Let’s face it, Sea-Doo beep codes are never pleasant to hear since they always indicate a small or larger malfunction. Modern 4-TEC Sea-Doos come with an innovative dashboard that can display fault messages as well as error codes.
If you would like to understand the various Sea-Doo beep codes, fault messages, and error codes, you’ve come to the right place.
For your convenience, we at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all of them under one roof!
What Do Sea-Doo Beep Codes Mean?
Simply put, Sea-Doo beep codes indicate a malfunction has been detected by the ECU (main computer). On modern Sea-Doos, these beep codes usually come with a fault message or error code on the dash for better understanding. In contrast, vintage machines lacked any digital dashboard, so those Sea-Doos could only “communicate” via beep codes.
As there have been a plethora of Sea-Doo models manufactured over the years, listing the specific beep codes for each model would be nearly impossible.
Thus, in this post, you will only find the 4-stroke (4-TEC) Sea-Doo beep codes and fault messages/error codes.
If you have a vintage model, beware that its beep codes could be completely different, so you should refer to your ski’s service manual to understand the message.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about 4-TEC Sea-Doo beep codes in detail!
Official Sea-Doo Beep Code List
If you have a modern 4-stroke Sea-Doo, you can expect to hear four different beep codes:
- One long beep: D.E.S.S. key or ECM issues
- A 2-second beep every 15-minutes interval: Engine management system or iBR faults
- A 2-second beep every 5-minutes interval: Low fuel or fuel sensor issues
- Continuous beeps: Serious engine or exhaust system issues. Turn off the engine immediately!
Let’s take a close look at each beep code one-by-one. (Source: Official Sea-Doo Operator’s Guide)
1. Sea-Doo Provides One Long Beep
As a rule of thumb, if a Sea-Doo provides one long beep and won’t start it means there is a D.E.S.S. key issue. The most common D.E.S.S. key problems that generate one long beep are as follows:
- Bad D.E.S.S. system connection: Reinstall the tether cord cap correctly on the engine cut-off
- switch.
- Wrong D.E.S.S. key: Use a tether cord that has been programmed for the
- watercraft.
- Defective D.E.S.S. key: Use another tether cord with a programmed D.E.S.S. key.
- Defective engine cut-off switch: Refer to an authorized Sea-Doo dealer.
- Improper operation of ECM/MPEM or defective wiring harness: Seek service from an authorized Sea-Doo dealer or repair shop.
- Dried salt water in the tether cord cap: Clean the tether cord cap to remove salt water.
- Safety lanyard on switch for more than 10 minutes without starting the engine: Apply a slight pressure or remove and reinstall the safety lanyard on switch.
2. Sea-Doo Provides a 2-Second Beep at Intervals Every 15 Minutes
The reasons why your Sea-Doo produces a 2-second beep every 15 minutes are likely as follows:
- Watercraft is upside down: Turn watercraft upright!
- Engine management system fault: Seek service from an authorized Sea-Doo dealer or repair shop.
- iBR system fault: Refer to an authorized Sea-Doo dealer.
3. Sea-Doo Provides a 2-Second Beep at Intervals Every 5 Minutes
The reasons why your Sea-Doo produces a 2-second beep every 5 minutes are likely as follows:
- Low fuel level: Refill fuel tank. If the problem persists, refer to an authorized Sea-Doo dealer.
- Fuel tank level sensor or circuit malfunction: Refer to an authorized Sea-Doo dealer.
4. Sea-Doo Beeps Continuously
If your Sea-Doo is beeping continuously, it typically indicates a critical engine issue like low oil pressure or engine/exhaust overheating:
- High engine temperature coolant: Check the „ENGINE OVERHEATING” chapter in the owner’s manual.
- High exhaust temperature: Seek service from an authorized Sea-Doo dealer or repair shop.
- Low oil pressure: Turn off the engine as soon as possible. Check the oil level and refill. Seek service from an authorized Sea-Doo dealer or repair shop.
Sea-Doo Fault Message List
Just like beep codes, Sea-Doo’s fault messages (a.k.a. error messages) are no less important.
These error messages are displayed on the dashboard where otherwise the riding modes such as ’Sport’ and ’Touring’ are displayed.
On older models, these fault messages were substituted with indicator lights showing low oil or low fuel warning lights.
What Are Sea-Doo Fault Messages?
