You’re deep on the trail, miles from the truck, and then it happens. That dreaded amber glow appears on your dash: the check engine light. Your heart sinks a little. Is it something serious? Is your ride over? We’ve all been there, and that moment of uncertainty can kill the fun.
I’m here to promise you that this light doesn’t have to be a mystery or a weekend-ender. Your 2020 Sportsman 570 has a powerful built-in diagnostic system, and you don’t need a fancy computer to use it.
This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to access and understand your 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 check engine codes. We’ll cover how to pull the codes, decode the most common ones, perform simple first-line fixes, and know when it’s time to call for backup. Let’s turn that frustration into confidence.
What That Check Engine Light Really Means on Your Sportsman 570
Before we grab any tools, let’s get one thing straight. The Check Engine Light (CEL) is simply your ATV’s way of talking to you. It’s a signal from the Engine Control Unit (ECU)—the brain of your machine—that it has detected a reading from a sensor that is outside of its normal range.
This could be something as simple as a loose electrical connector or as complex as a failing sensor. Ignoring it is never a good idea. Understanding the benefits of 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 check engine codes diagnostics is the first step to becoming a more self-sufficient rider.
By learning this process, you can save hundreds on diagnostic fees, fix minor issues on the spot, and prevent small problems from becoming major, expensive repairs down the road. It’s one of the most empowering skills you can learn as a Sportsman owner.
How to Access Your 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 Check Engine Codes (No Scanner Needed!)
Here’s the best part: Polaris engineered a way for you to check the codes using just your ignition key and the gauge cluster. It’s a fantastic feature for any DIYer. This is the core of our 2020 polaris sportsman 570 check engine codes guide.
Follow these steps carefully. The timing can be a little tricky on the first try, so don’t get discouraged.
Step 1: Get Your ATV Ready
Safety first, always. Make sure your Sportsman is parked on level ground, the transmission is in Park, and the engine is off. You’ll be working with the electrical system, so a stable machine is crucial.
Step 2: The “Key On-Off” Method
Insert your key and turn it to the ON position. Do not start the engine. Watch the instrument cluster light up and go through its self-check sequence.
Once the initial sweep is done, quickly turn the key to the OFF position, and then immediately back to the ON position.
Repeat this ON-OFF-ON cycle three times, ending with the key in the ON position. The sequence is: ON… OFF-ON… OFF-ON… OFF-ON.
On the final turn to ON, leave it there. The word “Codes” or a similar indicator should appear on your digital display, followed by the stored trouble codes.
Step 3: Reading and Recording the Codes
The codes will be displayed in a specific format. You will see an SPN (Suspect Parameter Number) and an FMI (Failure Mode Identifier). For example, you might see SPN 651, FMI 5.
The SPN tells you which system or component is having an issue. The FMI tells you what kind of failure it is (e.g., voltage too high, voltage too low, data erratic).
Use your phone to take a video or picture of the screen as it cycles through the codes. Write them down in order. This information is your roadmap to a solution.
Decoding Common Problems with 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 Check Engine Codes
Once you have your codes, it’s time to play detective. While there are hundreds of potential codes, some pop up far more often than others. Here are a few of the usual suspects you might encounter and some practical 2020 polaris sportsman 570 check engine codes tips for dealing with them.
Misfire Codes (SPN 65590, 65591, 65592)
These codes indicate an engine misfire. The ECU is detecting that the engine isn’t running smoothly. This is often one of the easiest issues to diagnose.
- Likely Causes: A fouled spark plug, a loose spark plug wire, a weak ignition coil, or a clogged fuel injector.
- DIY Check: Start with the simplest fix. Pull the spark plug wire and the spark plug itself. Check for wear, carbon buildup, or damage. A new NGK MR7F spark plug is cheap insurance.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Codes (SPN 651, SPN 22)
Your Sportsman 570 uses a ride-by-wire throttle. The TPS tells the ECU how much you’re pressing the throttle. If this signal is erratic, your machine can run poorly, have an unstable idle, or go into limp mode.
- Likely Causes: A loose or corroded connector at the TPS (located on the throttle body), a failing sensor, or a wiring issue in the harness.
- DIY Check: Locate the sensor on the side of the throttle body. Unplug its connector, check for any green corrosion or bent pins, and apply a small amount of dielectric grease before plugging it back in securely.
