You’re deep on the trail, the engine is humming, and you’re in your element. Suddenly, a dreaded light flashes on your dash: “CHECK DPS.” Your heart sinks a little. The steering instantly feels like you’re trying to turn a tank in wet concrete. A great ride just hit a major snag. We’ve all been there, and that frustrating moment is exactly why we put together this guide.
We promise this article will demystify that warning light. We’re going to break down exactly what the DPS system is, why that light comes on, and give you a step-by-step plan to diagnose the problem yourself.
You’ll learn how to perform a can am outlander check dps diagnostic, from the simple 60-second fixes to the more involved electrical checks. By the end, you’ll be empowered to either fix the issue on the spot or make an informed decision about when it’s time to call in a pro. Let’s get your power steering back and get you riding again.
What Exactly is the DPS on Your Can-Am Outlander?
Before we start troubleshooting, let’s quickly understand the system we’re working on. DPS stands for Dynamic Power Steering. Think of it as the system that saves your shoulders and arms on a long day of riding.
Unlike the hydraulic power steering in your truck, the Can-Am system is electric. It uses an electric motor mounted on the steering column to provide steering assistance. This makes turning the handlebars effortless, especially at low speeds, in rocky terrain, or when you’re running big, aggressive mud tires.
Your Outlander’s DPS is also “dynamic,” meaning it’s speed-sensitive. It gives you maximum assistance when you’re crawling slowly and reduces the assistance as your speed increases. This provides a perfect balance of low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. The “Check DPS” light is the machine’s way of telling you that this system has encountered a fault and has shut down for safety.
Why is the “Check DPS” Light On? Common Problems and Causes
When that light pops up, it’s rarely a random event. The system has detected a problem and has gone into a “fail-safe” mode, which means no power assist. Here are the most common culprits, starting with the simplest and most frequent. This list of common problems with can am outlander check dps will be your first checklist.
Low Battery Voltage: The #1 Culprit
The DPS motor is power-hungry. If your battery’s voltage drops below a certain threshold, the system will be the first thing the ATV’s computer shuts down to conserve power for essential engine functions. A weak battery, a failing stator, or a bad voltage regulator is the cause of this issue more than 80% of the time.
Running a winch, light bars, and other accessories puts a massive strain on the charging system, making a healthy battery absolutely critical.
Loose or Corroded Connections
Off-roading involves a ton of vibration, water, and mud. This is the perfect recipe for loosening electrical connections or causing corrosion. A bad connection acts like a bottleneck for electricity, starving the DPS motor of the power it needs.
This can be anything from a loose battery terminal to a corroded ground wire or a dirty plug at the DPS unit itself.
Faulty Sensors
The DPS system relies on inputs from sensors, like the vehicle speed sensor and an internal torque sensor, to determine how much assistance to provide. If one of these sensors fails or sends an erratic signal, the control module gets confused and shuts the system down as a precaution, triggering the light.
The DPS Unit Itself
While less common, the DPS motor or its integrated control module can fail. This is often due to internal wear and tear or, more frequently, water intrusion. If you’ve recently been in deep water and the light came on shortly after, this could be the issue.
Your Step-by-Step Can-Am Outlander Check DPS Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This practical can am outlander check dps guide will walk you through the diagnostic process from easiest to most complex. Always start with Step 1 and work your way down.
Safety First: Before you begin, park your ATV on level ground, turn it off, and remove the key. If you’re going to be disconnecting electrical components, it’s always a good idea to disconnect the negative battery terminal first.
Step 1: The Simple Reset (The “Key Cycle”)
Sometimes, a temporary voltage drop or a sensor glitch can trigger the light. The first thing you should always try is a simple system reset.
- Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds. This gives the onboard computer time to fully power down and reset.
- Turn the key back on.
For a surprising number of riders, this is all it takes. If the light comes back on immediately or during your next ride, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Check Your Battery and Charging System
Grab a digital multimeter; it’s one of the most valuable tools for any DIY mechanic. This is a critical part of how to can am outlander check dps correctly.
- Check Static Voltage: With the ATV off, connect the multimeter to your battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative). A healthy, fully charged battery should read 12.6 volts or higher. If you see anything below 12.4V, your battery is weak and needs a charge or replacement.
- Check Charging Voltage: Start the engine. At a high idle, check the voltage at the battery terminals again. A healthy charging system should be putting out between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. If it’s lower than 13V or higher than 15V, you likely have an issue with your stator or voltage regulator.
Step 3: Inspect All Electrical Connections
Now it’s time to play detective. Follow the main wires and check every key connection point for tightness and corrosion.
