OH NO! The dreaded "DESS ERROR".

[Flyboyron]

My wife has had her 14 RT Limited now about 2 months. She has ridden it about 3 times.

Last time we were out we got stuck at a gas station and it wouldn't start. She kept thinking she wasn't using the correct procedure to start it.
We were seeing a flashing key at the bottom center of the screen. We didn't know what that meant.

Well the other day, I went to move the bike and up on the screen pops, "DESS ERROR". After several attempts it would not start so I gave up and came to Spyderlovers.com and found some threads about the error.

Oh well,

This morning we are taking it down to the dealer to leave it to get fixed under the extended warranty.

[Bob Denman]

I'm sorry to hear that she's having this problem...
Your Dealer most likely wouldn't be willing to do this...
But DESS can be disabled by someone with the proper version of BUDS...

You might be able to find someone here, that has the right "Kung-Fu" moves.

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

I'm sorry to hear that she's having this problem...
Your Dealer most likely wouldn't be willing to do this...
But DESS can be disabled by someone with the proper version of BUDS...

You might be able to find someone here, that has the right "Kung-Fu" moves.

Bob it's not a question of whether Dealers " CAN'T or WON'T because of BRP " ..... They don't have the PROGRAM to connect to BUDS to do it .... Mike

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

My wife has had her 14 RT Limited now about 2 months. She has ridden it about 3 times.

Last time we were out we got stuck at a gas station and it wouldn't start. She kept thinking she wasn't using the correct procedure to start it.
We were seeing a flashing key at the bottom center of the screen. We didn't know what that meant.

Well the other day, I went to move the bike and up on the screen pops, "DESS ERROR". After several attempts it would not start so I gave up and came to Spyderlovers.com and found some threads about the error.

Oh well,

This morning we are taking it down to the dealer to leave it to get fixed under the extended warranty.

Get all the part numbers from the work order and post them here so we can match them to what we know has worked in the past ...... Also what numbers were on the OLD parts ....... This is more for your benefit than ours ..... Mike

[Bob Denman]

Bob it's not a question of whether Dealers " CAN'T or WON'T because of BRP " ..... They don't have the PROGRAM to connect to BUDS to do it .... Mike

That depends upon which license they have purchased.
My dealership has the capability, to do it; just not the will!

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

That depends upon which license they have purchased.
My dealership has the capability, to do it; just not the will!

Since the License ( and program for BUDS ) is not FREE ..... and they aren't going to USE it ..... WHY DID THEY SPEND THE MONEY ON IT ...... I fail to see the logic in this ....... jmho ...... Mike

[Deanna777]

My wife has had her 14 RT Limited now about 2 months. She has ridden it about 3 times.

Last time we were out we got stuck at a gas station and it wouldn't start. She kept thinking she wasn't using the correct procedure to start it.
We were seeing a flashing key at the bottom center of the screen. We didn't know what that meant.

Well the other day, I went to move the bike and up on the screen pops, "DESS ERROR". After several attempts it would not start so I gave up and came to Spyderlovers.com and found some threads about the error.

Oh well,

This morning we are taking it down to the dealer to leave it to get fixed under the extended warranty.

Did you look at the thread " D.E.S.S. KEY CODE AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! posted on 8/2015 posted by (me) Deanna777? It is a long thread (26 pages long) with some very helpful info, and pictures, and part #'s ( dess module, Switch, ).

Be sure your can-am dealership has the parts there. It is covered under the B.E.S.T. Warranty. Keep your "invoices that you get from your dealership. Keep us posted.

Deanna

[Flyboyron]

We have the extended warranty from Western Service Contract Corp. It is a very good warranty company.
I had it on my Goldwing and it has covered over $6,000.00 in multiple repairs while it was under the warranty program.

The dealer, Malcolm Smith, had the bike approved to be repaired, they ordered and installed the parts and we are going to pick the bike up tomorrow.

When we got the bike, we only received one key. They said they would need both keys to re-program them. We agreed to purchase another key for around $50.00 and they would have it cut for about $3.00 and then have it programed at the same time as the other key so we don't have to pay for programming.

We are excited the bike was ready so quick. With this weather we have been having, around 102 - 109 this week, we wouldn't be riding it anyway.
Our warranty is still good until May 2020 so we are in good shape in case something else comes up.

[jcthorne]

Since the License ( and program for BUDS ) is not FREE ..... and they aren't going to USE it ..... WHY DID THEY SPEND THE MONEY ON IT ...... I fail to see the logic in this ....... jmho ...... Mike

For the same reason I did. The megatech licence version has a great many additional capabilities over the dealer version other than just DESS disable.

