There’s nothing that stops a great day on the trails dead in its tracks like a flashing check engine light. Your powerful RZR XP 1000 suddenly starts sputtering, losing power, and feeling completely off. You pull over, run the diagnostics, and there it is: the dreaded polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 staring back at you from the dash.
Don’t let that code end your adventure or lead to an expensive trip to the dealership just yet. We promise this is often a problem you can diagnose and fix right in your own garage with some basic tools and a little know-how.
In this complete guide from FatBoysOffroad, we’re going to break down exactly what this code means, the common causes, and a step-by-step process to get you back on the dirt. We’ll give you the pro tips to troubleshoot like a seasoned mechanic and make a lasting repair.
What Exactly is Polaris Fault Code 29? Decoding the Check Engine Light
When your 2017 Polaris RZR XP 1000 displays Code 29, it’s telling you there’s a problem with a fuel injector circuit. It’s not a generic “engine problem” code; it’s very specific, which is great news for diagnostics.
The full diagnostic code is usually more detailed, like SPN 651 FMI 5 or SPN 652 FMI 5. Here’s the breakdown in plain English:
- SPN 651: Refers to Injector 1, which is on the PTO (Power Take-Off) or clutch side of the engine.
- SPN 652: Refers to Injector 2, which is on the MAG (Magneto) or stator side of the engine.
- FMI 5: This means “Current Below Normal or Open Circuit.” Essentially, the machine’s computer (ECU) sent a signal to fire the injector, but it didn’t see the electrical response it expected.
So, a polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 means that one of your fuel injectors isn’t getting the proper electrical signal, or the injector itself has failed. This guide will help you figure out which it is.
Common Symptoms: How Your RZR Tells You It Has an Injector Problem
Your machine will definitely let you know something is wrong. Since the engine is running on only one of its two cylinders, the symptoms are usually very obvious. This is one of the most common problems with polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29.
Look out for:
- Significant Power Loss: It will feel like you’ve lost half your engine’s power. The machine will be sluggish and struggle to accelerate.
- Rough, Unstable Idle: The engine will shake and sound completely unbalanced at idle.
- Engine Misfiring or Sputtering: You’ll hear and feel the engine “missing” as it tries to run on a single cylinder.
- Backfiring: Unburnt fuel from the dead cylinder can ignite in the hot exhaust, causing loud pops or backfires.
- Strong Fuel Smell: You might smell raw gasoline because it’s being dumped into a cylinder that isn’t firing.
Simply put, your twin-cylinder beast will sound and feel more like a tired lawnmower. Don’t ignore these signs; running the engine this way can cause further damage.
The Root Causes: Why Your 2017 XP 1000 is Throwing Code 29
This code almost always comes down to one of three things. We’ll start with the most common and work our way to the least likely culprit. Understanding these potential issues is the first step in our polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 guide.
Damaged Wiring: The Most Common Culprit
The wiring harness on a RZR lives a tough life. It’s exposed to heat, vibration, mud, and water. Over time, the protective loom can wear away, and wires can chafe against the frame or engine components, eventually breaking or shorting out.
The injector harness is a prime candidate for this kind of damage. A tiny break in a wire is all it takes to create an “open circuit” and trigger Code 29.
Corroded or Loose Connectors
The electrical connector that plugs onto the fuel injector can also be the source of the problem. After countless creek crossings and mud holes, moisture can get inside, causing corrosion on the metal pins. Vibration can also cause the connector to become loose over time.
A poor connection here prevents the electrical signal from the ECU from reaching the injector properly.
A Failed Fuel Injector
While less common than wiring issues, the fuel injector itself can fail. Inside the injector is a small electromagnetic coil. If this coil breaks or shorts out, the injector will no longer be able to open and close. This is an internal failure that requires replacing the part.
The ECU (Engine Control Unit) – A Rare Possibility
This is the least likely scenario, but it’s possible for the driver circuit inside the ECU to fail. Before ever suspecting the ECU, you must exhaustively rule out the wiring and the injector itself. ECU replacement is expensive and rarely the cause of this specific code.
How to Diagnose Polaris XP 1000 2017 Code 29: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This is the “how to polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29” section you’ve been waiting for. Follow these steps methodically, and you’ll pinpoint the problem.
Essential Tools and Safety Precautions
Gather your tools before you start. You don’t need a full professional shop, but having these items will make the job much easier.
- Basic socket and wrench set
- Torx bit set
- Digital Multimeter
- Automotive Noid Light Set
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Electrical Contact Cleaner
- Dielectric Grease
Safety First! Before you touch any wiring or components, disconnect the negative terminal on your battery. This prevents any accidental shorts that could cause more damage.
Step 1: The Visual Inspection
Start with the simplest check. You’ll need to remove the engine access panel behind the seats. Identify the two fuel injectors on top of the engine. Trace the wiring harness from each injector back as far as you can see.
Look for any obvious signs of trouble: wires with melted insulation, areas where the harness is rubbing against the frame, or green/white crusty corrosion inside the connectors. Wiggle the connectors to make sure they are seated firmly.
