Safety Warnings

Proper Operation

WARNING

Failure to operate the RANGER properly can result in a collision, loss of control, accident or rollover, which may result in serious injury or death. Heed all safety warnings outlined in this section of the owner’s manual. See the OPERATION section of the owner’s manual for proper operating procedures.

Operator Safety

WARNING

Serious injury or death can result if you do not follow these instructions and procedures, which are outlined in further detail within your owner's manual.

Read this entire manual and all labels carefully. Follow the operating procedures described.
Never allow anyone under the age of 16 to operate this vehicle and never allow anyone without a valid driver's license to operate this vehicle.
Do not carry a passenger until you have at least two hours of driving experience with this vehicle.
All riders must be able to sit with backs against the seat, both feet flat on the floor and both hands on the steering wheel (if driving) or on a passenger hand hold.
The driver and all passengers must wear helmets, eye protection, gloves, long-sleeve shirts, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and seat belt at all times.
Always use the cab nets while riding in this vehicle.
Always keep hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times.
Always keep both hands on the steering wheel and both feet on the floorboards of the vehicle during operation.
Never permit a guest to operate this vehicle unless the guest has read this manual and all product labels.
To reduce rollover risk, be especially careful when encountering obstacles and slopes and when braking on hills or during turns.
This vehicle is approved for on-road operation.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating this vehicle.
Never operate at excessive speeds. Always travel at a speed proper for the terrain, visibility and operating conditions, and your experience.
Never attempt jumps or other stunts.
Always inspect the vehicle before each use to make sure it's in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection procedures described in this manual.
Always travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Be alert to changing terrain.
Never operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain.
Always follow proper procedures for turning. Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Never turn at excessive speeds.
Always have this vehicle checked by an authorized POLARIS dealer if it has been involved in an accident.
Never operate this vehicle on hills too steep for the vehicle or for your abilities. Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills.
Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described in this manual. Check the terrain carefully before attempting to climb a hill. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces. Never apply throttle suddenly. Never make sudden gear changes. Never go over the top of a hill at high speed.
Always follow the proper procedures outlined in this manual for traveling downhill and for braking on hills. Check the terrain carefully before descending a hill. Never travel downhill at high speed. Avoid going downhill at an angle, which would cause the vehicle to lean sharply to one side. Travel straight down the hill where possible.
Always check for obstacles before operating in a new area. Never attempt to operate over large obstacles such as large rocks or fallen trees. Always follow the proper procedures outlined in this manual when operating over obstacles.
Always be careful of skidding or sliding. On slippery surfaces such as ice, travel slowly and exercise caution to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding out of control.
Never operate your vehicle in fast-flowing water or in water deeper than that specified in this manual. Wet brakes may have reduced stopping ability. Test your brakes after leaving water. If necessary, apply them lightly several times to let friction dry out the pads.
Always be sure there are no obstacles or people behind your vehicle when operating in reverse. When it’s safe to proceed in reverse, move slowly. Avoid turning at sharp angles in reverse.
Always use the proper size and type of tires specified in this manual. Always maintain proper tire pressure as specified on safety labels.
Never modify this vehicle through improper installation or use of non-POLARIS approved accessories.
Always reinstall plastics and heat shields after vehicle is serviced.
Never exceed the stated load capacity for this vehicle. Cargo should be properly distributed and securely attached. Reduce speed and follow the instructions in this manual for hauling cargo or pulling a trailer. Allow a greater distance for braking.
Always place the transmission in PARK before getting out of the vehicle.
Always engage the park brake when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Always stop the engine before refueling. Remove flammable material containers from the box before filling them with fuel. Make sure the refueling area is well ventilated and free of any source of flame or sparks. Gasoline is extremely flammable.
Always remove the ignition key when the vehicle is not in use to prevent unauthorized use by someone under the age of 16 or without a driver’s license and proper training, or accidental starting.

