You’re blasting down a favorite trail, the engine is roaring, and suddenly—that dreaded yellow check engine light flashes on your dash. Your heart sinks a little as you see the numbers: Fault Code 31.
It’s a moment every RZR owner knows. You’re miles from the garage, and your rig is now in limp mode or, worse, won’t even start. You immediately start wondering if your day of riding is over.
We promise this guide will demystify the frustrating 2017 Polaris RZR 1000XP Code 31. We’re going to give you the confidence and the step-by-step instructions to diagnose and fix this common issue yourself, right in your own garage.
In this article, we’ll break down the symptoms, pinpoint the most likely causes, and walk you through the entire troubleshooting process, from simple visual checks to replacing the faulty part. Let’s get that code cleared and get you back on the dirt.
What Exactly is the 2017 Polaris RZR 1000XP Code 31?
At its core, Code 31 points directly to a problem with your RZR’s Gear Position Sensor, also known as the Shift Position Sensor. This little sensor is a critical part of your machine’s brain.
Its one and only job is to tell the Engine Control Unit (ECU) exactly which gear your transmission is in—Park, Reverse, Neutral, Low, or High. The ECU uses this information for several vital functions, including safety start protocols and engine performance mapping.
When the ECU gets a signal from this sensor that doesn’t make sense, or gets no signal at all, it throws Code 31 to let you know something is wrong. This is a crucial part of our comprehensive 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 guide.
Understanding the FMI Codes
Often, Code 31 will be paired with an FMI (Failure Mode Identifier) number that gives you a bigger clue. The two most common are:
- FMI 5: Current Below Normal / Open Circuit. In simple terms, this means the electrical signal from the sensor is lost. Think of it like a cut wire or a completely unplugged connection.
- FMI 6: Current Above Normal / Short Circuit. This indicates that the electrical signal is going somewhere it shouldn’t. This is often caused by a pinched wire, water inside a connector, or internal failure of the sensor.
Common Symptoms: How Your RZR Tells You There’s a Problem
When the gear position sensor acts up, your RZR will let you know in some pretty obvious ways. The ECU gets confused and defaults to safety measures to protect the machine and you.
Here are the most common symptoms you’ll experience with a Code 31:
- Check Engine Light (CEL): This is the most obvious sign. The light will illuminate on your dash, displaying the code.
- No-Start Condition: For safety, your RZR is designed to only start in Park or Neutral. If the ECU can’t confirm the transmission is in one of those gears, it will prevent the engine from cranking.
- Incorrect Gear Display: You might shift into High, but the display still shows Neutral or flashes between gears.
- Limp Mode: The ECU may limit engine power and speed to prevent potential damage when it can’t determine the correct gear.
- Stalling or Hesitation: In some cases, erratic signals from the sensor can cause poor engine performance or stalling, especially when shifting.
The Usual Suspects: Top Causes of Code 31
Before you start ordering parts, it’s important to understand what typically causes this code. More often than not, the sensor itself isn’t the problem. The issue usually lies in the path between the sensor and the ECU. Here are the most common problems with 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31.
The Number One Culprit: Wiring and Connectors
Your RZR lives a tough life. It gets blasted with mud, submerged in water, and shaken by constant vibration. This environment is brutal on electrical connections.
The wiring harness and connector for the gear position sensor are prime targets for damage. Look for corrosion (green or white crust), packed-in mud, or wires that have been rubbed raw or pulled loose. A good 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 care guide always starts with keeping these connections clean.
The Gear Position Sensor Itself
While less common than wiring issues, the sensor can fail internally. The electronic components inside can wear out over time, leading to incorrect readings or a complete loss of signal.
Shift Linkage and Cable Adjustment
The sensor reads the physical position of a shaft on the transmission. If your shift cable has stretched or the linkage is out of adjustment, the transmission might not be fully engaging in each gear.
This misalignment can cause the sensor to be stuck between two readings, confusing the ECU and triggering the code.
Your Step-by-Step 2017 Polaris RZR 1000XP Code 31 Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. Follow these steps methodically, and you’ll likely find the source of your problem without throwing unnecessary parts at it. This is a perfect example of how to 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 diagnostics should be done.
Essential Tools and Safety First
Before you begin, gather a few basic tools. You don’t need a full professional shop, but having these on hand will make the job much easier.