Sea-Doo fault messages provide information on a special condition that exists on the machine. It’s important to understand the difference between error codes and fault messages. The latter is only considered a notification signal text that typically requires some kind of action like refilling the fuel tank or getting the regular services done. In contrast, error codes are alphanumerical codes that point to specific malfunctions.
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the official Sea-Doo fault messages in one chart:
Sea-Doo Fault Message Chart
| MESSAGE DISPLAY | DESCRIPTION |
| LOW FUEL level indicator (NO message) | Low fuel level warning |
| LOW or HIGH BATTERY VOLTAGE | Low/high battery voltage |
| HI EXHAUST TEMPERATURE | High exhaust temperature detected |
| HI ENGINE TEMPERATURE | High engine temperature detected |
| LOW OIL PRESSURE | Low oil pressure |
| IBR MODULE ERROR | iBR system fault |
| RIGHT KEYPAD ERROR | Gauge control button malfunction |
| LOW OIL PRESSURE | Engine low oil pressure detected |
| HIGH EXHAUST TEMPERATURE | High exhaust temperature detected |
| CHECK ENGINE | Engine system malfunction or maintenance required |
| HIGH BATTERY VOLTAGE | High battery voltage detected |
| LOW BATTERY VOLTAGE | Low battery voltage detected |
| LIMP HOME MODE | Major fault detected, engine power limited |
| FUEL SENSOR DEFECTIVE | Fuel level sensor fault |
| WATER TEMP SENSOR DEFECTIVE | Problem with water temperature sensor, not sending water temperature info. |
| CALIBRATION CHECKSUM ERROR | Cluster programming corrupted |
| MAINTENANCE REQUIRED | Watercraft maintenance required |
| UNSYNC GPS | GPS signal synchronization with navigation satellites not acquired |
| FUNCTION CANNOT BE ACTIVATED | Message when a function is not or cannot be properly activated |
| O.T.A.S. FAILURE | O.T.A.S. sensor failure (or not detected), or O.T.A.S. system failure |
Disclaimer: This chart is for informational purposes only! For the exact codes, please check your ski’s service manual.
What to Do if a Fault Message or Beep Code Appears
First, it’s very important to stay calm. In most cases, these fault messages will disappear automatically if you take the necessary steps.
Here is what to do if a beep code or fault message appears:
1. As the first step, release the throttle and let the engine return to idle speed. In some cases, just this trick can eliminate the message and return the Sea-Doo to normal operation.
2. If this doesn’t help, detach the D.E.S.S. key and attach it again after 3 minutes. (Except in a case of continuous beeping.)
3. Start the engine and check whether the message is still present.
4. Depending on the type of issue, your machine will react differently. If you are lucky you will be able to restart the engine and continue your ride. However, in case of a serious malfunction, you probably won’t be able to restart the engine. In this case, you can expect to see a fault message as well.
5. Another scenario is when your ski goes into “Limp Mode.” What is a Limp Mode on a Sea-Doo? In a nutshell, in case of a minor malfunction, the computer allows you to operate the machine with limited engine power. If you notice a „Limp Home Mode” text on the screen, this means you must ride back to the dock immediately at a limited speed.
6. If your Sea-Doo is beeping continuously this points to a major malfunction, which requires you to shut off the engine immediately. Since this type of beep code typically indicates an overheating issue, best practice is not to restart the engine to avoid further damage. Instead, wait until your engine/exhaust cools down before you try to restart the ski. If that doesn’t work, you have no choice but to tow your Sea-Doo back to the dock with a boat or another jet ski.
7. Check your Sea-Doo’s service manual for further instructions or get the machine inspected by a dealer or service shop as soon as possible.
Sea-Doo Error Codes
What is a Sea-Doo Error Code?
As the name suggests, the Sea-Doo error code is an indication that the main computer has detected a malfunction. On modern 4-TEC Sea-Doos, the error code consists of a letter and four digits, which are usually a mix of numbers (example: P1234). Sea-Doo error codes are often referred to as flashing codes or fault codes, but they should not be confused with fault messages!
Unlike fault messages, error codes aren’t displayed automatically on the dashboard.
But don’t worry, the system records and stores the codes and can be listed at any time.
Let’s see how you do it!
How to Read Sea-Doo Fault Codes with a Scanner Tool
Sea-Doo fault codes can be read with special diagnostic software, such as the B.U.D.S. (BRP Utility and Diagnostic Software) or the aftermarket CanDooPro Software.
