There’s nothing that kills a good day on the trail faster than a flashing check engine light. Your rig sputters into limp mode, power vanishes, and the digital display mocks you with a cryptic message: fault code 746. It’s a frustrating moment we’ve all faced.
But don’t call the dealer or throw in the towel just yet. You’ve landed on the definitive guide to solving this common issue. We promise to demystify the 746 polaris code and give you the confidence and know-how to diagnose and fix it yourself, right in your own garage.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly what this code means, walk you through the common causes, provide a step-by-step diagnostic process with simple tools, and show you how to get your machine roaring back to full power. Let’s get wrenching.
What Exactly is the 746 Polaris Code?
First things first, let’s translate that code into plain English. The 746 Polaris code points directly to a problem with your Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) sensor circuit. Specifically, your machine’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) has detected that the sensor’s signal is “Shorted to Ground or Open.”
Think of the EGT sensor as a thermometer in your machine’s exhaust pipe. Its one job is to constantly measure how hot the exhaust gases are and report that temperature back to the ECU.
This information is critical. If the exhaust gets too hot, it can indicate a lean fuel condition or other engine problems that can lead to catastrophic failure. When the ECU gets a valid temperature reading, it can adjust fuel and timing to keep everything running safely. When it doesn’t get a signal (or gets a nonsensical one), it plays it safe by triggering the check engine light and putting the vehicle into limp mode to protect your engine from damage.
Common Problems: Why Your Machine is Throwing Code 746
Before you start ordering parts, it’s crucial to understand that the sensor itself isn’t always the culprit. More often than not, the issue lies in the wiring connecting the sensor to the brain. Here are the most common problems with 746 polaris code faults.
The Usual Suspect: Damaged Wiring
The EGT sensor wire lives a tough life. It’s routed near a scorching hot exhaust and subjected to constant vibration, mud, and water. Over time, the wire’s insulation can melt, rub through on the frame, or get snagged by a branch on the trail.
When the copper inside the wire touches a metal part of your chassis, it creates a “short to ground.” If the wire breaks completely, it creates an “open circuit.” Both conditions will trigger the 746 code.
The Corroded Connector
Every wire has to connect to something. The EGT sensor plug is a common failure point. After countless mud bogs and pressure washes, moisture can work its way into the connector, causing the metal pins to corrode.
This corrosion acts as a barrier, preventing a clean signal from reaching the ECU. A loose or dirty connector can cause the same intermittent problem, making it a key area to inspect in your 746 polaris code guide to diagnostics.
The Failed EGT Sensor
Of course, sometimes the sensor itself is just worn out. Like any electronic component, EGT sensors have a finite lifespan. The extreme heat cycles can cause the internal elements to fail, leading to an open circuit or an internal short.
While less common than wiring issues, a failed sensor is a definite possibility, especially on higher-mileage machines. Testing the sensor is the only way to know for sure.
Your Step-by-Step 746 Polaris Code Guide to Diagnostics
Alright, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Follow these steps methodically to pinpoint the exact cause of your problem. This is how to 746 polaris code diagnostics are done right.
Safety First: Pre-Check Essentials
Before you start, take a couple of crucial safety steps. You’re working around a hot exhaust and the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Let it Cool Down: The exhaust system gets incredibly hot. Make sure the engine is completely cool to the touch to avoid nasty burns.
- Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal on your battery. This prevents any accidental shorts while you’re poking around the wiring.
Step 1: The Visual Inspection (The 5-Minute Fix)
Your eyes are your most powerful diagnostic tool. Start by locating the EGT sensor—it’s a small probe screwed directly into the exhaust pipe, usually near the cylinder head. From there, carefully trace its wire all the way back to where it plugs into the main harness.
Look for:
- Melted Spots: Check for areas where the wire has touched the exhaust pipe.
- Frayed Wires: Look for any signs of the outer sheathing being rubbed through, exposing the inner wires. Pay close attention to where the wire passes through or around frame components.
- Pinched Wires: Ensure the wire isn’t being crushed by a body panel, skid plate, or accessory you may have installed.
Step 2: Checking the Connector
If the visual inspection doesn’t reveal an obvious problem, your next stop is the electrical connector. Find where the sensor’s pigtail plugs into the main vehicle harness. Carefully unplug it—you may need to press a small release tab.
With the connector separated, inspect both the male and female ends closely. Look for:
- Green or White Corrosion: Any sign of crusty buildup on the pins is a red flag.
- Bent or Pushed-Out Pins: Ensure all the pins are straight and fully seated in the connector housing.
- Dirt and Debris: A connector packed with mud won’t make a good connection.
