7 Most Common Sea-Doo iBR Problems and Fixes [+ iBR Fault Codes]

Although Sea-Doo’s iBR is a revolutionary system, it’s prone to occasionally failing. The most common iBR problems are caused by one of these issues:

1. iBR gate is stuck
2. Electrical system malfunctions
3. iBR Motor issues
4. Computer failure
5. iBR Actuator issues
6. Cooling system failure
7. Brake lever sensor failure

You’ve come to the right place if you want to find out more about these problems and their fixes.

We at JetDrift have compiled them together along with the official iBR fault codes under one roof!

7 Sea-Doo iBR Problems and Their Fixes

The most obvious symptom of an iBR failure is a stuck gate.

Sometimes the gate gets stuck in the folded-up position, but this is still the preferred case. If this happens, the computer shifts into “Limp Home Mode,” allowing you to ride the ski back to the dock at a limited speed.

The worst-case scenario is when the iBR gate is stuck in reverse, preventing the ski from moving forward.

If you see the iBR light flashing on the dashboard, you can ensure that the iBR system is broken. The source of the malfunction can be mechanical, electrical, or even both.

iBR failures can be caused by various errors, but the most common ones are arguable as follows:

1. iBR gate is stuck
2. Electrical system malfunctions
3. iBR Motor issues
4. Computer failure
5. iBR Actuator issues
6. Cooling system failure
7. Brake lever sensor failure

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and discuss these issues in detail!

1. Sea-Doo iBR Gate is Stuck

It’s safe to say that the most common iBR issue is when the gate gets stuck. In these cases, the system is typically clogged by a small bush branch, gravel, or sand.

The iBR system features several moving units that don’t mix well with these materials.

The thruster control mechanism is especially prone to failure due to a clog. These tracks and rollers are designed to position the gate, so they must operate with extreme precision.

This is why beaching a modern, iBR-equipped Sea-Doo is definitely not recommended.

Instead of beaching, best practice is to keep the Sea-Doo on an anchor a few feet from shore.

Fortunately, a clogged iBR system can be easily cleared in most cases. Just override the iBR system (see our step-by-step tutorial below), flip up the gate, and clean the system.

For safety reasons, it’s highly recommended that you disconnect the battery or remove the iBR fuses before touching the iBR gate.

Keep in mind that the iBR motor is pretty strong and cannot detect that your fingers are in the way if it starts moving the gate.

Besides overriding the system, you could also move the gate up and down by hand by disconnecting the reverse gate from the actuator shaft.

If this doesn’t work, it’s a sign that something is blocking the gate from free movement, and it needs a closer look.

2. Electrical and Battery Malfunctions

One of the drawbacks of the iBR system is that it’s picky about battery voltage and electrical issues.

If your Sea-Doo has an iBR malfunction, you should check the battery voltage and wiring system. Only a loosened battery connection can cause an iBR malfunction!

Best practice is to inspect the wire harness and connectors for corrosion and appropriate contact.

Also, don’t forget to check the iBR fuses in the fuse box, including the IBR control fuse and the iBR power fuse.

If the fuses are good, the battery and the cables/connectors are secure, and the gate moves freely, you should take your ski to a dealer.

The iBR is a complex system and not easy to fix without proper tools and experience.

But if you want to drill into the details, keep reading. We’ve listed the key elements of the system and their most common malfunctions.

3. iBR Motor Issues

The heart of the iBR system is a small but pretty strong electric motor, known as the iBR motor. This little power source is prone to seizing or making a grinding noise in case of a malfunction.

In other cases, it spins freely but can’t provide enough power to swing the reverse gate.

4. iBR Computer Problems

The iBR motor is controlled by an on-board iBR computer; these units are marketed as a single unit.

This computer can also fail due to electrical issues or even a simple jump-start. Due to this risk, jump-starting a modern Sea-Doo is a very bad idea!

