Polaris RANGER XP 900 Guide

Owner's Manual
for Maintenance and Safety
RANGER
RZR XP 900
RZR XP 4 900
TM
TM

WARNING
Read, understand, and follow all of the instructions and safety precautions in
this manual and on all product labels.
Failure to follow the safety precautions could result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

1
WELCOME
Thank you for purchasing a POLARIS vehicle, and welcome to our
world-wide family of POLARIS owners. We proudly produce an excit-
ing line of utility and recreational products.
• Snowmobiles
• All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
•RANGER®utility vehicles
• Victory Motorcycles®
• Low Emission Vehicles (LEVs)
We believe POLARIS sets a standard of excellence for all utility and
recreational vehicles manufactured in the world today. Many years of
experience have gone into the engineering, design, and development of
your POLARIS vehicle, making it the finest machine we’ve ever pro-
duced.
For safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle, be sure to follow the
instructions and recommendations in this owner’s manual. Visit the
Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association web site (rohva.org) and
take the free on-line training course.
Your owner’s manual contains instructions for minor maintenance, but
information about major repairs is outlined in the POLARIS Service
Manual and should be performed only by a factory certified Master Ser-
vice Dealer®(MSD) Technician.
Your POLARIS dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your
total satisfaction. Be sure to return to your dealership for all of your ser-
vice needs during, and after, the warranty period.
We also take great pride in our complete line of apparel, parts and acces-
sories, available through our online store at www.purepolaris.com. Have
your accessories and clothing delivered right to your door!

2
POLARIS, THE WAY OUT, RANGER and RANGER RZR are registered trademarks of
POLARIS Industries Inc.
RANGER RZR XP is a trademark of POLARIS Industries Inc.
Copyright 2011 POLARIS Sales Inc. All information contained within this publication
is based on the latest product information at the time of publication. Due to constant
improvements in the design and quality of production components, some minor discrep-
ancies may result between the actual vehicle and the information presented in this publi-
cation. Depictions and/or procedures in this publication are intended for reference use
only. No liability can be accepted for omissions or inaccuracies. Any reprinting or reuse
of the depictions and/or procedures contained within, whether whole or in part, is
expressly prohibited.
The original instructions for this vehicle are in English. Other languages are provided as
translations of the original instructions.
Printed in U.S.A.
2012 RANGER RZR XP 900 / RANGER RZR XP 4 900 Owner’s Manual
P/N 9923625

3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Features and Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Emission Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
POLARIS Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Maintenance Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

4
INTRODUCTION
The following signal words and symbols appear throughout this manual
and on your vehicle. Your safety is involved when these words and sym-
bols are used. Become familiar with their meanings before reading the
manual.
The safety alert symbol indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
WARNING
A WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION
A CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
A NOTICE indicates a situation that may result in property damage.
The Prohibition Safety Sign indicates an action NOT to take in order
to avoid a hazard.
The Mandatory Action Sign indicates an action that NEEDS to be
taken to avoid a hazard.

5
INTRODUCTION
Failure to heed the warnings and safety precautions contained in this manual
can result in severe injury or death. Your POLARIS vehicle is not a toy and can
be hazardous to operate. This vehicle handles differently than cars, trucks or
other off-road vehicles. A collision or rollover can occur quickly, even during
routine maneuvers like turning, or driving on hills or over obstacles, if you fail to
take proper precautions.
• Read this owner’s manual. Understand all safety warnings, precautions and
operating procedures before operating the vehicle. Keep this manual with the
vehicle.
• Visit the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association web site (rohva.org)
and take the free on-line training course.
• Complete the New Operator Driving Procedures outlined on pages 56-57.
Never allow a guest to operate this vehicle until the guest has completed the
New Operator Driving Procedures.
• 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.
European Vibration and Noise
The driver-perceived noise and hand/arm and whole body vibration lev-
els of this machinery is measured per prEN 15997.
The operating conditions of the machinery during testing:
The vehicles were in like-new condition. The environment was con-
trolled as indicated by the test procedure(s).
The uncertainty of vibration exposure measurement is dependent on
many factors, including:
• Instrument and calibration uncertainty
• Variations in the machine such as wear of components
• Variation of machine operators such as experience or physique
• Ability of the worker to reproduce typical work during measurements
• Environmental factors such as ambient noise or temperature
WARNING

6
INTRODUCTION
Vehicle Identification Numbers
Record your vehicle's identification numbers and key number in the
spaces provided. Remove the spare key and store it in a safe place. An
ignition key can be duplicated only by ordering a POLARIS key blank
(using your key number) and mating it with one of your existing keys.
The ignition switch must be replaced if all keys are lost.
Vehicle Model Number: ___________________________________________________
Vehicle Identification Number: ______________________________________________
Engine Serial Number: ___________________________________________________
Key Number____________________________________________________________
Engine Serial Number
Key
Number
Vehicle Identification
Number ####

7
SAFETY
Equipment Modifications
Your POLARIS vehicle is designed to provide safe operation when used
as directed. Modifications to your vehicle may negatively impact vehi-
cle 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 on a POLARIS vehicle any equipment that may increase
the speed or power of the vehicle, or make any other modifications to
the vehicle for these purposes. Any modifications to the original equip-
ment of the vehicle create a substantial safety hazard and increase the
risk of bodily injury.
The warranty on your POLARIS vehicle is terminated if any equipment
has been added to the vehicle, or if any modifications have been made to
the vehicle, that increase its speed or power.
The addition of certain accessories, including (but not limited to) mow-
ers, blades, tires, sprayers, or large racks, may change the handling char-
acteristics of the vehicle. Use only POLARIS-approved accessories, and
familiarize yourself with their function and effect on the vehicle.