MAP Sensor Codes (SPN 102)
The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor measures engine load by reading the vacuum pressure in the intake. A bad signal can cause rich or lean fuel conditions, leading to poor performance.
- Likely Causes: A cracked or disconnected vacuum line, a dirty sensor, or a bad electrical connection.
- DIY Check: Carefully inspect all the small rubber vacuum hoses connected to the throttle body and intake for cracks or loose fits. Unplug the MAP sensor and check its connector just like you did with the TPS.
Your First-Line Fixes: A Practical Care Guide for Common Codes
Before you start ordering expensive parts, follow these 2020 polaris sportsman 570 check engine codes best practices. More often than not, the solution is simpler than you think.
Check Your Connections
Vibration is an ATV’s worst enemy. Systematically check every major electrical connector you can access. Unplug it, look for dirt or corrosion, and plug it back in until you hear a solid “click.” Pay special attention to the battery terminals—they must be clean and tight.
Inspect for Obvious Damage
Give your machine a thorough look-over. Rodents love to chew on wiring harnesses. Look for any frayed wires, especially around the engine where it gets warm. Check for cracked hoses or anything that looks out of place.
Confirm Your Battery Health
A weak or dying battery is the number one cause of “ghost” codes. Modern ECUs are extremely sensitive to voltage. If your battery is below 12.4 volts at rest, the ECU can throw random, unrelated codes, sending you on a wild goose chase. Use a multimeter to check your battery voltage before you do anything else.
Clearing the Codes and When to Call in the Pros
After you’ve found and fixed an issue (like tightening a battery terminal or replacing a spark plug), the code may clear itself after a few ride cycles. You can also perform a “hard reset” by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about 15 minutes.
However, this only clears the light; it doesn’t fix the problem. If the light comes back on with the same code, you know the issue persists.
It’s crucial to know your limits. If you’ve gone through the basic checks and the problem is still there, or if the code points to something complex like internal fuel pump pressure or an ECU fault, it’s time to stop. A good dealership technician has advanced diagnostic tools and experience that can save you time and money in the long run. There’s no shame in calling for a professional opinion.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Check Engine Code Practices
Thinking about a sustainable 2020 polaris sportsman 570 check engine codes approach might sound strange, but it’s all about responsible ownership. A well-maintained machine is an efficient machine.
When you promptly address a check engine light, you’re often fixing an issue that impacts fuel economy and emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor or a misfiring plug causes the engine to burn more fuel and release more pollutants.
Furthermore, by diagnosing and fixing a simple connection instead of just replacing an entire sensor assembly, you are reducing waste. This eco-friendly 2020 polaris sportsman 570 check engine codes mindset is about extending the life of your components and your ATV, which is the most sustainable practice of all.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 Check Engine Codes
Can I still ride my Sportsman 570 with the check engine light on?
It depends. If the light is solid, you can usually ride it cautiously back to your truck or home. It’s a warning, not a stop sign. However, if the light is flashing, you should stop the engine as soon as it’s safe to do so. A flashing light typically indicates a severe engine misfire that could damage the catalytic converter.
Do I need an expensive OBD2 scanner for my Polaris?
No, and that’s a huge advantage! Unlike modern cars, the 2020 Sportsman 570 has the built-in diagnostic mode we covered above. You can access all the essential codes without spending a dime on a scanner.
Will disconnecting the battery clear the check engine codes?
Yes, disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about 15 minutes will typically clear the active codes from the ECU’s memory. But remember, if you haven’t fixed the root cause of the problem, the code will come right back as soon as the ECU detects the fault again.
What’s the difference between an SPN and an FMI code?
Think of it this way: the SPN is the “what” and the FMI is the “how.” The SPN number points to the specific component (like the Throttle Position Sensor), while the FMI number tells you the type of failure detected (like “voltage too low” or “data erratic”). Both are needed for an accurate diagnosis.
That check engine light is no longer a mysterious threat. It’s a tool. By using the built-in diagnostics on your 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570, you’ve taken a massive step toward mastering your machine. You can now face that little amber light with confidence, knowing you have the knowledge to tackle the problem head-on.
So grab your tools, trust the process, and get ready to spend less time worrying and more time riding. Stay safe out there and enjoy the trails!
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