Top 100 Most Commonly Asked Questions About the Polaris RZR (With Answers)

Mar 1st 2025

General Polaris RZR Questions

1. What is a Polaris RZR?

The Polaris RZR is a high-performance side-by-side (SxS) vehicle designed for off-road adventures. It is known for its power, agility, and advanced suspension, making it a popular choice for trail riding, dune bashing, and rock crawling.

2. What does RZR stand for?

RZR doesn’t officially stand for anything, but Polaris markets it as an aggressive-sounding name that emphasizes its off-road capabilities and performance.

3. What are the different models of the Polaris RZR?

The main RZR models include:

RZR Trail (50-inch width for tight trails)
RZR Trail S (60-inch width for more stability)
RZR XP 1000 (Versatile performance)
RZR Turbo R (Turbocharged for extreme power)
RZR Pro R (High-end model with a 225 HP engine)
RZR 200 (Youth model)

4. What’s the difference between the RZR XP 1000 and the RZR Turbo R?

The main differences are:

The Turbo R has a turbocharged engine for more horsepower.
The XP 1000 is naturally aspirated and offers a balance of power and affordability.
The Turbo R has upgraded suspension and chassis features for more extreme terrain handling.

5. Is the Polaris RZR street-legal?

It depends on your state or country. Some states allow RZRs on public roads if they have necessary modifications such as turn signals, mirrors, a horn, and a proper license plate.

2. Engine and Performance

6. What engines are available in the Polaris RZR lineup?

The RZR models feature different engine configurations:

570cc single-cylinder (older Trail models)
875cc twin-cylinder (older RZR 900 models)
999cc ProStar engine (XP 1000 and Turbo R)
Turbocharged 925cc (Turbo R)
ProStar Fury 2.0L 4-cylinder (Pro R)

7. How much horsepower does a Polaris RZR have?

RZR 570 – 45 HP
RZR Trail 900 – 75 HP
RZR XP 1000 – 114 HP
RZR Turbo R – 181 HP
RZR Pro R – 225 HP

8. How fast does a Polaris RZR go?

Speeds vary by model, but the typical top speeds are:

RZR 570 – 55 MPH
RZR XP 1000 – 78-80 MPH
RZR Turbo R – 85 MPH
RZR Pro R – 90+ MPH

9. What is the best RZR for speed?

The RZR Pro R is the fastest stock model with a top speed exceeding 90 MPH, thanks to its 225 HP 2.0L engine.

10. Can you tune a Polaris RZR for more power?

Yes, with an ECU tune, aftermarket exhaust, intake systems, and turbo upgrades, you can increase horsepower and overall performance.

3. Maintenance & Troubleshooting

11. How often should I change the oil in my Polaris RZR?

Polaris recommends changing the oil every 50 hours or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first.

12. What type of oil does a Polaris RZR use?

Polaris recommends PS-4 Synthetic 5W-50 for most models.

13. How do I reset the maintenance light on my Polaris RZR?

Turn the ignition on (without starting the engine).
Hold the MODE button until the settings menu appears.
Scroll to Service Hours and reset to zero.

14. Why is my RZR overheating?

Common causes include:

Low coolant levels
Clogged radiator
Faulty water pump
Fan not working

15. What’s the best way to clean a Polaris RZR?

Use a pressure washer on low settings, avoiding electrical components. Always use a degreaser for the engine and dry completely after washing.

4. Tires & Suspension

16. What size tires come stock on a Polaris RZR?

RZR Trail – 26” tires
RZR XP 1000 – 29” tires
RZR Turbo R – 32” tires
RZR Pro R – 32” tires

17. Can I install larger tires on my RZR?

Yes, but anything over 32 inches may require a clutch kit, gear reduction, or suspension modifications.

18. How much ground clearance does an RZR have?

RZR XP 1000 – 14 inches
RZR Turbo R – 16 inches
RZR Pro R – 16 inches

19. How do I adjust the suspension on my RZR?

Most models come with adjustable shocks. Use the preload adjustment for ride height and compression settings for softness or stiffness.

