The Arctic Cat Alterra 570, a popular ATV known for its versatility and affordability, has found its way into the hearts of many off-road enthusiasts. However, like any machine, it's not without its quirks and potential issues. Understanding these common problems can help you diagnose, troubleshoot, and ultimately keep your Alterra 570 running smoothly for years to come.

What's the Buzz? Common Alterra 570 Complaints

While the Alterra 570 offers a lot of bang for your buck, several recurring issues tend to surface among owners. These range from minor annoyances to more significant mechanical problems, so let's dive into some of the most frequently reported concerns.

Starting Woes: Battery and Electrical Issues

One of the most common complaints centers around starting problems. The Alterra 570, like many ATVs, can be sensitive to battery health. A weak or failing battery is often the culprit behind sluggish starts or even a complete no-start situation.

But it's not always just the battery itself. The charging system, including the stator and voltage regulator, can also be problematic. A faulty stator won't properly charge the battery, leading to a gradual discharge and eventual starting failure. Similarly, a malfunctioning voltage regulator can overcharge the battery, damaging it and potentially other electrical components.

  • Symptoms: Slow cranking, clicking sounds during starting, dim headlights, frequent battery replacements.
  • Potential Causes: Weak battery, faulty stator, bad voltage regulator, corroded connections, parasitic draw.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Check battery voltage (should be around 12.6V when fully charged), test the stator output, inspect the voltage regulator, clean and tighten all electrical connections.

Suspension Stiffness: A Bumpy Ride

Another frequently cited issue is the Alterra 570's suspension, particularly its stiffness. Many owners find the ride to be harsh, especially on rough terrain. This can lead to discomfort and fatigue during longer rides.

The stock shocks, while adequate for some, often lack the adjustability and damping needed to absorb bumps and ruts effectively. This can be exacerbated by incorrect tire pressure.

  • Symptoms: Rough ride, excessive bouncing, poor handling on uneven surfaces.
  • Potential Causes: Stiff stock shocks, incorrect tire pressure, worn suspension bushings.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Experiment with different tire pressures (within the recommended range), consider upgrading to aftermarket shocks with adjustable damping, inspect and lubricate suspension bushings.

CV Joint Concerns: Clicking and Cracking

The CV joints (constant velocity joints) are crucial components that allow the wheels to turn and move up and down with the suspension. They are also a common wear point on ATVs, including the Alterra 570.

Dirt, water, and debris can infiltrate the CV joint boots, causing the grease inside to break down and leading to premature wear. This wear manifests as clicking or popping sounds, especially when turning. Ignoring these sounds can lead to eventual CV joint failure, requiring replacement.

  • Symptoms: Clicking or popping sounds when turning, especially at low speeds, grease leaking from the CV joint boots.
  • Potential Causes: Damaged CV joint boots, lack of lubrication, excessive wear and tear.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Regularly inspect CV joint boots for cracks or tears, replace damaged boots promptly, repack CV joints with fresh grease.

Fuel System Foibles: Carburetor and Fuel Pump Issues

While newer Alterra 570 models are fuel-injected, older models utilize carburetors. Carbureted models are susceptible to issues like clogged jets, dirty fuel bowls, and vacuum leaks. These problems can lead to poor starting, rough idling, and reduced performance.

Even fuel-injected models can experience fuel system problems, such as a failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter. A weak fuel pump can starve the engine of fuel, resulting in stalling or a lack of power.

  • Symptoms: Difficult starting, rough idling, stalling, lack of power, poor fuel economy.
  • Potential Causes: Clogged carburetor jets (carbureted models), dirty fuel bowl (carbureted models), vacuum leaks (carbureted models), failing fuel pump (fuel-injected models), clogged fuel filter (fuel-injected models).
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Clean the carburetor (carbureted models), check for vacuum leaks (carbureted models), test fuel pump pressure (fuel-injected models), replace the fuel filter.

Overheating Headaches: Cooling System Problems

Overheating can be a serious issue that can lead to engine damage. The Alterra 570's cooling system, which includes the radiator, coolant hoses, and water pump, needs to be in good working order to prevent overheating.

Common causes of overheating include a clogged radiator, low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a failing water pump.

  • Symptoms: Engine overheating, steam coming from the radiator, coolant leaks.
  • Potential Causes: Clogged radiator, low coolant levels, faulty thermostat, failing water pump, air in the cooling system.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Clean the radiator fins, check coolant levels, test the thermostat, inspect the water pump for leaks, bleed the cooling system to remove air pockets.

Brake Blues: Squealing and Reduced Stopping Power

Brakes are crucial for safety, and any issues with the braking system should be addressed promptly. Common brake problems on the Alterra 570 include squealing brakes, reduced stopping power, and a spongy brake lever feel.

These issues can be caused by worn brake pads, contaminated brake rotors, air in the brake lines, or a faulty master cylinder.

  • Symptoms: Squealing brakes, reduced stopping power, spongy brake lever feel.
  • Potential Causes: Worn brake pads, contaminated brake rotors, air in the brake lines, faulty master cylinder.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Inspect brake pads for wear, clean brake rotors, bleed the brake lines, check the master cylinder for leaks.

The Dreaded Recalls: Staying Informed

It's essential to stay informed about any recalls issued for your Arctic Cat Alterra 570. Recalls are issued by the manufacturer to address safety-related defects. Ignoring a recall can put you and others at risk. Check the Arctic Cat website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any outstanding recalls for your specific model year.

Keeping Your Alterra 570 Happy: Preventative Maintenance is Key

Many of the problems mentioned above can be prevented with regular maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of key areas to focus on:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Follow the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals to keep the engine lubricated and running smoothly.
  • Air Filter Maintenance: Clean or replace the air filter regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine.
  • Coolant Checks: Maintain proper coolant levels and flush the cooling system periodically to prevent overheating.
  • Battery Care: Keep the battery terminals clean and charged. Consider using a battery tender during periods of inactivity.
  • Brake Inspections: Regularly inspect brake pads and rotors for wear and tear.
  • CV Joint Boot Inspections: Check CV joint boots for cracks or tears and replace them promptly.
  • Grease Fittings: Lubricate all grease fittings regularly to keep suspension components moving freely.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring: Maintain proper tire pressure for optimal handling and ride comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my Alterra 570 hard to start? The most common causes are a weak battery, a faulty stator, or a fuel system issue. Check your battery voltage and fuel lines first.
  • How often should I change the oil in my Alterra 570? Refer to your owner's manual, but generally, every 50-100 hours of riding is recommended.
  • What type of oil should I use in my Alterra 570? Use a high-quality ATV-specific oil that meets the manufacturer's specifications. The correct viscosity will be listed in your owner's manual.
  • My Alterra 570 is overheating. What should I do? Stop riding immediately and let the engine cool down. Check the coolant level and look for any leaks.
  • Where can I find the VIN number on my Alterra 570? The VIN is typically located on the frame near the front of the ATV. It's also usually on the registration paperwork.

Final Thoughts

While the Arctic Cat Alterra 570 isn't immune to problems, understanding these common issues and practicing regular maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan and keep you enjoying the trails. By being proactive and addressing potential problems early, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your Alterra 570 running smoothly for years to come.