2024 Polaris Xpedition Adv 5 Ultimate: Your Complete Care & Off-Road

So, you’ve either just trailered home a brand-new rig or you’re deep in the research phase, eyeing the machine that’s redefining the adventure UTV category. The 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate isn’t just another side-by-side; it’s a fully-enclosed, climate-controlled, long-haul beast designed to take you and your crew further off the grid than ever before.

But owning a machine this capable means knowing how to treat it right. Getting the most out of this incredible rig isn’t just about turning the key and hitting the gas. It’s about understanding its systems, performing consistent checks, and knowing what to look for before a small issue becomes a trail-ending headache.

We promise this is the no-fluff, hands-on guide you need. We’ll break down what makes this machine tick, walk you through a bulletproof pre-ride inspection, outline a practical maintenance schedule, and even cover some common problems with the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate so you can tackle them with confidence. Let’s get those hands dirty.

What Makes the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate a Trail Boss?

Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. Understanding the key components helps you diagnose issues and maximize performance. The benefits of the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate go far beyond a spec sheet; they translate to real-world capability.

The Enclosed Cab: Your All-Weather Command Center

This is the game-changer. The fully enclosed cab with a roof, full doors, a tip-out windshield, and factory-installed HVAC means you can ride in comfort whether it’s 100 degrees or below freezing. No more ending a ride early because of dust, rain, or cold.

Pro Tip: Keep the door and window seals clean. A quick wipe-down with a silicone-based conditioner like 303 Aerospace Protectant after washing will keep them from drying out and cracking, ensuring your cab stays sealed for years.

ProStar 1000 Gen 2 Engine: Power You Can Rely On

The 114-horsepower ProStar 1000 is a proven workhorse. It delivers smooth, predictable power perfect for technical rock crawling or high-speed fire roads. It’s mated to a robust CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) designed for heavy loads and tough climbs.

This isn’t a race engine; it’s an adventure engine. Its powerband is tuned for torque and reliability, which is exactly what you want when you’re miles from anywhere.

FOX Podium QS3 Shocks: Dialing in Your Ride

The Ultimate trim comes with premium FOX Podium QS3 shocks with position-sensitive spiral technology. In plain English? You get a plush ride over small chatter bumps and firm, bottom-out resistance on the big hits. The three-position QS3 clickers make adjustments dead simple.

Position 1 (Soft): Ideal for slow, technical rock crawling.
Position 2 (Medium): Your go-to for general trail riding and fire roads.
Position 3 (Firm): Use this when you’re fully loaded with gear and passengers to prevent sagging and maintain ride height.

The ADV 5 Advantage: Cargo, Crew, and Capability

The “5” in ADV 5 means seating for five, and the extended wheelbase provides a stable, confident ride. The rear cargo box is fully covered and watertight, protecting your gear from the elements. It’s a true overlanding platform right out of the box.

Your Pre-Ride Checklist: The 10-Minute Walk-Around That Saves Headaches

Every single ride should start with this quick inspection. It’s one of the most important 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate best practices you can adopt. It might seem tedious, but it’s what separates a great day on the trail from a long walk back to the truck.

Tires and Wheels: Check the air pressure (refer to the sticker in your door jamb for specs). Look for any cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewalls. Grab each tire at the top and give it a firm shake—any clunking or excessive play could mean a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
Fluids Check: With the engine cold, pull the engine oil dipstick, wipe it, re-insert it fully, and check the level. Glance at the coolant overflow bottle to ensure the level is between the ‘MIN’ and ‘MAX’ lines. Check the brake fluid reservoir as well.
Look for Leaks: Scan the ground under the machine. Any new drips of oil, coolant, or gear lube warrant a closer look. Check around the engine, transmission, and differentials for any wet spots.
Controls and Brakes: Hop in the driver’s seat. Squeeze the brake pedal—it should feel firm, not spongy. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock, feeling for any binding or strange noises.
Lights and Electrical: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position. Test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. Give the horn a quick tap. If you have a winch, test its operation briefly.
Suspension and Drivetrain: Visually inspect the CV boots on all four axles. These rubber boots protect the joints; a tear will quickly lead to a failed axle. Look for any grease splattered on the suspension components, which is a dead giveaway of a torn boot.
Secure Your Gear: Make sure everything in the cargo box and cab is tied down securely. A loose cooler can become a dangerous projectile in a hurry.

A Practical 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate Care Guide

Proper maintenance is the key to longevity. This isn’t a race car you rebuild every weekend; it’s an investment in adventure that will pay you back with reliability if you treat it right. This 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate care guide is your roadmap.

