Pulling Codes On 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570

That little check engine light glaring at you from the dash of your 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570 can instantly ruin a good day on the trail. Your mind starts racing—is it serious? Is this going to be an expensive trip to the dealer?

What if I told you that you have the power to figure out exactly what your machine is trying to tell you, right there in your garage or on the trail, often without any special tools? You can.

This guide promises to walk you through the entire process of pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570. We’ll show you how to access the built-in diagnostic system, understand what the codes mean, and what to do next. You’ll save time, money, and get back to riding faster.

Why You Should Be Pulling Your Own Codes (The Real Benefits)

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Understanding the benefits of pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 yourself is a game-changer for any owner. This isn’t just about turning off a light; it’s about taking control of your machine’s health.

Save Serious Cash: The first thing a shop does is plug in a scanner and pull codes—and they charge a diagnostic fee for it. You can do this first step for free, potentially identifying a simple fix you can handle yourself.
Get Faster Answers: Instead of waiting for a service appointment, you can get an immediate idea of the problem. Is it a loose gas cap, a faulty sensor, or something more serious? Knowing is half the battle.
Prevent Bigger Problems: A minor sensor issue today could lead to poor performance, bad fuel economy, or even engine damage down the road if ignored. Pulling codes early lets you be proactive.
Become a Smarter Owner: The more you understand how your Sportsman communicates, the more confident you’ll become as a DIY mechanic. This knowledge is invaluable for all future maintenance and troubleshooting.

Tools of the Trade: What You Need (and Don’t Need)

Here’s the best news: for most diagnostic work on this specific machine, you don’t need a fancy, expensive code reader. Polaris built a powerful diagnostic tool right into your ATV’s digital display.

Your primary tools are simply:

Your ATV’s ignition key
Your hands to press the mode button
A pen and paper (or your phone) to write down the codes
A good flashlight for inspecting components later

Optional Advanced Tools

While not required for basic code pulling, a dedicated diagnostic scanner can offer more data. If you plan on doing serious work, consider an OBD-II scanner with a Polaris 8-pin adapter cable. This setup can provide live sensor data, which is extremely helpful for diagnosing intermittent problems.

How to Pulling Codes on 2016 Polaris Sportsman 570: The Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let’s get to it. This process is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be reading codes in minutes. This is your essential pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 guide.

Find a Safe, Well-Lit Area: Park your Sportsman on level ground. Ensure the transmission is in Park.
Turn the Key ON: Insert the key and turn it to the ON position. Do not start the engine. You just want the dash to light up and the fuel pump to prime.
Wait for the System Check: Let the gauge cluster cycle through its initial startup sequence.
Enter the Options Menu: The button to cycle through display options (odometer, trip, hours) is usually labeled “MODE” or “OVERRIDE” and is located on the left handlebar control pod or on the gauge itself. Press and hold this button until the display changes to the options screen.
Navigate to Diagnostics: Once in the options menu, use short presses of the same button to cycle through the menu items. You are looking for an option that says “Diag Codes,” “Codes,” or shows a check engine symbol.
Select the Diagnostic Screen: Once you’ve highlighted the diagnostic option, press and hold the button again to enter that menu.
Read and Record: The screen will now display any active or stored trouble codes. If there are multiple codes, it will cycle through them.

Understanding the Code Format: SPN, FMI, and OC

The codes won’t just be simple numbers. Polaris uses a standardized format. It’s crucial you write down all three parts for each code.

SPN (Suspect Parameter Number): This is the main component identifier. It tells you which system or sensor is reporting a fault (e.g., Throttle Position Sensor, O2 Sensor).
FMI (Failure Mode Identifier): This tells you the nature of the fault. Is the voltage too high? Too low? Is the data erratic?
OC (Occurrence Count): This tells you how many times this specific fault has been detected since the last time codes were cleared.

For example, you might see: SPN 520227, FMI 4, OC 2. Write this down exactly as you see it. Just writing “520227” isn’t enough information.

Decoding the Numbers: Common 2016 Sportsman 570 Codes

Once you have your codes, the next step is to figure out what they mean. While a full Polaris service manual is the ultimate resource, here are some common codes you might encounter on your 570.

