when you take less care of maintenance. 

Reason 1: Clogged Fuel and Air Filters

Your vehicle isn’t starting because the fuel is clogged up by dirt and debris. So, the air circulating inside your UTV can’t actually filter the dust in the air. As a result, the fuel filters also get dirty and can’t function properly. And as the fuel doesn’t run the engine, the UTV can’t also move. 

Solution

Cleaning the air filters frequently is the only solution to this problem. For cleaning the air filter, you’ll need gloves, air filter cleaner, oil, and a clean, soft cloth. You can follow the steps below to clean the air filter:

• First, you must remove the air filter from the UTV.
• Then, put the cleaner on the air filter and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Now, wash away all the dirt properly until the filter is thoroughly cleaned.
• Then, remove the excess water from the filter and let it completely dry.
• After it’s dried, check if the air filter has any damaged parts. You should throw it away and install a new air filter if it’s damaged.
• Finally, put some oil on the dry air filter and reinstall it in your UTV.

Reason 2: Defective TBAP Sensors or Wire

Another reason the Polaris Ranger 700 engine is not working is having damaged TBAP sensors or TBAP wires. TBAP stands for Temperature and Barometric Air Pressure. If there’s any issue with the sensors or wiring system, the engine will not receive any signals to start. 

Solution

So, in this case, you must first identify if there’s any defect on the sensors. Then, take the wires and tug them at the connector. Make sure you don’t do it collectively. Each time take only one wire and adjust it. 

Problem 3: Acceleration Problems

You’ll often notice that the Polaris isn’t accelerating well. The engine is in good condition, but the vehicle isn’t moving at all. 

Reason: Low Fuel Pressure

The reason your UTV can’t accelerate is low fuel pressure. Often this happens due to debris on the engine body of the vehicle. In worst cases, the TPS sensor gets affected and slows the accelerator’s operation.  

Solution

So, the solution here is to keep the engine body clean. Make sure any dirt or debris does not enter the fuel lines and affect the TPS sensors too. Also, check all the wiring and fix it if any of the wires are torn.   

Problem 4: Hard Shifting

Many Polaris Ranger 700 XP owners complain about shifting the UTV. They say you need to put excessive force on the shifting lever. Even though the engine and the gears are perfectly functioning. 

Reason: Worn-out Secondary and Primary Clutches

Mainly, it happens when the primary and secondary clutches have gone through a lot of wear and tear. Mostly, when you use a fake drive belt, it comes in contact with the secondary clutch. The tightness of the belt causes friction on the secondary clutch. So, it wears off quickly.

If the secondary clutches are completely fine, the main culprit is the primary clutch. The bearing between the sheave halves damages and puts the primary clutch at risk. For this reason, the UTV can’t move without external force. 

Solution

To solve this problem, you have to replace the worn-out clutches. You can rebuild the clutch yourself. If you’re not comfortable, take the help of a mechanic to clean and rebuild the clutches. 

Problem 5: Clunking Noises While Riding

One of the annoying problems you’ll face with the Polaris Ranger is that it makes awful clunking noises when you ride the vehicle. You’ll also notice that the engine works even when the forwarding and backward gears are off. 

Reason: Damaged Drive Belt

You’ll hear the clunking noises if the drive belt has any defects in it. A drive belt wears off fast when you use power steering fluid, oil, or antifreeze.  

Solution

The moment you notice the clunking noises, you must take off the cover and check if the drive belt is okay. You have to replace it with a fresh piece if it’s completely damaged.

First, locate the belt’s route to replace the drive belt. Then, release the tension by using a ratchet. Make sure you match the tensioner to the correct socket. After that, loosen the bolts in the tensioner and pull off the old belt by hand. As the tensioner is released back to its old position, you must install the new drive belt.  

Conclusion

So, this is how you resolve all the Polaris Ranger 700 XP common problems. Well, here’s a tip for you. By frequent maintenance, you can protect your UTV from facing such issues. It’ll also save you time in fixing it. That’s all from me. Hopefully, you’ve got some valuable information from this article.  

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Mark Williams

Founder and Author at Theautomobily

Mark Williams is the founder and author of Theautomobily located in Tucson, AZ. As a Mechanical Engineer,He has 15 years of experience in the automobile industry. Mark's deep understanding of various types of vehicles such as UTVs, ATVs, cars, Trucks, and lawnmowers which allows him to provide valuable insights and information.

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