2011 Polaris Sportsman 850 Xp Code 1119

There’s nothing worse than being deep on the trail, ready to conquer the next obstacle, only to have your 2011 Polaris Sportsman 850 XP suddenly lose power and flash a check engine light. You see code 1119 on the dash, and your ride is now stuck in a frustrating limp mode.

Don’t panic or start pricing out a tow. This guide is your roadmap to diagnosing and fixing this common issue right in your own garage. We’ll walk you through it step-by-step, just like a seasoned tech would, turning that dreaded error code into a conquered challenge.

We’ll decode what the 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 actually means, inspect the most common culprits like wiring and sensors, show you how to test components, and give you the confidence to get your Sportsman back to full power. Let’s get those hands dirty.

What Exactly is Fault Code 1119 on Your Sportsman 850?

Think of that code as a specific message from your ATV’s brain, the Engine Control Module (ECM). It’s not just a random number; it’s pointing you directly to a problem area so you don’t have to guess.

In this case, code 1119 translates to “Throttle Position Sensor 2: Voltage Too Low.” In simpler terms, the computer is getting a signal from one of the throttle sensors that is weaker than it should be, or it’s getting no signal at all.

The Role of the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

Your Sportsman 850 XP uses a “ride-by-wire” system. When you press the thumb throttle, you’re not physically pulling a cable connected to the engine. Instead, you’re moving a sensor that tells the ECM how much you want to accelerate.

The ECM takes that information and then electronically opens the throttle body on the engine. For safety and accuracy, there are usually two sensors (TPS 1 and TPS 2) that must agree with each other. Code 1119 means TPS 2 is the one acting up, causing the ECM to distrust the signal and put the machine in limp mode to prevent uncontrolled acceleration.

Common Symptoms You’ll Experience

Check Engine Light (CEL): This is your first and most obvious warning.
Limp Mode: The engine will have severely reduced power and won’t rev up properly. This is a safety feature.
Erratic or Poor Idle: The engine may idle roughly or stall.
Hesitation on Acceleration: You’ll notice a significant lag or sputtering when you try to give it gas.

Safety First: Pre-Diagnostic Checks and Essential Tools

Before you dive in, let’s set the stage for a safe and successful repair. Rushing this part can lead to more problems, so take a deep breath and gear up properly. This is one of the most important 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 tips we can offer.

Always work on a level surface in a well-lit and ventilated area. Ensure the engine is cool to the touch before working near it. For any electrical diagnosis, it’s a smart move to disconnect the negative terminal of your battery.

Your Toolbox for This Job:

Digital Multimeter: This is non-negotiable for testing electrical components.
Basic Socket & Wrench Set: To remove any plastics or covers for access.
Torx Bit Set: Polaris loves using Torx fasteners.
Flashlight or Headlamp: You’ll be looking in dark corners for damaged wires.
Contact Cleaner: For cleaning electrical connections without leaving residue.
Dielectric Grease: To protect cleaned connections from future moisture and corrosion.

Step-by-Step 2011 Polaris Sportsman 850 XP Code 1119 Guide

We’re going to tackle this problem from the easiest and most common cause to the more complex. More than 80% of the time, the issue is simpler than you think. This is how to 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 troubleshoot like a pro.

Step 1: The Visual Inspection (The 5-Minute Fix)

Before you test or replace anything, use your eyes. The wiring harness on these machines is often the source of many electrical gremlins. The common problems with 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 often start here.

Locate the Throttle Body: Find your airbox and follow the large intake tube to the engine. The throttle body is the component it connects to.
Trace the Wires: Find the main electrical connector plugging into the side of the throttle body. Carefully trace this bundle of wires back as far as you can see.
Look for Chafing: Pay close attention to any point where the harness touches the frame, is held by a zip tie, or makes a sharp bend. Vibration can easily rub through the insulation, causing a short circuit that results in low voltage.
Check the Connector: Unplug the connector from the throttle body. Inspect the pins and sockets on both sides for any green or white crusty corrosion, moisture, or dirt. Ensure none of the metal pins have been pushed back into the connector housing.

Step 2: Clean and Secure the Connection

If you found any dirt or mild corrosion, or even if it looked clean, this is a crucial step in your 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 care guide. A poor connection is just as bad as a broken wire.

Spray a healthy amount of electrical contact cleaner into both sides of the connector and let it evaporate completely. This will flush out any contaminants.