- Battery Terminals: Make sure they are squeaky clean and tight. A loose terminal is a very common cause.
- Main Ground: Follow the thick black wire from the battery’s negative terminal to where it bolts to the frame. Unbolt it, clean the contact points on the frame and the wire terminal with a wire brush until they are shiny, and re-tighten it securely.
- DPS Connections: You’ll need to remove some front plastics for this. Locate the DPS unit on the steering stem. Carefully inspect the electrical connectors going into it. Unplug them and look for any signs of corrosion, mud, or moisture. Clean them out with electrical contact cleaner and add a dab of dielectric grease before plugging them back in.
Step 4: Check Fuses and Relays
Consult your owner’s manual to locate the fuse box. Find the fuse specifically labeled for the DPS system. Pull it out and visually inspect it to see if the thin wire inside is broken. For a more definitive test, use your multimeter’s continuity setting to ensure the fuse is good.
When to Put Down the Wrenches and Call a Pro
It’s important to know your limits. While the steps above will solve the vast majority of “Check DPS” issues, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help.
If you’ve performed all the checks above and the light is still on, it’s likely a more complex issue. This could be a failed sensor or an internal failure of the DPS unit itself. Diagnosing these problems requires specialized tools, like a Can-Am compatible diagnostic scanner (such as a CandooPro), to read the specific fault codes stored in the computer.
Furthermore, replacing the DPS unit is a major job that often requires the new unit to be calibrated to the machine using dealer-level software. If the problem points to the unit itself, your local dealership or a trusted independent powersports shop is your best bet.
The Benefits of a Healthy DPS System
Keeping your power steering in top shape isn’t just about convenience; it’s about enhancing your entire riding experience. Understanding the benefits of can am outlander check dps maintenance will motivate you to keep it healthy.
- Reduced Rider Fatigue: A working DPS means less physical effort to steer, which drastically reduces arm and shoulder fatigue on long, technical rides.
- Enhanced Control: It allows for precise, low-effort steering corrections in tight spots like rock gardens or dense woods.
- Improved Safety: DPS acts as a steering damper, absorbing the violent kickback that can happen when your front tire smashes into a rock or rut unexpectedly. This can save your wrists and prevent you from losing control.
Proactive DPS Care: Best Practices for Longevity
The best way to deal with the “Check DPS” light is to prevent it from ever coming on. Adopting a few simple habits into your routine is the core of a good can am outlander check dps care guide.
Maintain Your Battery
Your battery is the heart of your ATV’s electrical system. During periods of storage, keep it connected to a quality battery tender. This is the single best thing you can do to ensure reliable performance from your DPS.
Keep it Clean and Dry
After a wet or muddy ride, take the time to gently wash the front end of your machine. Avoid using a high-pressure washer to blast directly at the DPS unit or its electrical connectors, as this can force water past the seals.
Adopt a Sustainable Maintenance Mindset
Thinking about a sustainable can am outlander check dps approach means focusing on prevention to extend the life of your components. By regularly cleaning terminals and maintaining your battery, you prevent the premature failure of the expensive DPS unit. This is an eco-friendly can am outlander check dps practice because it reduces electronic waste and the resources needed to manufacture a replacement part.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander Check DPS Light
Can I still ride my Outlander with the “Check DPS” light on?
Technically, yes. The machine will run and drive, but you will have no power steering assist. The steering will be extremely heavy, especially at low speeds. It is not recommended for difficult or technical trails, as it can be both exhausting and dangerous.
How much does it cost to fix the DPS system?
The cost can vary dramatically. If the issue is a loose ground wire, a blown fuse, or a corroded terminal, the fix could cost you nothing but time. If you need a new battery, you might spend $100-$200. However, if the entire DPS unit needs to be replaced at a dealership, you could be looking at a bill of $1,500 or more for the part and labor.
Will bigger tires cause the “Check DPS” light to come on?
Bigger, heavier tires don’t directly cause the light, but they do put significantly more strain on the DPS motor and the entire electrical system. If your battery or connections are already on the weak side, the extra load required to turn those big tires can be the final straw that causes a voltage drop and triggers the fault.
That “Check DPS” light doesn’t have to be a ride-ender. By following this logical troubleshooting process, you can confidently diagnose and often fix the most common issues yourself, right in your garage or even on the trail. Always start with the basics: check that battery, clean those connections, and inspect your fuses. Nine times out of ten, the solution is simpler than you think.
Now you have the knowledge and a clear set of can am outlander check dps tips. Keep your machine well-maintained, ride smart, and you’ll spend more time enjoying the trails and less time staring at warning lights. Stay safe out there!
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