Polaris Sportsman 570 Error Codes – A Complete Guide To Diagnosing

There’s nothing that kills a good day on the trail faster than a blinking check engine light. You’re deep in the woods, the engine sputters, and your Polaris Sportsman 570 dashboard flashes a cryptic set of numbers. It’s a moment every rider dreads.

But that flashing light doesn’t have to mean your day is over or that a massive repair bill is coming. In fact, understanding these polaris sportsman 570 error codes is one of the most powerful skills you can have as an owner. It turns a mystery into a roadmap for a solution.

This comprehensive guide promises to be your go-to resource. We’ll show you exactly how to pull the codes from your machine, what the most common ones mean, and how to troubleshoot the underlying issues yourself. We’ll walk through the entire process, from diagnosis to repair, so you can get back on the trail with confidence.

Why Understanding Your ATV’s Error Codes is Non-Negotiable

Think of your Sportsman’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) as its brain. It’s constantly monitoring dozens of sensors, from engine temperature to throttle position. When a sensor reports data that’s outside the normal range, the ECU logs a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and turns on the check engine light.

Ignoring these codes is like ignoring a smoke alarm. A minor issue, like a loose gas cap, can eventually lead to more significant, and expensive, problems. Understanding the benefits of polaris sportsman 570 error codes is about being proactive, not reactive.

By learning to read them, you can:

Save Money: Diagnose and fix many issues yourself, avoiding costly shop labor fees.
Save Time: Quickly pinpoint the problem area instead of guessing and replacing parts randomly.
Prevent Bigger Problems: Address small sensor issues before they cause cascading failures in your engine or drivetrain.
Ride with Confidence: Know that you have the knowledge to handle common electronic issues, even when you’re far from home.

How to Access and Read Your Sportsman 570 Error Codes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thankfully, Polaris made it easy to access these codes without any special tools. You don’t need a fancy OBD-II scanner like you would for your truck. The entire process is done using your ignition key and the mode/override button on your handlebar controls.

Here’s how to polaris sportsman 570 error codes are accessed directly from your gauge cluster. Follow these steps carefully.

Turn the Key: Turn the ignition key to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Wait for the instrument cluster to complete its self-test and boot up.
Cycle the Key: Within 3 seconds, turn the key OFF and then back ON again.
Press and Hold: Immediately press and hold the yellow mode/override button on the left handlebar control.
Check for Codes: The main display area on your gauge cluster will now show “CK ENG.” If there are active codes, the display will begin to cycle through them.
Record the Codes: Each code consists of two numbers. The first is the Failure Mode Indicator (FMI), and the second is the Suspect Parameter Number (SPN). It will look something like this: FMI 2, SPN 520284. Write down every single code exactly as it appears. The order matters!

If no codes are present, the display will simply show “End.” Once you have your list of codes, you can turn the key off. Now, let’s figure out what they mean.

What are SPN and FMI?

This is the part that often confuses people. Think of it this way:

SPN (Suspect Parameter Number): This is the what. It tells you which specific sensor or system is having a problem (e.g., throttle position sensor, coolant temp sensor).
FMI (Failure Mode Indicator): This is the how. It describes the type of fault the ECU is seeing (e.g., voltage too high, data erratic, short to ground).

You need both numbers to accurately diagnose the problem. A code for the throttle position sensor (SPN) with an FMI for “voltage too high” points to a very different issue than the same SPN with an FMI for “data erratic.”

A Guide to Common Polaris Sportsman 570 Error Codes

While there are hundreds of potential codes, a handful pop up more frequently than others. This section will serve as your quick-reference polaris sportsman 570 error codes guide. We’ll cover some of the most common ones you’re likely to encounter.

Engine and Fuel System Codes

These are often related to sensors that manage your air/fuel mixture and engine performance.

SPN 102, FMI 3/4 (Manifold Absolute Pressure – MAP): Indicates the pressure sensor in your intake is reading too high (FMI 3) or too low (FMI 4). Check the wiring harness for damage and ensure the sensor is clean and seated correctly.
SPN 91, FMI 3/4 (Throttle Position Sensor – TPS): One of the most common codes. This means your ECU isn’t getting a clear signal about how much you’re pressing the throttle. Often leads to poor idle or sputtering.
SPN 520284, FMI 2/3/4 (Throttle Body Safety Switch): This is a critical one related to the electronic throttle control. An FMI of 2 often means the brake isn’t being applied when shifting, but other numbers can indicate a more serious fault. This can put the machine in “limp mode.”
SPN 110, FMI 3/4 (Engine Coolant Temperature – ECT): Voltage too high (FMI 3) or too low (FMI 4). This can be a bad sensor, a wiring issue, or an actual overheating problem. Always verify your coolant level and check if the fan is working before assuming it’s just a sensor.

