There’s nothing more frustrating than gearing up for a ride, turning the key on your Polaris Sportsman 570, and hearing… nothing. Just a click, or a weak whirring sound that tells you the trail will have to wait.
I agree, it’s a moment that can deflate any off-roader’s spirit. You start wondering if it’s a simple fix or the start of a costly repair bill.
But don’t call the shop just yet. We promise to solve that problem. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to diagnose and fix your polaris sportsman 570 battery problems like a seasoned pro, right in your own garage.
We’ll preview everything from the most common culprits and simple fixes to identifying deeper electrical issues. You’ll learn how to test your battery, check your charging system, and implement best practices to prevent these headaches from ever happening again.
Is It Really the Battery? Initial Checks Before You Spend a Dime
Before you rush out to buy a new battery, let’s cover the basics. In our shop, we see riders replace perfectly good batteries all the time because they skipped these simple, crucial first steps.
These checks take less than five minutes and often solve the issue without costing you anything but a little time. Grab a pair of gloves and let’s get started.
Check for Loose Connections
Vibration is a constant companion on the trail, and it loves to wiggle things loose. The most common cause of a no-start condition isn’t a dead battery, but a poor connection.
Use a wrench or socket (usually 10mm) to check the nuts on your battery terminals. They should be completely snug. Even a slightly loose terminal can prevent the massive amount of amperage needed to turn the starter from getting through.
Inspect for Corrosion
Look at your battery terminals. Do you see any white, blue, or greenish crusty buildup? That’s corrosion, and it’s a fantastic insulator—exactly what you don’t want.
To clean it, first, disconnect the negative (black) terminal, then the positive (red) terminal. This is a critical safety step. Mix a paste of baking soda and water, apply it with an old toothbrush, and watch it fizz away the corrosion. Rinse with a small amount of clean water, dry thoroughly, and then use a wire terminal brush to scuff up the posts and clamps for a perfect connection. Reconnect positive first, then negative.
Common Problems with Polaris Sportsman 570 Battery Problems: A Deep Dive
If your terminals are clean and tight but the problem persists, it’s time to dig a little deeper. The Sportsman 570 is a fantastic machine, but like any ATV, it has a few known electrical quirks. This section provides a comprehensive polaris sportsman 570 battery problems guide to the most frequent offenders.
The Silent Killer: Parasitic Draw
A parasitic draw is when something in your ATV’s electrical system continues to use power even when the key is off. This slowly drains your battery, leaving it dead after a day or two of sitting.
Common culprits include aftermarket accessories like light bars or winches wired incorrectly, a faulty voltage regulator, or a stuck relay. Finding a parasitic draw requires a multimeter, but it’s a key step in solving mysterious battery death.
Faulty Charging System Components
Your ATV’s battery is designed to start the engine, not run it. That job belongs to the charging system, which consists primarily of the stator and the voltage regulator/rectifier.
- The Stator: This component, located inside your engine case, generates AC power as the engine runs. If it fails, it can’t produce enough juice to run the ATV and recharge the battery.
- The Voltage Regulator/Rectifier: This crucial part converts the stator’s AC power to DC power and, as the name implies, regulates the voltage to a safe level (typically 13.5-14.5 volts) to charge the battery without overcooking it. A failed regulator can either stop charging the battery or overcharge and destroy it.
The Battery Itself: Age and Sulfation
Let’s be honest—batteries don’t last forever. The average lifespan for a powersports battery is 3-5 years. Over time, lead-acid batteries suffer from sulfation, where lead sulfate crystals build up on the plates, reducing their ability to hold a charge.
If your battery is several years old and has been deeply discharged a few times, it may simply be at the end of its useful life, no matter how well your charging system works.
Your Step-by-Step Polaris Sportsman 570 Battery Problems Guide to Testing
Stop guessing and start testing. With a simple tool, you can get concrete answers about your electrical system’s health. This is how to polaris sportsman 570 battery problems are truly solved. For these tests, you will need a basic digital multimeter.
Step 1: The Static Voltage Test
This is the simplest test. With the ATV turned off, set your multimeter to DC Volts. Touch the red probe to the positive (+) battery terminal and the black probe to the negative (-) terminal.
- 12.6V or higher: Your battery is fully charged and in good shape.
- 12.3V – 12.5V: Your battery is partially discharged but likely still okay. It needs a good charge.
- 12.2V or lower: Your battery is significantly discharged and may be damaged or sulfated. Charge it fully and test again. If it won’t hold a charge above 12.2V, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Step 2: The Load Test
A voltage test only tells you the surface charge. A load test tells you if the battery has the guts to do its job. Some multimeters have this function, but a dedicated automotive load tester is best.