- Basic socket and ratchet set (metric)
- Digital Multimeter
- Electrical contact cleaner
- Dielectric grease
- A few zip ties
- Clean rags or paper towels
Safety Precaution: Always work on a level surface with the machine in Park and the parking brake set. Most importantly, disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before working on any electrical components.
Step 1: Locate and Inspect the Sensor and Wiring
The gear position sensor is located on the driver’s side of the transmission. You may need to remove the driver’s side rear wheel and possibly a plastic shield for better access.
Once you find it, follow its wiring harness back toward the engine. Carefully inspect every inch for signs of damage: cuts, chafing against the frame, melting from exhaust heat, or sharp bends. Pay close attention to the plug itself.
Step 2: Clean and Secure the Connection
This simple step fixes the problem more than 50% of the time. Unplug the connector. It might be stiff from dirt, so be firm but gentle.
- Look inside both ends of the connector for any dirt, mud, water, or corrosion on the metal pins.
- Spray both the male and female ends generously with electrical contact cleaner to flush out any contaminants.
- Let it air dry completely for a few minutes. You can use compressed air to speed this up, but don’t use high pressure.
- Apply a small dab of dielectric grease to the inside of the female connector. This helps waterproof the connection and prevent future corrosion.
- Plug the connector back in firmly until you hear or feel it click. Give it a gentle tug to ensure it’s secure.
At this point, reconnect your battery and turn the key on. See if the code has cleared and if the gear display is accurate. If so, you’ve found your issue! This is one of the most important 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 tips we can offer.
Step 3: Check and Adjust the Shift Linkage
With a friend’s help, have them move the shifter inside the cab through each gear. Watch the selector arm on the transmission where the shift cable connects. Ensure it moves smoothly and fully into each detent position (P, R, N, L, H). If it seems sloppy or doesn’t line up perfectly, your shift cable may need adjustment.
Step 4: Replacing the Gear Position Sensor
If cleaning the connector and checking the linkage didn’t work, and you don’t have a multimeter to test the old one, replacement is the next logical step. The sensor is typically held on by two small bolts.
- Make sure the transmission is in Neutral.
- Unplug the electrical connector.
- Carefully remove the two bolts holding the sensor to the transmission case.
- Gently pull the old sensor straight off. Note its orientation.
- Install the new sensor, making sure it is aligned correctly.
- Tighten the bolts evenly, but do not overtighten them.
- Apply dielectric grease to the new connector and plug it in.
The Benefits of Fixing 2017 Polaris RZR 1000XP Code 31 Correctly
Taking the time to fix this issue properly offers huge rewards. The most obvious benefit is getting your RZR’s full power and performance back, eliminating limp mode and starting issues for good.
More importantly, you gain peace of mind on the trail, knowing your machine is reliable. A proper repair also prevents potential damage to other components that can result from the ECU receiving bad data.
Following these 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 best practices even contributes to a more sustainable 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 approach to maintenance. A well-maintained electrical system ensures your engine runs efficiently, using fuel correctly and reducing emissions. It’s an eco-friendly 2017 polaris rzr 1000xp code 31 solution that keeps your machine healthy and the trails cleaner.
Frequently Asked Questions About the RZR Code 31
Can I still ride my RZR with Code 31?
We strongly advise against it. While you might be able to limp back to the truck, you risk being stranded if the machine decides not to start. Riding in limp mode also puts unnecessary stress on other components.
How much does it cost to fix Code 31?
If the issue is a dirty connection, the cost is just a can of contact cleaner and some grease—less than $20. A new OEM gear position sensor typically costs between $80 and $150. A dealer repair could run several hundred dollars with labor included.
Do I need to clear the code after fixing the problem?
In most cases, once the ECU receives a correct signal from the sensor for a few key cycles, the code will clear itself. You can also clear it by disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes.
Get Back on the Trail with Confidence
That flashing check engine light for a 2017 Polaris RZR 1000XP Code 31 doesn’t have to ruin your day. As you can see, the fix is often simple and something any DIYer can handle with basic tools and a little patience.
By following a logical process—inspect, clean, test, and replace only if necessary— you’ll save yourself time, money, and the frustration of a trip to the dealer. You’ll also gain a better understanding of how your machine works.
Now, get out there, tackle that code, and get back to what you love most. Stay safe and happy riding!
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