Polaris RZR 1000 Problems - Common Issues You Need to Know

Polaris has always stood for innovation. The Michigan company developed the first UTV. It also developed the first snowmobile in the 1950s and introduced the Scrambler ATC, the first American-made ATV.

In the year 2017, RZR was introduced by Polaris as a Ranger sub-brand. The RZR, which debuted as the quickest accelerating side-by-side, was a performance vehicle ready for the trails rather than a work-focused vehicle. The 2008 RZR 1000 was also far faster than similar vehicles at the time, reaching a top speed of 55 mph.

One thing that most Polaris RZR owners can agree on is the reliability of these UTVs. However, just as is common with all motor vehicles, unforeseen problems can still arise-usually at the most inconvenient and least expected times. 

Since the RZR 1000 is no exception to this rule, we wish to prepare you for the worst-case scenario by reviewing typical problems you may encounter with the Polaris RZR.

Common Issues You Need to Know About Polaris RZR 1000

• Dead Polaris RZR Batteries

You might be shocked to learn how many Polaris RZR owners have a dead battery. Numerous factors can contribute to this, from high temperatures to improperly installed wiring that continuously drains the battery. However, supplemental aftermarket devices appear to be one of the most common causes of a dead battery.

Winches, light bars, stereos, refrigerators, and similar devices all need a sizable amount of power to operate. And the RZR's stock battery is typically incapable of powering all of these aftermarket parts at once. So, it is not unsurprising to find your battery dead when starting your UTV at the end of a long day of use. 

Solution: There is a very simple modification to prevent this embarrassing event from happening in the first place: install a Polaris RZR Dual Battery Kit. In this configuration, the secondary battery powers your auxiliary accessories, whereas the primary battery guarantees that your side-by-side starts up consistently every time.

• Polaris RZR Suspension and Axle Problems

The stock Polaris RZR Axles and Suspension appears to be a second source of owner angst. But what's more intriguing is that the problems frequently appear to be related to misuse of the above-mentioned components, i.e., suspension and axle.

Regardless of the RZR's ability to handle any track or terrain, extremely difficult terrains will eventually really wear down the legs of your Polaris RZR. 

Huge potholes on poorly maintained back roads can quickly wear out the stock shocks. Also, shooting your UTV off jumps every weekend will not only cause more wear and tear on your shocks but could also result in an axle break and total disaster.

These two possibilities will both eventually necessitate maintenance.

Solution: Purchase stronger OEM or aftermarket replacement parts.

Replace your Polaris RZR shocks and axles with stronger, heavy-duty upgrades. These will result in a smoother ride and delay the wear and tear regardless of the abuse you subject your side-by-side to.

• Misfires in the Polaris RZR's engines

A rare but unpleasant occurrence for many RZR owners is having their check engine light and discovering that an engine cylinder is misfiring. Possible causes of a Polaris RZR engine misfire are damaged spark plugs and broken cable boots.

Spark plugs for Polaris RZRs often accumulate so much dirt on them that they can't function. Sometimes the spark plug is completely broken or has become rusted. We have even observed numerous defective spark plug cables, broken cable boots, and even a few instances of tree branches impaling the engine compartment and severing a cable entirely.

Solution: Replace spark plugs and fix severed cables by purchasing OEM replacements. 

• Air Intake Problems

Although the RZR 1000 is undoubtedly a powerful machine, the air filters have a problematic history. The issue with filters is that dust can get in. Possible causes of this are faulty filter seals and damaged canister fasteners. The latter's bolts deflect when the motor runs, causing dust to enter the motor readily. Air intake problems can trigger complete power loss. 

Solution: Replace air intake with high-quality aftermarket vehicle parts.

• Clutch malfunction

Clutch malfunctions are a common problem with the Polaris UTVs. This was largely the reason behind the recall of some 2020-2021 RZR 1000, RZR PRO XP, RZR XP Turbo, and Turbo S models. 

The major problem was the build of the clutches, which made them incapable of supporting huge loads at slow speeds. The clutches poor build also caused the release of nanoparticles from the clutch housing, posing a risk to users. 

Solution: Polaris recommends discontinuing the use of the vehicle upon discovery of such a problem. Contact a dealer immediately to have it fixed or get the vehicle replaced. 