5. iBR Actuator Issues

The iBR motor is nestled in a larger unit, known as the iBR actuator (a.k.a. iBR Module or iBR Actuator Module.)

As the name suggests, this module is intended to set the correct position of the iBR gate. Besides the iBR motor, this unit houses many moving parts, including a set of plastic gears, bushings, and a threaded rod.

The assembly is enclosed in black plastic featuring two sealed covers and connected to the gate with the iBR actuator shaft.

When it comes to iBR Actuator issues, the most common problems are broken plastic gears, but the bushings are also prone to burning down.

It’s also wise to check the moving arm for excessive backlash.

6. iBR Cooling System Failure

It’s a lesser-known fact that the iBR system can also overheat under certain conditions.

The iBR cooling system failure always comes with a “Water temperature sensor overheat” fault code, indicating that you must check the iBR cooling circuit.

7. Brake Lever Sensor Failure

The iBR system utilizes a handlebar-mounted iBR lever, also known as the brake lever.

Like the fly-by-wire throttle lever, the iBR lever also features a sensor that sends electric signals to the computer.

Unfortunately, this sensor and its hardware can also fail in many ways.

Sea-Doo iBR Fault Codes

How to Read Sea-Doo iBR Fault Codes

Like any other Sea-Doo fault code, the codes of the iBR system can also be read and cleared by a special diagnostic tool and software. The most well-known tools are BRP’s BUDS system and the brand-independent CandooPro.

If you don’t want to invest in these expensive products, you should head to a local shop or an authorized Sea-Doo dealer.

Sea-Doo iBR Fault Code List

For your convenience, we’ve also compiled the Sea-Doo iBR fault codes into one chart:

SEA-DOO FAULT CODE LIST	DESCRIPTION	POSSIBLE CAUSE	REPAIR ACTION
C0042	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) signals A open/shorted to ground	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 0.5 to 3 V on pin F. and 0.25 to 1.5V on pin C.
C0043	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) signals B open/shorted to ground	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 0.5 to 3 V on pin F and 0.25 to 1.5 on pin C.
C0073	Torque request failure	ECM software failure. CPS wires shorted.	Perform ECM software updates if available or replace ECM. Verify CPS connection.
C2100	Sensors calibration is corrupted	Incompatible firmware or memory failure.	Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2101	Actuator movement warning	The reverse gate cannot move to the desired position within the expected time.	Clean and check for damage in the reverse gate and nozzle area. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2100 There are a few with the same code.	Actuator movement	The reverse gate cannot move to the desired position.	Clean and check for damage in the reverse gate and nozzle area. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2110	Reverse gate position sensor error	iBR malfunction.	Check for correct movement of iBR.Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2110	Angle position sensor warning	iBR malfunction.	Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2110	iBR overheat	iBR cooling system failure. iBR unit failure.	Check the iBR cooling circuit. Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2110	Monitoring CPU message timeout or validity	iBR malfunction.	Perform an iBR software update if available. Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2110	Monitoring CPU limp force	iBR malfunction.	Perform an iBR software update if available. Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2111	ECM erratic RPM signal	RPM signal received from engine ECM not plausible	Check CPS sensor connection
C2120	Application calibration is corrupted	Incompatible firmware or memory failure.	Perform an iBR software update if available. Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2121	Application parameters corrupted (backup #1 or #2)	Battery power loss or memory failure.	Perform an electrical system shut download to clear the fault. Verify starting and charging system circuits. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
2122	The last session interrupted	Unexpected battery power lost.	Perform an electrical system shut down and clear fault. Verify starting and charging system circuits. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2130	Motor current software breaker	Motor current too high.	Clean and check for damage in the reverse gate and nozzle area. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2130	Internal motor drive failure	Motor voltage feedback not fitting with the command.	Check that the power cable to the motor is connected
C2131	iBR DC motor shorted to ground or 12 V	iBR motor failure. iBR motor wires damaged or moisture detected	Check iBR circuits A and B. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2132	Motor Open	No current while activated.	Check the power cables are connected.
C2142	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) signals A shorted to battery	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 0.5 to 3 V on pin F and 0.25 to 1.5 on pin C.
C2143	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) signals B shorted to battery	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 0.5 to 3 Von pin F and 0.25 to 1.5 on pin C.
C2144	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) power shorted to battery	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 4.5 to 5 volts on sensor connector pin A & D. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2145	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) power shorted to ground	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 4.5 to 5 volts on sensor connector pin A & D. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2146	Brake Lever Sensor (BRLS) signals A/B reading difference	Damaged sensor, damaged circuit wires, damaged connector, or damaged iBR pins. Fault detected when the engine is running or stopped.	Check for 0.5 to 3 V on pin F and 0.25 to 1.5 on pin C.
C2150	System current software breaker	iBR input current too high.	Clean and check for damage in the reverse gate and nozzle area. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2151	System disabled and need activation	The system is locked. Need activation.	Use B.U.D.S. iBR unlock function. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2155	Water temperature sensor overheat	iBR cooling system failure. iBR unit failure.	Check the iBR cooling circuit. Sea-Doo coolant flush procedure. Replace the iBR unit. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.
C2161	Low voltage detected	Battery failure, rectifier failure, damaged circuit wires, battery terminal connection, damaged AC generator or damaged connectors.	Check fuses #6 (refer to WIRING DIAGRAM). Check ground continuity to the engine block. Refer to the Service Manual for more details.

