2016 Polaris Ranger 900 Xp Code 746 - Your Complete Diesel Code

You’re geared up for a day on the trails or getting work done around the property. You turn the key on your trusty 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP, and there it is—the dreaded check engine light. You pull the diagnostic code and a number pops up: 746. Your mind starts racing. What does it mean? Is it serious? How much is this going to cost?

We get it. A mysterious code can stop a good day in its tracks. But here’s the good news: you’ve come to the right place. We promise to clear up the confusion around this specific code and guide you toward the real issue affecting your machine.

In this definitive guide, we’ll explain exactly what the 2016 polaris ranger 900 xp code 746 actually means, why it’s so confusing for 900 XP owners, and then walk you through the common problems that are likely causing your starting or running issues. Get ready to turn that frustration into a fix.

Decoding the Confusion: What is Polaris Fault Code 746?

Let’s get straight to the point, because this is the most important piece of information you need to know. Fault code 746 on a Polaris vehicle indicates a problem with the Glow Plug Circuit, specifically “Glow Plug Circuit Open / Grounded” or “Glow Plug Circuit Shorted to B+”.

Glow plugs are heating elements used in the combustion chambers of diesel engines to help ignite the fuel during a cold start. They are essential for diesel operation but are completely absent in gasoline engines.

Here’s the catch: your 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP has a gasoline engine. It does not have glow plugs. Therefore, it is technically impossible for your 900 XP to legitimately generate a code 746. This is the source of all the confusion.

So, Why Does It Seem Like You Have Code 746?

If your gas-powered machine can’t have this code, why are you seeing it? There are a few logical explanations, and understanding them is the first step in our troubleshooting guide.

Here are the most common reasons:

Misreading the Code: Polaris codes can be long and complex. It’s very easy to misread a number. You might be seeing a different code, such as 520246 or another multi-digit fault, and mistaking a portion of it for “746”. Double-check the display carefully.
Generic Scanners: If you’re using a generic automotive OBD-II scanner with an adapter, it may not correctly interpret Polaris-specific fault codes. These tools can sometimes display incorrect or “ghost” codes that don’t apply to your vehicle.
You Own a Ranger Diesel: It’s possible you have a different model. Polaris makes a Ranger Diesel that does use glow plugs. If you have the diesel model, then code 746 is a very real problem that we’ll cover next.

The Official 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP Code 746 Guide (For Diesel Models)

While this article is for the 900 XP owner, it’s crucial to understand what this code means on the machines it was designed for. This knowledge helps you confidently rule it out. If you happen to also own a Ranger Diesel, this section is for you.

When a Polaris Ranger Diesel throws code 746, the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem in the electrical circuit that powers the glow plugs.

Common Causes for Code 746 on a Ranger Diesel

This is one of the more common problems with 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP code 746 on diesel variants. The fix usually involves one of these culprits:

Failed Glow Plug(s): Just like a spark plug, a glow plug can burn out. You can test them with a multimeter for resistance. A reading of “OL” (open loop) means the plug is bad.
Faulty Glow Plug Relay or Controller: This is the switch that sends high amperage to the glow plugs. If the relay fails, the plugs get no power. You can often hear it “click” when you turn the key to the ‘on’ position.
Damaged Wiring Harness: This is a big one in the off-road world. Wires can get chafed, melted on the exhaust, or chewed by rodents. Look for any visible damage between the controller, relay, and the plugs themselves.
Poor Ground Connection: The circuit needs a solid ground to the chassis or engine block to work. A loose, rusty, or corroded ground strap can cause an open circuit and trigger the code.

Troubleshooting the REAL Issues on Your Ranger 900 XP

Okay, back to your gasoline-powered 900 XP. You’ve confirmed the code is likely a misinterpretation. So, what’s actually causing your no-start, hard-start, or poor running condition? Let’s get our hands dirty and figure it out. These are the steps to follow.

Step 1: The “Big Three” – Fuel, Spark, and Air

Over 90% of engine problems come down to one of these three things. Don’t overthink it; start with the basics.