8
SAFETY
Safe Riding Gear
Always wear appropriate clothing when riding a POLARIS vehicle.
Wear protective clothing for comfort and to reduce the chance of injury.
Helmet
Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding this
POLARIS vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds estab-
lished safety standards.
Approved helmets in the USA and Canada bear a U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) label.
Approved helmets in Europe, Asia and Oceania
bear the ECE 22.05 label. The ECE mark consists
of a circle surrounding the letter E, followed by the
distinguishing number of the country which has
granted approval. The approval number and serial
number will also be displayed on the label.
Helmet
Eye
Protection
Gloves
Sturdy
Footwear
Long
Pants
Long
Sleeves
E
4
051039
0006.31

9
SAFETY
Safe Riding Gear
Eye Protection
Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. When-
ever riding a POLARIS vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or
use a shatterproof helmet face shield. POLARIS recommends wearing
approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markings such
as VESC 8, V-8, Z87.1, or CE. Make sure protective eye wear is kept
clean.
Gloves
Wear gloves for comfort and for protection from sun, cold weather and
other elements.
Boots
Wear sturdy footwear. Do not ride a POLARIS vehicle with bare feet.
Clothing
Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect arms and legs.

10
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Failure to operate this vehicle properly can result in a collision, loss of control,
accident or overturn, 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.
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. Take a training course and
complete the New Operator Driving Procedures
outlined on pages 56-57.
All operators must read and understand the
owner's manual and all warning and instruction
labels before operating the vehicle. Never allow a
guest to operate this vehicle until the guest has
completed the New Operator Driving Procedures
outlined on pages 56-57.
Operator Restrictions/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. Never operate
with a passenger under the age of 12. Make sure all passengers are tall enough
to comfortably and safely reach the hand holds and place both feet on the floor.
Accessories
Non-approved accessories may seriously affect vehicle stability. Using
accessories not approved by POLARIS for use on this vehicle could cause loss
of control or an accident. Never operate with accessories not approved by
POLARIS for use on this vehicle.
Using Alcohol or Drugs
Riding in this vehicle after consuming alcohol or
drugs could adversely affect operator judgment,
reaction time, balance and perception.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while
operating or riding in this vehicle.
WARNING

11
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Failure to Inspect Before Operating
Failure to inspect and verify that the vehicle
is in safe operating condition before
operating increases the risk of an accident.
Always inspect the vehicle before each use
to make sure it's in safe operating
condition.
Always follow the inspection and
maintenance procedures and schedules
described in the owner's manual.
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 all passengers must always
wear an approved helmet that fits properly
and eye protection (goggles or face shield).
Seat Belts
Riding in this vehicle without wearing the seat belt increases the risk of serious
injury in the event of an accident or sudden stop. Riders must wear seat belts at
all times. Seat belts reduce the severity of injury in the event of a sudden stop or
accident. Always make sure the seat belts are secured for both the operator and
all passengers before riding.
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 overturn. Always use the cab nets
while riding in this vehicle.
Always keep hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times.
Carrying Passengers (RZR XP 4)
Never carry a passenger until you have operated this
vehicle for at least two hours and have completed
the New Operator Driving Procedures outlined on
pages 56-57.
A passenger must always be seated in a passenger
seat with seat belt secured.
Never carry more than three passengers in a 4-seat
vehicle.

12
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Carrying Multiple Passengers (RZR XP)
Never carry a passenger until you have operated this
vehicle for at least two hours and have completed the New
Operator Driving Procedures outlined on pages 56-57.
A passenger must always be seated in a passenger seat
with seat belt secured. Carrying more than one passenger
in a 2-seat vehicle can affect the operator’s ability to steer
and operate the controls, which increases the risk of loss of
control and accident or overturn. Never carry more than
one passenger in a 2-seat vehicle.
Operating With a Load on the Vehicle
The weight of both cargo and passengers impacts vehicle operation. 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 more passenger weight is added, cargo weight may need to
be reduced accordingly.
• 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:
Passenger and/or cargo exceeds half the
maximum weight capacity 1. Slow down.
2. Verify tire pressure.
3. Use extra caution when
operating.
Operating in rough terrain
Operating over obstacles
Climbing an incline
Towing