[Elembytes]

Get the DESS disabled and never worry about it again! Many people have had their DESS replaced with the latest and greatest part numbers, but the DESS errors seem to be happening on the 2014's which are 3 years old. How can anyone be sure it wont start happening to other years as they become the same age. Or start happening to the newest DESS part numbers when they are 3 years old and leave you stranded. Get the darn thing disabled. Most motorcycles dont have chipped keys. Why the heck does the Spyder need it. I have done several now, including my own. It is GREAT PEACE OF MIND!

I would love to know how to disable this mess but frankly the Spyder to me is too complicated a machine to do it myself. My dealer (3 hours away) I trust fully and I don't get the feeling they will disable it for me. They have replaced the module once already and according to Deanna's part number on her thread we had the better of the DESS Module installed. Now though when we got to ride, and take the bike off the battery tender, and insert the key and go to start I get the DESS Error code. Take the key out and wait and put it back in and it works. We don't want to risk this mess so probably will be hauling it back to our dealer this week or next to get this module replaced AGAIN! It is a royal hassle and I wish there was an "Easy" way to fix this. I agree I dont' think we need "Chipped" keys for the Spyders. Just another headache we shouldn't have to be dealing with. This is on a 2015 RT with very low mileage so far. So I don't get it.

[jcthorne]

Agree more features are available on aftermarket BUDS than oem Can Am Buds.

Not 100% certain, however, the oem BUDS the dealer has from Can Am will accept updatesthat can be dowloaded into the vehicle during service. This is one portion of the dealer BUDS package. The aftermarket BUDS does not have this capability to load Can Am updates since the aftermarket BUDS is not tied to Can Am.

If the dealer has the oem BUDS and purchases an aftermarket license, then full capability including updates should be possible.

They are actually the same program. Its just a matter of what licences are purchased and what access you have to BOSSweb.

[Elembytes]

The 2014 and some 2015 had issues. The fix was replacement of the DESS module and in many cases the switch since it is also the antenna / energizer for the key.

The 2016 and 2017 series do not seem to have the DESS issues. The full upgrade for a 14 or 15 is the full set of latest generation parts.

Disabling is valid if easily accessable. If noone nearby can do it, then a quality dealer repair works also.

As for any guarantees that DESS will never reappear, I myself stuck it in the catagory of failed fuel pump, starter or other electronic feature that can stop these machines dead.

Well, my dealer is very knowledgeable and well known, so maybe since this is the 2nd time for this they will replace the module and the silly switch. I guess if they do the switch too then I'll need a new trunk lock too then???? Trailer cylinder????? Oh boy! I'd like to take it down this week but now rain is in the forecast and I hate to pull it on my utility trailer in the rain. Always something!

[trikermutha]

The key switch comes new lock cylinders for the trunk and trailer. And they need to reprogram for the new key switch. Have them do it all under warranty

[Elembytes]

Just talked to my dealer and was told the earliest appointment opening would not be until July 18th! Today is June 30th! WOW!

How long does it take to do a replacement on the DESS MODULE and let's say the ignition switch and trunk lock and reprogramming the keys?

Think I might even while they have it in there replace the antenna with the stubby I bought at Spyderfest.

Thanks!

[Deanna777]

Just talked to my dealer and was told the earliest appointment opening would not be until July 18th! Today is June 30th! WOW!

How long does it take to do a replacement on the DESS MODULE and let's say the ignition switch and trunk lock and reprogramming the keys?

Think I might even while they have it in there replace the antenna with the stubby I bought at Spyderfest.

Thanks!

I had the 2nd DESS Module replaced (on Aug. 28, 2015) they replaced the Dess module, ( part # 710004190) , Switch, ( part # 710004413) and reprogramed both keys, gave me a new trailer lock, and replaced the trunk lock, recut the keys to fit the switch. Took my dealership about 1 hour the above work.

Also, it was under warranty.

The mileage at the time the work was done was: 8,740.

Since I have had the above work done, I have not had the DESS ERROR/ no any problems. My current mileage is 18,313. I have a 2014RTS-SE6 Cognac. Deanna

[Elembytes]

I had the 2nd DESS Module replaced (on Aug. 28, 2015) they replaced the Dess module, ( part # 710004190) , Switch, ( part # 710004413) and reprogramed both keys, gave me a new trailer lock, and replaced the trunk lock, recut the keys to fit the switch. Took my dealership about 1 hour the above work.

Also, it was under warranty.

The mileage at the time the work was done was: 8,740.

Since I have had the above work done, I have not had the DESS ERROR/ no any problems. My current mileage is 18,313. I have a 2014RTS-SE6 Cognac. Deanna

Thanks Deanna- I'll see about getting that appointment made even if I have to wait until July 18th to do so I guess. Just hope this gets taken care of correctly, this time around. It is still under warranty so that is good, the first one was even approved by BRP and they started a file for me. This time it will have to be the dealer dealing with BRP I guess. Such an inconvenience but don't care to get stranded anywhere either. Thanks again for all your help!

