How To Clear Codes On Rzr Xp 1000

That pesky check engine light is mocking you again. Your dash lights are called "idiot lights" for a reason, and you're not going to be caught dead at the park without resetting your Polaris RZR 1000's check engine light first.

OK, maybe it's not that bad, but a check engine light that doesn't go away is annoying either way. Fear not! We'll give you some sure-fire ways to get rid of a check engine light that's stuck like a YXZ in mud.

1. Fix the Problem

When your check engine light comes on, you have a problem. And you're not going to reset your check engine light without fixing that problem. Here's how to figure out what the issue is:

Find the diagnostic code by holding the "MODE" button on the rider information center
Cycle to the "DIAGCODE" option
Compare your diagnostic code to the ones found in the diagnostic display code definition table
Fix the issue given

Nine times out of ten, the issue is belt related. If you're not sure how to fix whatever your issue is, find a dealer.

If your RZR's check engine light doesn't reset after fixing the problem, then you need to try another trick.

2. Ride Your Machine

If your RZR's check engine light doesn't reset, it doesn't necessarily mean you did something wrong. Your UTV might just need some time to sort itself out.

The length of time required to reset your light depends on the diagnostic code you get, and it's hard to tell which ones will take longer.

With some codes, the check engine light will reset after 4000 engine revolutions (assuming the issue is fixed). Others will take much longer and require many key-on and off cycles.

And there are some that won't reset with this method at all and require specialized tools.

A Polaris RZR 1000 getting ride time to reset the check engine light. — Whether you take your Polaris RZR 1000 around the block or take it out on the trail, getting time in the saddle will eventually reset most check engine lights. Just make sure you've fixed whatever issue caused the light in the first place before you commit to a big trip.
Photo by SuperATV

If your RZR's check engine light doesn't reset on it's own, you can try using specialized tools.

There are a number of tuners and other scan tools on the market that can manually reset your check engine light.

If you don't have one, don't want to get one, or it doesn't work for you, you may have a code that can only be reset using Polaris' proprietary "Polaris Digital Wrench Software." Your local Polaris dealer should have access to this software and be able to reset your light in this case.

If you've tried everything else and can't get your check engine light to go away, you'll have to take it to a dealer.

4. Disconnect the Battery (Last Resort!)

If you're at your wits' end, and you have to get that check engine light off RIGHT NOW, there's one more thing you can try.

Before we tell you what to do, we'll tell you why we consider it a last resort. This process resets your ECU, but it can inadvertently reset parts of your ECU's memory. It can lead to more issues. Some are easy to resolve, but others might require you to replace your ECU if it's permanently damaged.

In theory, this is a risky method. In practice, it seems to work out.

To reset the ECU, you have to disconnect the battery completely. Then touch your RZR's wire harness terminals together. This will drain the capacitors and anything else in your ECU that holds a charge, and is a guaranteed method of resetting your Polaris RZR's check engine light.

Say Goodbye to Your Idiot Lights

With your idiot light situation resolved, you can ride with confidence knowing you're just as mechanically intelligent as the next person. And when your buddy's check engine light turns on, you can save the day.

Since 90% of check engine lights are caused by belt issues, make sure to upgrade your drive belts, and say goodbye to your idiot lights.