Polaris Engine Code 520 207 - Your Complete Eps Troubleshooting Guide

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trail, ready for a day of adventure, only to be stopped in your tracks by a dreaded check engine light. Your dashboard flashes a code, your steering suddenly feels like you’re wrestling a bear, and your fun comes to a grinding halt.

If you’re staring at polaris engine code 520 207, you’ve probably felt that exact frustration. You might be worried it’s a major engine problem that’s going to cost a fortune and sideline your machine for weeks.

We promise to demystify this common but misunderstood code. It’s often not a catastrophic engine failure, but an issue with your power steering system that a savvy DIYer can diagnose and frequently fix with basic tools.

In this ultimate guide from FatBoysOffroad, we’ll break down exactly what this code means, show you how to find the root cause, and walk you through the steps to get your power steering back online. Let’s get you back on the trail.

What Does Polaris Engine Code 520 207 Actually Mean?

First, let’s clear up the biggest point of confusion. Despite being called an “engine code,” polaris engine code 520 207 has nothing to do with your engine’s internal mechanics. This code points directly to a problem within the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system.

Think of the code as a specific message from your Polaris’s brain, the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The full diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is often displayed as SPN 520207, FMI 4.

Here’s what that translates to in plain English:

SPN 520207: This identifies the faulty component or system, which is the EPS Power Control Circuit.
FMI 4: This tells us the specific type of fault. In this case, it means “Voltage Below Normal or Shorted to Low Source.”

So, when you put it all together, the code means the ECU has detected that the electrical circuit responsible for activating your power steering relay is shorted to ground. Essentially, the power that’s supposed to turn your EPS on is leaking out to the frame before it can do its job.

Common Symptoms: Is Your Ride Telling You It’s Code 520 207?

Your machine is pretty good at telling you when something is wrong. When the EPS system is acting up due to this fault, you’ll notice some very distinct symptoms. This isn’t just a light on the dash; it directly affects how your machine handles.

Look out for these classic signs:

Complete Loss of Power Steering: This is the most obvious symptom. The steering will become incredibly heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds or when stopped.
Intermittent Power Steering: The power steering might work one minute and cut out the next. This often happens when hitting bumps or turning, which can jiggle a loose or damaged wire.
EPS Warning Light: Your dashboard will likely display an EPS warning light or a check engine light to alert you to the fault.
Code Persists After Restarting: While some codes clear themselves, 520 207 will usually reappear immediately upon restarting the machine if the underlying electrical fault is still present.

Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in our polaris engine code 520 207 guide to getting you back in control.

The Usual Suspects: Top 4 Causes of This Pesky EPS Code

Now that you know what the code means and what it feels like, let’s hunt down the culprit. The good news is that this issue is rarely caused by the most expensive part. It’s usually a simple electrical gremlin. Here are the most common problems with polaris engine code 520 207, from most likely to least likely.

Cause #1: A Weak Battery or Poor Connections

Never underestimate the basics. Your Polaris’s electrical system is sensitive to voltage. A weak, failing, or improperly charged battery can cause the ECU to throw all sorts of strange codes, including this one. The EPS motor is a high-draw component, and if system voltage is low, it can’t operate correctly.

Cause #2: The EPS Power Relay

The EPS power relay is an electronic switch that sends the high-amperage power needed to run the EPS motor. These relays can fail over time due to heat, vibration, or moisture intrusion. It’s a small, inexpensive part that can bring the whole system down.

Cause #3: Damaged or Corroded Wiring

This is arguably the most common cause. The wiring harness that runs to your EPS unit is often routed through tight spaces along the frame. Over time, vibration and rubbing can chafe the insulation off a wire, causing it to short out against the metal frame. Water, mud, and salt can also lead to corrosion in the connectors, creating a bad connection.

Cause #4: The EPS Unit Itself (The Last Resort)

While possible, a complete failure of the main EPS unit is the least common cause. This expensive component is generally robust. Always rule out the other three possibilities before even considering that the EPS motor or its internal controller has failed.

Your Step-by-Step Polaris Engine Code 520 207 Diagnostic Guide

Alright, time to grab some tools and get our hands dirty. This diagnostic process is all about starting with the easiest and cheapest things first. Follow these steps methodically.

Pro Tip: Before you begin, give your machine a good wash, especially around the front end and under the dash. It’s much easier and cleaner to work on a machine that isn’t caked in mud.

Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before you start unplugging connectors or inspecting wiring. This prevents accidental shorts and protects you and your machine’s electronics.

Step 1: The 5-Minute Battery & Charging System Check

Tools Needed: A basic multimeter.

Set your multimeter to DC Volts. With the machine off, touch the red probe to the positive battery terminal and the black probe to the negative.
A fully charged, healthy battery should read 12.6V or higher. If you see anything below 12.4V, your battery is low and needs a proper charge.
If the battery is charged, start the engine. The voltage should jump up to between 13.5V and 14.5V. This tells you the charging system (stator and voltage regulator) is working. If it doesn’t, you may have a charging issue that’s causing the low voltage fault.

Step 2: Visual Wiring Inspection

Tools Needed: A good flashlight (a headlamp is even better).

This is where you play detective. Trace the wiring harness from the EPS unit (usually located under the front plastics or dash) back towards the fuse box. Look for:

Chafing: Check anywhere the harness touches or is zip-tied to the frame. Look for spots where the plastic conduit is worn through and the inner wires are exposed.
Pinched Wires: Ensure the harness isn’t being crushed by any components.
Corrosion: Unplug the main connector at the EPS unit. Look at the pins inside. Are they clean and shiny, or green and crusty?

Step 3: Locate and Test the EPS Relay

Tools Needed: Pliers (to pull the relay), maybe a spare relay.

Find your machine’s fuse/relay box (check your owner’s manual for the location). There will be a diagram on the lid identifying the EPS relay. One of the best polaris engine code 520 207 tips is the “swap test.”

Find another identical relay in the box that runs a non-critical component, like the headlights or cooling fan. Swap the EPS relay with the fan relay. Clear the codes (by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes) and start the machine. If the power steering now works but the fan doesn’t, you’ve found your culprit: a bad relay.

Step 4: Cleaning Connections

Tools Needed: Electrical contact cleaner, a small brush, dielectric grease.

If you found any corrosion, this is a crucial step. Spray the connector pins (both male and female sides) with contact cleaner and gently scrub with a small brush. Let it dry completely, then apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the seal before plugging it back in. This is a key part of any good polaris engine code 520 207 care guide, as it prevents future moisture problems.

How to Fix Polaris Engine Code 520 207 and Get Back on the Trail

Once you’ve diagnosed the problem, the fix is usually straightforward.

For a Bad Battery: Charge or replace it. Simple as that.
For a Bad Relay: Purchase a new relay. They are inexpensive and easy to find at any auto parts store or your Polaris dealer.
For Damaged Wires: This is where some DIY skill comes in. For a chafed wire, properly repair it by cutting out the damaged section, soldering in a new piece of same-gauge wire, and sealing it with heat-shrink tubing. Do not just wrap it in electrical tape. This is also a great eco-friendly polaris engine code 520 207 solution, as you’re repairing instead of replacing an entire expensive harness.
For Corroded Connectors: After cleaning, ensure they make a firm, clicking connection. If the terminals themselves are damaged, you may need a new connector pigtail.

When to Call a Pro: If you’ve done all of the above and the code persists, it’s time to consider that the EPS unit itself may have an internal fault. This is a complex and expensive part to replace, and it’s best left to a qualified technician with advanced diagnostic tools.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Engine Code 520 207

Can I still ride my Polaris with code 520 207 active?

Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. You will have no power steering, making the machine extremely difficult and fatiguing to control, especially in tight or technical terrain. It can be a safety hazard, so it’s best to diagnose and fix the issue before your next big ride.

How much does it cost to fix this code?

The cost varies wildly depending on the cause. It could be $0 if it’s just a loose connection, about $15-$30 for a new relay, or under $50 for wire repair supplies. If the EPS unit itself is the problem, you could be looking at $500 to $1,500+ for the part and labor.

Is the EPS relay the same as other relays in the fuse box?

Often, yes. Polaris frequently uses the same 4 or 5-pin micro relay for multiple systems like the fan, lights, and fuel pump. Always check the part numbers or physical markings on the relays to ensure they are identical before swapping them for a test.

Tackling an electrical code can feel intimidating, but polaris engine code 520 207 is one you can absolutely conquer. By following a logical process and starting with the simplest solutions, you can often pinpoint the problem without spending a dime. You’ll save yourself a trip to the dealer and gain the confidence that comes with fixing your own machine.

So grab your tools, follow this guide, and stay safe out there. We’ll see you on the trail!

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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.