The Polaris ranger is a popular off-road vehicle, but sometimes it can have problems related to its ignition switch causing it not to start or the engine to stall during driving. Knowing how to fix these ignition switch problems when you encounter them is vital.
To fix Polaris Ranger ignition switch problems, check the electrical system and ensure no loose or damaged wires are connected to the ignition switch. Sometimes the problem may be due to a faulty starter solenoid relay or damaged ignition switch contacts. You may need to replace the entire switch.
An ignition switch is designed to be the main power switch for a vehicle. It is also responsible for starting and stopping the engine (source). Read on and learn how to fix your Polaris Ranger ignition switch problems.
1. Check the Vehicle’s Electrical System
The Polaris ranger ignition switch problems can result from a faulty wiring system. Check for a blown ignition fuse, and replace it. Inspect the wiring system to check for loose wires, short circuits, or broken connectors near the battery. Repair or replace them if necessary.
Ensure that your vehicle’s wiring system is in good shape and that there are no loose connections or frayed wiring. In addition, you should check all wires for corrosion and replace them.
The wiring system is responsible for sending power to the rest of the car, and if there are any faults, it will result in an issue with the ignition switch. You can refer to the service manual or have a qualified technician inspect your vehicle’s electrical system.
2. Test the Starter Solenoid Relay Switch
If your starter solenoid relay switch is non-functional, it will not deliver the signal from your battery to the starter motor, and your Polaris Ranger will not start. A malfunction in the starter solenoid relay switch can cause intermittent starting issues as well.
When it starts malfunctioning, the starter solenoid relay switch no longer sends power to start the engine. A faulty starter solenoid can result from water damage or corrosion from gas fumes getting into it, causing it to short circuit or stop working.
Use a voltmeter to test the starter solenoid relay switch for resistance and replace it if necessary. You can also purchase a starter solenoid relay (link to Amazon) for your Polaris Ranger.
Watch the video below and learn how to test your starter solenoid relay switch:
3. Check For Damaged Ignition Switch Contacts
The ignition switch is a critical component of the vehicle’s starting system. It sends power to the starter motor, which starts the engine. If the ignition switch is defective and not working correctly, it could cause many problems with your vehicle.
The most common problem with an ignition switch is that it has been bumped or damaged, resulting in contacts that are not making good contact or are grounded out. Use a multimeter to test for continuity on each terminal and switch.
If you have damaged ignition switch contacts, it can cause your car to stall or not start at all. There are a few things you can do to check for damaged ignition switch contacts.
- Check for any corrosion or dirt on the contacts and clean them.
- Check for any damage to the connector housing.
- Check for any loose connections in the wiring harness.
There are many ways to fix damaged ignition switch contacts. Here’s what you need to do.
- Inspect the ignition switch to see if the problem is caused by dirt or corrosion.
- If it’s not, you can try using a pencil eraser or an emery board to clean the contacts.
- The other way is to use contact cleaner spray, which you can apply on top of the contacts and then wipe them with a dry cloth.
- Replace the ignition switch contacts if necessary.
4. Replace the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch has a variety of functions. It starts the vehicle, turns on the lights, and controls the heating and air conditioning. If you are experiencing problems with your ignition switch, it may be because it’s faulty or damaged (source).
A faulty or damaged ignition switch can cause various issues with your vehicle.
- You might not be able to start your car because there is no power going to the starter motor.
- It could also lead to an issue with getting power to other parts of the car, like headlights or heating/cooling systems.
- Your vehicle may stall while driving.
- You may not be able to turn or remove the key.
You may have a faulty or damaged ignition switch for many reasons. Here are the most common reasons for a damaged ignition switch.
- Dirt and grime buildup on the key shaft
- Damaged ignition switch
- Damaged or bent key
- The key is not fully inserted into the ignition switch
- Damaged wire connection
- Normal wear and tear or corrosion
The ignition switch is usually located on the steering column of your Polaris Ranger and can be switched on by turning a key in the ignition lock cylinder.
If there is any damage to the key cylinder, this can also cause problems with your vehicle’s ignition switch that will require repair work to fix it. One of the best ways to fix ignition switch problems is to replace it with a new one.
Check out this ignition key switch for Polaris Ranger (link to Amazon). This ignition switch is easy to install on various Polaris Ranger models.
If you’re a Polaris Ranger driver and noticed difficulty shifting into neutral, it may be because of transmission issues. Read my guide to learn how to check the transmission and how to fix it.
Final Thoughts
Polaris Ranger ignition switch problems are a common occurrence. When the switch is not repaired correctly, it can lead to more severe issues, including total engine failure. If you have a faulty ignition switch, you risk being stranded on the side of the road.
To avoid inconveniences that might arise from having a malfunctioning ignition switch, it is best to have it repaired by a professional. You can contact any nearby auto repair shop or take your vehicle for service at the nearest dealership.
