You turn the key on, and instead of the usual ready-to-start screen the display shows a key error. The engine won't start or only runs in a limited way. On the Can-Am Outlander, Commander, Maverick, Renegade or Defender, a DESS key that isn't recognized is one of the most common questions out there. Most of the time the key isn't broken. The contact is bad or the key was simply never programmed. Here is how to find the cause and program a key yourself.
How DESS works on a Can-Am
DESS stands for Digitally Encoded Security System. It is BRP's key system, used on Can-Am just like on Sea-Doo, Ski-Doo and Lynx. The key has a chip that the vehicle recognizes. Only a programmed key releases the engine. Without a programmed key the engine won't start or only runs in a limited way. Exactly how that shows up depends on the model.
The most common causes
- Dirt and moisture: mud, dust and water on the DESS post or the key get in the way of the contact. A classic on ATVs and side-by-sides.
- Damaged key: a key that was dropped, sat in water or has a cracked housing can fail.
- Wrong key type: BRP uses key types such as Normal, Learning and Rental. If a different type is programmed than you think, the machine won't behave the way you expect.
- Key not programmed: a newly bought key, or the key from your other machine, is unknown to the control module.
- Weak battery: at low voltage, control modules get unreliable, including when they read the key.
- Wiring or connector at the post: chafed wires and corrosion lead to communication faults.
First checks before you buy a new key
- Clean the key and the post and let them dry well.
- Seat the key firmly and straight. Sounds obvious, but it fixes the problem surprisingly often.
- Try the spare key. If that one works, the problem is the first key.
- Check battery voltage and charge the battery if needed.
- Inspect the wiring and connector at the post for damage and corrosion.
What the fault memory tells you
If none of that helps, read the fault memory. With M-JET DIAGNOSTIC you see not only the codes but also which key is on the post right now and whether the vehicle recognizes it. Where the diagnostic port sits on your model is covered on the page Can-Am diagnostic port location. These DESS codes are in the official BRP list:
| Code | BRP meaning (selection) |
|---|---|
| P0513 | Invalid DESS key detected |
| P1654 | Immobilizer contact not plausible, voltage of the DESS key switch out of range |
| P1656 | DESS line shorted to ground |
| P1657 | Electrical fault of the DESS key communication line |
| P1658 | Faulty DESS key communication |
| U0167 | Lost communication with the immobilizer or the DESS key |
P0513 points to a key the vehicle doesn't accept as valid. P1656 and P1657, on the other hand, point more toward the wiring or the post. Depending on the vehicle and control module, a code can have several meanings, and the plain-language text in the app is what counts.
Program a key with the app
If the key is fine but not programmed, you can program it yourself with the app. M-JET DIAGNOSTIC detects the key on the post, programs new keys, changes the key type between Normal, Learning and Rental and deletes keys you no longer need. There are up to 10 key slots. More on key management is in Key management for BRP vehicles.
If a key is lost, delete it from memory so it is no longer valid for your machine. How that works on Ski-Doo and Lynx, which use the same system, is covered in Ski-Doo DESS key. Only program or delete keys with a stable power supply and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my Can-Am recognize the DESS key?
Usually it is dirt or moisture on the post, a damaged key, the wrong key type or a key that was never programmed. A weak battery can cause it too.
Can I program a Can-Am DESS key myself?
Yes. With M-JET DIAGNOSTIC you program new keys through the app, no laptop and no dealer appointment needed.
What does code P0513 mean?
According to the official BRP list, an invalid DESS key was detected. Check whether the key is programmed and program it if needed.
