10 Most Common Problems with Polaris Ranger 700 XP(With Fix)

Polaris Ranger 700 XP is one of the most effective UTV vehicles in the off-roading community. It is a powerful vehicle with a liquid-cooled engine and twin cylinders, producing 40 hp.

This vehicle has introduced an electronic fuel injection system and is known for its 700 engines. However, despite all these features, Polaris Ranger 700 XP has shown some common problems which can be solved through maintenance. What are the 10 most common problems with Polaris Ranger 700 XP?

The 10 most common problems associated with Polaris Ranger 700 XP are:

1. Issue with TPS sensor
   
2. Lack of power
   
3. Insufficient pressure in the fuel tank
   
4. Clunk sounds
   
5. Issue with air filters
   
6. Issue with ECM communication
   
7. Bad starter problem
   
8. Clogging in air filter
   
9. Problems with the ignition switch
   
10. Acceleration issues with the vehicle

1. Issue with TPS Sensor:

TPS sensor, also known as a Throttle Position Sensor, monitors the air intake in the vehicle’s engine. Sometimes, the issue occurs with the TPS sensor due to adjustment or calibration.

When the Polaris Ranger 700 XP TPS sensor is out of work, it hinders the monitoring of air intake in the vehicle’s engine, leading to issues with UTV.

The issues with adjustment arise due to lack of power including stalling, acceleration, and rough idle. This issue is considered a manufacturing error that can be fixed easily by an auto-mechanic. A mechanic can check the calibration of the TPS sensor and can fix this issue.

How to Fix the TPS Sensor Problem:

• Get the TPS sensor checked by a professional to see if the issue is calibrated or not.
  
• It can be a standard manufacturing error, so get the TPS connected to the nearby Polaris dealer.
  
• You can reset the TPS in a simple way to fix the issue with Polaris Ranger, as it is a minor problem.

You can test the TPS by using the tool designed by Polaris or back-probe the yellow wire at the connector with a multi-meter and watch the voltage as you run up the throttle.

It is expected to increase smoothly, not drastically. It’s hard to do as the voltage level on the multi-meter will run up quickly.
TPS:#2410342TPS Sensor Tester:#2201519-A‘09′ 700’s / .660 Volts

2. Lack of Power:

Polaris Ranger XP 700 has also shown problems with power. However, the users of this vehicle have complained that despite this issue, the engine runs fine and bogs upon using the accelerator.

The common reason behind this issue is the torn-out wiring or a dirty TBAP (Temperature & Barometric Air Pressure) sensor.

How to Fix the Power Issue:

The 2 causes behind this power issue are dirty TBAP sensors and torn wiring.

It is recommended to check both cases and the wiring correctly to fix this problem.

3. Insufficient Pressure in Fuel Tank:

The Polaris ranger 700 XP has reported issues of bogging down due to low fuel pressure. It cuts out when the user drives at 25 mph and operates sluggishly, fixed by pressing the full accelerator.

You can look for several symptoms to check if your fuel pump is failing. One sign is poor performance in the top RPM range, where it isn’t easy to get into the upper RPMs. Performance may also decline on acceleration and when climbing hills or making high-speed maneuvers.

The fuel pump issue isn’t just inconvenient; it can also cause serious harm not only to your car’s engine but to its transmission and other essential parts.

How to Fix the Issue of Insufficient Pressure:

When the Polaris ranger ran out of fuel, the issue is due to shutdown or bogging. It occurs due to the accumulation of debris on the engine’s body.

You can clean the debris to fix this issue.

TPS sensor also gets affected due to accelerator position, so the sensor should be dealt with appropriately.

You can test the fuel pump by checking the fuel pressure under load (in gear at the wide open throttle) by hooking up a fuel pressure gauge to the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. The reading must be 39 psi (+-1 psi)

4. Clunk Sounds:

I was driving through a few months ago and noticed a strange clunking noise coming from the rear end of the vehicle.

Clunking would be more frequent as the car brakes, accelerates, coasts, or has 4 WD engaged. Also, there is no change in clunking with engine speed.

Along with this, another issue was detected, which reports that the car does not respond in another direction due to the presence of this issue.

The forward and backward gears become inactive in such a state, and the driving belt is responsible for this issue.

How to Fix the Clunk Sounds:

Polaris Ranger XP 700 reports the issue of a clunk sound, which can be due to a driving belt. You can remove the belt cover to see if there is any broken or damaged area.

You can change the belt after ensuring the issue is due to a broken belt.

5. Issue with Air Filters:

Clogged air filters in the vehicle are also a significant problem. It is due to too much dust while driving on roads. 

The air filter or fuel area gets blocked due to excess entry of debris and corrosion.

How to Fix the Issue with Air Filters:

You should regularly clean the Polaris or solve this clogging issue of the air filter. Sometimes, the problem can be due to loose wiring or bad spark plugs.