This chart is for informational purposes only! For exact information, please refer to the service manual.

Takeaways – FAQs About Sea-Doo iBR Malfunctions

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions on the topic.

How do You Override a Sea-Doo iBR?

You can override the iBR on your Sea-Doo in six simple steps:

1. Wake up the ski (but don’t start its engine)
2. Fully depress the brake lever
3. You should read an “IBR OVERRIDE PRESS MODE BUTTON” message on the screen
4. Press the MODE button on the left handlebar (or SET button on certain models)
5. You should read an “ON” message on the screen
6. Press and hold the VTS button (arrow) on the right handlebar while keeping the brake lever fully depressed
7. The system will move the iBR gate up
8. Release the lever; the gate will remain in position
9. Turn off the ski

The gate will stay in this position unlit you restart the ski when the iBR returns to normal operation.

If you are looking for a step-by-step tutorial, here’s a great video on how to override the iBR system:

How do You Lift an iBR Gate Manually?

Besides overriding the system, you can also manually lift the iBR gate if you disconnect it from the actuator shaft.

Before you do this, don’t forget to disconnect the battery or remove the iBR fuses for safety reasons. If the gate accidentally starts to move, it can easily injure your hands!

Once you’ve disconnected the gate from the actuator shaft, you can freely move it even by hand.

Can You Take the iBR off a Sea-Doo?

Fortunately, the iBR system can be removed from any Sea-Doos. But why would this be necessary?

For example, if you want to attach a Flyboard or other similar device to a Sea-Doo, you must remove its iBR gate. The mounting hardware of these devices has to be mounted on the jet nozzle, which would be impossible without removing the gate.

How do I Remove the iBR from a Sea-Doo?

Removing the iBR system on a Sea-Doo means dismounting the iBR gate and the other hardware (actuator shaft, etc.).

Keep in mind that removing the iBR is usually an easy job, but putting it back could be more difficult.

If you are not familiar with this system, you may want to get this mod done by a professional. If you want to do it by yourself, here’s a great video on how to remove iBR from a Sea-Doo:

Also, don’t forget to remove the iBR fuses or disconnect the battery before you start to work on the system!

Can You Beach a Sea-Doo Equipped with iBR?

No, beaching a Sea-Doo is never a good idea, especially not iBR models. Sand, mud, gravel, or debris can clog the iBR gate, which can cause many headaches.

Also, if you hit the iBR lever while the Sea-Doo is grounded, the iBR motor can easily be burned down.