If you find corrosion or dirt, use a small pick to gently scrape it away and spray it out with a quality electrical contact cleaner. Let it dry completely before reconnecting.
Step 3: Testing the EGT Sensor with a Multimeter
If the wiring and connector look good, it’s time to test the sensor itself. This is the definitive way to confirm if the part has failed. You’ll need a basic digital multimeter.
- Set Your Multimeter: Turn the dial on your multimeter to the Ohms (Ω) setting. Choose the 2k or similar range.
- Probe the Sensor: Take the two probes from your multimeter and touch them to the two pins on the sensor side of the connector you just unplugged. Polarity doesn’t matter.
- Read the Resistance: A healthy Polaris EGT sensor should read approximately 210-220 Ohms at room temperature (around 70°F / 21°C). The exact number might vary slightly, but it should be in this ballpark.
If your multimeter reads “OL” (Open Loop) or shows infinite resistance, the sensor’s internal circuit is broken. If it reads 0.00 or very close to zero, the sensor is shorted internally. In either of these cases, the sensor is bad and must be replaced.
How to Fix the 746 Polaris Code for Good
Once you’ve identified the problem, the fix is usually straightforward. Here are some key 746 polaris code tips for a lasting repair.
Repairing Damaged Wires
If you found a break or a rub-through in the wiring, a proper repair is essential. Don’t just twist the wires together and wrap them in electrical tape—that’s a temporary fix at best.
For a durable, weather-resistant repair, use heat-shrink butt connectors. Crimp the connector to join the wires, then use a heat gun to shrink the tubing. This creates a strong, waterproof seal that will stand up to the elements.
Replacing the EGT Sensor
If your multimeter test confirmed a bad sensor, replacement is your only option. You’ll need the correct size wrench or, ideally, an oxygen sensor socket, which has a slot for the wire to pass through.
- Spray with Penetrating Oil: The sensor can be seized in the exhaust pipe. A shot of a good penetrating oil like PB B’laster can make removal much easier.
- Unscrew the Old Sensor: Use your wrench or socket to carefully remove the old sensor.
- Apply Anti-Seize: This is a critical step. Apply a small amount of high-temperature anti-seize compound to the threads of the new sensor, being careful not to get any on the probe tip. This will prevent it from getting stuck in the future.
- Install and Tighten: Screw the new sensor in by hand, then snug it up with your wrench. Don’t overtighten it.
- Reconnect and Secure: Plug the new sensor in and be sure to route the wire away from any hot or moving parts, using zip ties to secure it if necessary.
Best Practices for Preventing Future Fault Codes
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Following these 746 polaris code best practices can save you from future headaches.
Proactive Wire Management
Take a few minutes during your regular maintenance to inspect critical wiring harnesses, including the EGT sensor wire. Consider adding a protective wire loom over vulnerable sections and use zip ties to ensure wires are secure and can’t rub against the frame or engine.
The Importance of Cleanliness
A clean machine is an easy machine to inspect. Regularly washing your Polaris, especially after muddy or dusty rides, not only prevents corrosion but also makes it much easier to spot potential issues like a dangling wire or a loose connector before they become a problem.
A Sustainable Approach to Repairs
Adopting an eco-friendly 746 polaris code mindset simply means diagnosing before you buy. Throwing parts at a problem is wasteful and expensive. By following the diagnostic steps above, you ensure you’re only replacing what’s truly broken. This sustainable approach saves you money, reduces waste, and is the hallmark of a smart DIY mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 746 Polaris Code
Can I still ride my Polaris with a 746 code?
While the machine may still run in limp mode, it’s strongly advised not to. Limp mode is a protective measure because the ECU has lost its ability to monitor a critical engine parameter. Continuing to ride, especially under load, could risk engine damage if another issue is present.
How much does it cost to fix a 746 code?
The cost varies wildly. If it’s a simple wiring fix, your cost could be a few dollars for connectors. A new OEM EGT sensor typically costs between $80 and $150, depending on your model. Doing the labor yourself saves you hundreds in shop fees.
Do I need a special tool to clear the code after the repair?
On most modern Polaris models, the code will clear itself after a few successful ride cycles once the fault is corrected. You can also clear it immediately by disconnecting the battery for about 15-20 minutes. After reconnecting, the code should be gone.
Tackling a check engine light can feel intimidating, but the 746 code is one of the most manageable faults you can encounter. By following this guide, you’ve learned to inspect the wiring, check the connector, and test the sensor—the three pillars of diagnosing this issue. You have the knowledge and the step-by-step plan to get this fixed.
So grab your tools, pop open the engine bay, and get that machine ready for the next adventure. You’ve got this. Now get back on the trail and ride safe!
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