It is advisable to check the electrical coils, fuel pumps, or spark plugs when the engine went out of order.

6. Issue with ECM Communication:

ECU or ECM, known as engine control unit or engine control module, provides maximum performance to the engine. Polaris Ranger XP 700 is equipped with ECM and controls the engine. It ensures the optimal performance of the engine.

Sometimes, when ECM is not in the position of communicating with the vehicle, it detects problems with a machine, like misfires and lags.

The engine control unit of the Polaris Ranger requires valid data to work correctly. If you are facing such an issue, you can test the working of the ECU for the Polaris Ranger or use an OBD-2 code scanner to check the ECM.

How to Fix the ECM Problem:

• You can check the plug on the ECM to see whether its a little toasty. The pin can get melted in the plug and come out with it.
  
• You can seek help from an auto repair shop to make the ECM communication work at a pace.

You can find the part number as below for 05/06 700 Ranger XP’s:

• The 16 pin plug – 15326666
  The 14 pin Plug – 15326917
  
• Connectors Pins for inside of Plugs – 15304718
  
• Seals for the Plugs – 12191221 or 15366066 Note: you can use either one depending on supplier’s stock.
  
• Cavity Plugs for the Plug – 15305170
  
• Connectors Pins for inside of Plugs – 15304718
  
• Seals for the Plugs – 12191221 or 15366066 Note: you can use either one depending on supplier’s stock.
  
• Cavity Plugs for the Plug – 15305170

7. Bad Starter Problem:

The starter in the Polaris Ranger is a kind of motor that delivers power to the engine for rotating from the battery. There is no significant difference between a car starter and a UTV.

The engine gets no power when the starter relay and motor go bad. In such a situation, Polaris Ranger XP 700 cranks out and doesn’t start.

When you turn the engine off and try to start it back up, the starter makes a whining noise before grinding like it's tearing teeth off the flywheel. Once it cools for a while, it'll start as it should.

Thus, owning a functional starter for your vehicle is essential. Unfortunately, UTV starters can become defective due to loose belts, corroded batteries, and oil leakage.

How to Fix the Starter Problems:

• You should replace the starter for your UTV Polaris Ranger if it has been working for over three years. Old starters can cause issues, so UTV starters are advised to be replaced after 3-5 years of driving.
  
• You should keep the starter in good use and prevent the battery’s corrosion and oil leakage.
  
• If there is loose wiring and belts, you can thigh and make sure to inspect the connections of the starter.

8. Clogging in Air Filter:

Air filter clogging is a common problem associated with Polaris Ranger XP 700. An air filter ensures clean air enters the engine for better working.

Clogging in the air filter can create a mess in the UTV. In addition, the clogged air filter UTV cannot prevent the dust, sand, and dirt from getting into the vehicle's engine. 

Dust and dirt can easily enter the engine as the air filter of the Polaris 700 XP are not so effective.

How to Fix the Air Filter Problem:

• It is advisable to clean the air filter frequently to avoid problems with it. You should keep an eye on the air filter of your Polaris Ranger 700 XP to avoid such issues.
  
• You can replace the air filter after several rides, which is a good option for better working. It is recommended to change the air filter once a year.

9. Problems with Ignition Switch:

Sometimes, the users complain of disrupting the working of the Polaris Ranger 700 XP ignition switch. It is a problem associated with old models of Polaris Rangers. The ignition key get stuck while turning or dies suddenly while driving. The problem can also occur if there is excessive heat inside.

If an issue is detected with the ignition switch of UTV, it cannot provide power to the vehicle’s starter motors. The UTV does not start properly when it does not gets enough power. The cranky UTV engine does not start with an ignition switch.

How to Fix the Problem with Ignition Switch:

• Step 1: Position the Ignition key
  
• Step 2: Dig the discharge pin into the ignition module
  
• Step 3: Remove the ignition key
  
• Step 4: Take the new ignition key and replace

10. Acceleration Issues with Polaris Ranger 700 XP:

Polaris Ranger 700 XP is a UTV that is powerful and durable. However, one of the common problems that arise with the vehicle is the lack of acceleration.

Many claim that this UTV needs to provide more power after a year of use. It becomes difficult to ride if a person uses the Polaris Ranger 700 XP for heavy-duty work.

There are TBAP sensors on the vehicles that help in accomplishing the management of fuel. You can check out these sensors if there is an issue with the car.

How to Fix the Acceleration Issue:

• If you want to fix the acceleration issues with Polaris, you can check out their TBAP sensors located on the vehicle.
  
• You can check the fuel delivery system of UTVs. The problems with such a system can also make the acceleration work slowly.

You check for codes. If 22 pops up, replace the TPS and recalibrate it. Also, check and clean the TBAP and the connector. It could also happen that the wires leading to it are faulty. When they break internally, the insulation usually remains intact. So it isn't easy to find from the outside.