[trikermutha]

Just talked to my dealer and was told the earliest appointment opening would not be until July 18th! Today is June 30th! WOW!

How long does it take to do a replacement on the DESS MODULE and let's say the ignition switch and trunk lock and reprogramming the keys?

Think I might even while they have it in there replace the antenna with the stubby I bought at Spyderfest.

Thanks!

dess module is pretty quick..Key switch much more involved and will take a lot longer. The key switch along is over 230 bucks and the dess module another 130..not including labor..

[LEEB]

Well, after nearly two years of carefree operation, I once again was hit with the 'DESS' error! Had my 2014 RTS trailered to my nearest dealer, and they have replaced the module, for the third time (2 previous times were in 2015). I haven't picked up the Spyder yet but the dealer told me they have installed the 'latest' module as instructed by BRP. Maybe three is the charm! I sure hope so. I love my Spyder, but I am becoming very concerned about riding anywhere far away from home, for fear of being left setting. By the way, my BEST warranty expires tomorrow (07/23), so this happened just in time. Now one question I would have is: If in the future I have the DESS error again, out of warranty, would my repair be covered by BRP since it has been an ongoing issue?

By the way, 'Hello' to my friends on Spyderlovers! I've not been on for quite awhile!!

LEEB

[Elembytes]

Well, after nearly two years of carefree operation, I once again was hit with the 'DESS' error! Had my 2014 RTS trailered to my nearest dealer, and they have replaced the module, for the third time (2 previous times were in 2015). I haven't picked up the Spyder yet but the dealer told me they have installed the 'latest' module as instructed by BRP. Maybe three is the charm! I sure hope so. I love my Spyder, but I am becoming very concerned about riding anywhere far away from home, for fear of being left setting. By the way, my BEST warranty expires tomorrow (07/23), so this happened just in time. Now one question I would have is: If in the future I have the DESS error again, out of warranty, would my repair be covered by BRP since it has been an ongoing issue?

By the way, 'Hello' to my friends on Spyderlovers! I've not been on for quite awhile!!

LEEB

I just had my 2nd DESS module installed on the 18th of July. My dealer said that they too installed the latest and "Greatest" DESS MODULE that BRP said to use. Since I am 3 hours away from my dealer they also chose to give me a new key, had it cut and reprogrammed. They told me it was going over and beyond what they should have done but due to my distance that is what they chose to do. They told me at the time, that the BUDS had reported a key failure to be read or recognized by the DESS Module. So they believe that one of my keys was defective probably from the day I bought the 2015 RT. They also told me that the 2015 RT model is notorious for DESS Module issues. (Dealer stated) In fact they had already replaced 3 of them before I had gotten there with mine.

Like I said this is the 2nd time on this bike and this bike only has 1500 miles on it. They told me it is NOT because I have the bike on a Tender all the time nor is it due to the silicone key holder I have on my BRP KEY. So hope and pray they are right on cause I sure don't want to get "STUCK" and I can't get to TEXAS to deactivate the system, which according to my dealer would VOID the warranty.

Thankfully I am in month 18 out of my 24 month original warranty- then got an extended warranty coming into affect AFTER the original warranty expires. Glad they covered it all though.

One more item- they told me that if it does happen again then we will go to replacing the Ignition switch, trunk lock and trailer lock. They said that would be the last resort as it is expensive and they'd have to have the bike for a longer period of time as it is is quite labor intensive to replace those items.

That is my experience so far! Good luck to you!

[larryd]

I too had 4 DESS failures and each time had the latest and greatest module...The last time they replaced the module the also did the keys and Ign. swithch...So far so good...But time will tell...larryd

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

Well, after nearly two years of carefree operation, I once again was hit with the 'DESS' error! Had my 2014 RTS trailered to my nearest dealer, and they have replaced the module, for the third time (2 previous times were in 2015). I haven't picked up the Spyder yet but the dealer told me they have installed the 'latest' module as instructed by BRP. Maybe three is the charm! I sure hope so. I love my Spyder, but I am becoming very concerned about riding anywhere far away from home, for fear of being left setting. By the way, my BEST warranty expires tomorrow (07/23), so this happened just in time. Now one question I would have is: If in the future I have the DESS error again, out of warranty, would my repair be covered by BRP since it has been an ongoing issue?

By the way, 'Hello' to my friends on Spyderlovers! I've not been on for quite awhile!!