Drivetrain and EPS Codes

These codes relate to your All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and Electronic Power Steering (EPS).

SPN 636, FMI 2/5 (Crankshaft Position Sensor): A faulty crank sensor will often cause a no-start or intermittent stalling condition. The ECU doesn’t know the engine is turning, so it won’t fire the ignition or fuel injector.
SPN 84, FMI 2 (Vehicle Speed Sensor): If your speedometer isn’t working and your AWD is acting up, this is a likely culprit. Check the sensor on the transmission for debris or a damaged wire.
EPS Codes (Multiple): The power steering system has its own set of codes. If your EPS light is on, you’ll see codes related to motor faults or torque sensors. Low battery voltage is a very common cause of intermittent EPS faults.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Polaris Sportsman 570 Error Codes

Okay, you’ve got your codes. Now what? Before you start buying parts, follow these fundamental troubleshooting steps. More often than not, the issue is simpler than you think.

Step 1: The Visual Inspection

Put your eyes on the problem area first. Look at the sensor and its wiring harness mentioned in the SPN code. Check for:

Obvious Damage: Wires that are pinched, melted, frayed, or chewed by critters.
Corrosion: Look for green or white crust inside the connectors. Water intrusion is a huge enemy of electronics.
Loose Connections: Gently tug on the connector to make sure it’s fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.

Step 2: Check Your Battery and Grounds

A weak or dying battery is the number one cause of “ghost” electrical problems on ATVs. Modern machines need a stable 12.5+ volts to operate correctly. A low voltage can cause multiple, unrelated codes to appear at once.

Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage with the machine off. Anything below 12.4V is a reason for concern. Also, trace the main ground wire from the battery’s negative terminal to the frame. Make sure the connection is clean, tight, and free of rust or paint.

Step 3: The “Wiggle Test”

This is a classic mechanic’s trick. With the key on (engine off), gently wiggle the wiring harness and connector for the suspect sensor while watching the dash. If the check engine light flickers or the code appears/disappears, you’ve likely found an intermittent short or a bad connection.

When to Call a Pro

While many issues can be solved with these basic checks, some problems require specialized tools and knowledge. If you’ve checked all the basics and are still stuck, or if the code points to an internal engine or transmission issue, it’s time to visit a qualified technician. Don’t risk causing more damage.

Clearing Codes and Maintenance Best Practices

Once you’ve fixed the underlying problem, you’ll want to clear the code. On most Sportsman 570 models, the ECU will clear the code on its own after a few successful ride cycles where it no longer detects the fault.

To keep these codes from coming back, a good polaris sportsman 570 error codes care guide focuses on prevention.

Dielectric Grease: After cleaning any connector, put a small dab of dielectric grease inside before reconnecting it. This helps seal out moisture and prevent corrosion.
Secure Your Harness: Use zip ties to secure any loose wiring harnesses away from hot exhaust pipes or moving parts.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning: When you wash your ATV, avoid spraying high-pressure water directly at electrical connectors, the ECU, or the gauge cluster. This is one of the most important eco-friendly polaris sportsman 570 error codes tips—it protects your machine and prevents you from washing grease and grime into the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris Sportsman 570 Error Codes

Can I ride my Sportsman 570 with the check engine light on?

It depends on the code. If the machine is running normally, it’s likely a minor sensor issue, and you can probably ride it back to the truck or home carefully. However, if the machine is in limp mode, overheating, or making strange noises, you should stop immediately to prevent further damage.

Why did my check engine light turn on and then off by itself?

This usually indicates an intermittent fault. It could be a loose connection that makes contact sometimes, or a sensor that is just starting to fail. The “wiggle test” is a great way to track down these types of issues. Low battery voltage can also cause this.

Does a code always mean a part is bad?

Absolutely not! This is one of the most common mistakes DIYers make. A code for a sensor fault (e.g., SPN 110 for the coolant sensor) only tells you the ECU is seeing an illogical signal from that circuit. The problem could be the sensor itself, the wiring, the connector, or even the ECU. Always diagnose the entire circuit before replacing parts.

Facing down a dashboard full of warning lights can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By using this guide, you’ve taken the first step toward becoming a more capable and self-sufficient owner. You have the tools and the knowledge to decode what your ATV is trying to tell you.

So next time that light comes on, take a deep breath. Grab your notes, follow the steps, and tackle the problem with confidence. Happy and safe riding!

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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.