Suzuki outboard fault codes are diagnostic codes that apply to given malfunctions. These codes can be pulled in many different ways including using diagnostic software or decoding the flashing pattern of the check engine light.
If you want to find out more about the topic and read the official Suzuki outboard fault codes in one list, this post is for you.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know under one roof!
What are Fault Codes on a Suzuki Outboard?
Just like many vehicles and vessels, most Suzuki outboards also feature an onboard computer (ECU), which is considered the ‘brain’ of the motor.
In case of a malfunction, this main computer generates a code that describes a particular malfunction.
Suzuki outboard fault codes are known by many names including service codes, error codes, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
How do You Read Fault Codes on a Suzuki Outboard?
In a nutshell, the four easiest ways to read the fault codes on a Suzuki outboard are as follows:
- Use the Suzuki Diagnostic System Mobile Plus (SDSM+)
- Decode the flashing pattern on the check engine light
- Use a diagnostic scanner tool
- Take the motor to a dealership or service shop
Let’s take a close look at each!
1. Suzuki Diagnostic System Mobile Plus (SDSM+)
The latest Suzuki outboard motors come standard with Suzuki Diagnostic App connectivity.
Also known as the Suzuki Diagnostic System Mobile Plus (SDSM+), this application is being released as a remote monitoring system designed to monitor and report on your Suzuki outboard in real time.
The manufacturer introduced this all-new feature at the 2022 Miami International Boat Show.
How does it work?
As the first step, you have to read the QR code displayed on the Suzuki multi-function display or gauge with the application.
Then, you can find a lot of useful information on your phone, including the driving tendency, engine status, and recommended oil change times.
What’s more, the app allows you to send the engine data to your dealer, which can help with remote troubleshooting or help the dealer prepare for the next service.
Besides all the above, the app can indicate a lot of useful (even live) engine data, and the fault codes are no exception.
If you have an older motor that lacks this innovative feature, keep reading as there are many other ways to pull the error codes on a Suzuki outboard!
2. Decoding the Check Engine Light
One of the easiest ways to read the fault codes on a Suzuki outboard is by decoding the flashing check engine light.
This simple trick even works on the oldest models, which lack any digital gauge.
When the self-diagnostic system is activated, the check engine light converts into an indicator that can be used for pulling the fault code.
In case of a malfunction, the check engine light will flash in the following specified sequences:
- number of flashes
- pause
- another number of flashes
- pause
- the sequence starts again
Each code pattern refers to a specific fault code that describes the malfunction. In other words, the check engine light can tell you the present fault code by its flashing pattern.
As an example:
if you see four flashes, a pause, then three flashes (_IIII_III_) it refers to the code “3-4” which is more than likely a fuel injector malfunction.
All you need to do is to record the code and decode it with a Suzuki outboard DTC chart. (You can find this chart below in the post.)
If the outboard features a digital tachometer or monitor, the diagnostic code can also be read on its LCD screen. Just make sure that the self-diagnostic system is activated.
Why is Your Suzuki Outboard Beeping?
In most cases, the flashing pattern is accompanied by a beeping sound.
When the engine is not running, the buzzer sounds according to the flashing pattern but not simultaneously with the light.
When the engine is running, the buzzer only makes a series of short beeps (0.2 sec.).
3. Suzuki Marine Diagnostic Kit
You can pull the error code and learn more about the nature of the malfunction by using a Suzuki outboard diagnostic kit.
Also known as a Suzuki outboard scanner tool, this device helps you attach the diagnostic port of your outboard to a laptop via a special diagnostic cable.
The package also comes with software that has to be installed on your laptop.
This software can communicate with the EMM (Engine Management Module) and the ECU (Engine Control Unit) and can be used for:
- Reading and resetting the fault code(s).
- Reading the EMM module identification.
- Reading sensors and actuators in real time.
- Reading of technical parameters in real-time.
- Tests operation of the electric fuel pump.
- Tests sensors and actuators in real time.
- Tests operation of the injectors and high voltage coils.
- Generating the graphics of engine operation.
- Reading the serial numbers of the injectors.
- Replace the injector and injector data file.
- Reading of temperature and voltage of the TPS.
- Printing or export of diagnostic data to PDF files.
- Other tests and analyses.
How do You Use the Suzuki Outboard Diagnostic Tool?
You can use a Suzuki Outboard Diagnostic Tool by following these simple steps:
- Install the Suzuki Diagnostic Software on your laptop
- Locate the diagnostic port on your motor
- Connect the diagnostic cable to the port
- Connect the USB port to your laptop
- Open the software
Note that for live diagnostics you have to run the engine.
If you want to dig into the details here’s a great tutorial on how to install and use a Suzuki outboard diagnostic tool:
Besides the OEM Suzuki Marine Diagnostic Kit, you can also use any other compatible aftermarket tools like the CanDooPro for diagnosing and troubleshooting Suzuki outboards.
