There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trail on your Polaris Sportsman 570. It’s a workhorse, a mud-slinger, and a reliable partner for adventure. But what happens when that reliable partner starts acting up, leaving you stranded or scratching your head in the garage? It’s a frustrating moment we’ve all faced.
You’ve noticed a new noise, a hesitation, or maybe it just won’t start at all. You know something’s wrong, and you want to get back on the trail without a massive repair bill. You need clear answers and actionable steps to diagnose and fix the issue.
You’re in the right place. This guide is your new best friend for tackling the most common 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems. We’re going to break down the symptoms, the causes, and the fixes in plain English. From electrical gremlins to clutch issues, we’ll give you the confidence to grab your tools and get your rig running right. Let’s get wrenching.
The Dreaded “No-Start” Scenario: Troubleshooting Starting Issues
One of the most common complaints we see is a Sportsman 570 that cranks but won’t fire up, or won’t even crank at all. Don’t panic. A few simple checks will usually point you right to the culprit. Think of it in terms of the three things an engine needs: fuel, spark, and air.
H3: Battery and Connection Checks First
Before you dive deep, always start with the simplest things. More often than not, a starting problem is just a power problem.
Grab a multimeter. A healthy, fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or slightly higher. If you’re seeing anything below 12.2 volts, it’s time to put it on a tender or consider a replacement.
Next, check the battery terminals. Are they clean and tight? Any fuzzy blue or white corrosion can create a poor connection. Use a wire brush to clean them up and make sure the bolts are snug. Don’t forget to check the ground wire where it connects to the frame—a loose or corroded ground is a classic no-start gremlin.
H3: Fuel System Faults
If the battery is good, let’s see if the engine is getting gas. When you turn the key to the “ON” position, you should hear a faint, 2-3 second whirring sound from the fuel tank. That’s the fuel pump priming.
If you don’t hear that sound, you could be looking at a bad fuel pump, a blown fuse, or a faulty relay. Check your fuse box first for any blown fuses related to the fuel system.
If the pump primes but it still won’t start, you could have a clogged fuel injector or a bad batch of fuel. If the ATV has been sitting for a long time, old gas can cause all sorts of issues.
H3: Spark and Ignition Woes
So you have power and you have fuel. Now, let’s check for spark. This is a crucial step in our 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems guide.
Carefully remove the spark plug wire and the spark plug using a spark plug socket. Re-attach the plug to the wire and hold the threaded part of the plug against a metal part of the engine block. Use insulated pliers to hold the wire to avoid getting shocked! Have a friend crank the engine and look for a strong, blue spark jumping the gap.
If you see a weak orange spark or no spark at all, the problem could be a fouled spark plug, a bad plug wire, a faulty ignition coil, or, in some cases, a failed stator.
Common Problems with 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems: Electrical Gremlins
The electrical system on the 2016 Sportsman 570 can sometimes be a source of frustration. These issues often appear as intermittent problems, which can be tricky to track down. Knowing where to look is half the battle.
H3: Flickering Lights and Power Loss
Are your headlights dimming at idle or your dash lights flickering? This is a classic sign of a failing Voltage Regulator/Rectifier. This component’s job is to convert AC power from the stator into DC power to run the machine and charge the battery.
When it starts to fail, it can’t regulate the voltage properly, leading to a dead battery, fried components, or stalling. It’s a known weak point on these models. Test the battery voltage while the machine is running; if it’s over 14.8 volts or under 13 volts, the regulator is likely toast.
H3: Fault Codes and the Check Engine Light
The dreaded check engine light (CEL) can be intimidating, but it’s your ATV’s way of telling you what hurts. While you may need a diagnostic tool for some codes, you can often find information online about common codes for your specific model.
Common triggers for the CEL include issues with the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), a faulty oxygen sensor, or even a loose gas cap. Don’t ignore the light; it’s an early warning system.
H3: Wiring Harness Rubs and Shorts
Your Sportsman’s wiring harness is routed all over the frame, and over time, vibration and movement can cause it to rub against sharp edges. This can wear through the insulation and cause a short circuit.
A prime spot to check is around the steering stem and where the harness routes near the engine and exhaust. Look for any chafed or melted wires. Use zip ties to secure loose sections and wrap any vulnerable areas with protective loom or electrical tape as a preventative measure.