SPN 102, FMI 2, 3, or 4 – Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor: This often points to issues with air intake pressure readings, which can cause poor idling or stalling.
SPN 51 or 520227, FMI 3 or 4 – Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): A very common one. Can cause hesitation, erratic throttle response, or limp mode. Often needs adjustment or replacement.
SPN 110, FMI 3 or 4 – Engine Coolant Temp (ECT) Sensor: Indicates a problem with the sensor that reads your engine temperature. Can cause the fan to run constantly or not at all.
SPN 651, FMI 5 – Engine Misfire Detected: The ECU has detected that the engine isn’t firing correctly. This could be a spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel issue.
SPN 94, FMI 3 or 4 – Fuel Level Sensor: Relates to the fuel gauge sending unit. Your fuel gauge might be inaccurate or not working.

Disclaimer: This is a partial list. Always use your specific SPN and FMI numbers to research the exact cause. A quick search online for “Polaris SPN [your number] FMI [your number]” will usually yield great results from enthusiast forums.

Common Problems and Best Practices for Pulling Codes

Even a simple process can have hiccups. Here are some common problems with pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 and how to handle them, along with some pro tips.

Problem: I Can’t Get Into the Diagnostic Mode

If you can’t access the menu, don’t panic. Check the simple things first. A low battery is a common culprit. Ensure your battery has a full charge (at least 12.4 volts). Also, check the main fuses to make sure none are blown.

Problem: The Code I Pulled Doesn’t Seem to Match the Symptom

Remember, a code points to a circuit or system, not always a specific part. For example, a TPS code could be the sensor itself, but it could also be a frayed wire leading to the sensor or a corroded connector. Always inspect the wiring and connectors associated with a code before buying parts.

Best Practices for a Clean Diagnosis

Follow these pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 best practices for the best results.

Document Everything: Write down the codes, the date, and the machine’s hours. This helps you track recurring issues.
Don’t Clear Codes Prematurely: Resist the urge to clear the code immediately. Fix the suspected problem first, then clear it. If the code returns, you know your fix didn’t work.
Address One Code at a Time: If you have multiple codes, start with the one that seems most critical or is lowest in numerical order, as one fault can sometimes trigger another.

The Eco-Friendly Approach to Diagnostics and Repair

Thinking about a sustainable pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 process might seem odd, but it’s a practical mindset. Accurate DIY diagnostics are inherently eco-friendly.

By pulling your own codes, you avoid unnecessary trips to a dealership, saving fuel and reducing your carbon footprint. More importantly, you can pinpoint issues that affect your ATV’s efficiency.

For example, a faulty oxygen sensor code can lead to a rich fuel condition, increasing emissions and wasting gas. By diagnosing and replacing it yourself, you’re not only saving money on fuel but also helping your machine run cleaner. This is a key part of any good pulling codes on 2016 polaris sportsman 570 care guide—making repairs that count for both performance and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pulling Codes on a 2016 Sportsman 570

Do I need a special scanner for my 2016 Sportsman 570?

No, for reading and clearing basic trouble codes, you do not need a special scanner. The diagnostic mode built into the factory digital gauge cluster is sufficient for most DIY tasks.

What’s the difference between an active code and a stored code?

An active code means the fault is happening right now. A stored (or inactive) code means the fault occurred in the past but is not currently being detected. Stored codes are useful for diagnosing intermittent electrical problems.

Can I still ride my ATV with the check engine light on?

It depends on the code. If the machine is running fine, it might be a minor issue. However, if the light is flashing or the ATV is in “limp mode” (reduced power), you should stop riding immediately to prevent further damage. Pull the code to assess the severity.

How do I find a full list of Polaris fault codes?

The most comprehensive source is an official Polaris Service Manual for your specific year and model. You can often find PDF versions online or purchase a physical copy from a dealer or online retailer.

You’ve now got the knowledge and the step-by-step process to become your Sportsman’s first line of defense. Pulling codes demystifies that check engine light, transforms you from a worried owner into an empowered one, and puts you in the driver’s seat of your own repairs.

So next time that light comes on, take a deep breath. You know what to do. Grab your key, follow this guide, and get ready to tackle the problem head-on. Happy trails, and ride safe!

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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.