Polaris General Power Steering Not Working

You’re carving up a perfect trail, the engine is humming, and then—bam. Your steering wheel suddenly feels like it’s set in concrete. Wrestling your Polaris General through a turn now requires the strength of a silverback gorilla. When you’re faced with the polaris general power steering not working, it’s more than an inconvenience; it can be a ride-ending, muscle-straining nightmare.

I get it. There’s nothing more frustrating than a critical system failing when you’re miles from the trailhead. But don’t call for a rescue rig just yet.

I promise this guide will walk you through a logical, step-by-step process to diagnose exactly what’s wrong. We’ll start with the simple, 5-minute checks you can do right on the trail and move to the more in-depth diagnostics you can tackle back in the garage. You’re about to become the expert on your machine’s steering system.

What is EPS and Why Does it Matter on Your General?

Before we grab the tools, let’s quickly understand the system we’re dealing with. Your Polaris General doesn’t use old-school hydraulic power steering like a car from the 90s. It uses an Electronic Power Steering, or EPS, system.

Think of it as a smart electric motor attached to your steering column. It senses how much you’re turning the wheel and applies assistive torque to make steering effortless. This is especially crucial when you’re running big, aggressive off-road tires or navigating tight, rocky terrain at low speeds.

The benefits of a working EPS system are huge:

Reduced Steering Effort: It’s the difference between steering with two fingers and needing both arms and a prayer.
Less Driver Fatigue: Fighting the wheel all day is exhausting. EPS lets you ride longer and stay more alert.
Improved Control: The system helps absorb kickback from rocks and ruts, preventing the wheel from being jerked out of your hands.

Because it’s an electronic system, however, its failure points are usually electrical: fuses, wires, sensors, or the motor itself. That’s good news for us, as many of these issues are easy to find and fix.

Safety First: Before You Grab Your Tools

Alright, let’s get ready to dive in. But first, a word on safety. We’re working with your machine’s electrical system and steering components. Never cut corners here.

Park on Level Ground: Ensure your General is stable and won’t roll. Engage the parking brake.
Turn It Off: Turn the ignition completely off and remove the key. This prevents any electrical components from accidentally activating.
Disconnect the Battery: This is a non-negotiable step. Use a 10mm wrench to disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal first. This eliminates the risk of short circuits while you work.
Gear Up: At a minimum, wear a good pair of mechanic’s gloves and safety glasses.

Your Polaris General Power Steering Not Working Troubleshooting Guide: Start with the Basics

When you have a polaris general power steering not working issue, always start with the simplest and most common culprits. Don’t assume the worst. More often than not, the fix is quick and cheap. This is your essential polaris general power steering not working guide to follow.

Step 1: Check the EPS Fuse

The number one cause of sudden EPS failure is a blown fuse. It’s a simple protective device that sacrifices itself to save the expensive EPS motor from an electrical surge.

The fuse box on most Polaris General models is located under the hood, in front of the driver. You’ll see a black box with a lid. Pop the clips to open it, and you’ll find a diagram on the underside of the lid showing what each fuse does.

Locate the fuse labeled “EPS.” Pull it out using a fuse puller or a pair of needle-nose pliers. Hold it up to the light. If the thin metal strip inside is broken or burnt, it’s blown. Replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating. Never use a higher-rated fuse—that’s how you turn a small problem into an electrical fire.

Step 2: Inspect the Battery and Connections

The EPS motor is a power-hungry beast. If it doesn’t get enough clean, stable voltage, it will simply shut down to protect itself. Low voltage is a common problem.

First, check your battery’s health. With a multimeter set to DC volts, touch the probes to the battery terminals (with the machine off). A healthy, fully charged battery should read around 12.6 to 12.8 volts. If you’re seeing anything below 12.4 volts, your battery might be weak and unable to supply the necessary power.

Next, check the physical connections. Look for corrosion (a white or greenish powder) on the battery terminals. Even a thin layer can restrict electrical flow. Clean them with a wire brush and ensure the terminal clamps are snug. A loose connection is just as bad as a dead battery.

Step 3: Examine All Wiring and Connectors

Your General lives a rough life. Wires get bounced, rubbed, and exposed to mud and water. A damaged wire or a dirty connector is a frequent source of electrical gremlins.

Start at the EPS unit itself, which is typically located on the steering column down by your feet. Follow the thick wires coming from it. Carefully inspect the entire length of the wiring harness for any signs of chafing, pinching, or breaks. Pay close attention to areas where the harness passes through the frame or near moving parts.

The most important connection to check is the main plug going into the EPS control module. Unplug it and look inside. Are the pins clean and straight? Is there any sign of moisture, mud, or corrosion? Clean it out with electrical contact cleaner and add a dab of dielectric grease before reconnecting it. This grease helps waterproof the connection and prevent future corrosion.