Is Polaris Ranger 700 XP Reliable?

• While the Polaris Ranger 700 XP is considered a rather old-school side-by-side UTV, it is still quite reliable.
  
• The front suspension of the Polaris Ranger 700 XP is a MacPherson strut with 8.0 in of travel and Independent 9.0in of travel for rear suspension on Polaris Ranger 700 XP UTV.
  
• The Polaris Ranger 700 XP has a PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) transmission that is very reliable.
  
• The Polaris Ranger has a dry weight of 1185 pounds (539 kg), which helps it avoid rolling over.

The Polaris Ranger 700 XP UTV remains a tried and true UTV.

Polaris Ranger 700 XP- Pros And Cons:

What You Should Consider Before Buying Polaris Ranger 700 XP:

When making the purchase decision of the Polaris Ranger 700 XP, it is essential to be aware of some critical points. Then, it will make your choice more accurate than ever before.

1. Bigger Size: 

The Polaris Ranger 700 XP UTV is designed for work and has more space than the other models.

2. Poor Towing Capacity: 

The towing capacity of the Polaris Ranger 700 XP is not outstanding. It only offers a towing capacity of 1750 pounds.

3. Cheaper: 

Yes, in general, UTVs are on the more expensive side. But, Polaris Ranger 700 XP UTV at a reasonable price. Check the price here as per your need.

4. Scarcity of Polaris Ranger 700 XP: 

Unlike any other UTV, the Polaris Ranger 700 XP UTV is only sometimes available for purchase at all Polaris dealers. You will have to be persistent until you finally find one.

5. Very Fast: 

As we all know, ATVs offer a speed advantage over UTVs because they are more nimble. However, Polaris Ranger 700XP can go 50 mph, which is considered a fast off-roading vehicle.

Final Thought:

Polaris Ranger XP 700 can be excellent, but it does have some limits that you’ll need to consider. Because of these limitations, people often face the earlier mentioned and explained challenges.

Despite its few cons, the Polaris Ranger 700xp is still one of the top UTV models from the Ranger brand. I recommend getting a regular tune-up to avoid any problems. You can even work with a professional for a more thorough inspection.

Also Read:

ATV Vs Quad- Differences That You Need to Know
Can You do Yard Work with an ATV? All You Need to Know
What Size ATV Do I Need to Buy for Off-Roading?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What do you mean by a TPS on Polaris Ranger?

The term TPS related to Polaris Ranger means Throttle position scanner. It fits nicely on the Polaris ranger sportsman.

How fast can a 2008 Polaris Ranger 700 acquire speed?

Polaris ranger XP 700 is a vehicle powered by an excellent Polaris twin-cylinder EFI engine. It pumps out 40 horsepower. As a result, this vehicle can attain a rate of 50 mph as a top speed and 1750 lb.

Which kind of Polaris Ranger has the maximum horsepower?

The Pro R Polaris Ranger is considered the best one is having a perfect engine and maximum horsepower. It has a 4-stroke inline four-cylinder engine with an electronic fuel injection battery or a fuel system. This vehicle has a horsepower of 225 HP.

How fast can a person drive the Polaris Ranger using tracks?

A person can drive around 40 miles per hour in ideal conditions. However, it is advisable not to attain a speed of more than 20 mph on deep snow and icy roads.

What is the worth of the Polaris Ranger 700?

The base price of the Polaris Ranger 700 is in between the range of $5345-$9499.

How can a person calibrate the position sensor of the accelerator pedal?

The ignition switch should be kept for recalibrating the ECM and accelerator pedal. Using the accelerator pedal from idle to full throttle is advisable.

In which year did the Polaris Ranger start to fuel injection?

 The Polaris ranger began to fuel the injection in 2005. This year, the manufacturers bought many changes and improvements in the Ranger vehicle. They also added a dual-arm rear suspension with electronic fuel injection.

Which year did the Polaris get its power steering?

The Polaris got its power steering in the year 2011. It is one of the most valuable assets and offers fewer fatigue rides even on rugged terrain.

Which vehicle is considered better: Honda Pioneer or a Polaris Ranger?

The difference between these two vehicles is in comfort zone and reliability. Polaris Ranger can boost the high-tech add-ons. Honda Pioneer has unparalleled dependability. Both of these vehicles are purpose-built vehicles.

Which 4-seater side-by-side vehicle is considered a fast one?

The fastest 4-seater side-by-side vehicle is the Can-Am’s Turbo RR model. On the other hand, the model X3 Max X Turbo is the lightest four-seater model providing quick acceleration.

Which is the best brand for the side-by-side?

The best brand for a side-by-side UTV includes a wide range including:

• Yamaha Wolverine X2 model
  
• Hisun Strike 1000 EPS model
  
• Polaris General 1000 premium model
  
• Cam-Am Maverick X3 model
  
• Nikola NZT model