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Polaris 550 - User Manual

Polaris 550
148 pages
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PMS 419
Read this manual carefully. It contains important safety information.
This is an adult vehicle only.
Operation is prohibited for those under 16 years of age.
Owner's Manual
for Maintenance and Safety
Sportsman 550
Sportsman 550 EPS
Sportsman 850 XP
Sportsman 850 XP EPS

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • L
    Lisa JohnsonAug 13, 2025
    What to do if my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turns over but fails to start?
    • A
      alexanderkelseyAug 13, 2025
      If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle's engine turns over but won't start, consider these potential causes and solutions: * Out of fuel: Refuel, cycle the key to the ON position three times for 5 seconds each, then start. * Water is present in fuel: Drain the fuel system and refuel. * Old or non-recommended fuel: Replace with fresh, recommended fuel. * Fouled or defective spark plugs: Inspect plugs and replace if necessary. * No spark to spark plug: Inspect plugs, verify the stop switch is on. * Low battery voltage: Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC.
  • M
    Mr. Rodney SmithAug 17, 2025
    What to do if my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine stops or loses power?
    • S
      Steven KellerAug 17, 2025
      If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine stops or loses power, here's what might be happening and how to address it: * Out of fuel: Refuel, cycle key to ON position three times for 5 seconds each, then start. * Kinked or plugged fuel vent line: Inspect and replace. * Water is present in fuel: Replace with new fuel. * Fouled or defective spark plugs: Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plug. * Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range: Set gap to specs or replace plug. * Loose ignition connections: Check all connections and tighten. * Low battery voltage: Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC. * Incorrect fuel: Replace with fresh recommended fuel. * Clogged air filter: Inspect and clean or replace.
  • M
    Michele MurilloAug 21, 2025
    Why won't my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turn over?
    • J
      James HaleyAug 21, 2025
      If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine won't turn over, it could be due to: * Low battery voltage: Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC. * Loose battery connections: Check all connections and tighten. * Loose solenoid connections: Check all connections and tighten.
  • J
    Jason LeeAug 28, 2025
    Why does my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine run irregularly, stall, or misfire?
    • M
      Michael MatthewsAug 28, 2025
      If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine runs irregularly, stalls, or misfires, consider these potential causes: * Fouled or defective spark plugs: Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plugs. * Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range: Set gap to specs or replace plugs. * Loose ignition connections: Check all connections and tighten. * Water present in fuel: Replace with new fuel. * Low battery voltage: Recharge battery to 12.8 VDC. * Kinked or plugged fuel tank vent line: Inspect and replace. * Incorrect fuel: Replace with recommended fuel. * Clogged air filter: Inspect and clean or replace.
  • B
    Brandon WalkerSep 1, 2025
    What causes a Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine to backfire?
    • S
      Shawn SalazarSep 1, 2025
      A Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine might backfire due to: * Weak spark from spark plug: Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plugs. * Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range: Set gap to specs or replace plugs. * Old or non-recommended fuel: Replace with fresh recommended fuel. * Water present in fuel: Replace with fresh recommended fuel. * Loose ignition connections: Check all connections and tighten.
  • C
    charles16Sep 4, 2025
    What causes my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine to ping or knock?
    • T
      Tyler RodriguezSep 5, 2025
      Your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine may ping or knock due to: * Poor quality or low octane fuel: Replace with recommended fuel. * Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range: Set gap to specs or replace plugs.
  • B
    Barbara MoralesSep 8, 2025
    What causes a Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine to overheat?
    • J
      James ChristensenSep 8, 2025
      A Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine can overheat due to: * Debris lodged in the screen: Clean the screen. * Plugged Radiator: Use a garden hose to flush any debris from the radiator fins. Note: High pressure washers can deform the radiator fins and reduce cooling efficiency.
  • N
    Nicole WilsonNov 23, 2025
    Why is my Polaris Offroad Vehicle drive belt wearing or burning?
    • J
      jimenezkennethNov 23, 2025
      Drive belt wear or burn in your Polaris Offroad Vehicle can occur due to several reasons: * Driving onto a pickup or tall trailer in high range. Always use low range during loading. * Starting out going up a steep incline. Use low range or turn around using the K-turn. * Driving at low RPM or ground speed (3-7 MPH). Drive at a higher speed or use low range more frequently. * Insufficient warm-up at low ambient temperatures. Warm the engine at least 5 minutes, advancing the throttle to about 1/8 in short bursts with the transmission in neutral. * Slow/easy clutch engagement. Use the throttle quickly and effectively. * Towing/pushing at low RPM/low ground speed. Use low range only. * Utility use/plowing. Use low range only. * Stuck in mud or snow. Shift to low range and car...

Summary

Introduction

Safety Warnings and Symbols

Explains signal words and symbols used in the manual and on the vehicle for safety.

Vehicle Identification Numbers

Information on recording vehicle identification numbers and key numbers for identification and security.

Safety

Safety Training

Emphasizes ATV safety training, details available courses, and provides resources for obtaining training.

Safe Riding Gear

Details essential protective gear for ATV riding, including helmet, eye protection, gloves, and clothing.