These products include computer software along with special hardware and diagnostic cables. The software has to be installed on your laptop to which the Sea-Doo’s ECU has to be connected via the diagnostic tool.
If you are using B.U.D.S. software, you can find the error codes by clicking on the Read Data button and the Faults tab.
The key advantage of these scanner tools is that they show the active as well as the historical error codes that occurred in the past. What’s more, beyond the codes they provide detailed information about the issue, along with the required service actions.
How to Read Sea-Doo Error Codes Without a Scanner Tool
If you don’t have this scanner tool, don’t worry, as you can read the error code on many Sea-Doos in this simple way:
- Attach the D.E.S.S. key to its post.
- Press the SET button repeatedly to get the error codes displayed.
- Use the MODE button to scroll through the error codes if more than one is present.
- When the “END” message appears at the end of the list, just press the MODE button to exit.
Unfortunately, there are Sea-Doos on which this trick doesn’t work.
On these machines, you can only read the error codes if you invest in a diagnostic scanner tool or take the machine to an authorized dealer or service shop.
Sea-Doo Fault Code Charts
For your convenience, we’ve listed the official Sea-Doo error codes (P-codes) in charts. These codes can be applied to the majority of 4-TEC Sea-Doo models.
Sea-Doo Manifold Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0106 | Manifold atmospheric pressure sensor out of range |
| P0107 | Manifold atmospheric pressure sensor or |
| P0107 | Manifold barometric pressure sensor shorted to ground |
| P0108 | Manifold atmospheric pressure sensor or |
| P0108 | Manifold barometric pressure sensor shorted to 12V or open circuit |
| P0111 | Intake manifold temp sensor faulty |
| P0112 | Intake manifold shorted to ground |
| P0113 | Intake manifold shorted to 12V or open circuit |
Sea-Doo Engine Sensor Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0116 | Engine temp sensor faulty |
| P0117 | Engine temp sensor shorted to ground |
| P0118 | Engine temp sensor shorted to 12V or open circuit |
Sea-Doo Fuel Line Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P01231 | Fuel pump shorted to ground or open circuit |
| P0231 | Burnt starter, fuel pump 10A fuse |
| P0232 | Fuel pump shorted to 12V |
| P0236 | Knock sensor out of range |
| P0261 | #1 injector short to ground or open circuit |
| P0262 | #1 injector shorted to 12V |
| P0264 | #2 injector short to ground or open circuit |
| P0265 | #2 injector shorted to 12V |
| P0267 | #3 injector short to ground or open circuit |
| P0268 | #3 injector shorted to 12V |
| P0461 | Fuel level sensor circuit out of range |
| P0462 | Fuel level sensor shorted to ground |
| P0463 | Fuel level sensor circuit shorted to 12V or open circuit |
Sea-Doo Camshaft and Crankshaft Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0336 | Crank position sensor – wrong RPM detected |
| P0337 | No CPS signal, but CAPS signal detected |
| P0339 | Crank signal fault not plausible with cam signal |
| P0344 | Cam phase sensor signal missing |
| P0344, P1200 | Burnt TOPS 10A fuse |
Sea-Doo Ignition Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0351 | Ignition coil #1 open circuit or shorted to ground or to 12V |
| P0351, P0261 | Burnt cylinder #1 ignition coil and injection 10A fuse |
| P0352 | Ignition coil #2 open circuit or shorted to ground or to 12V |
| P0352, P0264 | Burnt cylinder #2 ignition coil and injection 10A fuse |
| P0353 | Ignition coil #3 open circuit or shorted to ground or to 12V |
| P0353, P0267 | Burnt cylinder #3 ignition coil and injection 10A fuse |
Sea-Doo Exhaust Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0544 | Exhaust gas temperature sensor faulty |
| P0545 | Exhaust gas temperature switch shorted to ground |
| P0546 | Exhaust gas temperature switch shorted to 12V or open circuit |
Sea-Doo VTS Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P1590 | VTS position sensor out of range |
| P1591 | VTS position sensor – low voltage |
| P1592 | VTS position sensor – high voltage |
| P1593 | VTS malfunction |
| P1690 | VTS control up circuit open circuit or shorted to ground |
| P1690, P1692 | Burnt VTS 7.5A fuse |
| P1691 | VTS control up circuit shorted to battery |
| P1692 | VTS control down circuit open circuit or shorted to ground |
| P1693 | VTS control down circuit shorted to battery |
