Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O 2012 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

R
Robert ObrienAug 13, 2025
What to do if my Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turns over but fails to start?
- M
  mark31Aug 13, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine turns over but doesn't start, consider these possible causes and solutions: * Out of fuel: Refuel. * Clogged fuel valve or filter: Inspect and clean or replace. * Water in fuel: Drain the fuel system and refuel. * Old or non-recommended fuel: Replace with fresh recommended fuel. * Fuel valve is turned off: Turn the fuel valve on. * Fouled or defective spark plug(s): Inspect plugs and replace if necessary. * No spark to spark plug: Inspect plugs, verify stop switch is on. * Water or fuel in crankcase: Immediately see your Polaris dealer. * Overuse of choke: Inspect, clean and/or replace spark plugs. * Low battery voltage: Recharge the battery to 12.8 VDC. * Mechanical failure: See your dealer.
D
Denise CruzAug 20, 2025
How to fix a Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine that doesn't turn over?
- M
  Michelle MatthewsAug 21, 2025
  If your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine doesn't turn over, check these potential issues: * Tripped circuit breaker: Reset the breaker. * 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.
D
Dwayne AyalaAug 31, 2025
Why does my Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O 2012 Offroad Vehicle engine backfire?
- J
  Joann SmithSep 1, 2025
  Your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine could be backfiring 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. * Incorrectly installed spark plug wires: See your dealer. * Incorrect ignition timing: See your dealer. * Mechanical failure: See your dealer. * Loose ignition connections: Check all connections and tighten. * Water present in fuel: Replace with fresh recommended fuel.
J
Jessica KellySep 4, 2025
How to prevent my Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O 2012 Offroad Vehicle engine from overheating?
- B
  Brian Lin PhDSep 4, 2025
  To prevent your Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine from overheating: * Check for debris lodged in the screen: Remove and clean the screen by pulling on the top portion first, then removing the lower portion. * Address a plugged radiator: Use a garden hose to flush any debris from the radiator fins. Note that high-pressure washers can deform the radiator fins and reduce cooling efficiency. * Clear an obstructed cooling fan: Clean any debris or mud that may be interfering with fan movement.
E
Eddie CooperSep 8, 2025
What causes a Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine to ping or knock?
- P
  Paul HansenSep 9, 2025
  A Polaris Offroad Vehicle engine may ping or knock due to: * Poor quality or low octane fuel: Replace with recommended fuel. * Incorrect ignition timing: See your dealer. * Incorrect spark plug gap or heat range: Set gap to specs or replace plugs.

Polaris Sportsman 500 H.O 2012 Specifications

General

Brand	Polaris
Model	Sportsman 500 H.O 2012
Category	Offroad Vehicle
Language	English

Summary

Introduction

Vehicle Identification Numbers

Record vehicle's identification numbers and key number for safekeeping.

Safety

Safe Riding Gear

Wear appropriate protective clothing for comfort and injury reduction.

Equipment Modifications

Recommends against modifications increasing speed/power, affecting warranty.

Safety Warnings

Details hazards of improper operation, age restrictions, and handling.

Safety Decals and Locations

Identifies and explains the location and meaning of various safety labels on the vehicle.

Features and Controls

Switches

Explains operation of key switches like Headlight, Engine Stop, AWD, Mode/Reverse Override.

Throttle Lever

Details operation of the throttle lever and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC).

Brake Lever

Explains the single-lever hydraulic brake system and checks.

Master Cylinder/Brake Fluid

Guidance on checking and maintaining brake fluid levels.

Operation

Break-In Period

Procedures for breaking in the engine and drivetrain for optimal performance.

Safe Operation Practices

Guidelines for safe operation, including training, age, passenger, and terrain rules.

Driving Procedures

Basic steps for starting, shifting, and driving the ATV.

Emission Control Systems

Noise Emission Control System

Guidelines on not modifying engine components affecting noise compliance.

Operation on Public Lands in the U.S.A.

Regulations for operating off-road vehicles on public lands.

Exhaust Emission Control System

How engine design controls exhaust emissions and maintenance recommendations.

Maintenance

Periodic Maintenance Chart

A comprehensive chart detailing maintenance intervals and tasks.

Lubrication Guide

Details specific lubrication points, fluids, and capacities.

Adjustments

Rear Spring Adjustment

How to adjust rear shock absorber spring tension for rider preference.

Handlebar Adjustment

Procedures for adjusting handlebar height for rider comfort.

Throttle Cable Freeplay Adjustment

Adjusting throttle cable freeplay for proper response and safety.

Troubleshooting

Drive Belt Wear/Burn Troubleshooting

Identifies causes and solutions for drive belt issues like wear and burning.

Engine Doesn't Turn Over Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting steps for when the engine fails to crank.

Engine Turns Over, Fails to Start Troubleshooting

Solutions for issues when the engine cranks but doesn't start.

Polaris Products

Polaris Engine Lubricants

Lists recommended engine oils and fogging oil with part numbers.

Polaris Gearcase/Transmission Lubricants

Lists recommended gearcase and transmission fluids with part numbers.

Specifications

General Vehicle Specifications

Lists dimensions, capacities, engine details, and tire specifications.

Jetting Chart

Provides jetting recommendations based on altitude and ambient temperature.

Clutching Chart

Details clutch settings based on altitude and shift weight.

Warranty

USA EPA Emissions Limited Warranty

Details the specific limited warranty for emissions components.

How to Obtain Warranty Service

Instructions on how to get warranty service and dealer responsibilities.

Related product manuals

Polaris 2008 sportsman 500 h.o.

406 pages

Polaris Sportsman 500 2012

432 pages

Polaris Sportsman 400 H.O. 2012

132 pages

Polaris Sportsman 500 HO

137 pages

Polaris Sportsman 500 HO 2004

139 pages

Sportsman 500 HO International