Diving Deeper: Common Problems with Polaris General Power Steering Not Working

If the basics didn’t solve your issue, it’s time to dig a little deeper. These next steps will help you isolate more complex common problems with polaris general power steering not working. You’ll likely need a multimeter for these checks.

Is Your Speed Sensor Working?

Here’s a pro tip many people overlook. The EPS system is speed-sensitive. It provides maximum assist at low speeds (like rock crawling) and tapers off as you go faster for better stability. It gets this speed information from the vehicle’s speed sensor.

If the speed sensor fails, the ECU gets confused and may disable the EPS as a failsafe. Often, a failing speed sensor will also cause your speedometer to act erratically or not work at all. If you notice other electrical issues accompanying your steering problem, the speed sensor is a prime suspect.

Testing the EPS Unit Itself

If the fuse is good and the wiring looks pristine, we need to confirm if power is actually reaching the EPS motor. This is the final check before condemning the unit itself.

Using your multimeter and a wiring diagram for your specific model year, you’ll need to carefully probe the main connector that plugs into the EPS unit. You are looking for two things:

Constant 12V Power: Check for battery voltage on the main power wire.
A Solid Ground: Check for continuity between the ground wire and the vehicle’s frame.

If you have both power and ground at the connector, but the unit still doesn’t work, then the problem is almost certainly internal to the EPS motor or its control module. This is one of the most important polaris general power steering not working tips: verify power before you buy parts.

The Dreaded Water Intrusion Problem

We all love a good water crossing, but your EPS unit does not. Despite being “weather-resistant,” the seals on these units can fail over time. If water gets inside, it will quickly corrode the delicate circuit board and kill the unit.

Look for signs of rust or water stains around the seams of the EPS motor housing. Sometimes, if you shake a failed unit, you can even hear water sloshing around inside. If you suspect water damage, replacement is the only reliable fix.

When to Replace vs. Repair: Making the Smart Choice

Unfortunately, the EPS units on a Polaris General are sealed, non-serviceable assemblies. If you’ve confirmed the unit has failed internally, you cannot open it up to replace a single component. Your only option is a full replacement.

You have two main choices: an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) unit from Polaris or a heavy-duty aftermarket unit from a company like SuperATV. Aftermarket units are often more robust and better sealed against water than the stock version.

When making your decision, think about long-term value. Choosing a high-quality, durable replacement unit is a more sustainable choice than using cheap parts that fail quickly, creating more waste. Taking the old, dead unit to an electronics recycling facility is the eco-friendly approach to disposal.

Polaris General Power Steering Not Working Best Practices: A Care Guide for Prevention

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when that cure costs over a thousand dollars. Follow this simple polaris general power steering not working care guide to keep your system healthy.

Regular Inspections: Every time you wash your machine, take a minute to visually inspect the EPS wiring harness for any signs of rubbing or damage.
Use Dielectric Grease: Make it a habit to apply dielectric grease to major electrical connections (EPS, ECU, battery terminals) to keep moisture out.
Be Smart in Water: Avoid letting your machine sit in deep water for extended periods where the EPS unit is submerged.
Maintain Your Battery: Keep your battery on a tender if you don’t ride often. A healthy battery is crucial for all your General’s electronics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris General Power Steering Not Working

Can I still drive my General if the power steering fails?

Yes, you can. The steering is still mechanically connected. However, it will be extremely difficult to turn the wheel, especially at low speeds or when stopped. It’s a serious workout and can be dangerous in technical terrain. If it fails on the trail, drive slowly and cautiously back to your truck or campsite.

How much does it cost to replace a Polaris General EPS unit?

This is a pricey repair. An OEM unit from Polaris can cost anywhere from $1,200 to over $2,000, depending on your model. High-quality aftermarket units are often more affordable, typically in the $500 to $900 range. If you have a shop do the work, expect to add a few hours of labor cost on top of that.

Will a bigger lift and tires cause my power steering to fail?

They don’t directly cause it to fail, but they significantly increase the amount of stress on the system. The EPS motor has to work much harder to turn heavy, oversized tires. If your unit was already weak or on its way out, the extra strain from a lift and tires can be the final straw that pushes it over the edge.

Tackling an issue like your polaris general power steering not working can seem intimidating, but by following a logical process, you can pinpoint the problem yourself. You’ve now got the knowledge to check the fuses, inspect the wiring, and test the system like a pro. This not only saves you a ton of money at the dealership but also builds the confidence you need to handle any problem the trail throws at you.

Stay safe, be methodical, and get back out there to enjoy the ride!

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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.