D.E.S.S. Error

[eddieshep999]

Waterproofing Switches & Ignition switch

See this thread posted some time ago
The covers are still in use

http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?48132-Waterproof&p=566165#post566165

 

[Elembytes]

Moisture is NOT the issue

You can read that thread and draw whatever conclusions you want. Like I said, some people had the module replaced multiple times and still had the problem and ended up having the ignition replaced. WD40 will not harm anything, so give it a try. Do not leave your key in the ignition when you wash your spyder. This will prevent water from getting in it. If you read the ATV forums, they have lots of DESS errors and have been diagnosing the problem longer than spyder owners have. The consensus they have come up with, is that water is getting in the switch, mixing with the grease in the switch, and causing poor connections in the switch. They all recommend spraying WD40 or rubbing alcohol in the switch to solve the problem. If you can find someone with BUDS and a megatech license, then get the DESS disabled and never worry again. Good luck!!

My 2015 RT Limited has NEVER gotten water anywhere near the ignition at all and yet I have had to replace the DESS module Twice and the 2nd time my dealer had me go buy a new key blank and they programmed the new key and so far, Knock on wood, it has been working fine. They said one of the two keys I had reported a bad chip that was why they had me replace the one key. Just my two cents and experience.

 

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

The ignition switch already has a cover: the inner flap that closes upon key removal. To avoid water in the switch, I always remove the key when washing and when parking anywhere not under a roof. Otherwise, water can run down the key, into the switch.

My comment/speculation above was NOT directed at water entering the ignition switch. I don't think that is an issue. I'm referring to water external to both the switch and key and in the path of the radio signal between the two. Yes, I'm speculating, but as I see it, it is in the realm of possibility.

 

[missouriboy]

Moisture is NOT the issue

Moisture is NOT the problem only when it is NOT the problem.
Moisture IS the problem when it IS the problem.

In other words, moisture has not been claimed to be the ONLY problem.

(But please indulge my recalcitrance in (mis)using "issue" as a synonym for "problem.")