2017 Polaris Ranger 570 Check Engine Codes

There’s no feeling quite like it. You’re deep on a trail, miles from the nearest road, and suddenly, that little amber engine icon lights up your dash. Your heart sinks. A check engine light on your trusted 2017 Polaris Ranger 570 can instantly turn a great day of work or play into a stressful ordeal filled with questions and dollar signs.

I get it. We’ve all been there. That light feels like a mystery box of expensive problems. But what if I told you that light is actually your best friend, trying to tell you exactly what’s wrong?

In this guide, we’re going to pull back the curtain on those cryptic codes. I promise to show you exactly how to access and understand your 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes without any fancy, expensive scanners. We’ll walk through what the most common codes mean, what tools you need to investigate, and how you can tackle many of these issues right in your own garage, saving you a trip to the dealer and a hefty bill.

Why Your Ranger’s Check Engine Light is Your Best Friend (Not Your Enemy)

First things first, let’s reframe how we think about the check engine light, or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). It’s not there to ruin your day; it’s an early warning system designed by engineers to protect your machine’s engine and emissions components.

Ignoring it is like ignoring a smoke alarm. Sure, it might be a false alarm, but it could also be a sign of a small issue that, if left unchecked, could snowball into a catastrophic and costly failure down the road.

Understanding the benefits of 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes is key to becoming a more confident and capable owner. When you can diagnose the problem yourself, you gain:

Financial Savings: You can avoid diagnostic fees from the dealership (often $100+ an hour) and only pay for the parts you actually need.
Time Savings: No more waiting for an appointment or leaving your Ranger at the shop for days. You can diagnose the issue in minutes.
Empowerment: There’s immense satisfaction in fixing your own machine. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how your Ranger works, making you a better rider and mechanic.
Preventative Maintenance: Catching a failing sensor or a minor fuel system issue early can prevent it from causing damage to more expensive components like the catalytic converter or the engine itself.

How to Access Your 2017 Polaris Ranger 570 Check Engine Codes (No Scanner Needed!)

One of the best features of these Polaris machines is the built-in diagnostic mode. You don’t need to run to the auto parts store for an OBD-II scanner. Your instrument cluster is all you need. This is the ultimate 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes guide for the DIYer.

Follow these simple steps to read your codes:

Safety First: Park your Ranger on a flat, level surface and put it in Park. Ensure the engine is off.
Key On, Engine Off: Turn the ignition key to the ‘ON’ position, but do not start the engine. Wait for the instrument cluster to power up and complete its initial sweep.
Enter Diagnostic Mode: Use the single MODE/SELECT button on your instrument cluster. Press and release the button to cycle through the different display screens (odometer, trip meter, engine hours, etc.).
Find the “Check Engine” Screen: Keep cycling until you see the check engine light symbol flashing or a screen that says “Options.”
Access the Codes: Once on the correct screen, press and hold the MODE/SELECT button for a few seconds. This will enter the diagnostic menu.
Read the Faults: You should now see the active fault codes displayed. If there are multiple codes, the display will cycle through them automatically.

You’ll see two sets of numbers, often labeled SPN and FMI. Think of them like a chapter and a page number in a book of problems. The SPN (Suspect Parameter Number) tells you which component is having an issue (e.g., the fuel injector), and the FMI (Failure Mode Identifier) tells you what kind of problem it is (e.g., circuit open, voltage too high).

Decoding Common Problems with 2017 Polaris Ranger 570 Check Engine Codes

Alright, you’ve got your codes. Now, what do they actually mean? While the service manual is the ultimate source, many codes are common across the platform. Here are some of the most frequent culprits and what to look for. This list will help you tackle the most common problems with 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes.

Fuel, Air, & Misfire Codes

These codes relate to the critical air/fuel mixture your engine needs to run smoothly. An issue here can cause poor performance, stalling, and bad fuel economy.

SPN 651, FMI 5 – Injector 1 Circuit Open: This is a classic. It means the Engine Control Unit (ECU) isn’t seeing a complete circuit for the fuel injector.
- What to Check: Start simple. Inspect the wiring harness plug at the fuel injector. Is it seated firmly? Are the pins clean and free of mud or corrosion? Unplug it, hit it with some contact cleaner, add a dab of dielectric grease, and plug it back in. If that doesn’t work, use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring leading back to the ECU. The injector itself could also have failed.
SPN 520230, FMI 31 – Misfire Detected: The engine is not firing correctly on its cylinder. This will feel like a stutter or hesitation when you accelerate.
- What to Check: The “big three” for misfires are spark, fuel, and air. The most common cause is a fouled or old spark plug. Pull it out and inspect it. Is it black, wet, or worn? Replace it. Next, check the spark plug wire and the ignition coil for any damage. A fuel issue, like a clogged injector (see above), can also cause a misfire.
SPN 102, FMI 2/3/4 – Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor: This sensor measures engine load. A fault here will lead to a rough idle and poor performance.
- What to Check: The MAP sensor is mounted on the throttle body. Check that its electrical connector is secure. More importantly, check the small vacuum hose connected to it for cracks, splits, or a loose fit. A simple vacuum leak is a very common cause for this code.

Sensor & Electrical Codes

Your Ranger is packed with sensors that feed data to the ECU. When one of them acts up, it can throw the whole system out of whack.

