The Polaris Ranger, a leading brand when it comes to the production of utility task vehicles (UTVs), has been a major player in the off-road leisure and utilities market. This rugged series has been around since 1997, meeting the needs of many adventurous users. However, like every mechanical device, certain years and models of this vehicle reported more issues than others. In this blog post, we delve deep into the subject, focusing on the Polaris Ranger years you may want to avoid.
Understanding the Polaris Ranger Series
Understanding the make-up of the Polaris Ranger series is essential to grasp why certain years could be problematic.
Brief History
The Polaris Ranger made its debut in 1997, and since then, it has become renowned for its durability, versatility, and power. The Ranger series varies widely, from two-seater models perfect for adrenaline-pumping escapades to six-seater versions crafted for work applications. The series includes:
– Ranger 500
– Ranger 570
– Ranger EV
– Ranger 1000
– Ranger XP 1000
What Makes Polaris Ranger Stand Out?
Polaris Ranger stands out for several reasons — its incredible capacity for work and recreation, robust designs, comfortable rides, superior power, impressive haul and tow ratings. Ironically, these wonderful features are sometimes overshadowed by certain issues users have faced over the years.
Polaris Ranger Years to Avoid: A Deeper Insight
Certain years of the Polaris Ranger series have had an extra handful of mechanical issues. Here, we delve into the problematic years and some prevalent problems encountered during those periods.
Ranger 900 From 2013 -2017
The Polaris Ranger 900, introduced in 2013, quickly became a crowd favourite. However, a distinct characteristic with this model from 2013 to 2017 was an inherent overheating issue. Several owners complained about the machine running hot, particularly when used in warm weather or for prolonged periods.
Ranger 800 From 2010 – 2014
Although the Ranger 800 is one of the Ranger series’ best-sellers, the models from 2010 to 2014 were reported to have frequent belt and transmission failures.
Ranger XP 900 From 2013 – 2020
The Polaris Ranger XP 900 models from 2013 to 2020 dealt users a fair share of troubles. Some of these issues included faulty digital displays, constant fuse failures, and frequent stalling.
Common Problems Among the Polaris Ranger Series
Several problems were found to be more prevalent in certain years across the Polaris Ranger series:
Belt and Clutch Issues
Polaris Ranger vehicles are notorious for belt and clutch issues, leading to the loss of power transfer and troubles in shifting gears. This seems to be particularly common in the 2010 to 2014 models of the Ranger 800 and the 2013 to 2017 models of the Ranger 900.
Overheating Problems
The models from 2013 to 2017 often experienced overheating, especially during warmer climate conditions or long usage periods. Over time, this could lead to significant damage to the engine.
Transmission Failures
Transmission-related problems, including difficulty in shifting gears, were a common trouble with Rangers especially from 2010 to 2014.
Troubleshooting Polaris Ranger Problems
Here are some step-by-step guides to address the problems we’ve discussed:
Solving Overheating Problems
1. Firstly, check the coolant levels.
2. If low, refill with the right coolant.
3. Investigate further if the coolant drain is frequent. This could indicate internal leakage.
Addressing Belt and Clutch issues
1. On identifying trouble, begin by inspecting the drive belt for wear and tear.
2. Replace if necessary with a quality aftermarket or Polaris belt.
3. Regular service maintenance could also help.
If your Polaris Ranger experiences severe issues or consistent troubles despite regular maintenance, it might be wise to seek professional help. Knowing the models or years to be cautious about helps keep your adventures unhindered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered high mileage on a Polaris Ranger?
High mileage on a Polaris Ranger can vary depending on factors such as maintenance and usage. Generally, a Polaris Ranger is considered to have high mileage when it exceeds 10,000 miles. However, it’s important to note that these vehicles are designed to be durable and can often handle much higher mileage with proper care.
How many miles do Polaris Rangers last?
The lifespan of a Polaris Ranger largely depends on how well it is maintained and the conditions in which it is used. With regular maintenance and proper care, a Polaris Ranger can easily last for over 15,000 miles. However, it’s not uncommon to find Rangers that have been driven well past the 20,000-mile mark.
What is a lot of hours on a Polaris Ranger?
The number of hours on a Polaris Ranger can also vary depending on factors such as maintenance and usage. Generally, a lot of hours on a Polaris Ranger would be considered anything over 500 hours. However, many Rangers can be used well beyond this point and still perform reliably if they have been properly maintained.
What is the break-in period for a Polaris Ranger?
The break-in period for a Polaris Ranger refers to the initial period during which the engine and other components should be treated with care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Typically, the break-in period for a Polaris Ranger is around 25 to 50 hours of operation. During this period, it is recommended to avoid heavy towing or hauling loads, maintain moderate speeds, and frequently check oil levels and other fluid levels.
Do Polaris Rangers require regular maintenance?
Yes, like any other vehicle, Polaris Rangers require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning and longevity. Regular maintenance tasks include oil changes, air filter replacements, brake inspections, belt replacements, and general inspection of components. The specific maintenance intervals and tasks can be found in the Polaris Ranger owner’s manual.
What type of oil should I use in my Polaris Ranger?
Polaris recommends using Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic Engine Oil for their Rangers. This oil is specifically formulated to provide optimum protection and performance for Polaris engines. It is important to use the correct type and grade of oil as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure the best results.
How often should I change the oil in my Polaris Ranger?
The oil change interval for a Polaris Ranger will depend on several factors including the model year, engine type, and usage conditions. As a general guideline, it is recommended to change the oil at least once a year or every 100 hours of operation, whichever comes first. However, it is always best to consult the owner’s manual for the specific recommendations for your particular model.
Can I use regular gasoline in my Polaris Ranger?
No, Polaris Rangers should not use regular unleaded gasoline. Polaris recommends using gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Additionally, it is important to use fuel that is free of ethanol, as ethanol-blended fuels can cause damage to the engine and other components in the fuel system. It is best to use a high-quality gasoline specifically formulated for use in small engines.
What is the towing capacity of a Polaris Ranger?
The towing capacity of a Polaris Ranger can vary depending on the model and configuration. Generally, the towing capacity ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 pounds for most Polaris Ranger models. However, it is essential to consult the owner’s manual or check the specifications for the specific model to get the accurate towing capacity.
Can I use my Polaris Ranger for plowing snow?
Yes, many Polaris Ranger models are suitable for plowing snow. However, it is essential to ensure that the Ranger is properly equipped with a plow attachment and a winch to handle the workload. It’s also important to check the user manual for any specific recommendations or precautions when using the Ranger for snow plowing to prevent damage to the vehicle.