Keeping Your Cool: Overheating and Cooling System Failures
The ProStar 570 engine works hard, and it needs a healthy cooling system to keep it from melting down, especially on slow, technical trails or when plowing snow. If your temperature warning light is flashing, pull over immediately.
H3: The Radiator and Fan
Your radiator is your first line of defense against heat. After a muddy ride, it can get completely caked, preventing air from passing through. Always give your radiator a good, gentle cleaning after playing in the mud.
Also, check your fan. When the engine gets hot enough, the fan should kick on with a noticeable roar. If you’re overheating in slow-moving traffic and never hear the fan, you could have a bad fan motor, a blown fuse, or a faulty fan temperature sensor.
H3: Coolant Levels and Leaks
This seems basic, but it’s often overlooked. Always check the coolant level in your overflow bottle before a ride. If it’s low, top it off with the recommended 50/50 coolant mix.
Look for any signs of leaks—puddles on the garage floor or drips from hoses. A common leak point is the water pump weep hole. If you see coolant dripping from this small hole on the water pump housing, it means the internal seal has failed and the pump needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
Drivetrain Drama: Clutch and Belt Issues
The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is what puts the power to the ground. It’s a simple system, but the belt and clutches are wear items that require attention. Learning how to 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems in the drivetrain can save your ride.
H3: Recognizing a Worn Drive Belt
The drive belt is the heart of your CVT. When it starts to wear out, you’ll notice symptoms like a jerky take-off, slipping under load (engine revs up but you don’t go faster), or a distinct burning rubber smell.
Visually inspect your belt for glazing, cracks, or missing chunks. We strongly recommend using a genuine Polaris belt for replacement. While cheaper aftermarket belts are available, they often don’t have the same durability or performance. This is one of the benefits of 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems diagnosis: catching a bad belt before it shreds and leaves you stranded.
H3: Water Intrusion and Your CVT
If you love water crossings, you need to be mindful of your CVT housing. It’s designed to be water-resistant, not waterproof. If water gets inside, it will cause the belt to slip badly and can damage clutch components over time.
Your CVT cover has a drain plug for this very reason. After any deep-water ride, it’s a good practice to pull that plug and see if any water comes out. If it does, you’ll need to dry out the housing and inspect the belt and clutches.
2016 Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems Best Practices: A Proactive Care Guide
The best way to deal with problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. A little proactive maintenance goes a long way and is central to any good 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems care guide.
H3: The Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
Before every single ride, take five minutes to do a quick walk-around. It could save you hours of headache on the trail.
- Tires & Wheels: Check air pressure and look for damage. Grab the wheels and check for excessive play.
- Fluids: Check engine oil and coolant levels. Look for any new leaks underneath.
- Controls & Brakes: Check throttle and brake lever operation.
- Lights: Make sure your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are working.
H3: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Maintenance Tips
Being a responsible rider means taking care of our machines and our trails. When performing maintenance, always dispose of used fluids like oil and coolant at a designated recycling facility. Many auto parts stores will take used oil for free.
Using high-quality, long-lasting replacement parts is also a form of sustainable 2016 polaris sportsman 570 problems management. It reduces waste and the resources needed for frequent repairs. And remember to wash your machine thoroughly between rides in different areas to prevent the spread of invasive plant species—an important part of being an eco-friendly off-roader.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570 Problems
How reliable is the 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570?
Overall, the 2016 Sportsman 570 is a very reliable machine. The ProStar engine is a solid power plant. Like any complex machine, it has a few known weak spots, such as the voltage regulator and stock bushings, but with regular maintenance, it can provide many years of dependable service.
What’s the most common problem with the Sportsman 570?
It’s a toss-up between electrical issues related to the battery/charging system and premature wear of suspension components like A-arm bushings. Both are very manageable for a DIY mechanic to address with basic tools and some patience.
Can I fix most of these problems myself?
Absolutely. Most of the issues discussed in this guide—like battery replacement, belt changes, fluid services, and cleaning connections—are well within the skill set of a weekend DIYer. For more complex jobs like internal engine or transmission work, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.
By understanding these common issues, you’re no longer just a rider; you’re a knowledgeable owner. You can spot trouble early, make smart repairs, and spend less time in the garage and more time where you belong—out on the trail.
Keep up with your maintenance, ride smart, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Now you have the knowledge to tackle these challenges head-on. Happy trails!
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