After Every Ride: The Clean-Up and Inspection

Don’t just park it and forget it. A good wash-down does more than make it look pretty; it allows you to spot potential issues like fluid leaks, cracked welds, or loose bolts that were hidden by mud and dust. Use a pressure washer carefully, avoiding direct spray on electrical connections, bearings, and seals.

The First 25-Hour Service: Don’t Skip It

Your machine’s first service is its most critical. During the break-in period, engine and driveline components shed tiny metal particles as they seat together. This service involves changing all fluids—engine oil, transmission fluid, and both front and rear differential fluid—to remove these contaminants. This is a must-do for a long and healthy life.

Long-Term Maintenance: Fluids, Filters, and Belts

Follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual, but consider adjusting them based on your riding style. If you frequently ride in deep water or extreme dust, you’ll need to service your machine more often.

Engine Oil & Filter: Every 100 hours or 6 months. Use a quality synthetic oil like Polaris PS-4 Full Synthetic.
Air Filter: Inspect before every ride and clean or replace as needed. A clogged air filter is a quick way to lose power and damage your engine. Carry a spare on long trips.
CVT Belt: Inspect for glazing, cracks, or flat spots every 50 hours. A worn belt will slip, costing you performance and eventually leaving you stranded.

Embracing an Eco-Friendly Approach to Maintenance

Being an off-roader means being a steward of the trails. A sustainable 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate is one that’s well-maintained to prevent leaks. Always use a drain pan for fluid changes and take used oil and coolant to a local auto parts store or recycling center. A clean, leak-free machine is an eco-friendly 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate.

Common Problems with the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate (And How to Fix Them)

No machine is perfect. While the Xpedition is built tough, there are a few common issues to be aware of. Knowing what to look for can help you prevent them or fix them quickly on the trail.

Electrical Gremlins: Fuses and Connections

With advanced features like Ride Command and HVAC, there are a lot of electronics. If something stops working, the first place to check is the fuse box. A common cause of issues is a loose battery terminal or ground wire. Ensure these connections are clean and tight.

Belt Wear: Prevention and Spotting Trouble

The number one cause of premature belt failure is improper break-in and heat. For the first 25-30 miles, avoid aggressive acceleration and vary your speed. Always use low gear for slow-speed crawling, loading onto a trailer, or navigating technical terrain. This keeps belt temps down and dramatically extends its life.

Suspension Squeaks and Noises

After a few dusty or muddy rides, you might hear squeaks from the suspension pivot points. This is usually just dirt in the bushings. Most pivot points have grease zerks; a few pumps from a grease gun loaded with marine-grade grease will quiet them down and push out contaminants.

How to 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate: Setting Up for Overlanding

The stock machine is incredibly capable, but a few smart additions can turn it into the ultimate exploration rig. Here are a few 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate tips for a proper adventure setup.

Essential Gear: Recovery and Safety

Don’t leave the trailhead without these items:

Tire Plug Kit & Air Source: A quality plug kit and a small 12V compressor are non-negotiable.
Winch Damper & Tree Saver: Your Ultimate comes with a winch. Use it safely with a damper blanket and a tree saver strap to protect both your line and the environment.
Basic Tool Kit: Put together a kit with sockets, wrenches, zip ties, and duct tape that can handle common trailside repairs.

Upgrading Lighting for Night Runs

While the stock headlights are good, adding a roof-mounted LED light bar can turn night into day. This is a huge safety and confidence booster when navigating unfamiliar trails after dark. Brands like Baja Designs or Rigid Industries offer high-quality options.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate

What’s the real-world fuel range on the Xpedition ADV 5?

With its 12.5-gallon fuel tank, most riders report a comfortable range of 150-200+ miles depending on terrain and driving style. Aggressive driving in sandy conditions will be on the lower end, while cruising on smooth fire roads will yield the best mileage.

Can I legally drive the Xpedition on the street?

This depends entirely on your state and local laws. Some states allow for UTVs to be made “street legal” by adding things like turn signals, a horn, and mirrors. Always check with your local DMV before attempting to drive on public roads.

What are the must-have Polaris accessories for this model?

Outside of safety gear, the most popular accessories are front and rear bumpers for added protection, rock sliders (nerf bars) to protect the body, and additional interior storage bags to keep the cab organized.

How difficult is the basic maintenance for a DIYer?

The 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate is very DIY-friendly. Basic tasks like oil changes, air filter cleaning, and inspections are straightforward with basic hand tools. The owner’s manual provides clear instructions for most common maintenance items.

Owning a 2024 Polaris Xpedition ADV 5 Ultimate is about more than just the ride; it’s about the freedom and capability to explore. By investing a little time in understanding and caring for your machine, you ensure that every turn of the key leads to a new, incredible adventure. Treat it right, and it will take you to places you’ve only dreamed of.

Now, get out there, stay safe, and have fun. The trail is waiting.

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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.