Operating Without Instruction

Operating this vehicle without proper instruction increases the risk of an accident. The operator must understand how to operate the vehicle properly in different situations and on different types of terrain. All operators must read and understand the Owner's Manual and all warning and instruction labels before operating the vehicle.

Age Restrictions

This vehicle is an ADULT VEHICLE ONLY. Operation is prohibited for anyone under 16 years of age or anyone without a valid driver’s license.
The operator must be tall enough to sit with back against the seat, both feet flat on the floor and both hands on the steering wheel (if equipped) or handlebars.

Using Alcohol or Drugs

WARNING

Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating this vehicle.

Operating this vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs could adversely affect operator judgment, reaction time, balance and perception.

Failure to Inspect Before Operating

WARNING

Failure to inspect and verify that the vehicle is in safe operating condition before operating increases the risk of an accident. Always perform the Pre-Ride Inspection outlined in the Operation chapter before each use of your vehicle to make sure it's in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules described in this owner’s manual. See the Periodic Maintenance section of the Maintenance chapter.

Protective Apparel

Riding in this vehicle without wearing an approved helmet and protective eyewear increases the risk of a serious injuries in the event of an accident.

Operator and/or all passengers must always wear an approved helmet that fits properly, gloves, long-sleeve shirt, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and eye protection (goggles or face shield).

Dust Exposure

Exposure to dust created by the movement of the vehicle in dry weather may lead to respiratory distress. Be aware of operating environments and take precautions to avoid dust ingestion. Wear proper clothing, helmet, and eye protection.

Seat Belts

WARNING

Riding in this vehicle without wearing the seat belt increases the risk of serious injury in the event of rollover, loss of control, other accident or sudden stop. Seat belts may reduce the severity of injury in these circumstances. The operator MUST wear the seat belt at all times.

Cab Nets

Riding in this vehicle without using the cab nets increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident or rollover.

Cab nets must be used by both operator and passenger at all times. Make sure all latches are secure before operating the vehicle.

Always inspect cab nets for tightness, wear and damage before each use of the vehicle. Use the strap adjusters to tighten any loose straps. Promptly replace worn or damaged cab nets or latches with new cab nets and latches. Your POLARIS dealer can assist.

Carrying Passengers

A passenger must always be seated in a passenger seat with seat belt secured. Never carry more than two passengers in a 3-seat vehicle.

Operating With a Load on the Vehicle

The weight of both cargo and operator impacts vehicle operation and stability. For your safety and the safety of others, carefully consider how your vehicle is loaded and how to safely operate the vehicle. Follow the instructions in this manual for loading, tire pressure, gear selection and speed.

Do not exceed vehicle weight capacities. The vehicle’s maximum weight capacity is listed in the specifications section of this manual and on a label on the vehicle. When determining the weight you are adding to the vehicle, include the weight of the operator, accessories, loads in the rack or box and the load on the trailer tongue. The combined weight of these items must not exceed the maximum weight capacity.
The recommended tire pressures are listed in the specifications section of this manual and on a label on the vehicle.

Always follow these guidelines:

Under ANY of these conditions:	Do ALL of these steps:
Operator and/or cargo exceeds half the maximum weight capacity	Slow down. Verify tire pressure. Use extra caution when operating.
Operating in rough terrain
Operating over obstacles
Climbing an incline
Towing

Improper Tire Maintenance

WARNING

Operating this vehicle with improper tires or with improper or uneven tire pressure could cause loss of control or accident. Always use the size and type of tires specified for your vehicle. Always maintain proper tire pressure as described in the owner's manual and on safety labels.

Operating on Pavement

This vehicle's tires are designed for off-road use only, not for use on pavement. Operating this vehicle on paved surfaces (including sidewalks, paths, parking lots and driveways) may adversely affect the handling of the vehicle and may increase the risk of loss of control and accident or rollover. Avoid operating the vehicle on pavement. If it's unavoidable, travel slowly, travel short distances and avoid sudden turns or stops.

