Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems – The Ultimate DIY Diagnostic Guide
The Polaris Sportsman 570 is a legendary workhorse on the trail and around the property. But let’s be honest—that sinking feeling when it sputters, clunks, or refuses to start can bring any adventure to a grinding halt. You didn’t buy an ATV to have it sit in the garage.
You’re in the right place. We promise this isn’t another forum thread with conflicting advice. This is your definitive, step-by-step guide to troubleshooting the most common Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems. We’ll give you the knowledge and confidence to diagnose what’s wrong, fix what you can, and know when it’s time to call in a pro.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into engine and starting issues, drivetrain and clutch headaches, electrical gremlins, and suspension woes. Get your tools ready; let’s keep your Sportsman running strong.
Engine & Starting Issues: The Heart of the Machine
When your engine acts up, it’s the most immediate and frustrating problem. Most starting issues can be traced back to three core areas: the electrical system providing the initial spark, the fuel system delivering gasoline, or the engine’s mechanical components. Let’s break down the symptoms.
Problem: Engine Won’t Crank or Turn Over
You turn the key and… nothing. Or maybe just a single, sad click. This almost always points to an electrical issue preventing the starter motor from doing its job.
- Check the Battery First: This is the number one culprit. A weak or dead battery doesn’t have the juice to turn the engine over. Use a multimeter to check the voltage. A healthy, fully charged battery should read around 12.6-12.8 volts. Anything below 12.2V is a sign it needs a charge or replacement.
- Inspect Battery Terminals: Look for fuzzy, white, or greenish corrosion on the battery posts. This buildup acts as an insulator, blocking power flow. Disconnect the terminals (negative first!) and clean them thoroughly with a wire brush and a baking soda/water paste.
- Listen for the Solenoid Click: If the battery is good but you only hear a single, sharp click when you turn the key, the starter solenoid might be faulty. This component is a relay that sends high amperage from the battery to the starter. A bad solenoid will “click” but fail to complete the circuit.
- Rule out Safety Switches: Remember, your Sportsman won’t start unless it’s in Park or Neutral and the brake lever is pulled. A faulty brake light switch or gear position sensor can prevent the starting sequence from initiating.
Problem: Engine Cranks But Won’t Fire Up
This is a different beast. The starter is spinning the engine, but it just won’t catch and run. For an engine to run, it needs three things: fuel, spark, and air. One of them is missing.
- Fuel Issues: Is there fresh gas in the tank? Old, ethanol-laden gas can go bad and clog injectors. The next suspect is the fuel pump. When you first turn the key to the “ON” position, you should hear a faint 2-3 second priming hum from the fuel tank. If it’s silent, your pump may have failed. A clogged fuel filter can also starve the engine of fuel.
- Spark Issues: The spark plug is a simple but critical component. Pull it out and inspect it. Is it black and sooty, or wet with fuel? You can test for spark by grounding the plug thread against the engine block (away from the plug hole!) and cranking the engine. You should see a strong, blue spark. No spark could mean a bad plug, a faulty ignition coil, or a bad stator.
- Air Issues: This is the easiest to check. Pull out your air filter. If it’s caked in dirt and mud, the engine can’t breathe. Clean or replace it immediately.
Common Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems with the Drivetrain & Clutch
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on your Sportsman is brilliant, but it’s also a system of wearable parts. Addressing these common problems with Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems in the drivetrain will keep the power hitting the ground. This section is your guide to understanding those noises and performance lags.
The Infamous Clutch Noise and Belt Wear
The CVT clutch system uses a drive belt and two pulleys (a primary and a secondary clutch) to transmit power. It’s a major source of wear and tear.
Symptoms to watch for:
- A loud squeal when taking off.
- A grinding or rattling noise from the clutch cover area.
- The ATV hesitates or jerks upon acceleration.
- A noticeable loss of top speed or pulling power.
The most common cause is a worn or glazed drive belt. Over time, the belt loses its grip, gets hard, and can even develop flat spots. Removing the clutch cover to inspect the belt is a fundamental DIY skill. If you see cracks, fraying, or a shiny, glazed surface, it’s time for a new one. Always use a genuine Polaris belt for the best performance and longevity.
Shifting and Gearbox Troubles
Is your shifter stiff? Does the ATV jump out of gear or refuse to engage properly? More often than not, this isn’t a major internal transmission problem. It’s usually a simple fix.
The culprit is almost always the shift linkage. This is the rod that connects your shift lever to the transmission. Over time, the joints can wear, or the rod can get knocked out of alignment. You can adjust it by loosening the lock nuts and turning the center rod to lengthen or shorten it until it shifts smoothly through all gears. This is one of the best Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems tips to know for trailside adjustments.