20. What is the best suspension upgrade for an RZR?

Popular options include Shock Therapy suspension tuning, long-travel kits, and Walker Evans or Fox shocks.

5. Accessories & Upgrades

21. What are the best accessories for a Polaris RZR?

Popular accessories include:

Windshields (full, half, flip-up)
Roof (aluminum or poly)
Light bars
Aftermarket bumpers
Winch systems

22. What’s the best place to buy Polaris RZR parts?

Trailworx UTV, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, and SuperATV are among the best retailers for Polaris RZR parts.

23. Can I add a turbo to a non-turbo RZR?

Yes, but it requires a turbo kit, upgraded fuel system, clutch tuning, and ECU tuning.

24. What’s the best exhaust upgrade for a Polaris RZR?

Popular brands include HMF, Trinity Racing, and MBRP for improved performance and sound.

25. Can I install a sound system in my Polaris RZR?

Yes! Many riders install waterproof sound bars, Rockford Fosgate, or MTX audio systems.

6. Safety & Regulations

26. Do I need a helmet to drive an RZR?

Yes, in many states. Always check local laws.

27. Can passengers ride in the cargo bed?

No, it’s unsafe and illegal in most places.

28. Are RZRs safe?

Yes, but rollovers can happen. Seatbelts, helmets, and harnesses are essential.

29. Do I need insurance for my RZR?

It depends on your state and whether you finance your RZR.

30. What’s the best way to prevent theft?

Use a steering lock, GPS tracker, and secure storage.

7. Driving Tips & Terrain

31. Can I drive an RZR in deep water?

Only up to the floorboards unless you install a snorkel kit.

32. What’s the best way to drive on dunes?

Use low gear, air down tires to 8-10 PSI, and keep momentum.

33. Can an RZR climb steep hills?

Yes, but always maintain steady throttle and proper weight distribution.

34. Can I tow a trailer with my RZR?

Yes! Towing capacity varies:

RZR XP 1000 – 1,500 lbs
RZR Pro R – 2,500 lbs

35. What’s the best way to cross rocky terrain?

Use low gear, 4WD, and go slow to avoid damaging suspension.

8. Storage & Transport

36. Can an RZR fit in a standard truck bed?

Some Trail models can, but larger models require a trailer.

37. What size trailer do I need for an RZR?

At least 6x12 feet for most models.

38. How do I properly tie down an RZR for transport?

Use ratchet straps on all four corners and secure the parking brake.

39. What’s the best way to store an RZR long-term?

Stabilize fuel
Disconnect the battery
Cover it

40. Do I need a special license to tow an RZR on a trailer?

Not usually, but some large trailers may require a special permit.

8. Storage & Transport

41. Can an RZR fit in a truck bed?

Only Trail models fit—others need a trailer.

42. What size trailer do I need?

At least 6x12 feet.

43. How do I tie it down?

Use ratchet straps on all four corners.

44. Best way to store it long-term?

Stabilize fuel
Disconnect battery
Cover it

45. Do I need a special license to tow an RZR?

Not usually, but some states require permits for larger trailers.

9. Miscellaneous

46. How much does an RZR weigh?

RZR XP 1000 – ~1,500 lbs
RZR Pro R – ~2,200 lbs

47. Can I add a heater?

Yes, aftermarket heaters are available.

48. What’s the best GPS system?

Garmin Tread or Ride Command.

49. Can I run race fuel?

Only if tuned for it.

50. What’s the best UTV helmet?

Bell, 509, or Fly Racing.

10. Customization & Electrical

51. Can I install a winch on my RZR?

Yes, most models are pre-wired for winches.

52. What’s the best winch size for an RZR?

A 3,500–4,500 lb winch is ideal.

53. How do I install a light bar?

Connect it to the accessory busbar or directly to the battery with a switch.

54. Can I add a second battery?

Yes, many dual-battery kits are available.

55. What’s the best way to improve RZR lighting?

Upgrade to LED headlights, light bars, and rock lights.

