Seeing fault codes pop up on the dash of your off-road vehicle is scary and annoying. While they’re the last thing you want to see, fault codes signal issues with your vehicle.
If you own a Can-Am Defender, you will likely encounter the PPS fault code. This fault can occur while starting or driving the vehicle. So, what does this fault mean, and how can you address it?
Join us as we detail the Can Am PPS fault, its causes, and how to fix it.
Contents
PPS Fault Can Am Defender
Your Can-Am Defender’s PPS (Pedal Position Sensor) fault indicates issues with the pedal position sensor(s).
When the fault code appears on the dash while starting, you might hear a clicking sound, but the engine doesn’t fire. This fault is more likely to occur while starting the engine. However, there are instances where the fault code might appear on the dash while driving.
Your vehicle will enter limp mode if the fault occurs while driving. You’ll also notice some of the following symptoms with your Can-Am:
- The vehicle won’t go faster beyond a certain point despite pressing the pedal
- Decrease in fuel efficiency
- Engine misfires
- Inconsistent engine responses
Eventually, the vehicle will lose voltage and stall. Your Can-Am Defender may or may not start again when this happens.
PPS Fault Causes and Fixes
The most common causes of the PPS fault in your Can-Am Defender are battery issues, damaged wiring, malfunctioning pedal position sensors, bad throttle body, and software glitch.
Below we’ll detail these PPS fault code causes and highlight how you can address them.
Battery Issues
In most cases, a malfunctioning battery will cause the PPS fault to occur on the dash. Since the Can-Am Defender is an off-road vehicle, it might get exposed to challenging environments. This exposure is likely to affect the battery connections and terminals.
If the battery is the culprit, the following might be to blame:
- Low voltage
- Loose cables
- Corroded terminals
- Dead battery
Effective Fixes:
Start by inspecting the battery cables and terminals. The cables are likely to become loose due to vibrations and bumpy rides. Loosen the cables and retighten them.
Next, check for clogs or debris on the terminals and clean them. A mix of baking soda and warm water will help to remove the dirt and rust. Paste the mixture on the terminals and scrub them using an old toothbrush or battery terminal cleaner.
After removing dirt and rust, apply petroleum jelly or dielectric grease on the terminals to prolong their lifespan.
If the Can Am PPS fault persists, you might have a drained battery. Test the battery with your multimeter and recharge if the voltage is below the recommended reading. You can leave the battery to charge overnight. Use the battery charger and ensure it’s in working condition.
If the battery fails to hold a charge, it might be dead and needs replacing.
After fixing the battery, ensure it’s in good shape to prevent it from draining quickly. To do this, tighten the connections to ensure the battery recharges after use.
Then ensure all wirings to the accessories goes through the ignition or kill switch. Doing so ensures the accessories stay off after turning the engine off.
Damaged Wiring
The wiring to the PPS can get damaged over time due to excessive friction and vibrations. The sensors will malfunction when the wires melt or break, throwing the PPS fault on the dash.
Moreover, connections on the pedal position sensors can become loose and fail to transmit signals. Another connection to the throttle body can become loose or damaged, resulting in the fault code.
Fixes:
Inspect the wire harness to the sensors to ensure they’re in good condition. If the wire harness and connections appear dirty, disconnect them and clean them with water and baking soda. Reconnect the wiring harness and ensure it’s working properly.
If the wiring harness is clean, disconnect and reconnect it.
Next, locate the throttle body between the engine and the air box. You’ll find another wiring harness attached to the throttle body. Disconnect and reconnect it.
If you find frayed or broken wires, replace them to ensure the smooth flow of voltages and electrical signals. You can visit a repair shop to seek help finding compatible wires or replacing them.
Malfunctioning Pedal Position Sensors
If the battery and wiring are okay but the PPS fault Can Am persists, the sensors might be to blame. Damaged sensors disrupt the communication between the throttle body and the ECU.
The pedal position sensors may become faulty due to wear and tear or physical damage. Bumpy rides and excessive vibrations can cause the sensors to wear out over time. Dust can clog the sensors and prevent the smooth transmission of signals.
If you drive your Can-Am Defender in extreme temperatures, the sensors might overheat and lose their integrity.
Effective Fixes:
Inspect the pedal position sensors for physical damage and dirt. If dirt and debris accumulate on the sensors, uninstall them and wipe the dirt out with a clean towel. Then spray a sensor cleaner to remove stubborn dirt and gunk. Reinstall the sensors to see if you’ve solved the problem.
If the sensors look worn or damaged, replace them. You can also test the sensors with your multimeter to see if they’re defective. Replace them if necessary.
Damaged Throttle Body
The throttle body in your Can-Am Defender controls the air entering the combustion chamber. This mechanical component can wear out or get clogged over time, preventing airflow into the combustion chamber. When this happens, your vehicle might display the Can Am PPS fault.
Fixes:
Locate the throttle body and check for dirt and grime buildup. Dirt or dust can accumulate in the throttle body when riding on dusty and rugged terrains. To clean this component, spray a throttle body cleaner and scrub the buildup with a toothbrush.
If the throttle body appears damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Allow a professional to inspect the throttle body and repair or replace it.
Other Causes of PPS Fault in Can Am Defender
The wiring, sensors, batteries, and throttle body are all causes of the PPS fault.
But what could be the cause if none of the above is the culprit? Your Can-Am Defender might have the following issues:
- Software glitches: Update your vehicle’s software. Alternatively, reset the vehicle’s ECU to factory settings. The owner’s manual should guide you on how to perform a system reset in your vehicle. You can also consult with your mechanic or certified Can-Am dealer.
- Defective stator: A worn or damaged stator can cause the occurrence of a PPS fault code. Replace the stator if it’s faulty.
- Damaged foot pedal: The foot pedal will succumb to wear and tear after using it for an extended period. Accidents and bumpy rides can also cause the foot pedal to wear out or get damaged. Damage to the foot pedal can also affect the foot pedal sensor. Replace the damaged foot pedal and sensor if necessary.
Final Thoughts
While the Can Am PPS fault is worrisome, understanding its symptoms, cause, and solutions can help resolve the issue effectively.
The PPS fault code usually appears on your Can-Am Defender due to a malfunctioning battery. If the battery is okay, the wiring, pedal position sensors, or throttle body might be the cause.
Luckily, we’ve highlighted how to address these issues to get your vehicle back on the road. Conduct proper maintenance on the battery, sensors, throttle body, and wiring to prevent the occurrence of the PPS fault.
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