Fuel: Is your fuel fresh? Gas that’s more than a few months old, especially with ethanol, can go bad. Listen for the whine of the fuel pump in the tank for 1-2 seconds when you first turn the key on. If you hear nothing, your pump may be the issue. A weak pump can also cause problems, which requires a fuel pressure test to confirm (you’re looking for about 45 PSI).
Spark: Pull a spark plug, connect it back to the plug wire, and ground the threads against the engine block. Carefully have a friend crank the engine. You should see a strong, blue spark. If the spark is weak, orange, or non-existent, you could have bad plugs, wires, or a faulty ignition coil.
Air: This is the easiest check. Pull your air filter out. Is it caked with dirt and dust? A clogged filter can choke the engine, making it run rich and sluggish. Clean or replace it as needed.

Step 2: Check Battery and Electrical Health

A weak battery is the number one cause of weird electrical issues and no-start conditions on UTVs. The electronics on a Ranger 900 XP are sensitive to voltage.

Grab a multimeter. A healthy, fully charged battery should read around 12.6-12.8 volts with the key off. When you crank the engine, the voltage should not drop below 9.5-10 volts. If it does, your battery is on its way out.

Also, check your battery terminals. Are they clean and tight? A fuzzy, corroded terminal can prevent the battery from delivering the power needed to start the engine.

Step 3: Inspect Key Sensors

If the basics check out, it’s time to look at the sensors that tell the ECM how to run the engine.

Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): This tells the ECM how far you’re pushing the gas pedal. A faulty TPS can cause stalling, sputtering, and a failure to idle.
Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS): This sensor tells the ECM that the engine is spinning. If the CPS fails, the ECM won’t send spark or fuel. This is a classic “cranks but won’t start” culprit. Check its wiring for any damage.
T-MAP Sensor: This sensor measures the temperature and pressure of the air entering the engine. A failure here can cause the engine to run too rich or too lean.

How To Properly Read Codes on Your Ranger 900 XP

To avoid confusion in the future, learn how to read the codes directly from your Ranger’s instrument cluster. This is one of the most valuable 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP code 746 tips you can learn.

Turn the ignition key to the ‘ON’ position, but do not start the engine.
Wait for the initial self-check to complete.
Press and hold the ‘MODE’ button on the dash (or toggle it) until you reach the diagnostics or check engine screen.
The active fault codes will be displayed. Polaris codes are typically shown in a two-part format: a PID/SPN (the component) and an FMI (the failure type). Write them down exactly as they appear.
You can then look up this full, accurate code in your service manual or online for a precise diagnosis.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Best Practices

Part of being a responsible rider is maintaining your machine for the long haul. A proper 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP code 746 care guide isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about preventing problems.

Adopting sustainable 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP code 746 repair habits means doing the job right the first time. Use high-quality replacement parts from Polaris or a reputable aftermarket brand. A cheap sensor that fails in six months isn’t saving you money or resources.

For an eco-friendly 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP code 746 approach, always dispose of old fluids, batteries, and parts responsibly. A well-maintained engine that isn’t running overly rich or leaking fluids is also better for the environment you ride in.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP Code 746

To be clear, does my 2016 Ranger 900 XP have glow plugs?

No, absolutely not. The 2016 Polaris Ranger 900 XP has a gasoline engine, which uses spark plugs for ignition. Code 746 refers to the glow plug circuit, which is only found on Polaris DIESEL models.

What is the most common reason for a Ranger 900 XP to crank but not start?

After a weak battery, the most common culprit is a fuel delivery problem. This is often a failed fuel pump. Listen for the 2-second priming sound from the gas tank when you turn the key on. If it’s silent, the pump is your prime suspect.

Can I just clear the codes and see if they come back?

You can, but it’s not recommended. The code is a symptom of an underlying problem. Clearing it without fixing the root cause means it will almost certainly return, potentially leaving you stranded on the trail. Always diagnose and repair the issue first.

While some codes will clear on their own after a few successful run cycles, you can also perform a hard reset by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 15-20 minutes.

Tackling a diagnostic code can feel intimidating, but you’ve now unraveled the mystery of code 746. Remember that it’s a diesel code, and the real issue on your 900 XP is likely related to the fundamentals of fuel, spark, air, or battery health.

By following these steps patiently, you can move from diagnosis to solution. You have the knowledge and the roadmap to get your Ranger running like new. Take your time, prioritize safety, and you’ll be back on the dirt in no time. Happy riding!

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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.