Once dry, apply a small dab of dielectric grease to the inside of the female end of the connector. This grease doesn’t conduct electricity but creates a waterproof seal, preventing future problems. Reconnect the plug firmly until you hear and feel a solid “click.”

Step 3: The Throttle Reset Procedure

Sometimes, after a connection issue, the ECM needs to relearn the throttle’s position. Before moving on, perform this simple reset. It costs nothing and can sometimes be the final piece of the puzzle.

Turn the key to the ON position, but do NOT start the engine.
Wait for the instrument cluster to cycle through its startup sequence and for the fuel pump to prime.
Slowly and smoothly press the thumb throttle all the way to the handlebar. Hold it there for one full second.
Slowly and smoothly release the throttle completely.
Turn the key to the OFF position and wait 15-20 seconds.

Now, start your machine. If the check engine light is off and the throttle responds normally, you’ve likely fixed it! If the code returns, it’s time to break out the multimeter.

Step 4: Testing the Circuit (For the Advanced DIYer)

Warning: This step requires comfort with a multimeter. Incorrect probing can damage the ECM. If you’re unsure, this is the point to consider professional help.

You’ll need to “back-probe” the connector while it’s plugged in to get live readings. The goal is to verify if the sensor is receiving the correct voltage and sending a proper signal back. You are checking for a consistent voltage reading that changes smoothly as you press the throttle. A sudden drop to zero or an erratic reading indicates a bad sensor or wire.

Due to variations, consulting a service manual for your specific model’s wire colors is one of the 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 best practices. However, the principle remains the same: check for a stable 5V reference, a solid ground, and a signal wire that sweeps cleanly from low to high voltage.

When the Simple Fixes Don’t Work: Is It the Sensor or the Throttle Body?

Here’s a critical piece of information many DIYers discover the hard way. On many 2011 Sportsman 850 XP models, the Throttle Position Sensor is not sold separately. It is integrated and calibrated to the throttle body assembly from the factory.

This means if your testing confirms the TPS itself has failed, you often have to replace the entire throttle body. This is a more expensive and involved repair.

Before ordering a costly new part, be 100% certain that your wiring is perfect. A broken wire between the ECM and the sensor will mimic a failed sensor perfectly. This is where patience pays off and prevents you from buying parts you don’t need. One of the benefits of this thorough 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 diagnosis is saving money.

Best Practices for Long-Term Prevention and Care

Once you’ve fixed the issue, you want to prevent it from happening again. Proper maintenance is the most sustainable 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 solution, as it prevents waste from failed parts.

Secure Your Harness: If you found a chafed spot, repair it with quality electrical tape or heat shrink tubing. Then, use zip ties to gently route the harness away from sharp frame edges or hot engine parts.
Annual Connector Check: Once a year, make it a habit to unplug, inspect, and apply fresh dielectric grease to critical connectors like the throttle body, T-BAP sensor, and ECM.
Ride Smart: While these machines are built for tough conditions, high-pressure washing directly at electrical components can force water past seals and cause future corrosion. Be mindful when you clean. Following this is an almost eco-friendly 2011 polaris sportsman 850 xp code 1119 approach, as it extends the life of your components.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2011 Polaris Sportsman 850 XP Code 1119

Can I still ride my Sportsman with code 1119?

You can, but it’s not recommended for anything other than slowly “limping” it back to your truck or garage. The machine will have very little power, making it unsafe on hills or in technical terrain. Continued riding could also potentially cause further issues.

How much does it cost to fix code 1119?

The cost varies wildly. If it’s a simple wiring chafe or dirty connection, the fix might only cost you a can of contact cleaner and some time. If the entire throttle body assembly needs to be replaced, you could be looking at several hundred dollars for the part, plus labor if you have a shop do the work.

Is a faulty T-BAP sensor related to code 1119?

While the T-BAP (Throttle Body Air Pressure) sensor is located on the same assembly, it typically throws its own separate codes. However, since they share part of the same wiring harness, a wiring issue affecting the TPS could potentially affect the T-BAP as well, leading to multiple codes.

Tackling a diagnostic code like 1119 can feel intimidating, but you’ve got this. By following a logical process—inspecting the wiring first, cleaning connections, and performing the reset—you have a fantastic chance of solving the problem yourself.

Remember to be methodical and patient. You’ll save money, learn more about your machine, and earn the satisfaction of fixing it with your own two hands.

Ride safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you out there. – The FatBoysOffroad Team

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.