Skip to content Skip to navigation Skip to footer
POLARIS SNOWMOBILE
HELP CENTER
01/22/2024

Snowmobile Cleaning and Polishing Tips

Snowmobiles can accumulate a lot of water and road dirt/salt during the riding season. This is especially true for those snowmobiles transported on sled decks and open trailers. Your snowmobile should be thoroughly washed and cleaned to prevent corrosion and rust formation.

Some model year 2021 Polaris snowmobiles use Molded Nylon 6 material, which delivers improved strength and durability while providing a lustrous surface finish. 

Note: Cleaning should only be done with a mild soap and water solution. Any cleaning, buffing or waxing products containing colorant dye should be avoided. If using products with colorant dye in them, test on an inconspicuous area of the bodywork before applying, as they may stain the finish.

Cleaning Recommendations
1. Park your snowmobile on a flat, level surface. Turn the engine OFF. 

2. Wash your snowmobile with a Polaris-made cleaner like the Heavy Duty Cleaner & Degreaser (part number 2830418), Polaris Vehicle & Equipment Wash (part number 2830417) or a solution of water and mild soap. If a pressure washer is used, take care not to point the pressure washer nozzle close the snowmobile. This could force high pressure water into the suspension/shock shafts and exposed electrical connectors.

3. Dry your snowmobile with a lint-free towel. Allow the entire snowmobile to air dry afterward.

4. Clean the engine compartment. Use a shop vacuum if needed to remove dirt, leaves, cattails, etc., from the engine compartment.

5. Hand-wash the exhaust system and dry the pipe and silencer with a clean shop towel.

6. Apply spray metal protectant on exposed metal components, such as the exhaust pipe, silencer, shock shafts and suspension springs/pivots. DO NOT spray metal protectant on the drive or driven clutches. 

Air Intake Cleaning
For specifics on cleaning your snowmobile's air intake, listen to the "Get the Snow Out" episode of the Polaris Podcast. 

Polish Recommendations
1. Park your snowmobile on a flat, level surface. Turn the engine OFF. 

2. Before polishing, clean your snowmobile using the steps mentioned above. Only use water and mild soap to clean your vehicle. 

3. Ensure that the cleaner, wax, or polish does not contain a colorant dye. Test on an inconspicuous area of the body panel before use and be sure the product is safe for use on Molded Nylon 6 material with or without a painted finish. Note: Use of a high speed/orbital polisher/buffer is NOT recommended on Molded Nylon 6 components and could result in color fading. 

Molded Nylon and Body panels

1. Hood Trim, LH and RH
2. Console Trim, LH and RH
3. Side Panel Trim, LH and RH
4. Side Panels, LH and RH
5. Hood

For more information, see your authorized Polaris Dealer. To find a dealer near you, use the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.

Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Polaris Industries Inc.
© 2022 Polaris Industries Inc.