2013 Polaris Rzr 800 Error Codes - Your Complete Diagnostic & Fix-It

You’re deep on the trail, the engine is humming, and the only thing on your mind is the next obstacle. Then, it happens. That dreaded yellow light flashes to life on your dash, and your 2013 Polaris RZR 800 sputters. Your heart sinks. A check engine light out here can feel like a death sentence for the day’s ride, leaving you guessing what’s wrong and dreading a costly trip to the shop.

We’ve all been there. That feeling of uncertainty is exactly why we put together this guide. We promise to demystify those blinking numbers and turn that panic into confidence. You don’t always need a fancy diagnostic scanner or a professional mechanic to figure out what your RZR is trying to tell you.

In this definitive guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to retrieve your 2013 Polaris RZR 800 error codes using a simple trick, break down what the most common codes actually mean, and give you actionable, step-by-step troubleshooting advice to get you back on the trail. Let’s dive in and get you wrenching.

How to Access Your 2013 Polaris RZR 800 Error Codes (The Key Turn Trick)

Before you can fix the problem, you need to know what it is. Luckily, Polaris built a simple diagnostic mode right into your RZR’s instrument cluster. You don’t need any special tools for this—just the ignition key and a little patience. This is one of the most valuable 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes tips you can learn.

Follow these simple steps to pull your codes:

Turn the Ignition Key: Turn the key to the “ON” position but do not start the engine. Watch the instrument cluster as it goes through its self-test.
Perform the Key Cycle: Within 3 seconds, turn the key “OFF” and then back “ON” again.
Repeat the Cycle: Do this “OFF” and “ON” cycle three times in total, ending with the key in the “ON” position (ON-OFF-ON-OFF-ON).
Read the Codes: The screen will now enter diagnostic mode. If there are any active fault codes, they will be displayed on the screen. The main code will show, followed by a “FMI” (Failure Mode Identifier) number, which gives more detail about the fault.
Document Everything: Write down every code and FMI number you see. The system will cycle through all stored codes. If you see “End,” it means you’ve seen all the codes.

Once you have your list of codes, you’re ready to play detective. The next section of our 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes guide will help you figure out what they mean.

Decoding the Most Common Problems with 2013 Polaris RZR 800 Error Codes

Now that you have your codes, let’s translate them into plain English. While there are dozens of potential codes, a handful pop up far more often than others. We’ll cover the usual suspects, what causes them, and how to start troubleshooting.

Code 22 & 27: Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Issues

The TPS tells the Engine Control Unit (ECU) how far you’re pressing the gas pedal. A bad signal can cause poor idling, stalling, and a lack of power.

Symptoms: Engine bogging down, erratic idle, hesitation when you hit the gas, or the engine dying when you let off the throttle.
Common Causes: A faulty sensor, a loose or corroded electrical connector, or frayed wiring in the harness. Water intrusion is a huge culprit here.
How to Fix It:
1. Locate the TPS on the side of the throttle body.
2. Inspect the wiring harness and connector. Look for any green corrosion, pinched wires, or a loose fit.
3. Clean the connector with electrical contact cleaner and apply a small amount of dielectric grease before reconnecting. This prevents future moisture problems.
4. If the problem persists, the sensor itself may need to be replaced.

Code 41 & 45: Intake Air Temp & MAP Sensor Faults

The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor and Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor work together to measure the density of the air entering the engine. This is critical for proper fuel delivery.

Symptoms: Rough running, poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust (running rich), or low power.
Common Causes: A dirty or failed sensor, vacuum leaks in the intake boots, or—you guessed it—a bad electrical connection.
How to Fix It:
1. The sensors are located on the intake system between the airbox and the engine.
2. Check the rubber intake boots for any cracks or tears. A can of carb cleaner sprayed around the boots while the engine is idling can help find leaks—if the engine RPM changes, you’ve found your leak.
3. Carefully remove the sensors and inspect them. Sometimes cleaning a MAP sensor with a dedicated MAP sensor cleaner can resolve the issue.
4. Check the wiring and connectors just like you did for the TPS.

Code 51, 52, 53: Fuel Injector Faults

These codes point to a problem with the electrical circuit for one or both of the fuel injectors. The ECU has detected that the signal is not what it should be.

Symptoms: Engine misfiring (running on one cylinder), hard starting, or a complete no-start condition.
Common Causes: A bad injector, a broken wire in the harness leading to the injector, or a corroded connector.
How to Fix It:
1. Find the fuel injectors on the intake manifold.
2. Perform a “wiggle test.” With the engine idling (if possible), gently wiggle the connector and wiring for each injector. If the engine’s behavior changes, you’ve likely found a loose connection.
3. Unplug the connector and check for corrosion. Clean as needed.
4. You can test the injector’s coil with a multimeter set to ohms. A good injector will have a specific resistance value (check your service manual, but it’s typically around 12-15 ohms). An open circuit (infinite resistance) means the injector is bad.