• Non-Resilient Frame

Although the RZR 1000 is capable of withstanding heavy tension, the frame is not as sturdy as it ought to be. Although the roll cage has a lovely look, prolonged rugged use on tough terrains may cause it to bow unusually. Often this may cause the drive shaft to push up against the loop. 

Solution: Even though the RZR 100 like RZR PRO XP is designed for tough terrain, it is best to avoid hopping because each unusable jump would significantly reduce the ride's lifespan. Preferably purchase durable aftermarket parts that will be better suited for the terrain. 

• Weak Vehicle Front Differential

Weak front differential is another problem that is common with the RZR 1000. Users are prone to hearing a rattling sound particularly when the side-by-side is in 2WD and not in 4WD. One of the major causes of a weak front differential is driving styles. Another trigger is a broken roll pin in the ring gear which causes a part fallout. 

Solution: The best solution is to replace the roll pin anytime it gets bad to avoid further damage to your front diff. Alternatively, you may get a stronger roll pin and drill out the existing one. However, be careful to purchase one that measures the same length to avoid hitting whatever may be behind the pin.

• Transmission Problems

The transmission on this vehicle has problems as well. The transmission's robustness is the key problem here. It isn't strong enough. Common transmission problems are failed bearings and suspension spring problems. Failed bearings can occur on relatively smooth terrains such as beach sand. 

Solution: The sad truth is that Polaris bearings are significantly weaker than they should be and it would have been better if they took the time to acknowledge and resolve this issue. The only solution here to avoid busting your transmission is to opt for premium American aftermarket parts. Most Chinese products lack the required durability.

How To Care for your Polaris RZR 1000

Although many problems that are common with the RZR 1000 are innate to the vehicle, a couple of them are caused by human actions or errors.

Here are a few things that you may be doing to cause problems for your Polaris RZR 1000:

• Forgetting to change oil: Neglect accumulates and the mere act of forgetting to change the oil in your Polaris RZR can trigger tons of problems for your side-by-side. Like most RZR models, owners are expected to perform a break-in oil and filter change after every 50 cumulative hours of use or after every six months. Filter replacements should occur at the same time as the oil change to prevent the retention of debris and dirt.
• Failing to check your springs and shocks: According to the makers of the RZR 1000 Polaris and parts manufacturers Can-Am, the Polaris RZR 1000 shocks are built to last 1500 miles without fault. Therefore, it is important to rebuild them every 1500 miles to keep them fully functional.
• Your driving style: The way you drive your Polaris RZR is one of the major reasons why its parts may be wearing out quickly. Actions such as not wanting to get the loading ramps out for the trailer and burning it up, rock crawling, or getting in a bind. These actions can damage your clutch and belt and wear out parts of your stock frame quickly.

Polaris RZR 1000 Pros and Cons

Despite the few issues, the RZR 1000 is a fantastic vehicle that is miles ahead of the competition. Here is a brief outline of the benefits and drawbacks of owning this off-roader.

Pros:

• High Off-Roading Potential:This vehicle can handle any terrain, no matter how difficult. It can travel everywhere. It is even more astounding given that it has three adjustable coilovers.
• Insane Power:This Vehicle has a 925cc, 4-stroke turbocharged engine. A mind-blowing 181 horsepower may be produced by this engine. Furthermore, at 4000 RPM, this 2000-pound vehicle will accelerate higher than expected.
• Enormous room for customization: One of the major benefits of owning an RZR 1000 is the opportunity it provides owners to tweak to suit their needs. From gear lifts to air intake and shocks and spring mods, you can customize your RZR as you wish.

Cons:

• Issues involving air intake:Filters have the drawback that dust can enter them which makes customers frown at the vehicle.
• Clutch Failure Problem:This type of incident, occurs whenever a vehicle is moving slowly while hauling heavy cargo.
• Front Differential Is Weak:Another issue that frequently affects RZR 1000 cars is the front differential. Its relative weakness is reflected in the type of riding you may expect to do in this car.
• Transmission Problems:The transmission's robustness is the key problem here. It isn't strong enough. which makes it one of the challenging factors to consider before going to purchase the RZR 1000.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, it is nothing to say that RZR 1000 automobile is an amazing one. hence nothing exists without criticism. therefore, its imperfection is noticed to a high extent. But this has neither made people see how beautiful the car is.

Off-road excursions are the best way to explore the beach and/or the forest. And this is your best choice. Simply discover how to solve the issues that might develop with the car and enjoy the best experiences imaginable.