Step 2: The “Swap-Tronics” Test
This is the single best diagnostic trick for a DIYer and one of our favorite polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 tips. It requires no special electrical tools. The goal is to see if the problem is the injector itself or the wiring going to it.
- Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from both fuel injectors.
- Unbolt and gently remove both fuel injectors from the fuel rail. Be careful, as a small amount of fuel may spill.
- Swap their positions. Put the injector from the PTO side into the MAG side, and the MAG injector into the PTO side.
- Plug the electrical connectors back in—make sure the PTO connector goes to the injector now in the PTO spot, and the MAG connector goes to the one in the MAG spot.
- Reconnect your battery, start the engine, and see what code it throws.
The Result: If the code moves to the other cylinder (e.g., it was SPN 651 and is now SPN 652), you’ve confirmed the fuel injector is bad. If the code stays on the same cylinder, the problem is in the wiring or connector for that cylinder.
Step 3: Testing with a Multimeter
If the Swap-Tronics test pointed to a wiring issue, a multimeter is your best friend. Set it to measure resistance (Ohms Ω).
Unplug the suspect injector. Touch the two probes of your multimeter to the two metal pins on the injector itself. A good XP 1000 injector should read around 12.0 – 14.5 Ohms. If you get a reading of 0 (a short) or “OL” (open loop/broken), the injector is bad.
To check the wiring, you can perform a continuity test from the injector plug back to the ECU plug, but this is a more advanced step. Often, a careful visual inspection will reveal the break in the wire.
Step 4: Using a Noid Light to Check for Signal
A noid light is a simple tool that plugs into the injector connector and flashes when the ECU sends a signal. If the Swap-Tronics test pointed to wiring, plug the noid light into the suspect connector, have a friend crank the engine, and see if it flashes. If it doesn’t flash, you have 100% confirmation there’s no signal getting through the wire.
Fixing the Problem: Best Practices for a Lasting Repair
Once you’ve found the culprit, it’s time for the fix. The benefits of polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 diagnosis and repair yourself are huge: you save money and learn more about your machine. Following these best practices will ensure a reliable, long-term solution.
Replacing a Faulty Fuel Injector
If your testing confirmed a bad injector, replacement is straightforward. Purchase a quality OEM or reputable aftermarket injector. Lightly lubricate the new O-rings with a bit of engine oil, press it firmly into place, secure the retaining bolt, and plug in the connector.
Repairing the Wiring Harness
If you found a broken wire, don’t just twist it together and wrap it in electrical tape. For a sustainable polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 repair, do it right.
The best method is to solder the wires together and protect the connection with a piece of heat-shrink tubing. This creates a strong, weather-resistant bond. After the repair, secure the harness away from any sharp edges or hot engine parts using zip ties to prevent it from happening again.
Cleaning and Protecting Connectors
If your connectors were just dirty or corroded, spray them thoroughly with electrical contact cleaner. Use a small brush to gently scrub away any grime. Once they are clean and dry, apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the connector before plugging it back in. This grease seals out moisture and prevents future corrosion—a crucial part of any good electrical care guide.
Making a quality, sealed repair is also an eco-friendly polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 practice. It ensures your engine runs at peak efficiency, burning fuel cleanly and preventing unburnt hydrocarbons from damaging your exhaust or polluting the air.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris XP 1000 2017 Code 29
Can I still ride my RZR with Code 29?
It is strongly not recommended. Running on one cylinder puts a huge strain on the engine. You risk “washing out” the cylinder walls with raw fuel, which can dilute the oil and cause catastrophic internal engine damage. Get it home and get it fixed.
How much does it cost to fix Code 29?
The cost varies wildly depending on the cause. If it’s a broken wire you fix yourself, the cost is virtually zero. If you need a new OEM fuel injector, you can expect to pay between $100-$150 for the part. A shop repair could range from $200 to $400+ depending on their labor rate and diagnostic time.
Will the check engine light clear itself after the repair?
Sometimes the code will clear on its own after a few successful start/run cycles. The most reliable way to clear it is to disconnect the battery for about 15-20 minutes after the repair is complete. This will reset the ECU and clear any stored fault codes.
Get Back on the Trail with Confidence
That flashing check engine light and the polaris xp 1000 2017 code 29 can be intimidating, but they don’t have to be. By following a logical diagnostic process—inspecting, testing, and confirming the fault—you can tackle this job with confidence.
You’ve learned what causes the code, how to trace the problem to its source, and the best practices for a repair that will last. You not only saved yourself a hefty repair bill but also gained valuable experience working on your machine.
Now, get those tools put away, fire up your RZR, and listen to that engine purr on both cylinders. The trails are waiting. Stay safe and keep the throttle down!
- 2018 Honda Accord Tire Size – The Ultimate Guide To Perfect Fit, - December 18, 2025
- 2012 Honda Accord Fuse Box Diagram – Your Ultimate Guide To DIY - December 18, 2025
- 2013 Honda Accord Fuse Box Diagram – Your Essential Guide To - December 18, 2025