My 2020 RT-L is throwing a VSS Code on starting - could this be a weak Battery?

[Dogman005]

My Spyder 2020 is throwing VSD code when I start it. Could this be a weak battery?

 

[Jetfixer]

If that's the only time you get the fault, then yes, that is most probably the cause. 3-4 years is about the expected life span for the batteries they are using now. If that is the original battery, it doesn't owe you anything.

 

[Kromm]

My Spyder 2020 is throwing VSD code when I start it. Could this be a weak battery?

Quick answer is YES!!!

The newer Spyders are shipped with Weak batteries. You need a 350 cca battery, they ship with a 300 cca battery. I was getting the VSS code from day one. Don't wait or hesitate, go and replace it. You will be glad you did.

My thread on the subject:

https://www.spyderlovers.com/forums...y-after-sitting-on-tender-replacement-Battery

 

[Dogman005]

Thanks for the reply. Have Blessed ride.

 

[LongIsland]

Yes, it happens to my 2022 RTL at times. The tech checked the code and recommended changing the battery.

 

[PMK]

If in doubt that a battery is getting, already weak, or old and struggling, do not hesitate to resolve the issue.

Realize, you turn on the key. All those wonderful electronic computers and devices power up.

As you try and start the machine, the starter draws a lot of amps in an inconsistent way. Essentially those voltage drops during cranking, followed by voltage spikes when you stop cranking the starter, or it quits on its own, are not good stuff for those electronics.
Simply something to consider.

 

[Woodenfish]

My 2022 RTL developed this problem. I made an appointment and the Service Manager said that after inspection the technician could find nothing wrong, and that the battery tested good. I gave him some information about battery diagnosis and computers on vehicles that basic tests would not show a battery problem, but the computer would catch it and flag the warning light. After the conversation I had my RTL returned with a new battery covered under warranty. After replacement the warning code has not appeared, and the bike is fixed properly.

 

[bikerbillone]

Yep, it's time, recently happened on my 2020 RTL.

 

[WRCLVR]

Anytime codes pop up on Spyders. it is a great practice to check the battery connections and the battery itself. The BRP installed Jailiu batteries on the 23+ models have a nasty habit of lasting 6 months (which is exactly the warranty period for the battery!) I had to replace my 2023 S2S battery after 7 months (Jailiu and it said 300 amps not 350!) I also had to replace my 2024 S2S spyder battery when it showed 10.5 volts when cranking slowly. Yes, I had battery maintainers on them...

Be sure to use star washers when replacing the batteries... and also install an SAE type charging cable at the same time. That way you can plug a battery maintainer (Battery Tender) as necessary. I use a 3-amp tender.

Yuasa and other USA made batteries are readily available for $120- $150 - just make sure the case is the same shape and they have at least 350 amps!

 

[Lee0123]

I'd take the battery to your Can Am shop and have it tested before buying a new one. If the battery is okay then check connections and grounds.

 

[spyder crash]

MY brand new 2023 with under 5 miles on it was doing the same thing! Don't mess with it; install a NOCO NLP20 Lithium in it, that has 600 amps. You can purchase them from e-bay for $129.00 and your problems are solved! Your starter and electronics will thank you.

 

[Chasdog]

Yea I am not impressed with BRP's choice of batteries. I just replaced the battery in our '23 RTL. Battery tender has been on since new. It wouldn’t turn green and going on a trip, I replaced it. Cheap OEM battery!