The 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP is a legend. It’s one of those machines that hit the sweet spot of power, handling, and pure, unadulterated fun, defining an entire generation of sport side-by-sides. You love the way it rips through trails and claws over obstacles. But you also know that keeping a high-performance machine like this in prime condition requires more than just gas and a heavy right foot.
We get it. You want to spend more time on the trail and less time in the garage scratching your head. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate owner’s manual, straight from the FatBoysOffroad shop to yours. This is your complete guide to keeping your rig running strong.
In this comprehensive 2013 polaris rzr 900xp guide, we’ll walk you through essential maintenance schedules, diagnose the most common problems you’ll encounter, explore the smartest performance upgrades, and share some pro tips to ensure your RZR outlasts and outperforms the rest. Let’s get those knuckles greasy.
Why the 2013 RZR 900 XP is Still a Trail King
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let’s appreciate why this machine is still so revered. The 2013 model year was a pinnacle for the XP 900 platform, offering a perfect blend of raw power and refined suspension that many newer, more complex models struggle to replicate.
The Heart of the Beast: The ProStar 900 Engine
The star of the show is the 88-horsepower, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder ProStar 900 engine. This powerhouse was purpose-built for performance, delivering snappy throttle response and a thrilling top end. It’s an engine that loves to rev, and when properly maintained, it’s a reliable workhorse.
Trail-Taming Suspension
With its 13.5 inches of front travel and 14 inches of rear travel, the Walker Evans shock package on many models was revolutionary for its time. This setup allows the RZR to soak up whoops and chatter with confidence, providing a stable and predictable ride. The benefits of the 2013 polaris rzr 900xp suspension are still clear on any rough trail today.
The Essential 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP Care Guide
Consistent maintenance is the single most important factor in your RZR’s longevity. Following this 2013 polaris rzr 900xp care guide will prevent small issues from becoming catastrophic failures. Think of it as cheap insurance for your fun.
Pre-Ride Inspection: Your 5-Minute Lifesaver
Before every single ride, take five minutes to perform these checks. It’s one of the most crucial 2013 polaris rzr 900xp best practices you can adopt.
- Fluids: Check the engine oil and coolant levels. Look for any drips or leaks under the machine.
- Tires: Inspect tire pressure and look for any cuts or punctures in the sidewalls.
- Controls: Test your brakes, throttle, and steering. Ensure everything feels smooth and responsive.
- Fasteners: Give your lug nuts and key suspension bolts a quick visual check to ensure nothing is backing out.
Engine Oil & Filter: The Lifeblood of Your RZR
Your ProStar engine works hard. Changing the oil and filter is non-negotiable. We recommend using a quality synthetic oil like Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic.
- Warm up the engine for 2-3 minutes to get the oil flowing.
- Place a drain pan under the engine and remove the drain plug (it’s on the oil pan, at the bottom of the engine).
- While it drains, remove the oil filter. A small filter wrench helps here.
- Once drained, clean and reinstall the drain plug with a new sealing washer. Do not overtighten!
- Wipe a thin layer of new oil on the new filter’s gasket and install it hand-tight, plus another quarter turn.
- Refill with approximately 2.5 quarts of the correct oil, then start the engine for 30 seconds, shut it off, and re-check the level, topping off as needed.
Air Filter Maintenance: Protect Your Engine’s Lungs
Off-roading is a dusty business. A clogged or dirty air filter will choke your engine, robbing it of power and, in worst-case scenarios, allowing damaging dust into the cylinders. Inspect your air filter after every dusty ride. Clean or replace it often—it’s one of the cheapest and easiest 2013 polaris rzr 900xp tips we can give.
Tackling Common Problems with the 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP
No machine is perfect. After years on the trail and in the shop, we’ve seen a few recurring issues. Knowing what to look for will save you time, money, and frustration. Here are some common problems with the 2013 polaris rzr 900xp and how to handle them.
Engine Heat and Overheating
The RZR 900 XP packs a lot of engine into a tight space, which can lead to heat issues. If your temp light is coming on, check these things first.
- Clogged Radiator: The radiator is a magnet for mud and debris. A caked-on radiator can’t cool effectively. Clean it thoroughly with a garden hose (not a pressure washer, which can bend the fins) from the back side out.
