You’re blasting down your favorite trail, the engine is roaring, and everything feels perfect. Then, without warning, a message flashes on your dash: “PPS FAULT.” Your power steering vanishes, and wrestling the wheel suddenly feels like arm-wrestling a grizzly bear. Your fun-filled ride just hit a major roadblock.
We’ve all been there. That sinking feeling when a cryptic error code threatens to ruin a great day off-road. It’s frustrating and can leave you wondering if you’re facing a simple fix or an expensive trip to the dealership.
In this complete guide, we promise to demystify the can am commander pps fault. We’ll break down exactly what it means, the most common causes, and a step-by-step process you can follow in your own garage to diagnose and fix the issue. You’ll learn how to save time, money, and get your Commander’s steering back to being fingertip-light.
What Exactly is a Can-Am Commander PPS Fault?
Before we grab the tools, let’s understand what we’re up against. Seeing “PPS Fault” can be confusing, but it’s actually a very specific message from your machine’s brain.
PPS stands for Progressive Power Steering. It’s a key part of the larger DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) system that BRP uses. Think of the DPS as the whole power steering unit—the motor that provides the steering assistance.
The “PPS” part specifically refers to the Position Sensor located in the steering column. This sensor’s only job is to tell the main DPS computer how fast and how far you are turning the steering wheel. Based on that signal and your vehicle’s speed, the DPS module delivers the perfect amount of power assist.
So, a can am commander pps fault code means the DPS module has lost the signal from that position sensor, or the signal it’s getting is corrupt and makes no sense. As a safety measure, the system shuts off all power assist, leaving you with heavy, manual steering.
Common Culprits Behind the Dreaded PPS Fault
While it might seem like a complex electronic issue, the root of most PPS faults is surprisingly simple. This is one of the most common problems with can am commander pps fault codes, and the fix is often easier than you think. Here are the usual suspects, starting with the most likely.
Weak Battery or Poor Electrical Ground
Never underestimate the power of a good battery. Can-Am electronics are notoriously sensitive to low voltage. Before you tear anything apart, your first check should always be the battery.
A weak or dying battery can cause a cascade of phantom error codes, including the PPS fault, because the modules aren’t getting the clean, consistent power they need to operate correctly.
Corroded or Loose Wiring Connectors
This is, by far, the most common cause we see at the shop. Your Commander lives in the dirt, mud, and water. Moisture is the mortal enemy of electrical connections.
The main connector for the DPS module is often located in a vulnerable spot. Over time, water and grime work their way in, causing corrosion on the pins that interrupts the signal from the PPS sensor.
Chafed or Damaged Wiring Harness
The wiring harness that runs from the steering column down to the DPS unit can get pinched, rubbed, or damaged from trail debris. A single broken wire inside that harness is all it takes to trigger the fault.
Check along the frame and near any moving parts for signs of wear and tear on the plastic wire loom.
A Failed PPS Sensor
While less common than wiring issues, the sensor itself can fail. It’s a moving part, and over thousands of steering cycles, it can simply wear out. This is usually the last thing to suspect after you’ve ruled out all the simpler electrical issues.
Your Essential Toolkit: Gearing Up for the Diagnosis
You don’t need a full professional shop to tackle this job. A few basic tools will get you through 90% of the diagnostic process. This short list is a core part of any good can am commander pps fault guide.
- Digital Multimeter: This is non-negotiable. You need it to accurately test battery voltage and check for continuity in wires.
- Basic Socket and Ratchet Set: For removing plastic panels and accessing components.
- Torx Bit Set: Can-Am uses Torx fasteners everywhere.
- Dielectric Grease: A must-have for protecting electrical connections from moisture.
- Contact Cleaner: For cleaning out dirty or corroded connectors.
- Zip Ties: For tidying up your wiring once you’re done.
- Safety Gear: Always wear gloves and safety glasses.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix a Can Am Commander PPS Fault
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. Follow these steps methodically. Do not skip ahead! The goal is to find the problem without just throwing expensive parts at it. This is how to can am commander pps fault diagnostics should be done.
