Misfire is a common topic these days in the off road world. Both Polaris & Can-Am (as well as others) use misfire detection, but why? We are here to answer that question. Most 2015-Up models use a catalytic converter in the exhaust as needed to pass emissions standards (thanks California government). This is a safety feature built in so that if a cylinder stops firing, the injector shuts off therefore preventing raw fuel from being sent into the exhaust and catalytic converter. Many Polaris fire recalls were caused by this issue, as the cat would get so hot from trying to burn raw fuel that it would melt components and eventually catch on fire. Misfire detection can be somewhat of a pain, but it is a very important safety feature for those with a catalytic converter. With an aftermarket exhaust, it’s not really necessary. However, it’s still great to have in place to let you know something is wrong with your machine.
It’s most common for misfire detection to throw a code and limp mode with a slipping belt or ignition problem. When the belt slips from improper clutching, worn out clutches, or a worn out belt, the crankshaft rotates at a higher speed than what’s expected and counts as a misfire. While it can be a pain, often times misfire will point out a bad belt, bad clutches, or improper clutching…. which is a good thing. This can save you money normally spent going through belts. The bad part is going into limp mode. Spark related misfire can be caused by faulty ignition components such as spark plugs, plug wires, and coils. A faulty injector or fuel system issue can also cause a misfire.
On most models you can turn the machine off then on again and you will be out of limp mode. Sometimes the code will remain on your dash. Our PVCX tuner can often time clear the code or it will go away after a certain amount of engine revolutions. If the machine quickly goes into limp mode after re-starting, you know the issue is most likely serious and a spark or fuel related. If your issue takes a while to come back, or comes back at a time when you’d see belt slip then you’re most likely looking at a clutch/belt issue. The most commonly seen misfire on our end is from too light of clutch weight or adding power without properly dialing in clutching.
We can disable misfire for those without a catalytic converter in our tuning. However, we normally leave this in place unless it’s absolutely necessary to remove.
Misfire codes Polaris: 65590 (Unknown cyl), 65591 (cyl 1), 65592 (cyl 2)
Misfire codes Can Am: P0301 (cyl 1), P0302 (cyl 2), P0303 (cyl 3)
Most Common Missfire Causes:
- Slipping Belt
- Worn out belt
- Dirty or worn out clutches
- Improperly torqued primary clutch (too loose, spinning on crank)
- Bad spark plug(s)
- Bad ignition coil or plug wires
- Dirty or bad fuel injector
- Weak fuel pump