Electrical Gremlins: Chasing Wires and Fuses
Intermittent electrical issues can make you want to pull your hair out. But with a logical approach, you can often track down the source without becoming a master electrician.
Flickering Lights and Power Loss
If your headlights are dim, your pod display flickers, or your battery keeps dying, you have a charging system issue. Don’t just blame the battery—something is causing it to drain or not charge properly.
A very common failure point on these machines is the voltage regulator/rectifier. This small, finned box converts AC power from the stator into DC power to run the ATV’s systems and charge the battery. When it fails, it can either undercharge or overcharge the battery. An overcharging system (over 14.8V at the battery when running) can boil the battery acid and fry electronics. An undercharging system (below 13V) will leave you stranded.
Power Steering (EPS) Faults
If your Sportsman is equipped with Electronic Power Steering (EPS), a warning light on the dash is a common complaint. Before you panic about a costly EPS unit failure, check the simple things.
The EPS system is a huge electrical draw. The number one cause of EPS faults is low system voltage from a weak battery or a failing charging system. Always test your battery and charging output before you even think about replacing the EPS motor. A healthy system is the foundation for all other electronics to work correctly.
Suspension and Steering Woes: Keeping it Pointed Straight
Loose steering or clunking noises from the suspension aren’t just annoying; they’re serious safety concerns. These components take a beating on every ride.
Worn Out Bushings and Ball Joints
The A-arms of your suspension pivot on bushings, and your steering knuckles connect via ball joints. These are designed to wear out over time.
How to check: Safely jack up the front of the ATV so the wheels are off the ground. Grab a wheel at the top and bottom (12 and 6 o’clock) and try to wiggle it. Any significant play or clunking points to worn ball joints. Now, grab the wheel at the sides (9 and 3 o’clock) and wiggle it. Play here usually indicates worn tie rod ends. Worn A-arm bushings will often cause a general clunking sound over bumps.
Axle and CV Joint Issues
That repetitive clicking sound you hear when turning sharply is the classic death song of a Constant Velocity (CV) joint. Your axles have these joints on both ends, protected by flexible rubber boots.
The most common failure is a torn CV boot. A stick or rock can rip the boot, allowing dirt, mud, and water to get inside and destroy the precision joint. Make inspecting your CV boots a part of your post-ride check. Replacing a boot is cheap and easy; replacing an entire axle assembly is much more expensive.
Your Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems Care Guide: Best Practices for Prevention
The secret to avoiding most problems is proactive maintenance. Following a simple Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems care guide will save you time, money, and frustration. Adopting these best practices is the most sustainable way to enjoy your machine for years to come.
The Pre-Ride Check: Your First Line of Defense
Before every single ride, take 60 seconds to check these key items:
- Tires & Wheels: Check for proper air pressure and look for any damage.
- Controls & Cables: Ensure your throttle and brake levers move smoothly.
- Lights & Electrics: Quickly test your headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
- Oil & Fluids: Check engine oil and coolant levels. Look for any visible leaks.
- Chassis & Suspension: Give a quick look over for any loose, broken, or missing parts.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Ownership
Being a responsible rider means taking care of the machine and the environment. This is where eco-friendly Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems solutions come into play. Proper maintenance prevents fluid leaks that can contaminate trails and soil. When you do change your oil, coolant, or other fluids, always take them to a designated recycling center. A well-maintained machine also lasts longer, reducing waste and the resources needed for a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems
Why does my Sportsman 570 bog down or die when it gets hot?
This is a classic symptom that can point to a few things. It could be a failing fuel pump that weakens as it heats up, a vapor lock issue in the fuel line, or an electrical component like the stator or ignition coil that is failing under heat.
What is the absolute most common problem with the Sportsman 570?
While very reliable overall, the most frequently discussed issues tend to be related to normal wear items. These include the CVT drive belt, suspension bushings, and battery/charging system components like the voltage regulator. Regular inspection is key.
How often should I change the drive belt on my 570?
There’s no hard-and-fast rule, as it heavily depends on your riding style. A good practice is to inspect it every 50 hours of use. Look for glazing, cracks, or excessive wear. Many serious riders proactively replace it every 100-150 hours and always carry their old, good belt as a trail spare.
Is the Polaris Sportsman 570 a reliable ATV?
Yes, absolutely. The Polaris Sportsman 570 is widely considered one of the most reliable and capable ATVs in its class. The problems listed in this guide are common to nearly all modern ATVs and can almost always be prevented or managed with a solid maintenance routine.
Owning a Polaris Sportsman 570 is about freedom and capability. By understanding its common issues and learning how to perform basic diagnostics and maintenance, you empower yourself to solve problems quickly and get back to what matters most. Remember to always work safely, consult your owner’s manual, and don’t be afraid to tackle these jobs. Stay safe and enjoy the ride!
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