Polaris No Power to Ignition: 6 Reasons And Solutions!

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Polaris cars are so popular among car lovers around the world. However, like any other car, Polaris can also go through some problems. Getting no power to the ignition is one kind of common issue of Polaris. 

So, why does Polaris have no power to ignition?

Polaris doesn’t have any power to ignition if the battery of your Polaris is dead or weak. You need to recharge or replace the battery. Then, the ignition switch itself can be faulty, it may not send power to the ignition system. Again, if a fuse or relay in the electrical system has blown, it could be cutting off power to the ignition. Furthermore, a bad battery connection prevents power from reaching the ignition. 

There are many more reasons why your Polaris has no power to the ignition. Read the article to know the reasons and solutions in a detailed manner. Let’s start!     

Polaris No Power to Ignition: 6 Common Reasons & Solutions

When your Polaris doesn’t get power to the ignition, your vehicle’s engine won’t start. Without the power to the ignition system, the spark plugs won’t fire, and the engine won’t turn over. This can be frustrating if you’re trying to use the vehicle for work or recreation.

To eliminate this kind of issue, you must figure out the potential reasons to solve them. This problem is happening due to several potential reasons. So, it’s important to diagnose the problem and fix it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the vehicle and ensure it is safe to operate. 

Before going to discuss the issues in a broader manner, it would be convenient enough to have a glimpse of the reasons and solutions. 

Reasons Solutions 
Faulty ignition switch Test and replace 
Faulty spark plug Repair or replace 
Faulty fuse Replace 
Weak or dead battery Recharge or replace 
Bad connection Clean and tighten the connection 
Corroded solenoid connection Clean the connection

Reason 1: Weak Or Dead Battery

Another responsible issue for the no ignition power of Polaris is having a dead or weak battery. A battery is responsible for providing the initial electrical power required to start the engine. A weak or dead battery may not be able to turn the engine over or power the ignition system.  

By turning the key in the ignition, the starter motor activates and draws power from the battery to turn the engine. Having a dead battery will prevent the starter motor from supplying enough power to the engine.

Solution: Replace or Recharge the Battery 

If the battery is running out of enough charge, you need to recharge the battery to get fully charged. If it’s still not working then you must replace the battery.

Always try to inspect the battery at least once a month and test the battery to ensure it is functioning properly and avoid unexpected issues.   

Reason 2: Faulty Ignition Switch 

An ignition switch that is faulty may not supply power to the ignition system, preventing the engine from starting. It can occur if the switch is stuck in the off position, has loose or corroded wiring, or has worn contacts that prevent the switch from connecting properly.

Then, a faulty ignition switch can also cause intermittent ignition power. The contacts will not make consistent connections if the switch is worn or damaged. Occasionally, you can start the engine, but sometimes the ignition won’t receive power.

Furthermore, damaged or worn ignition switches will not supply enough power to the ignition system to start an engine. Too high a voltage drop across the switch. If you turn the key, you will hear a clicking sound, but the engine won’t start.

Solution: Testing the Ignition switch

The ignition switch needs to be tested first to determine if it is working. To test the switch voltage, you will need a multimeter. Follow the steps below to successfully test the ignition switch.

Testing the Ignition switch
Source: carfromjapan.com
  • First, you need to remove the signal fuse by using a fuse puller. 
  • Now, you need to find out if the metal strip is burned or damaged. Replacing it with the same amperage is necessary if it is burned.
  • To measure the voltage of a vehicle’s battery, first, open the hood and turn on the ignition. Then, set the DMM (Digital MultiMeter) knob to the Volts symbol. Connect the black center of the multimeter to the vehicle’s frame and the red probe of the voltmeter to the positive terminal on the battery. A fully charged battery should read 12.6 volts on the voltmeter.
  • If the battery contains less than 12V, you must recharge the battery. Now, turn on the engine by inserting the ignition key. If the engine starts perfectly, the switch is ok. However, if the engine fails to start, and you don’t hear any clicking noise then you must replace the switch.  

Solution: Replacing the Ignition Switch 

Once you have a new ignition switch, you should follow the easy steps below to perform the replacement job. 

  • First, you need to remove the ignition switch smoothly from its previous position. You need to continue pressing the discharge pin while taking off the switch, which is located beneath the steering wheel. 
  • Now, you need to press the release pin to move the switch into the correct position and ensure that it is fully inserted. You should align the pin and cylinder with the covering grooves. 
  • It’s important to verify the condition of the ignition switch to prevent any potential issues prior to resembling the dashboard. This can be done by reconnecting the wires to the negative terminal of the battery and inserting the ignition key, then starting the car. 

If the vehicle starts smoothly, there is no problem. However, if the car does not start, the ignition switch should be removed and troubleshooting for the Polaris Ranger should be continued.

  • Before beginning the reassembly of the internal parts, confirm that the ignition switch is functioning correctly. For safety reasons, disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. 
  • You need to reinstall or assemble the parts that were previously removed. If you encounter any difficulties in putting the parts back together, consult the car’s repair manual for further assistance. 

Once all testing and attempts have been made, properly install the ignition and reconnect the wire to the negative terminal of the battery. Use the appropriate wrench to securely tighten the connection.

Reason 3: Faulty Spark Plug

The second obvious reason would be a faulty spark plug which can lead to a situation where there is no ignition power. Wear or damage to the spark plug may prevent it from generating a spark when it is ignited. 

A fouled spark plug may be caused by carbon or oil accumulation, or by worn electrodes. The engine won’t start in this situation. 

Then, a spark plug that’s in poor condition may also produce a weak spark, which may not be strong enough to ignite the fuel-air mixture. 

This can occur if the spark plug is dirty or damaged, or if the gap between the electrodes is incorrect. In this case, the engine may start, but it may run poorly and lack power.