Code 20 & 21: Voltage Problems

Your RZR’s electrical system is sensitive. These codes indicate the ECU is seeing a voltage that is too low (under 9V) or too high (over 16V). This is one of the most common problems with 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes.

Symptoms: Multiple, seemingly unrelated error codes, dim headlights, hard starting, or the power steering cutting out.
Common Causes: A dying battery, loose or corroded battery terminals, a bad voltage regulator, or a failing stator.
How to Fix It:
1. Start with the basics. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight. A wire brush and some corrosion-protectant spray work wonders.
2. Test your battery. A healthy battery should read about 12.6V when off and over 13.5V when the engine is running. If it’s low when running, your charging system (regulator or stator) is likely the problem.
3. Trace the main ground wire from the battery to the frame. Make sure it’s clean and tight. A bad ground can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins.

Essential Tools for Tackling RZR 800 Error Codes

You don’t need a full professional shop, but having a few key tools makes diagnosing these issues much easier. The benefits of 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes knowledge are maximized when you have the right gear.

Digital Multimeter: This is your best friend for any electrical diagnosis. It allows you to check battery voltage, test sensors for resistance, and check for continuity in wires.
Basic Socket & Wrench Set: For removing and reinstalling parts.
Torx Bit Set: Polaris loves using Torx fasteners, so this is a must-have.
Electrical Contact Cleaner: Safely cleans grime and corrosion from electrical connectors without leaving a residue.
Dielectric Grease: A non-conductive grease that protects electrical connections from moisture and corrosion. A dab of this in every connector you touch is a great preventative measure.

Pro Tips & Best Practices for Error Code Management

Fixing a code is good, but preventing it is better. Adopting a few best practices can save you a lot of headaches down the road. This 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes care guide is all about being proactive.

Embrace Preventative Maintenance

A sustainable 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes strategy starts with prevention. Regularly cleaning your machine, especially after muddy or wet rides, prevents dirt and moisture from ruining electrical connections. This is an eco-friendly 2013 polaris rzr 800 error codes approach, as it reduces the need to replace perfectly good parts that were simply compromised by neglect.

Battery Health is Everything

Your RZR’s battery is the heart of its electrical system. A weak or failing battery will cause low voltage, throwing a cascade of confusing codes. Keep your battery on a tender when not in use, and replace it every 3-4 years as a rule of thumb, even if it seems fine.

The “Wiggle Test” is Your Secret Weapon

Many electrical issues on off-road machines are caused by vibrations breaking or loosening connections over time. If you have an intermittent problem, start the machine and gently wiggle wire harnesses and connectors related to the fault code. If you can make the problem appear or disappear, you’ve found the area to focus on.

When to Wave the White Flag: Knowing When to Call a Pro

There’s no shame in knowing your limits. While many codes are straightforward, some problems require specialized tools and knowledge. It’s time to call a qualified mechanic if:

You’ve performed all the basic checks and can’t find the cause.
The issue points to an internal engine or transmission problem.
You’re dealing with a complex wiring harness issue that requires advanced diagnostics.
You’re simply not comfortable performing the repair. Safety first, always.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 Polaris RZR 800 Error Codes

How do I clear the error codes on my 2013 RZR 800?

Once you’ve fixed the underlying problem, the active code should clear itself after a few successful start-and-run cycles. For stored (inactive) codes, you can clear them by disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes. Just be sure you’ve written them down first!

Can a bad battery really cause multiple error codes?

Absolutely. This is one of the most common scenarios. The ECU and various sensors need a stable voltage to operate correctly. When the voltage drops, they send erratic signals, causing the ECU to log multiple, often unrelated, fault codes. Always check your battery first!

Is it safe to ride my RZR with the check engine light on?

It depends on the code and the symptoms. If the light is on but the machine seems to be running perfectly fine, you can likely limp it back to the truck or home base cautiously. However, if the light is flashing or the engine is running poorly, stalling, or making strange noises, you should stop immediately to prevent further damage.

Tackling your 2013 Polaris RZR 800 error codes doesn’t have to be intimidating. By learning how to retrieve the codes and understanding what the common ones mean, you’ve already won half the battle. You have the power to diagnose and fix many issues right in your own garage.

So next time that light comes on, take a deep breath. Remember this guide, grab your tools, and approach the problem with confidence. You’ll save money, learn more about your machine, and earn some serious bragging rights. Get wrenching, and we’ll see you back on the trail!

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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.