Sea-Doo Electric System/ECU Fault Code Chart
| Code | Malfunction |
| P0122 | TPS out of range – short to ground |
| P0123 | TPS out of range – short to 12V or open circuit |
| P0505 | DLA output stage cutoff memory circuit or |
| P0505 | output stage fault or open circuit or short to 12V |
| P0513 | Incorrect DESS key |
| P0520 | Oil pressure switch faulty |
| P0536 | Battery voltage too high |
| P0562 | Battery voltage too low |
| P0600 | CAN communication problem detected by EMS or MPEM |
| P0600 | Burnt MPEM 2A fuse |
| P0601 | TPS learns unlikely or checksum fault |
| P0602 | ECU not coded |
| P0604 | RAM faulty |
| P0605 | EEPROM faulty |
| P0605 | Checksum fault EEPROM |
| P0608 | Sensor 5V power supply short to ground |
| P0608 | Sensor 5V power supply short to 12V |
| P0616 | Starter relay short to ground or open circuit |
| P0616 | Burnt Bilge pump, beeper, diagnostic center 3A fuse |
| P0617 | Starter relay short to 12V |
| P1102 | TPS adaption failure |
| P1104 | TPS adaption cancelled |
| P1148 | Fuel injector 1,2 or 3 – safety fuel cutoff disabled |
| P1200 | Blow-by valve shorted to ground or open circuit |
| P1201 | Blow-by valve shorted to 12V |
| P1202 | Oil tank pressure switch implausible or blow-by valve still closed |
| P1517 | Compass out of range |
| P1607 | MPEM fault |
| P1675 | Spare output 1 shorted to ground or open circuit |
| P1675 | Burnt depth gauge or spare 2A fuse |
| P1676 | Spare output 1 shorted to 12V |
| P1678 | Spare output 2 shorted to ground or open circuit |
| P1678 | Burnt spare 5A fuse |
| P1679 | Spare output 2 shorted to 12V |
| P1680 | Communication problem detected by MPEM |
| P1680, P1681 | Burnt information center 1A fuse |
| P1681 | Communication problem – instrument cluster message missing |
| P1682 | Communication problem – EMS message missing |
| P1683 | COM RAM fault |
Disclaimer: These charts are for informational purposes only! For the exact codes, please check your ski’s service manual!
Takeaways
As we’ve discussed, there are differences between Sea-Doo beep codes, fault messages, and error codes.
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about them!
What are Sea-Doo beep codes?
Sea-Doo beep codes are usually a notification beyond fault messages and/or error codes. However, vintage Sea-Doos could communicate only via beep codes and warning lights, since these skis typically lacked a digital dashboard.
What are Sea-Doo fault messages?
Sea-Doo fault messages are short texts displayed on the dashboard. They are intended to identify the type of fault or require you to take an action. For example, a fault message appears if it’s time to refuel or take the ski for periodic maintenance.
What are Sea-Doo fault codes?
Fault codes (a.k.a. error codes) always point to a specific malfunction. Certain models can display these codes on their dash, while on other models the codes can only be read with a diagnostic tool like Sea-Doo’s B.U.S.D. or CanDooPro. If you want to find out more about the codes and their fixes, you have to invest in one of these scanner tools or visit a dealership.
Why is your Sea-Doo continuously beeping?
A continuous beeping sound on a Sea-Doo refers to an overheating issue or a serious engine malfunction. If your Sea-Doo is beeping continuously, best practice is to immediately turn off the engine!
What does one long beep mean on a Sea-Doo?
One long beep on a Sea-Doo refers to a D.E.S.S. key or safety lanyard malfunction. Make sure that you use the right key, which is properly attached to the port.
How do you clear error codes on a Sea-Doo?
Error codes are prone to becoming ‘stuck’ in the memory, meaning that they don’t disappear even if you’ve corrected the problem. If this happens, you can only clear the error codes on your Sea-Doo with a diagnostis tool like B.U.D.S. or CanDooPro.
How do I get my Sea-Doo out of low (Limp) mode?
The Sea-Doo should automatically get out of Limp Mode when the fault is no longer present. If the Limp Mode gets stuck in the memory, it can be cleared with a diagnostic tool.
Why does your Sea-Doo say check engine?
If your Sea-Doo indicates a “Check Engine” fault message it means that the engine requires maintenance or it has some malfunctions.
Disclaimer: This post is for information purposes only. For more specific information, please refer to your Sea-Doo’s service manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendation.
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