Solution: Repair or Replace Spark the Spark Plug

Replace Spark the Spark Plug
Source: boschautoparts.com

First, visually check the spark plugs; if they seem corroded, they need to be replaced.

If you can’t see any visible corrosion, you must test the spark plug. To do that job, you need a plug tester. 

  • First, attach the spark plug tester to the ignition wire and turn on the ignition. 
  • Then, start the engine, and then check the transparent sides of the tester. If it doesn’t start, you should turn it over. A spark plug is faulty if you don’t see a visible spark or glow present at its tip. 

So, it’s time to replace the spark plug it.  You can easily perform the replacement job by yourself with the help of this video. 

Reason 4: Faulty Fuse

If the fuses in a Polaris vehicle are faulty, the vehicle will not start or turn over when the key is turned in the ignition. The purpose of fuses is to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by power surges and short circuits.

A faulty fuse in a Polaris vehicle’s ignition system can prevent power from reaching components needed to start the vehicle. Usually, this happens when a fuse has blown or an electrical connection is loose, which prevents the fuse from functioning properly.

Solution: Replace the Fuse

There will be melted or corroded wire visible if the fuses are faulty, which means they need to be replaced. You can easily replace the fuse though following the procedures below. 

  • First, disconnect all electrical appliances, then shut off the fuse box’s power supply. 
  • Then, find out if there is melted metal or discolored glass covering the fuse box. 
  • Then, unscrew the damaged fuse properly to put on the brand-new one. 
  • Restart the main power supply after you have adjusted the new fuse.

If a fuse keeps blowing, it may be an indication of a larger electrical problem that needs to be addressed by a trained electrician. However, you can decrease the causes of the frequent fuse blowing 

Reason 5: Bad Connection

A bad battery connection can lead to your Polaris no ignition issue. In order for the engine to start, the battery provides the initial electrical power. However, a bad battery connection can prevent the battery from delivering this power to the rest of the electrical system.

If the battery connection is loose, it can prevent the battery from getting ignition power. Then, corrosion on the battery terminals can also cause a bad connection as it can prevent the battery from providing ignition power. 

Also, sometimes a poor connection of the headlamp kill switch can lead to no power ignition issues in a Polaris.   

Solution: 

You must inspect the battery connection if you see any corrosion visibly, it’s time to clean the connection. Then, if the connection seems to loosen, you must tighten the connection.

battery connection
Source: nowhow.napaonline.com

After that, you need to focus on the terminals, if you find them corroded, they should be cleaned. You can follow the steps given below to clean the corroded terminal connection. 

Required tools: Baking soda, water, and a metal brush

Procedures:  The procedure is really simple to follow. Getting rid of corrosion is easy.

  • First disconnect the battery connection to avoid any potential risks. 
  • Now make a paste by mixing baking soda and water properly. Then, apply the paste on the corroded area with the brush and let it sit for around 5-10 minutes. 
  • At this point scrub the area with the brush and rinse with water. Be careful not to let the paste and water enter the battery cells. 
  • Finally, you must ensure the area is dry enough and free from any residue and contaminations before reconnecting the battery.  

If you’re not comfortable with a DIY solution, you can have a good commercial corrosion  cleanser.   

On the other hand, you must inspect the headlamp kill switch to find out if the connection is bad or not. If you find a bad connection, you have to readjust the connection to get ignition power. 

Reason 6: Corroded Solenoid Connection

The next probable reason is having the solenoid connection corroded. If the solenoid connection is corroded, it can prevent the electrical power from reaching the starter motor, resulting in a no ignition power issue. 

The solenoid is responsible for transmitting electrical power from the battery to the starter motor, which is needed to start the engine. 

Actually, corrosion on the solenoid connection can be caused by exposure to moisture, mud, dirt, and other contaminants, which can cause the metal terminals to deteriorate over time. Corroded terminals become less conductive, which can lead to intermittent or weak electrical connections.

Also, the frame ground can be corroded, which can lead your Polaris to not start.

Solution:

Ensure that you inspect the solenoid connection located behind the battery compartment. It is fixed onto the frame and tends to accumulate a considerable amount of mud and debris on and around it. 

So, you need to clean that if you visibly find any contamination. For cleaning the corrosion you should follow the aforementioned procedures in the bad connection section. The connection should be inspected and cleaned or replaced as needed. 

Also, you should address the underlying cause of the corrosion like exposure to mud or contaminations to prevent the issue from recurring in the future. 

The ring terminals on the connection may deteriorate due to corrosion as well. Additionally, it’s recommended to verify the integrity of your frame grounds. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Where does the ignition switch get power?

The ignition switch gets power from the battery. Normally, the ignition system consists of multiple components which work together. In order to start the vehicle, the internal computer of the vehicle also controls it.

Can I test the spark plug without a tester?  

Yes, you can test the spark plug without a tester. First, remove the plug using a spark plug wrench, ensuring that the ignition wire is disconnected. Next, the wire is reconnected to the top of the loose spark plug. If the engine is running correctly, a blue spark should be seen arcing between the tip of the inner central electrode of the plug and the top of the curved metal plug.

Where does the ignition switch get power?

The ignition switch typically gets power from the battery or the main electrical system of the vehicle. When the key is turned to the “on” or “start” position, power is sent through the switch to activate the starter motor. And other electrical components like the fuel pump, ignition system, and dashboard instruments. 

Conclusion 

Hopefully, you’ve found out the reasons for your Polaris no power to the ignition. If your Polaris doesn’t get any ignition power, you won’t be able to run your car. So as soon as you experience this, you must go through the reasons described above. Then, you must implement the solution to get rid of the situation.

If you still don’t get power, it’s high time to visit a professional. Wish you all the best in your venture!