How to Read Yamaha Error Codes on the Dashboard Display

On some Yamaha models — mostly from before 2017–2018 — the self-diagnosis system shows the error code number right on the dashboard. You can read it yourself without any tools.

Step by step

  1. Turn the key on. The engine warning light (check engine light) should light for about two seconds as a self-check and then go out. It may also light while you press the starter button, which is normal on some models.
  2. When the ECU finds a fault, the engine warning light comes on and an error code number appears in the multi-function display.
  3. Write the code down before you switch off, then look it up on this site. Yamaha advises having the bike checked as soon as possible while a code is showing, to avoid engine damage.
  4. If the bike falls over with the key on, the engine stops and the display shows code 30. This is a safety feature, not a fault: stand the bike up, turn the key off and back on, then start the engine.

Fixed the problem and want the light off? See How to Clear a Yamaha Check Engine Light (and When Not To).

Yamaha models and years this applies to

Models sold in the US

US model names and years. How the code is read was checked in Yamaha’s official owner’s manual for the same model sold in Japan, so confirm with your own owner’s manual if your bike behaves differently.

Models sold in Japan

Japanese-market models, checked in Yamaha Japan’s official owner’s manuals.

Models we have not confirmed yet

We have not yet confirmed how these Yamaha models report codes. Check the “Engine trouble warning light” or “Self-diagnosis” section of your owner’s manual: if it says an error code appears on the display, use the dashboard guide; if it says to have the on-board diagnostic system checked, use the diagnostic tool guide. Yamaha publishes owner’s manuals for US models at yamaha-owners-manuals.com.

Sources