[Sockman]

So I'm thinking of buying one of these and I'm curious if there is a difference in the 800 Zforce 800 EX EPS from model years 2015 thru 2017.  I had read they made a change mid 2016 to add a cover to the power steering motor and possibly a driver's side glove box.  Can anybody confirm this? 

I've talked to a number of dealers and here's what some choices so far.  These are all new.

A 2015 model which I can get for $9999 plus tax/title, so around $10.8 OTD.  This one is about 3 hours drive for me.
A 2016 model the dealer wants $9999, but a ridiculous $795 freight/destination charge, $440 setup, tax/title for about $12k OTD. This one is a couple hours away.
A 2017 model for $11,599 (basically MSRP) but that is OTD with tax/title, etc.  Unfortunately, that one is about 7 hours away.

Any thoughts?  Thanks

[NMKawierider]

I know somewhere in 2016 they added a cover under the steering column but the glovebox wasn't changed that I know of. There isn't any real differences throughout the years but...keep in mind that every 3 months or so CFM reviews customer problems and makes changes directly to the production line. Real issues such as suspension bushing problems, electrical component problems, Air Filters & QC Inspections are addressed directly and changes are immediately made on the production line. So the term "the newer...the better" has real meaning on these. Although the 2015s had very little issues already being through several of these cycles, the 17s would be the best so far. Food for thought

   

[REDRIDER]

I don't think there are any differences in the model years expect maybe the 2017 got a newer style filter (just something I have heard). SO if they are all new they will get the same 1yr warranty so I would go with the cheapest price personally. Your resale value may suffer a little with the older models though just because you are starting out at 2 years old with a 2015.

[REDRIDER]

If you are close to Connecticut I could sell you mine, has no EPS but its a 2016 with 90 miles. factory Warranty until October. 2inch lift. $9,500

[Sockman]

If you are close to Connecticut I could sell you mine, has no EPS but its a 2016 with 90 miles. factory Warranty until October. 2inch lift. $9,500

Appreciate the offer.  I'm in the midwest, and really want power steering.  Have it on the Prowler and I love it.

[Sockman]

I know somewhere in 2016 they added a cover under the steering column but the glovebox wasn't changed that I know of. There isn't any real differences throughout the years but...keep in mind that every 3 months or so CFM reviews customer problems and makes changes directly to the production line. Real issues such as suspension bushing problems, electrical component problems, Air Filters & QC Inspections are addressed directly and changes are immediately made on the production line. So the term "the newer...the better" has real meaning on these. Although the 2015s had very little issues already being through several of these cycles, the 17s would be the best so far. Food for thought

All good points.  Thanks.

[NMKawierider]

And...I have the power steering model. It's great! Really good system. If you get one, be sure it has PS IMO.

[bezerk1]

The newer ones have nicer seats.  Mine are just all black.

[hoagie]

How are seats after all day ride ? they seemed a little hard ?

[NMKawierider]

How are seats after all day ride ? they seemed a little hard ?

My 15 isn't bad but we do take breaks. They could use a hair deeper foam but I have no real issues with them.

[gfmoto]

Love my 2015 EX and it is not an eps.  NEVER had any steering issues even in some deep stuff. 

[REDRIDER]

I've never found myself wishing I had EPS either. Front end is light on these only time I feel it is if I play in the rocks but that isn't often and it's really not an issue. MY 7 year old girls can steer it =)

[gfmoto]

MY 7 year old girls can steer it =)

Lol, my 10yr girl drives our golf cart and has driven the Z and neither have EPS. 

[Sockman]

I know it's hard to read sarcasm on a message board, but yes, I can drive a vehicle without power steering.  If it comes down to having it or not having it, I would rather have it.  I own one with PS and it is very nice.  I've also had my thumb nearly torn off by the steering wheel hitting a stump at higher speed without PS. 

[REDRIDER]

It's nice to have in some situations. I like the feedback of no P/S personally. I understand wanting it for sure.  P/S or not though the wheel can be ripped out of your hands when you hit something at speed.  I wasn't being sarcastic, or poking fun at anyone wanting EPS to be clear. I was saying literally my girls can steer it, emphasizing the point the it is a pretty light front end and easy to steer without P/S. Could they steering it rock crawling? probably not.