Where is the Diagnostic Connector on a Suzuki Outboard?
You can find the diagnostic connector on a Suzuki outboard on the left side of the engine under the top cowl.
4. Take Your Boat to a Dealer
If you can’t read the error code on your Suzuki outboard for any reason, your last option is to take it to an authorized Suzuki dealership.
Although this involves some hassle, a professional can not only read the code for you but can also help with repairs.
Suzuki Outboard Fault Code List
For your convenience, we’ve listed the official Suzuki outboard fault codes:
| Priority | Failed Item | Fail-Safe System Active | Code | Lamp Flashing Pattern |
| 1 | MAP sensor 1 | Yes | 3 – 4 | _III_IIII_ |
| 2 | Cylinder temp. sensor | Yes | 1 – 4 | _I_IIII_ |
| 3 | IAT sensor | Yes | 2 – 3 | _II_III_ |
| 4 | CKP sensor | No | 4 – 2 | _IIII_II_ |
| 5 | CMP sensor | No | 2 – 4 | _II_IIII_ |
| 6 | Air intake system | Yes | 2 – 2 | _II_II_ |
| 7 | MAP sensor 2 | No | 3 – 2 | _III_II_ |
| 8 | Exhaust manifold temp. sensor | Yes | 1 – 5 | _I_IIIII_ |
| 9 | Fuel injector | No | 4 – 3 | _IIII_III_ |
| 10 | Throttle position sensor | Yes | 2 – 1 | _II_I_ |
| 11 | Rectifier / Regulator (Over-charging) | No | 1 – 1 | _I_I_ |
| 12 | Oil pressure switch | No | 5 – 3 | _IIIII_III_ |
| 13 | Trim sensor | No | 3 – 7 | _III_IIIIIII_ |
| 14 | Knock sensor (DF115A / 140A) | Yes | 5 – 4 | _IIIII_IIII_ |
| 15 | O2 sensor | Yes | 3 – 6 | _III_IIIIIII_ |
| 16 | O2 sensor heater | Yes | 6 – 3 | _IIIIII_III_ |
| 17 | Key-fob battery low *1 | No | 9 – 1 | _IIIIIIIII_I_ |
| 18 | Key-fob authentication error *1 | No | 9 – 2 | _IIIIIIIII_II_ |
| 19 | Keyless control unit battery low *1 | No | 9 – 3 | _IIIIIIIII_III_ |
| 20 | Keyless system authentication error *1 | No | 9 – 4 | _IIIIIIIII_IIII_ |
| 21 | Keyless system communication error *1 | No | 9 – 5 | _IIIIIIIII_IIIII_ |
| 22 | Keyless system failure *1 | No | 9 – 6 | _IIIIIIIII_IIIIII_ |
*1: Keyless start model only
Note
- If two or more items fail at once, the self-diagnostic indication appears according to the priority order. The indication repeats three times.
- If the failed item remains, the self-diagnostic indication appears again after turning the ignition switch “ON”.
- After correcting the failed item, the self-diagnostic indication appears until the ECM receives the proper signal with the engine running.
Disclaimer: This chart is for informational purposes only and not necessarily applicable to any model. For more information, please check the official service manual.
How do You Clear the Codes on a Suzuki Outboard?
Once the problem is fixed, the fault codes should clear automatically. However, sometimes they tend to get stuck.
If this happens, you can clear the codes on your Suzuki outboard with a diagnostic tool like a Suzuki Marine Diagnostic Kit or CanDooPro.
Before you clear the codes, make sure that you’ve fixed the triggering malfunction.
Note that fault codes are there for a reason. Never clear them without inspecting and troubleshooting the motor!
It’s also good to know that a history of fault codes and alarms is stored in the ECU for future diagnostics. These codes can’t be cleared.
How do You Reset the Oil Light on a Suzuki Outboard?
Another annoying problem with Suzuki outboards is when the flashing oil light doesn’t disappear after the oil change.
Are you wondering how to reset it?
If you have a cable wire Suzuki outboard, you can reset the oil light by following these steps:
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position
- Remove the emergency stop clip
- Pull out the stop switch button quickly 3 times within 10 seconds (you should hear a long beep)
- Turn the ignition switch OFF
- Reinstall the emergency stop clip
The oil light reset procedure on fly-by-wire Suzuki outboards is as follows:
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position
- Remove the emergency stop clip
- Push the start/stop button 3 times
- Turn the ignition switch OFF
- Reinstall the emergency stop clip
Takeaways
Suzuki outboard diagnostic codes are also known as fault codes, error codes, or just DTC codes.
These codes refer to given malfunctions which can be decoded by the official Suzuki outboard DTC code list (included above).
Suzuki outboard DTC codes can be pulled in many ways, including decoding the check engine light, using a diagnostic tool, or even a Suzuki Diagnostic App on the latest models.
References:
