2019 Polaris Rzr Turbo S – The Ultimate Owner’S Guide To Maintenance

Let’s be honest, the 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S isn’t just another side-by-side. It’s a 168-horsepower, 72-inch wide, long-travel beast that flattens whoops and turns gnarly trails into your personal playground. It was, and still is, a game-changer in the world of high-performance UTVs.

But keeping that monster performing at its peak requires more than just gas and a heavy foot. From the shop floor to the trailhead, we know that reliability is king. We promise to give you the real-world, no-fluff advice you need to maintain, troubleshoot, and even upgrade your machine with confidence.

In this complete 2019 polaris rzr turbo s guide, we’ll walk you through pre-ride checks, common problems to watch for, a detailed maintenance schedule, and smart mods that deliver real results. Let’s get those wrenches turning and keep you on the trail.

Why the 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Remains a Top-Tier Machine

Even a few years after its release, this RZR holds its own against newer models. The combination of raw power, intelligent suspension, and a reinforced chassis created a legendary platform. Understanding its core strengths helps you appreciate what you’re working on.

Key Features and Benefits

The benefits of 2019 polaris rzr turbo s ownership are clear the moment you hit the throttle, but the engineering is what makes it last. It wasn’t just about making it fast; it was about making it strong.

ProStar Turbo 925 Engine: This 168 HP twin-cylinder engine delivers explosive acceleration. It’s a proven power plant, but it demands clean oil and a clean air filter to stay healthy.
DYNAMIX Active Suspension: This was revolutionary. The system adjusts the FOX Podium shocks on the fly, hundreds of times per second. This means you get a plush ride in the small bumps and firm, bottom-out resistance on the big hits without touching a clicker.
72-Inch Stance and Massive Travel: With 19 inches of front travel and 21 inches in the rear, the Turbo S soaks up terrain that would sideline lesser machines. The wide stance provides incredible stability in high-speed corners.
Reinforced Chassis and Drivetrain: Polaris beefed up everything from the control arms and radius rods to the axles and carrier bearing to handle the abuse.

What Makes It a DIY-Friendly Platform

Despite its advanced tech, the Turbo S is surprisingly accessible for the home mechanic. Key service points are easy to reach, and the aftermarket support is massive. This makes it a perfect machine for enthusiasts who like to spin their own wrenches.

Pre-Ride Checklist: Your 10-Minute Ritual for Reliability

The most important maintenance you can do happens before you even start the engine. Skipping these simple checks is the fastest way to end a ride day early. Make this a habit. This is one of the most crucial 2019 polaris rzr turbo s tips we can offer.

Check Your Fluids: Pull the engine oil dipstick (make sure the machine is on level ground). Check the coolant level in the overflow bottle. Give the brake fluid reservoir a quick look. Low fluids are a sign of a leak or consumption issue that needs immediate attention.
Inspect Your Tires: Look for any cuts or punctures in the sidewalls and tread. Check the air pressure—running the correct PSI (check your tire sidewall or owner’s manual) is critical for handling and preventing flats. A quality digital pressure gauge is a must-have tool.
Look at Your Air Filter: The turbo engine needs a massive amount of clean air. Pop the cover off the airbox and take a look. If it’s caked in dust, clean or replace it. Never run a dirty filter.
Test Your Brakes and Throttle: Before you load up, start the machine and ensure the throttle is responsive and snaps back cleanly. Roll a few feet and gently apply the brakes to make sure they feel firm.
A Quick Nut-and-Bolt Check: Pay special attention to the lug nuts, suspension bolts (A-arms and radius rods), and steering components. Things can and do rattle loose. A quick visual inspection can save you from major trail carnage.

Common Problems with 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Models (And How to Fix Them)

No machine is perfect. After seeing dozens of these rigs in our shop, we’ve identified a few common issues to watch for. Knowing the common problems with 2019 polaris rzr turbo s models lets you be proactive with your maintenance.

Drivetrain Carrier Bearing Failure

The factory carrier bearing, which supports the main driveshaft, is a known weak point. It’s a non-greasable, sealed bearing that often fails prematurely, causing a nasty vibration under your seat.

The Symptom: A loud, rhythmic vibration that gets worse with speed, often felt through the floor and center console.
The Fix: Upgrade to a heavy-duty, greasable aftermarket carrier bearing from brands like Sandcraft RCR or SuperATV. This is a moderately difficult DIY job but well worth the effort for long-term reliability.

Clutch and Belt Issues

The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system works hard to put 168 HP to the ground. Heat is the enemy of drive belts and clutch components.

The Symptom: A burning smell, loss of power, or jerky engagement. You might also notice black dust around the clutch cover vent.
The Fix: Regularly inspect your drive belt for glazing, cracks, or flat spots. Use a dedicated Polaris belt changing tool to make removal easy. Clean the clutch sheaves with a Scotch-Brite pad and compressed air. For high-mileage machines, consider a clutch rebuild kit with new rollers and sliders.

Electrical Gremlins

With DYNAMIX suspension and electronic power steering, the Turbo S has a complex electrical system. Voltage issues are common, often stemming from the voltage regulator or a weak battery.

The Symptom: Intermittent power steering failure (check engine light with EPS code), dimming headlights, or a machine that won’t start reliably.
The Fix: Start by ensuring your battery terminals are clean and tight. Test your battery’s voltage; it should be above 12.5V at rest. If problems persist, the voltage regulator is a likely culprit. It’s a plug-and-play component, but always disconnect the battery before working on the electrical system.

Essential Maintenance: The Ultimate 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S Care Guide

Following a regular service schedule is non-negotiable. This 2019 polaris rzr turbo s care guide lays out the core tasks. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific intervals, but these are our shop-tested best practices.

Engine Oil & Filter Change

This is the lifeblood of your turbo engine. Don’t cheap out and don’t stretch the intervals.

When: Every 25-50 hours of use, or at least twice a year. If you ride in extremely dusty or wet conditions, do it more often.
What You Need: 3 quarts of Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic Oil, a quality oil filter (like the Polaris 2540086), a drain pan, and a funnel.
Pro Tip: Warm the engine for a few minutes before draining the oil. This helps suspend contaminants and allows the oil to flow out more easily. Always replace the drain plug washer.

Transmission & Front Drive Fluid

These fluids are often neglected but are critical for your 4WD system and gearbox health.

When: Every 100 hours or once a year.
What You Need: Polaris AGL (for the transmission) and Demand Drive Fluid (for the front differential).
How To: This is a simple drain-and-fill procedure. The key is to ensure the machine is level and to fill to the bottom of the fill plug threads. Don’t overfill!

Cleaning the Air Filter

We mentioned it in the pre-ride check, but it’s worth repeating. A clogged filter chokes your engine, robs power, and can let dust bypass into the turbo, causing catastrophic damage.

When: Inspect before every ride, clean as needed.
Best Practice: Use compressed air from the inside out to blow dust out of the filter pleats. Avoid high pressure, which can tear the filter media. Have a spare clean filter ready to swap in to minimize downtime.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Riding: Best Practices for the Trail

Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love for future generations. Adopting a few sustainable 2019 polaris rzr turbo s habits makes a huge difference.

Practicing eco-friendly 2019 polaris rzr turbo s operation is about more than just emissions; it’s about our impact on the environment.

Stay on the Trail: Stick to marked and designated routes. Going off-trail causes erosion, damages fragile ecosystems, and can lead to trail closures for everyone.
Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is simple. Whatever you bring with you, take it home. This includes empty water bottles, food wrappers, and any broken parts.
Proper Fluid Disposal: When you change your oil and other fluids, take them to an auto parts store or local recycling center. Never dump them on the ground or in the trash.
Wash Your Machine Responsibly: After a muddy ride, wash your RZR at a car wash or on a gravel/grass area at home, not where the runoff can flow directly into a storm drain or waterway. This also helps prevent the spread of invasive plant species from one trail system to another.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S

What is the top speed of a 2019 RZR Turbo S?

From the factory, the 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S is electronically limited to a top speed of around 85 mph. While an ECU tune can remove this limiter, the machine becomes much less stable at speeds beyond this, and it is not recommended for most trail conditions.

What kind of fuel should I use in my Turbo S?

You should always use premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher. The turbocharged engine is a high-compression motor, and using lower-octane fuel can lead to detonation (engine knock), which can cause severe engine damage.

How often should I change the drive belt?

There is no exact mileage interval, as belt life depends heavily on your riding style. A good rule of thumb is to inspect it every 50 hours and consider replacing it proactively every 500-1000 miles, especially if you do a lot of high-load riding like rock crawling or duning. Always carry a spare belt and the necessary tools on the trail.

Is the DYNAMIX suspension reliable?

Yes, for the most part, the DYNAMIX system is quite robust. The most common issues are related to the wiring or sensors, not the shocks themselves. Keeping your battery and charging system in top shape is the best way to ensure the DYNAMIX computer functions correctly.

Owning a 2019 Polaris RZR Turbo S is an incredible experience, and with the right care and attention, it will provide years of thrilling adventures. By following this guide, you’re not just maintaining a machine; you’re investing in your own fun and safety.

Get to know your RZR, do the work, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Now, gear up, stay safe, and we’ll see you on the trail!

Author
Recent Posts

Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.