Step 1: Check the Battery and Grounds
Put your multimeter on the DC volts setting. With the machine off, touch the probes to the battery terminals. You should see at least 12.4 volts. Anything less, and your battery is weak. Now, have a friend turn the key to start the engine while you watch the meter. The voltage should not drop below 9.5-10 volts. If it does, your battery is on its way out.
Also, check the main ground wire from the battery to the frame. Ensure it’s clean, tight, and free of corrosion.
Step 2: Locate and Inspect the DPS Connector
The DPS module is typically located under the dashboard area, often near the firewall. You’ll see a large wiring harness plugging into it. Before touching anything, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Carefully unplug the main connector. Shine a flashlight inside both ends. Are you seeing any green or white crusty buildup? That’s corrosion. Are any of the metal pins bent or pushed back into the connector?
Step 3: Clean and Protect the Connection
If you found corrosion, this is likely your culprit. Spray both sides of the connector generously with electrical contact cleaner and use a small brush (like a toothbrush) to gently scrub the pins. Blow it out with compressed air if you have it.
Once it’s perfectly clean and dry, apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the female end of the connector. This is one of the most important can am commander pps fault best practices. The grease seals out moisture, preventing the problem from happening again.
Plug the connector back in firmly until it clicks. Reconnect your battery and cycle the key. For many, the fault will now be gone.
Step 4: Trace the Wiring Harness
If the fault persists, it’s time to play detective. Start at the steering wheel and visually trace the wiring harness as it runs down the steering column and towards the DPS module. Look for any areas where the plastic loom is worn through or where the harness is rubbing against a sharp metal edge. Gently wiggle the harness while a friend watches the dash to see if the fault code flickers on and off.
When to Replace the PPS Sensor: A Sustainable Approach
If you’ve thoroughly checked the battery and all the wiring with no success, the PPS sensor itself may have failed. Replacing it is a more involved job that often requires removing the steering wheel and some of the dash plastics.
When you get to this point, consider a sustainable can am commander pps fault repair. This means choosing a high-quality replacement part (OEM is often best for critical sensors) and installing it correctly the first time. A cheap, low-quality sensor might fail again in a few months, leading to more waste and frustration.
A proper, long-lasting repair is also the most eco-friendly can am commander pps fault solution, as it prevents the need for repeat repairs and discarded parts. This approach is a core part of our can am commander pps fault care guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Commander PPS Fault
Can I still ride my Commander with a PPS fault?
Technically, yes, the engine will run. However, the steering will be extremely heavy, especially at low speeds or in tight, technical terrain. It can be a serious safety hazard and is not recommended. The lack of assist can quickly lead to driver fatigue and loss of control.
How much does it cost to fix a PPS fault?
The cost can range from virtually free to several hundred dollars. If it’s a simple corroded connection, a can of contact cleaner and some dielectric grease might be all you need. If the DPS unit itself has failed (which is rare), the part can be quite expensive. A dealer repair will also include labor costs.
Does water or mud cause the PPS fault?
Absolutely. Moisture is the number one killer of the DPS electrical connections. If you frequently ride in deep water or mud, or if you use a pressure washer to clean your machine, you are at a much higher risk of developing this fault. Proactive use of dielectric grease is your best defense.
Will a PPS fault leave me stranded on the trail?
It shouldn’t leave you completely stranded, as the engine and drivetrain are unaffected. However, the incredibly heavy steering could make it physically impossible for you to navigate back out of a difficult trail, effectively stranding you. It’s a problem that should be addressed as soon as it appears.
Tackling a can am commander pps fault is well within the reach of a determined DIYer. By following a logical diagnostic path—starting with the simplest and most common issues first—you can pinpoint the problem without wasting time or money. Remember to work safely, be patient, and trust the process.
Now you have the knowledge and the steps to get that power steering working again. Get back in the garage, get those wrenches turning, and we’ll see you back on the trail!
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