56. Why is my RZR battery draining?

Common causes:

Faulty voltage regulator
Aftermarket accessories drawing power

57. How do I install a dome light?

Mount it to the roll cage and wire it to the accessory circuit.

58. Can I run a bigger alternator?

Yes, but most people add a second battery instead.

59. Why are my lights flickering?

Could be a loose connection, bad ground, or battery issue.

60. How do I install a switch panel?

Mount it on the dash, then wire it to the accessory busbar.

11. Drivetrain & Transmission

61. What type of transmission does an RZR have?

A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission).

62. How often should I replace the drive belt?

Every 1,500-2,500 miles, depending on usage.

63. What are signs of a bad belt?

Slipping
High RPMs with low speed
Burning smell

64. Can I upgrade my clutch?

Yes, aftermarket clutches improve performance with bigger tires or turbos.

65. What’s the best way to prevent belt failure?

Keep the clutch housing clean
Avoid high RPM launches

66. What gear should I use for slow crawling?

Always Low gear for technical terrain.

67. Why won’t my RZR shift into gear?

Check for:

Belt binding
Clutch alignment
Transmission issues

68. Can I switch to 4WD while moving?

Yes, but avoid shifting at high speeds.

69. Why does my RZR make a clunking sound?

Could be:

Worn driveline joints
Loose suspension components

70. How do I make my RZR more reliable?

Regular maintenance
Upgraded clutch components
Belt temperature monitoring

12. Braking & Handling

71. Why are my RZR brakes squeaking?

Dirt in pads
Worn brake pads

72. What’s the best way to improve braking?

Upgrade to larger rotors and high-performance brake pads.

73. How often should I bleed the brakes?

Every 6-12 months or after hard use.

74. Why is my RZR pulling to one side?

Uneven tire pressure
Suspension misalignment

75. How do I improve RZR handling?

Wider offset wheels
Upgraded shocks

76. What tire pressure should I run?

10-12 PSI for trails
8-10 PSI for dunes
15 PSI for rocky terrain

77. Can I install power steering on an older RZR?

Yes, aftermarket EPS kits are available.

78. Why does my steering feel loose?

Check for worn:

Tie rods
Ball joints

79. How do I align the front end?

Adjust the toe-in/out using tie rods.

80. How do I reduce body roll?

Install stiffer sway bars or limit straps.

13. Engine Tuning & Performance Mods

81. Can I tune my RZR with a programmer?

Yes, popular options include DynoJet and Power Vision.

82. What’s the best turbo upgrade?

Bikeman Performance
Boondocker

83. How do I increase RZR throttle response?

Install a pedal commander or tune the ECU.

84. What’s the best air intake upgrade?

R2C Performance or S&B Filters.

85. Can I install a snorkel kit?

Yes, essential for deep water riding.

86. How do I reduce heat in the cab?

Install heat shielding
Upgrade vents

87. Will an aftermarket exhaust increase horsepower?

Yes, 3-5 HP gain with proper tuning.

88. Do high-flow injectors help performance?

Only with a big turbo or custom tune.

89. What’s the best clutch kit for 32”+ tires?

EPI or Dalton clutch kits.

90. Can I run E85 fuel?

Only if tuned for ethanol fuel.

14. Miscellaneous Questions

91. How long do RZRs last?

With proper maintenance, 10,000+ miles is possible.

92. What’s the best way to sell a used RZR?

Facebook Marketplace
ATV trader

93. Can I finance an RZR?

Yes, through Polaris or banks.

94. What’s the best insurance for an RZR?

Progressive, Geico, or State Farm.

95. Can I wrap my RZR?

Yes, vinyl wraps protect the body and look great.

96. What’s the best RZR color option?

Depends on preference! Black, red, and white are popular.

97. Can I install a heater in my RZR?

Yes, many cab heaters are available.

98. What’s the best way to finance RZR mods?

Many retailers offer Affirm or Klarna payment plans.

99. How do I register my RZR?

Check local DMV laws for off-road vehicle registration.

100. What’s the best place to buy aftermarket RZR parts?

Trailworx UTV – One of the best for Polaris RZR upgrades!