Common Polaris Ranger Problems

The Polaris Ranger is held in high regard for good reason. The Ranger is sturdy, reliable, and a blast on the trails. However, just like every other UTV, the Ranger is fallible. 

Proactively address those fallibilities as they arise and you’ll take to the trails with confidence. This is your inside look at the problems most likely to occur when owning a Polaris Ranger.

Engine and Performance Issues

The Ranger’s engine is reliable yet mechanical problems are inevitable 

The Polaris Ranger engine has the potential to overheat. The engine is especially susceptible to overheating when pushed to the max during the dog days of summer. 

Strenuous treks through muddy terrain also have the potential to overwork the engine. However, such engine issues are most likely to arise after the UTV is several years old.

Poor engine performance is commonly caused by compromised fuel injectors and fuel pump failure. When it comes to fuel injector issues, dirt is the primary culprit. If you notice your Ranger sputters, has diminished power, doesn’t start, or stalls out mid-ride, there is likely an issue with the engine.

There is also the potential for connector corrosion and a weak battery to damage the Ranger engine. If your ride experiences such issues or overheating, check the radiator for blockages, mud, and/or debris. 

Take a look at the thermostat as well. If the thermostat malfunctions, the coolant will have to be flushed and replaced. In some cases, such flushing and replacement have the potential to remedy overheating.

In other cases, the fuel pump is the underlying problem. Test the pump to guarantee it has sufficient pressure. If the fuel pump is even slightly malfunctioning, it should be replaced with a new one.

If the engine malfunction is attributable to an electrical problem, clean and inspect the connectors and terminals. Even a small amount of dirt on the terminals and connectors can cause problems. 

There is also the option of upgrading to a heavy-duty battery suitable for tough off-road conditions.

Transmission and Drivetrain Problems

These key structural UTV components are essential for vehicle control and acceleration

The Ranger’s transmission and drivetrain won’t last forever. If you find shifting becomes challenging after years of use, don’t panic. This is a common issue reported by Ranger owners. 

In particular, Ranger owners often complain of problems with moving from park into first gear or reverse. Such challenges typically arise when hauling a heavy load in the bed. Moreover, those who commonly use their Ranger to tow often report clutch misalignment with early wear and tear on the belt.

If you notice your Ranger’s transmission isn’t working as it should, take a look at the transmission fluid. Replace dirty fluid right away. It is also wise to inspect the CVT belt for wear and tear. If the belt is worn, replace it without delay and you’ll find the clutch performance significantly improves.

When in doubt, check the clutch alignment. The alignment might have linkage problems that will facilitate fluid gear shifts after repair. The last resort is a high-performance clutch kit for Ranger users who use their UTV for regular towing and hauling.

Suspension and Steering Concerns

Challenging terrain has the potential to take a toll on your Ranger’s steering and suspension

Sift through the Polaris Ranger reviews and you’ll find a recurring theme: the rack and pinion eventually become problematic. 

A significant number of Polaris owners report major steering issues. Though some such steering problems are the result of driver error and unsafe driving, there appears to be an underlying issue with the rack and pinion design/functionality. 

Read the reviews closely and you’ll find the tie rods and their ends are often cited as the primary problem. If you find your Ranger’s rack and pinion are deformed, consider bending the steering rack’s shaft. The alternative is to add an aftermarket or stock rack and pinion. 

Every Ranger owner should be aware that bending the rack and pinion might lead to a full break during a ride far off the beaten path. If replacing the tie rods/ends isn’t sufficient, a full rack assembly along with inner/outer tie rods will be necessary.

It might even be possible to perform a DIY (do it yourself) repair at home. If you have a mechanical aptitude, you might feel comfortable removing the tie rod ends from the steering assembly.  

When in doubt, opt for an upgrade or replacement for peace of mind.

Maintenance and Prevention Tips

Prolong the useful life of your Ranger and minimize repairs with a strategic approach

Regular maintenance has the potential to significantly prolong the life of your Ranger. As is often said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Maintenance is especially important after particularly grueling rides. 

The underbody and exterior will need a thorough cleaning after riding through challenging terrain including:

• Water
• Mud
• Sand
• Moist Areas

Such conditions have the potential to cause corrosion and rust. Aggressive rides and those on sand, mud, and water also have the potential to wear the brake pads. Flush the brakes with regularity to ensure they function as designed. 

Check the caliper components when conducting annual maintenance. Those components should be greased at least once each season. There is even the potential for corrosion to form in the internal connectors and wiring. Be sure to check those connectors for dirt. If you find any such soiling or slight corrosion, use dielectric grease to clean and seal them. 

If you suspect your vehicle’s wires are corroded or frayed, ask a professional UTV mechanic for guidance. Faulty sensors might be the underlying problem. If so, the mechanic will scan the system with an ECU tuner to identify the specific units for replacement.

Tips & Conclusion

Treat your Ranger right and it will serve you well for years to come

Most of the Polaris Ranger problems detailed above can be avoided with regular maintenance. Stay up-to-date on your maintenance schedule to pinpoint the early warning signs of those issues. Address these seemingly minor problems as soon as they arise and your ride will function as designed. 

Though frequent maintenance requires time and effort, it pays massive dividends across posterity. Seasonal inspections and upkeep have the potential to save you thousands of dollars in repair costs in the years ahead. 

FAQs

Q1: Will the Ranger battery eventually falter?

A1: Yes. Every UTV and vehicle battery drains in due time. However, you don’t have to eliminate all Polaris Ranger accessories & parts. Nor is there a need to alter electrical components to prevent such drainage. Aftermarket add-ons with dedicated relays and fuses help make efficient use of power. Consider a battery maintainer for full power functionality with all the add-ons running.  

Q2: How can I preserve the brakes?

A2: If your ride takes on too much sand or mud, the brake pads will wear prematurely. Rapid brake pad wear leads to delayed and poor braking. Older Rangers are also more likely to have a sponge-like feel to braking after years of wear and tear. When in doubt, be safe rather than sorry with timely brake pad replacement. 

Q3: What’s that rattling sound coming from the sides of the vehicle?

A3: If you hear a rattle, it might be emanating from the Ranger’s plastic doors and panels. Older Ranger models are especially likely to make the noise as their hinges loosen with time. Replace the hinges and/or upgrade the doors and panels to eliminate the noise.

Q4: Why is my Ranger squeaking and/or handling looser than normal?

A4: Such problems result from riding across rough terrain. Harsh terrain has the potential to compromise the suspension and steering system. The ball joints, tie rods, and/or bushings might need repair or replacement. 

If the steering rack is original stock, it might be the root cause of loose handling. Consider adding heavy-duty Polaris accessories & parts to strengthen the Ranger’s performance and durability.