Operating on Public Roads

This vehicle is approved for on-road operation.

Operating at Excessive Speeds

caution

Operating this vehicle at excessive speeds increases the operator's risk of losing control. Always operate at a speed that's appropriate for the terrain, the visibility and operating conditions and your skills and experience.

Jumps and Stunts

caution

Exhibition driving increases the risk of an accident or rollover. DO NOT do power slides, “donuts”, jumps or other driving stunts. Avoid exhibition driving.

Turning Improperly

caution

Turning improperly could cause loss of traction, loss of control, accident or rollover. Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this owner’s manual.

Avoid sharp turns. Never turn while applying heavy throttle. Never make abrupt steering maneuvers. Practice turning at slow speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds.

Improper Hill Climbing

caution

Improper hill climbing could cause loss of control or rollover. Use extreme caution when operating on hills. Always follow proper procedures for hill climbing as described in this owner's manual.

Descending Hills Improperly

caution

Improperly descending a hill could cause loss of control or rollover. Always follow proper procedures for traveling down hills as described in this owner’s manual.

Crossing Hillsides

caution

Driving on a sidehill is not recommended. Improper procedure could cause loss of control or rollover. Avoid crossing the side of any hill unless absolutely necessary. If crossing a hillside is unavoidable, always follow proper procedures as described in this owner's manual.

Stalling While Climbing a Hill

caution

Stalling or rolling backwards while climbing a hill could cause a rollover. Maintain a steady speed when climbing a hill.

If you lose all forward speed:

Apply the brakes gradually until the vehicle is fully stopped. Place the transmission in reverse and slowly allow the vehicle to roll straight downhill while applying light brake pressure to control speed.

If you begin rolling downhill:

Never apply engine power. Apply the brakes gradually until the vehicle is fully stopped. Place the transmission in reverse and slowly allow the vehicle to roll straight downhill while applying light brake pressure to control speed.

Operating in Unfamiliar Terrain

caution

Failure to use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar terrain could result in an accident or rollover.

caution

Unfamiliar terrain may contain hidden rocks, bumps, or holes that could cause loss of control or rollover.

Travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions.

Operating Improperly in Reverse

caution

Improperly operating in reverse could result in a collision with an obstacle or person. Always follow proper operating procedures as outlined in this manual.

Before shifting into reverse gear, always check for obstacles or people behind the vehicle. When it's safe to proceed, back slowly.

Skidding or Sliding

caution

Failure to use extra caution when operating on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain could cause loss of traction, loss of control, accident or rollover. Do not operate on excessively slippery surfaces. Always slow down and use additional caution when operating on slippery surfaces.

caution

Skidding or sliding due to loss of traction can cause loss of control or rollover (if tires regain traction unexpectedly). Always follow proper procedures for operating on slippery surfaces as described in this owner's manual.

Operating Over Obstacles

caution

Improperly operating over obstacles could cause loss of control or rollover. Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Avoid operating over large obstacles such as large rocks and fallen trees. Always follow the proper procedures outlined in this manual when operating over obstacles.

Operating Through Water

caution

Operating through deep or fast-flowing water can cause loss of traction, loss of control, rollover or accident. Never operate in fast-flowing water or in water that exceeds the floor level of the vehicle.

Always follow proper procedures for operating in water as described in this owner’s manual.

Wet brakes will have reduced stopping ability. After leaving water, test the brakes. Apply them lightly several times while driving slowly. The friction will help dry out the pads.

Operating on Frozen Bodies of Water

WARNING

Severe injury or death can result if the vehicle and/or the operator fall through the ice. Never operate the vehicle on a frozen body of water unless you have first verified that the ice is sufficiently thick to support the weight and moving force of the vehicle, you and your cargo, together with any other vehicles in your party.

