How To Check Codes On 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570

That dreaded check engine light flickers to life on your 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570’s dash, right in the middle of a perfect trail day. Your heart sinks a little. Is it something serious? Is this a trip-ending problem? Will it cost a fortune at the dealership just to find out what’s wrong?

We’ve all been there. That little glowing icon can turn a great ride into a stressful guessing game. But what if I told you that you already have everything you need to pull those codes and understand exactly what your ATV is trying to tell you, without any expensive scan tools?

This guide promises to walk you through the exact process. We’ll show you the simple, built-in method for how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570, explain what those codes mean, and empower you to make an informed decision about your next steps. Let’s get you back in control and back on the trail with confidence.

Why You Should Check Your Sportsman 570’s Codes Yourself

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Taking a few minutes to pull the codes yourself is one of the smartest moves you can make as a Sportsman owner. The benefits of how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 go way beyond just satisfying your curiosity.

Save Serious Cash: Dealerships and shops often charge a diagnostic fee of $100 or more just to plug in their tool and read the code. You can do the same thing for free in your own garage.
Save Valuable Time: Forget scheduling an appointment, loading your ATV onto a trailer, and waiting for a call. You can get an initial diagnosis in less than five minutes.
Become a Smarter Owner: Understanding what’s happening with your machine gives you power. You’ll know if it’s a simple fix (like a loose sensor) or something that truly needs a professional’s touch.
Prevent Bigger Problems: That check engine light is an early warning system. By checking the code immediately, you can address a small issue before it cascades into a major, costly repair.

Understanding Your Polaris Sportsman 570’s On-Board Diagnostics

Your Sportsman is smarter than you might think. It’s equipped with an Engine Control Unit (ECU), which is the electronic brain of your machine. This ECU constantly monitors dozens of sensors throughout the engine and chassis.

When a sensor reading goes outside of its normal operating range—say, the engine is running too hot or a throttle sensor isn’t responding correctly—the ECU does two things. First, it triggers the check engine light to alert you. Second, it stores a specific Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in its memory.

This code is like a specific message pointing you directly to the source of the problem. Luckily, Polaris built a “backdoor” into the system, allowing you to access these codes directly from your gauge cluster. This is the core of our how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 guide.

The Complete Guide on How to Check Codes on 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty—or in this case, just turn a key. This process is surprisingly simple, but follow the steps carefully to ensure you get it right on the first try. Here are the how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 best practices for a smooth diagnosis.

Required Tools and Preparation

This is the best part. You don’t need a fancy OBD2 scanner or any special diagnostic equipment. All you need is:

Your Polaris Sportsman key
A pen and paper, or your phone’s notepad, to write down the codes

Before you start, make sure your ATV is on level ground, the transmission is in Park (P), and the engine is turned completely off. A stable battery with a good charge is also important for the ECU to communicate properly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Access Diagnostic Mode

This sequence of key turns and button presses is sometimes called the “key dance.” It might feel a little awkward the first time, but it works like a charm. Follow these steps exactly:

Turn the Key ON: Insert your key and turn it to the ON position. Do not start the engine. Let the digital display and gauges complete their startup sweep.
Press and Hold the Mode Button: Locate the yellow MODE/OVERRIDE button on the left handlebar control pod. Press it and keep it held down for the next step.
Perform the Key Cycle: While still holding the MODE button, quickly cycle the ignition key switch from ON to OFF three times, ending in the ON position. The sequence is: ON -> OFF -> ON -> OFF -> ON.
Release the Mode Button: Once you’ve completed the key cycle and the key is in the ON position, you can release the MODE button.

If you’ve done it correctly, the main screen on your digital dash will now be in diagnostic mode. You’ll either see the first code displayed or the word “Wait” as it searches for codes.

How to Read and Record the Codes

Once you’re in diagnostic mode, the real work begins. The codes are typically displayed in a two-part format: an SPN and an FMI number.

For example, you might see a screen that flashes a number like 520207 followed by another number like 5. This is your code. The first number is the SPN (Suspect Parameter Number), and the second is the FMI (Failure Mode Identifier).

It is critically important to write down both numbers for each code. The SPN tells you what system is having a problem (e.g., fuel system), and the FMI tells you the specific type of failure (e.g., voltage too high).

If there is more than one code stored, you can press the MODE button to cycle to the next one. Keep cycling and writing them down until the screen says “End.” This means you’ve viewed all the active codes.

Decoding the Numbers: Common 2016 Sportsman 570 Fault Codes

Okay, you have your list of numbers. Now what? This is where many people get stuck, but we’ve got you covered. While a full Polaris service manual has a complete list, here are some of the most common problems with how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 that you might encounter.