- Coolant Level & Air Pockets: Low coolant is an obvious culprit. More insidiously, air can get trapped in the system, creating hot spots. You may need to “burp” the system using the bleed screw located on the cylinder head to get all the air out.
- Faulty Fan or Sensor: Make sure your radiator fan is kicking on when the engine gets hot. If it’s not, you could have a bad fan motor, relay, or temperature sensor.
Clutch and Drive Belt Issues
The CVT clutch system is brilliant, but the drive belt is a wear item. A worn belt will slip, smell like burnt rubber, and cause poor performance. Always carry a spare belt and the tools to change it on the trail. Keeping the clutches clean from dust and debris will dramatically extend belt life.
Wheel Bearings and A-Arm Bushings
These are the sacrificial lambs of your suspension. Big tires, hard riding, and deep mud will wear them out. To check them, safely jack up a corner of your RZR and try to wiggle the wheel. If you feel any play side-to-side or top-to-bottom, it’s time for new wheel bearings. Similar play in your A-arms points to worn bushings.
How to Upgrade Your 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP for the Trail
The stock machine is great, but the right mods can transform it. This section covers how to 2013 polaris rzr 900xp can be tailored to your specific riding style for maximum performance and reliability.
Suspension Upgrades: The Best Bang for Your Buck
Before adding power, improve your handling. A simple but effective upgrade is a dual-rate spring kit. This replaces the stock springs on your Walker Evans shocks, reducing body roll, preventing bottoming out, and providing a much plusher ride over small chop.
Clutch Kits: Putting Power to the Ground
If you’ve added larger, heavier tires, a clutch kit is a must. It recalibrates your CVT system by changing weights and springs to match the new load. This restores lost acceleration, improves back-shifting, and greatly improves belt life by keeping it in the optimal RPM range.
Essential Safety and Comfort Mods
- Harnesses: The first upgrade you should make. A 4-point or 5-point harness will keep you planted and secure in your seat far better than the stock seatbelt.
- Roof: Keeps the sun and rain off your head. A simple poly or aluminum roof is a game-changer for all-day comfort.
- Windshield: A half-windshield is a great compromise, deflecting wind and dust away from your face without completely sealing you off from the elements.
Sustainable Riding: An Eco-Friendly RZR Guide
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love for future generations. Adopting a few sustainable 2013 polaris rzr 900xp habits makes a huge difference.
Proper Fluid Disposal
Never dump used oil, coolant, or other fluids on the ground. Collect them in a sealed container and take them to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center. Most will accept them for free.
Tread Lightly! on the Trails
The core principle of eco-friendly 2013 polaris rzr 900xp ownership is respect for the environment. Stay on designated trails, cross streams only at marked crossings, and avoid creating new, erosive paths. Pack out everything you pack in.
Wash Your Machine Responsibly
After a muddy ride, wash your RZR on a grassy area or at a commercial car wash with a proper drainage system. This prevents mud, oil, and grease from running directly into storm drains and local waterways.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP
What kind of oil does a 2013 RZR 900 XP take?
The recommended engine oil is Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic 5W-50. For the front differential, you need Polaris Demand Drive Fluid, and for the transmission/rear differential combo, use Polaris AGL Synthetic Gearcase Lube.
How fast is a stock 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP?
A stock 2013 RZR 900 XP has a top speed of around 70-73 MPH in ideal conditions. However, its real strength is its blistering 0-40 MPH acceleration on the trail.
Is the 2013 RZR 900 XP a reliable machine?
Yes, when properly maintained, it is a very reliable machine. The ProStar engine and drivetrain are robust. Most major issues stem from neglected maintenance, especially regarding the air filter, oil changes, and clutch system.
What should I look for when buying a used 2013 RZR 900 XP?
Check for play in the wheel bearings and suspension bushings. Inspect the frame for any cracks or signs of hard impacts. Look at the airbox—a filthy one is a red flag for poor maintenance. Ask for service records if available.
The 2013 Polaris RZR 900 XP remains an incredible machine that offers a ton of performance for the money. By understanding its needs, addressing its common quirks, and performing regular, diligent maintenance, you can ensure your RZR is always ready for the next adventure.
Knowledge is power, and now you’re armed with the key information to be a smarter, more confident owner. Get in the garage, give your machine the attention it deserves, and then get back out there.
Stay safe, wrench smart, and happy trails!
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