A simpler DIY method is to check the voltage while cranking the engine. Have a friend turn the key while you hold the multimeter probes on the battery terminals. The voltage should not drop below 9.6V during cranking. If it does, the battery is weak and failing under load.
Step 3: The Charging System Test
This test checks your stator and voltage regulator. With your multimeter still connected to the battery, start the engine and let it idle.
The voltage should jump up to between 13.5V and 14.5V. If the voltage stays at battery level (e.g., 12.6V) or drops, your charging system is not working. If the voltage revs up past 15V, your voltage regulator is faulty and is overcharging your battery, which can damage it and other electronics.
Choosing the Right Replacement Battery: AGM vs. Lithium
If your tests confirm the battery is toast, your next step is choosing a replacement. This isn’t just about size; it’s about technology and performance.
AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries
This is the most common type of factory and replacement battery for the Sportsman 570. They are sealed, spill-proof, and vibration-resistant, making them perfect for off-road use. They offer excellent reliability and value. Look for one with at least the factory-specified Cold Cranking Amps (CCA).
Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries
Lithium batteries are the premium upgrade. Their main benefits are a massive weight reduction (often saving 5-10 lbs) and a much longer lifespan. They also hold their charge for months and provide stronger cranking power. The downside is a higher initial cost, but the longevity can make them a smart long-term investment.
Beyond the Battery: When the Problem Isn’t What You Think
Sometimes you can have a brand-new, fully charged battery and still get nothing. If your battery and charging system test perfectly, it’s time to look at the other components in the starting circuit.
- Starter Solenoid: This is a high-current relay that sends power to the starter motor when you turn the key. A common failure is a “click” with no crank. You can test it by carefully (and at your own risk) bridging the two large posts with an old screwdriver. If the engine cranks, the solenoid is bad.
- Fuses and Fusible Links: Always check your fuse box. A blown main fuse will kill all power to the machine.
- Ignition Switch or Kill Switch: A faulty switch can prevent the signal from ever reaching the solenoid. Jiggling the key or toggling the kill switch can sometimes reveal a poor internal connection.
Polaris Sportsman 570 Battery Problems Best Practices: A Proactive Care Guide
The best way to fix a problem is to prevent it. Following this polaris sportsman 570 battery problems care guide will extend your battery’s life and ensure your ATV is ready when you are. Adopting these habits is one of the key benefits of understanding your machine’s electrical system.
Invest in a Battery Tender
If you don’t ride your Sportsman every week, a smart battery tender (or maintainer) is the single best investment you can make. It monitors your battery and applies a slow, safe “float” charge only when needed, preventing sulfation and keeping it topped off without overcharging.
Keep it Clean
Periodically clean your battery terminals, even if they don’t look corroded. A thin layer of dielectric grease on the terminals after cleaning can help prevent future buildup.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Battery Disposal
When your battery finally gives up, practice sustainable polaris sportsman 570 battery problems management. Lead-acid batteries are highly toxic. Never throw one in the trash. Any auto parts store that sells batteries is required by law to accept your old one for recycling, and they will often give you a small credit (core charge) for it. This is the most eco-friendly polaris sportsman 570 battery problems solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Sportsman 570 Battery Problems
What kind of battery does a Polaris Sportsman 570 take?
The Polaris Sportsman 570 typically uses a YTX20L-BS (AGM) or equivalent size battery. Always confirm the exact model number in your owner’s manual or by looking at your existing battery before purchasing a replacement.
Why does my Sportsman 570 battery die so fast?
The most common reasons are a parasitic draw from an accessory, a faulty voltage regulator that isn’t recharging the battery, or simply an old battery that can no longer hold a charge. Infrequent use without a battery tender is also a primary cause.
Can I jump-start my Sportsman 570 with a car?
Yes, but with a major caveat: the car’s engine must be turned OFF. A running car’s alternator can produce too much amperage and damage your ATV’s sensitive electronics, especially the ECU and voltage regulator. Connect the cables just as you would with a car, but do not start the car’s engine.
How long should a Polaris Sportsman 570 battery last?
With proper care and regular use (or maintenance with a battery tender), you can expect a quality AGM battery to last between 3 to 5 years. A lithium battery can last significantly longer, often 8 to 10 years.
Armed with this knowledge, you’re no longer at the mercy of a dead battery. You have the tools and the troubleshooting steps to diagnose the issue, make the right fix, and get back to what matters most—hitting the trail. Take your time, prioritize safety, and enjoy the satisfaction of being a self-reliant rider.
Ride safe, and we’ll see you out there!
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