SPN 102, FMI 3 or 4 – Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor: This often points to an issue with the sensor that measures engine load. Check for a dirty sensor or loose/cracked vacuum lines connected to it.
SPN 51, FMI 3 or 4 – Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Circuit Voltage High/Low: Your ECU isn’t getting a clear signal about how much throttle you’re giving it. This can cause poor performance, stalling, or a limp mode. Check the wiring to the TPS on the throttle body.
SPN 651, FMI 5 – Engine Misfire Detected: This is a general misfire code. The cause could be a bad spark plug, a faulty ignition coil, a clogged fuel injector, or poor quality fuel. Start by checking the easiest and cheapest things first: the spark plug.
SPN 168, FMI 0, 1, or 3 – System Voltage High, Low, or Critically Low: This code points to a charging system issue. Your battery might be failing, the voltage regulator could be bad, or the stator might not be producing enough power. Start by testing your battery’s voltage.
SPN 520207, FMI 5 – All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Control Circuit: A very common code. This often means there’s an issue with the wiring to the front differential’s AWD engagement coil or the coil itself has failed. Check for damaged wires near the front diff.

Remember, a code is a starting point, not a final diagnosis. It tells you where to look, but you still need to investigate to find the root cause.

Best Practices and Pro Tips After Checking Your Codes

You’ve successfully read the codes. Now you can move forward like a pro. Following this how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 care guide will ensure you fix the problem right the first time.

Don’t Just Clear the Codes!

A common mistake is to find a way to clear the code (like disconnecting the battery) without fixing the underlying issue. This is a terrible idea. The code is there for a reason, and ignoring it will only lead to the problem getting worse. The light will inevitably come back on.

Where to Find Code Definitions

If you have a code not on our list, your best resources are the official Polaris service manual for your year and model, or trusted online communities and forums dedicated to Polaris ATVs. Someone has almost certainly seen your code before and can offer advice.

When to Tackle a DIY Repair vs. Calling a Pro

Use the codes to make a smart decision.

Good for DIY: Issues like a faulty sensor, a bad spark plug, a dirty air filter, or a loose electrical connection are often straightforward fixes for a weekend mechanic.
Call a Pro: If you’re seeing codes related to internal engine timing, transmission failures, or complex electrical shorts, it’s often best to trust the job to an experienced technician with specialized tools.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly ATV Maintenance

Being a responsible DIYer also means being a steward of the trails and environment we love. The process of how you check and act on your ATV’s codes can be part of a sustainable how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 mindset.

When you diagnose and fix a problem promptly, you ensure your engine is running at peak efficiency. A healthy engine burns fuel more cleanly, reduces emissions, and gets better mileage, which is a win for both your wallet and the air.

If your diagnosis leads to a repair that involves fluids (like an oil or coolant change), always use a drain pan and dispose of the used fluids at an authorized recycling center. This is an essential part of an eco-friendly how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 maintenance routine, protecting our land and water for future generations of riders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Checking Sportsman 570 Codes

Do I need an OBD2 scanner for my 2016 Sportsman 570?

No, you do not. Unlike cars and trucks, Polaris ATVs use a proprietary diagnostic system. The good news is they built in the diagnostic mode we described above, so you can access the codes without any external tools.

What do SPN and FMI mean?

SPN stands for Suspect Parameter Number. This is the component or system the ECU has flagged (e.g., the throttle position sensor). FMI stands for Failure Mode Identifier. This tells you the specific type of fault detected (e.g., voltage too high, signal erratic, current below normal).

How do I clear the check engine light on my Sportsman 570?

The best way is to properly fix the underlying problem. Once the ECU runs its checks and sees that the sensor is reading correctly again, it will typically clear the code and turn off the light on its own after a short ride. Forcing a clear by disconnecting the battery can work, but it also erases valuable data and is not recommended unless you’ve completed the repair.

My screen just shows “End” when I enter diagnostic mode. What does that mean?

That’s great news! “End” means there are no active fault codes stored in the ECU’s memory. If your check engine light is on but no codes are present, it could indicate an intermittent issue that wasn’t happening when you checked, or a problem with the gauge cluster itself.

You’ve now mastered one of the most valuable skills for any Polaris owner. Knowing how to check codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 transforms you from a passive rider into an informed, confident mechanic. You can now face that check engine light not with dread, but with the knowledge that you have the tools to solve the puzzle.

So grab your key, take control of your maintenance, and spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the ride. Stay safe out there and happy wrenching!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.