Age Restrictions and Training

States the vehicle is for adults only, prohibits under 16, and stresses the need for proper instruction and training.

Hazardous Operation Warnings

Warns about handling gasoline, exhaust fumes, alcohol/drugs, and the risks of improper operation.

Critical Riding Safety

Covers warnings on carrying passengers, operating on pavement/roads, and excessive speeds.

Control and Maneuvering Safety

Details safety regarding physical control, improper turning, jumps, stunts, and hill climbing.

Safety Labels and Locations

Explains the purpose of warning labels for protection and how to obtain replacements.

Reverse Override Warning;4 X4 Caution

Covers warnings about override button use and cautions against engaging 4X4 with spinning wheels.

Tire Pressure;Load Warning

Warns that improper tire pressure or overloading can cause loss of control, leading to injury or death.

Features and Controls

Switches Overview

Introduces key switches like Mode/Reverse Override, 4X4, and Headlight switches.

Automatic Transmission Gear Selector

Details the transmission gear selector positions (H, L, N, R, P) and shifting procedures.

Throttle Lever

Explains how the throttle lever controls engine speed and mentions the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.

Master Cylinder;Brake Fluid

Details how to check and maintain brake fluid levels, noting its hygroscopic nature and required type.

All Wheel Drive System

Explains that the All Wheel Drive system is controlled by the 4X4 switch.

Instrument Cluster

Introduces the instrument cluster, including its speedometer, indicator lamps, and rider information center.

Engine Error Codes

Details how engine error codes are displayed when the CHECK ENGINE light is illuminated.

EPS Warning Indicator

Details the EPS Warning Indicator, which illuminates if the Electronic Power Steering system is inoperative.

Operation

Break-In Period

Outlines the break-in period for new vehicles, emphasizing its importance for performance and life.

Safe Operation Practices

Summarizes key safe operation practices, including training, age restrictions, passenger prohibition, and general safety rules.

Driving Uphill

Offers precautions for driving uphill, including using ADC 4X4, driving straight, and checking terrain.

Driving Through Water

Details precautions for driving through water, including maximum depth and avoiding hazardous conditions.

Hauling Cargo

Covers precautions for hauling cargo, including reducing speed, not exceeding weight capacity, and proper distribution.

Emission Control Systems

Noise Emission Control System

Warns against modifying engine, intake, or exhaust components to maintain compliance with noise regulations.

Exhaust Emission Control System

Describes how exhaust emissions are controlled by engine design and the EFI system.

Maintenance

Periodic Maintenance Chart

Introduces the periodic maintenance chart for keeping the vehicle in safe, reliable condition.

Engine Oil Change

Details the procedure for changing the engine oil and filter.

Cooling System

Guides on checking the coolant level in the recovery bottle and radiator.

Tires

Warns that worn or improperly maintained tires affect vehicle handling and can cause accidents.

Tire Tread Depth

Advises replacing tires when the tread depth is worn to 1/8" (3 mm) or less.

Fuse Replacement

Explains when and how to replace a blown fuse to resolve electrical issues.

Troubleshooting

Drive Belt Wear;Burn

Lists possible causes for drive belt wear/burn and corresponding solutions.

Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start

Lists common causes and solutions for the engine turning over but failing to start.

Engine Runs Irregularly, Stalls or Misfires

Covers common reasons for the engine running irregularly, stalling, or misfiring.

Engine Overheating

Explains causes of engine overheating, such as debris in the screen or a plugged radiator.

Polaris Products

Engine Lubricant

Lists POLARIS recommended engine lubricants, including fogging oil and PS-4 PLUS oil.

Gearcase; Transmission Lubricants

Lists POLARIS recommended lubricants for gearcases and transmissions.

Grease; Specialized Lubricants

Lists POLARIS recommended greases and specialized lubricants.

Additives; Miscellaneous

Lists POLARIS additives and miscellaneous products like fuel stabilizer and battery tender.

Specifications

SPORTSMAN 550; 550 EPS

Provides detailed specifications for the Sportsman 550 / 550 EPS models, covering capacities and dimensions.

SPORTSMAN 850 XP; 850 XP EPS

Provides detailed specifications for the Sportsman 850 XP / 850 XP EPS models.

Warranty

LIMITED WARRANTY

Outlines the terms of the limited warranty for POLARIS All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs).

REGISTRATION

Explains the importance of completing and submitting the Warranty Registration Form for warranty coverage.

WARRANTY COVERAGE AND EXCLUSIONS

Details exclusions from warranty coverage, including damage from abuse, wear, and non-defective parts.

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE

Provides instructions on how to obtain warranty service by taking the ATV to an authorized POLARIS dealer.

U.S.A. EPA Emissions Limited Warranty

Details the emissions limited warranty, ensuring conformity with EPA regulations and freedom from defects affecting emissions.

Maintenance Log

MAINTENANCE LOG

Explains the purpose of the maintenance log and instructs users to present it to their dealer during service.

Polaris 550 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandPolaris
Model550
CategoryOffroad Vehicle
LanguageEnglish

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