SPN 22, FMI 3/4 – Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Voltage High/Low: The TPS tells the ECU how far you’re pressing the gas pedal. A fault here can cause erratic acceleration, a high idle, or a dangerous situation where the machine won’t return to idle properly.
- What to Check: This is often part of the throttle body assembly. Ensure the connector is clean and tight. Sometimes, the sensor itself just wears out and needs to be replaced. This is a critical safety component, so address this code immediately.
SPN 110, FMI 3/4 – Engine Coolant Temp (ECT) Sensor Voltage High/Low: This sensor tells the ECU how hot the engine is, which affects fuel mixture and when the cooling fan kicks on.
- What to Check: Symptoms include hard starting when cold, black smoke from the exhaust (running too rich), or the cooling fan running constantly or not at all. Check the wiring to the sensor, which is usually located on the engine head near the thermostat housing. If the wiring is good, the sensor is likely faulty.
SPN 727, FMI 2 – Throttle Body Motor Control: This is related to the electronic “drive-by-wire” system. The ECU has detected a problem with the motor that opens and closes the throttle plate.
- What to Check: This can sometimes be triggered by a weak battery, so always check your battery voltage first! If the battery is healthy, inspect the throttle body connections. A dirty throttle body can also cause the motor to struggle.

Essential Tools and Best Practices for Troubleshooting

You don’t need a professional rollaway chest to tackle these jobs. Having a few key tools and following some 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes best practices will make your life much easier and safer.

Your Basic Diagnostic Toolkit:

Digital Multimeter: This is non-negotiable. It’s your eyes for seeing electricity. You’ll use it to check battery voltage, test for continuity in wires, and verify sensor signals.
Basic Socket & Wrench Set: You’ll need this for removing components like spark plugs, sensors, and plastic body panels.
Spark Plug Socket: Make sure you have the correct size for your Ranger’s plug.
Contact Cleaner & Dielectric Grease: Your best friends for electrical work. Contact cleaner removes corrosion and dirt from connectors, and dielectric grease protects them from future moisture and ensures a good connection.
A Good Service Manual: While guides like this are helpful, the factory service manual is the bible. It has wiring diagrams, torque specs, and detailed procedures for every job.

Eco-Friendly Fixes and Sustainable Maintenance Tips

Being a responsible off-roader means more than just staying on the trail. Following a good 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes care guide not only keeps your machine running but also minimizes its environmental impact.

When you address check engine codes promptly, you’re practicing sustainable 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes maintenance. A properly running engine with a clean air filter, good spark plugs, and functioning sensors burns fuel more efficiently. This means better gas mileage for you and fewer harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.

Think about the parts you replace. A fouled spark plug or a clogged fuel injector wastes fuel with every revolution of the engine. Fixing these issues is an eco-friendly 2017 polaris ranger 570 check engine codes practice that pays you back at the pump. When you’re done, be sure to dispose of old parts, fluids, and batteries at a proper recycling facility.

When to Call a Pro: Knowing Your Limits

There is absolutely no shame in knowing when a job is beyond your tools or comfort level. While you can diagnose and fix many common codes, some issues are best left to a certified technician.

Consider calling a professional if:

You suspect an internal engine problem (e.g., low compression).
The problem points to a faulty ECU, which is the expensive “brain” of the vehicle.
You’re dealing with a complex, intermittent electrical issue that you can’t trace.
The repair requires specialized tools you don’t own and can’t justify buying.

Your goal is to get your Ranger fixed correctly and safely. Sometimes, the most cost-effective way to do that is to let an expert handle it after you’ve done the initial diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Polaris Ranger 570 Check Engine Codes

Can I still drive my Ranger with the check engine light on?

It depends. If the light is solid and the machine seems to be running normally, you can likely drive it cautiously back to your truck or garage. If the light is flashing, or if the engine is making strange noises, running very poorly, or overheating, you should stop immediately. A flashing light often indicates a severe misfire that can damage the catalytic converter.

How do I clear the check engine codes after a repair?

Once you’ve fixed the underlying problem, the code will often clear itself after a few drive cycles (a cycle consists of starting the engine, letting it reach operating temperature, and then shutting it off). You can also clear the codes immediately by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for about 15-20 minutes. Just be aware this will also reset your trip meter and clock.

Does a loose gas cap cause a check engine light on a Ranger 570?

Unlike modern cars, UTVs like the Ranger 570 do not typically have an evaporative emissions (EVAP) system that monitors fuel tank pressure. Therefore, a loose gas cap will not trigger a check engine light on this specific model.

What’s the difference between an SPN and an FMI number?

Think of it this way: The SPN (Suspect Parameter Number) is the “what” – it identifies the general system or component at fault (e.g., SPN 651 = Injector 1). The FMI (Failure Mode Identifier) is the “how” – it describes the specific type of failure (e.g., FMI 5 = Current Below Normal / Open Circuit). You need both numbers to accurately diagnose the problem.

That check engine light doesn’t have to be a mystery anymore. By using the built-in diagnostics and a little bit of patience, you have the power to understand what your Ranger is telling you. You can make informed decisions, save money, and gain the confidence that comes from being a truly hands-on owner.

Grab your tools, trust your gut, and get back on the trail. Happy wrenching!

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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.