13
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Passengers in the Cargo Box
Carrying a passenger in the cargo box could
result in a fall from the vehicle or contact with
moving components. Never allow a passenger
to ride in the cargo box. A passenger must
always be seated in the passenger seat with
seat belt secured.
Operating on Pavement
Operating this vehicle on paved surfaces (including sidewalks, paths, parking
lots, and driveways) may seriously affect handling and control of the vehicle,
and may cause the vehicle to go out of control. This vehicle's tires are designed
for off-road use only, not for use on pavement.
Avoid operating the vehicle on pavement. If you must operate on a paved
surface, travel slowly and do not make sudden turns or stops.
Operating on Public Roads
Operating this vehicle on public streets, roads
or highways could result in a collision with
another vehicle.
Never operate this vehicle on any public
street, road or highway, including dirt and
gravel roads.
In many areas it's illegal to operate vehicles
of this type on public streets, roads and
highways.
Operating at Excessive Speeds
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, your skills and your
passenger’s skills.

14
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Turning Improperly
Turning improperly could cause loss of traction, loss of control, accident or
overturn. Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in the
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.
Physical Control of the Vehicle
Removing hands from the steering wheel or hand hold or removing feet from the
floor while riding increases the risk of loss of control and accident or overturn.
The operator should always keep both hands on the steering wheel during
operation. Passengers should always be seated in a passenger seat with seat
belt secured, with both feet on the floor and with both hands securely grasping
the passenger hand hold or grab bar.
Always keep hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times.
Jumps and Stunts
Exhibition driving increases the risk of an
accident or overturn. DO NOT do power
slides, “donuts”, jumps or other driving
stunts. Avoid exhibition driving.
Descending Hills Improperly
Improperly descending a hill could cause
loss of control or overturn. Always follow
proper procedures for traveling down hills
as described in the owner's manual.
• Always descend a hill with the transmis-
sion in forward gear. Never descend a
hill with the transmission in neutral.
• Always check the terrain carefully before
descending a hill.
• Never travel down a hill at high speed.
• Avoid traveling down a hill at an angle,
which would cause the vehicle to lean
sharply to one side. Travel straight
downhill. +15q

15
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Improper Hill Climbing
Improper hill climbing could cause loss of
control or overturn. Use extreme caution
when operating on hills. Always follow
proper procedures for hill climbing as
described in the owner's manual. See
page 60.
Crossing Hillsides
Driving on a sidehill is not recommended. Improper procedure could cause loss
of control or overturn. Avoid crossing the side of any hill unless absolutely
necessary.
If crossing a hillside is unavoidable, always follow proper procedures as
described in the owner's manual. See page 61.
Stalling While Climbing a Hill
Stalling or rolling backwards while climbing a
hill could cause an overturn. 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.
Operating in Unfamiliar Terrain
Failure to use extra caution when operating on
unfamiliar terrain could result in an accident or
overturn.
Unfamiliar terrain may contain hidden rocks,
bumps, or holes that could cause loss of
control or overturn.
Travel slowly and use extra caution when
operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always be
alert to changing terrain conditions.
+15q

16
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Operating Improperly in Reverse
Improperly operating in reverse could result in a
collision with an obstacle or person. Always
follow proper operating procedures as outlined
in this manual. See page 64.
Before shifting into reverse gear, always check
for obstacles or people behind the vehicle.
When it's safe to proceed, back slowly.
Improper Tire Maintenance
Operating this vehicle with improper tires or with improper or uneven tire
pressure could cause loss of control, accident or overturn.
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 Slippery Terrain
Operating on excessively rough, slippery or
loose terrain could cause loss of traction, loss
of control, accident or overturn.
Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery
or loose terrain. Always use extra caution on
rough, slippery or loose terrain.

17
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
Operating Over Obstacles
Improperly operating over obstacles
could cause loss of control or overturn.
Before operating in a new area, check
for obstacles. Never attempt to operate
over large obstacles such as rocks or
fallen trees. Always follow the proper
procedures outlined in this manual
when operating over obstacles.
Skidding or Sliding
Skidding or sliding can cause loss of control or overturn (if tires regain traction
unexpectedly). Always follow proper procedures for operating on slippery
surfaces as described in the owner's manual.
When operating on slippery surfaces such as ice or loose gravel, reduce speed
and use extra caution to reduce the chance of skidding or sliding.
Do not operate on excessively slippery surfaces.
Operating Through Water
Operating through deep or fast-flowing
water can cause loss of traction, loss of
control, overturn or accident. Never operate
in fast-flowing water or in water that
exceeds the recommended maximum
depth.
Always follow proper procedures for
operating in water as described in the
owner's manual.
Wet brakes may 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.

18
SAFETY
Safety Warnings
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 the
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. Allow a greater distance for braking.
Operating on Frozen Bodies of Water
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 passengers, 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
Operating a damaged vehicle can result in an accident with serious injury or
death. After any overturn or accident, have a qualified service dealer inspect the
entire vehicle for possible damage, including (but not limited to) brakes, throttle
and steering systems.