LEEB

#1. there are ( two ? ) members here who can dis-able the DESS module ....#2. if you can't go that route think about doing what I did .... I moved the MODULE from behind the FRUNK and bolted it under the right side headlight...... NO wires needed to be cut , the harness is long enough to go under the headlight ..... But you MUST remove the FRUNK to get to it .... once you move the Module .... you can actually connect a new module , without tools , in the dark and with your eyes closed ...... Mike

[PaladinLV]

I hope it works out for you!!!
But as I stated in an early post back when the DESS became an issue on the 2014 the ONLY WAY to ENSURE a fix is to have BOTH replaced.
In the end it it costing EVERYONE more time and $$$ by BRP doing a half assed fix.
They DO NOT know nor have they isolated the problem.

Good Luck!

AJ

I just had my 2nd DESS module installed on the 18th of July. My dealer said that they too installed the latest and "Greatest" DESS MODULE that BRP said to use. Since I am 3 hours away from my dealer they also chose to give me a new key, had it cut and reprogrammed. They told me it was going over and beyond what they should have done but due to my distance that is what they chose to do. They told me at the time, that the BUDS had reported a key failure to be read or recognized by the DESS Module. So they believe that one of my keys was defective probably from the day I bought the 2015 RT. They also told me that the 2015 RT model is notorious for DESS Module issues. (Dealer stated) In fact they had already replaced 3 of them before I had gotten there with mine.

Like I said this is the 2nd time on this bike and this bike only has 1500 miles on it. They told me it is NOT because I have the bike on a Tender all the time nor is it due to the silicone key holder I have on my BRP KEY. So hope and pray they are right on cause I sure don't want to get "STUCK" and I can't get to TEXAS to deactivate the system, which according to my dealer would VOID the warranty.

Thankfully I am in month 18 out of my 24 month original warranty- then got an extended warranty coming into affect AFTER the original warranty expires. Glad they covered it all though.

One more item- they told me that if it does happen again then we will go to replacing the Ignition switch, trunk lock and trailer lock. They said that would be the last resort as it is expensive and they'd have to have the bike for a longer period of time as it is is quite labor intensive to replace those items.

That is my experience so far! Good luck to you!

[Deanna777]

I too had 4 DESS failures and each time had the latest and greatest module...The last time they replaced the module the also did the keys and Ign. swithch...So far so good...But time will tell...larryd

Good luck, The latest dess module part # is 710004916. Keep us posted. Deanna

[Elembytes]

I hope it works out for you!!!
But as I stated in an early post back when the DESS became an issue on the 2014 the ONLY WAY to ENSURE a fix is to have BOTH replaced.
In the end it it costing EVERYONE more time and $$$ by BRP doing a half assed fix.
They DO NOT know nor have they isolated the problem.

Good Luck!

AJ

I hope it works too and agree with you wholeheartedly that it is costing people time and $$$ to do this in "Steps" instead of just finding a fix and telling dealers what has to be done. It shouldn't be this difficult but apparently it is. I mean warranty work is what it is and I understand why a dealer or BRP only wants to do things in steps but when a customer has to travel 3 hours etc., to get work done seems to me then that it all should be done and allow the customer to get on with life. This piece mealing it is really sad. By now BRP should have figured out what is causing this and either build a better less sensitive unit or something. Surely there are other things in this world that uses, DESS in their products. You don't hear them having issues. It's only Spyders. My unit only has 1500 miles on it and has now had 2 DESS modules put in and the first one they replaced was the "NEWER" module with the better part number but it too has failed and they claim it was a bad key chip. So we will see. Thanks for your comments too. Greatly appreciated!

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

I hope it works too and agree with you wholeheartedly that it is costing people time and $$$ to do this in "Steps" instead of just finding a fix and telling dealers what has to be done. It shouldn't be this difficult but apparently it is. I mean warranty work is what it is and I understand why a dealer or BRP only wants to do things in steps but when a customer has to travel 3 hours etc., to get work done seems to me then that it all should be done and allow the customer to get on with life. This piece mealing it is really sad. By now BRP should have figured out what is causing this and either build a better less sensitive unit or something. Surely there are other things in this world that uses, DESS in their products. You don't hear them having issues. It's only Spyders. My unit only has 1500 miles on it and has now had 2 DESS modules put in and the first one they replaced was the "NEWER" module with the better part number but it too has failed and they claim it was a bad key chip. So we will see. Thanks for your comments too. Greatly appreciated!

This is the real kicker .... BRP had a DESS Module in all the other Spyders that worked 99.99% of the time ( pre 13 )........so in 2014 some engineer at BRP decided that since there was NO problem, It must be fixed .... well now we have DESS problems up the Wazoo and BRP hasn't figured out why !!!!!! ...... Sometimes it's better to leave things that work alone ....... jmho .... Mike