Always check with local authorities and residents to confirm ice conditions and thickness over your entire route. Vehicle operators assume all risk associated with ice conditions on frozen bodies of water.

Operating a Damaged Vehicle

caution

Operating a damaged vehicle can result in an accident. After any rollover or other accident, have a qualified service dealer inspect the entire machine for possible damage, including (but not limited to) seat belts, rollover protection devices, brakes, throttle, and steering systems.

Improper Cargo Loading

Overloading the vehicle or carrying cargo improperly may cause changes in stability and handling, which could cause loss of control or an accident.

Always follow the instructions in this owner’s manual for carrying cargo.
Never exceed the stated load capacity for this vehicle.
Cargo should be properly distributed and securely attached.
Reduce speed when carrying cargo or pulling a trailer. Allow a greater distance for braking.

Poor Visibility

caution

Operating this vehicle in darkness or inclement weather could result in a collision or accident, especially if operating on a road or street. This vehicle is not equipped with highway-approved lights. Operate this vehicle off-road only. Use caution and drive at reduced speeds in conditions of reduced visibility such as fog, rain and darkness. Clean headlights frequently and replace burned out headlamps promptly.

Hot Exhaust Systems

WARNING

Exhaust system components are very hot during and after use of the vehicle. Hot components can cause burns and fire. Do not touch hot exhaust system components. Always keep combustible materials away from the exhaust system. Use caution when traveling through tall grass, especially dry grass. Always inspect the underside of the vehicle and areas near the exhaust system after driving through tall grass, weeds, brush, and other tall ground cover. Promptly remove any grass or debris clinging to the vehicle.

Exposure to Exhaust

caution

Engine exhaust fumes are poisonous and can cause loss of consciousness or death in a short time. Never start the engine or let it run in an enclosed area. Operate this vehicle only outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.

Refueling

Diesel fuel is highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions.

Always exercise extreme caution whenever handling diesel fuel.
Always turn off the engine when refueling.
Always refuel outdoors or in a well ventilated area free of any source of flame or sparks.
NEVER carry fuel or other flammable liquids on this vehicle. Failure to follow this instruction could lead to serious burn injuries or death.
Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks in or near the area where refueling is performed or where diesel fuel is stored.
Do not overfill the tank. Do not fill the tank neck.
If diesel fuel spills on your skin or clothing, immediately wash it off with soap and water and change clothing.

Unauthorized Use of the Vehicle

Leaving the keys in the ignition can lead to unauthorized use of the vehicle by someone under the age of 16, without a drivers license, or without proper training. This could result in an accident or rollover. Always remove the ignition key when the vehicle is not in use.

Equipment Modifications

Your POLARIS vehicle is designed to provide safe operation when used as directed. Modifications to your vehicle may negatively impact vehicle stability. Failure of critical machine components may result from operation with any modifications, especially those that increase speed or power. This vehicle may become less stable at speeds higher than those for which it is designed. Loss of control may occur at higher speeds.

Do not install any non-POLARIS-approved accessory or modify the vehicle for the purpose of increasing speed or power. Any modifications or installation of non-POLARIS-approved accessories could create a substantial safety hazard and increase the risk of bodily injury.

The POLARIS limited warranty on your POLARIS vehicle will be terminated if any non-POLARIS-approved equipment and/or modifications have been added to the vehicle that increase speed or power.

The addition of certain accessories, including (but not limited to) mowers, blades, tires, sprayers, or large racks, may change the handling characteristics of the vehicle. Use only POLARIS-approved accessories, and familiarize yourself with their function and effect on the vehicle.

Lightning and Powerlines

Avoid operating this vehicle when lightning could occur or near powerlines. Rubber tires, rubber handgrips, and a foam seat will not protect a rider from lightning strikes or electrical surges. Always seek safe shelter when lightning is imminent and keep a safe distance from powerlines.

For more information about safety, contact an authorized POLARIS dealer or visit the POLARIS web site at www.polaris.com.