Troubleshooting Club Car Gas Golf Cart Common Problems

Have you noticed your club car gas golf cart is losing power or refusing to start? The reason is, like many gas driven vehicles, a club car gas golf cart can also run into some specific problems.

The most common problems a gas golf cart faces are fuse and key switch problems. It can also suffer from fuel issues, solenoid issues, carburetor problems, wiring problems, or foot switch failure. Moreover, there can be issues with the starter generator and the engine can overheat, run roughly or lose power. 

However, troubleshooting a gas golf cart is not a big deal at all if you know how to repair it. In this article, you will find the troubleshooting club car gas golf cart problems with their easy solutions.

Troubleshooting Club Car Gas Golf Cart Common Problems

What Are The Common Problems With Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

Your reliable club car gas golf cart can run into some troubles over time. When you notice that your golf cart is not starting or taking too long to start, that means it needs some repairing. 

But don’t worry too much because you will be easily able to detect the problem and fix it accordingly. Here are some of the most common problems a gas golf cart has:

  1. Fuse problems
  2. Key switch problems
  3. Lack of fuel
  4. Faulty spark plugs
  5. Clogged carburetor
  6. Wiring problems
  7. A bad solenoid
  8. Problematic starter generator 
  9. Foot Switch failure

Troubleshooting Common Problems With Club Car Gas Golf Cart:

Now that we are aware of the possible problems a gas golf cart can run into, you’ll need to know more about each of these issues.

We will cover the symptoms, the causes and the solutions to these problems so that you can fix your golf cart with ease.

Problem 1: Fuse Problems

Fuses are present in all the golf carts. If a fuse in the golf cart stops working, it can also affect the starter generator. As a result, the golf cart will have trouble getting started. The symptoms of this are-

  • Simple cart operations will get interrupted
  • radio system will stop working
  • lights can start blinking randomly

What Causes Fuse Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

You should check your fuses first if your club car gas golf cart creates problems in getting started.

Fuse problems are the most likely to happen due to recurring causes. A few things can cause fuse problems on a gas golf car such as:

  • loose or naked wired connection
  • sudden surge of power while accelerating
  • fuse can have a lower rating than it requires
  • dead short connection after the start switch
  • Failure of the fuse structure 

How To Fix Fuse Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Carts?

To fix the fuse problems, first you have to gain access to the fuse box. Usually, you will find the fuse box near the car battery.

In some models, it could be underneath the seats or in the glove compartment as well. After gaining access to the fuse box-

  • Note the current is allowed to pass through the fuse at the highest voltage.
  • Identify which fuse is blown in the electrical passage.
  • Gently grab the fuse with your hand or pliers and pull it out of the box.
  • Check the face of the fuse to ensure its current rating of it.
  • Push the new replacement fuse into the same place. Make sure it has the same current rating.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix Fuse Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Cart

The cost needed to fix fuse problems can vary based on your club car gas golf cart model and where you get it fixed from. A fuse will only cost you $10 to $20.

  • Mechanic cost: $65-$100
  • Parts/replacement cost: $10-$20

Problem 2: Key switch problems

The key switch is basically the starter between the battery and the connector. Over time, this key switch can wear out and create problems.

The cart will not start because the key switch will not send the necessary electrical signal to the engine.

What Causes Key Switch Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

If the fuse of the club car gas golf cart is fine, the other most likely reason could be the key switch.

They can wear out after using for a long time and create trouble. Very few things can cause key switch problems on a gas golf car such as,

  • Forward-reverse switch is worn out and frayed.
  • The Key switch has too much space between the proper adjustments.
  • Key switch wires could be dislocated or disconnected from the solenoid. 

How To Fix Key Switch Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Carts?

In most cases, you will need to replace both the ignition wire and the key switch to fix this issue.

Remember to always seek professional help while replacing this advanced component of the vehicle for safety measures.

  • Ensure that the switch is set fully to the forward, reverse or park direction depending on the model.
  • Locate the ignition wire in between the key switch to the car’s starter.
  • Inspect the solenoid area of the starter. 
  • If any wires are dislodged or hanging free from the connections, plug it back into the solenoid.
  • If the wires are corroded or damaged, replace them with new golf cart key switch wires.
  • After replacing, change the whole key switch into new ones for the cart to start again.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix Key Switch Problems On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

The cost needed to fix key switch problems can vary depending on where you live and how fast you need them. It can cost you from $85 to $150 per set of key switches.

Problem 3: Clogged carburetor

The carburetor helps keep the operations done by the club car gas golf cart cleaner. It helps enhance the efficiency of the engine.

Therefore, a faulty or clogged carburetor will result in the engine dying and the cart not starting.

What Causes Clogged Carburetors On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

The main reason for a clogged carburetor is the oil stuck inside this part. Sometimes, the fuel leaks and gets trapped within the carburetor. That thick fuel clogs up the carburetor badly. 

Such a clogged carburetor is not able to work properly. As a result, the engine dies abruptly.

How To Fix Clogged Carburetors On Club Car Gas Golf Carts?

If you are sure that your carburetor is clogged with leaked fuel, there is an easy way to clean it up. You can clean up the carburetor using only a spray cleaner, screwdrivers and brushes.

  • Turn off the fuel supply valve so that fuel can’t leak into the carburetor.
  • Use a screwdriver to remove the air filter and the float bowl at the bottom.
  • Clean the float bowl thoroughly by using a spray cleaner and use brushes to get into the deepest spots. 
  • Wipe the float bowl and the carburetor with a dry cloth.
  • Put the carburetor back into place the reverse order of removal once again.

If cleaning the carburetor doesn’t work, you will need to replace it with a new one. Seek expert mechanical help for this job.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Clogged Carburetor On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

Cleaning up a clogged carburetor does not require much money. You can get the necessary cleaning supply kit at only $2.88 anywhere. There’s no labour cost either if you do it yourself.

Problem 4: A bad solenoid

The solenoid of the club car gas golf cart is a cylindrical coil of wire that carries electrical current to the motor.

You can hear the clicking sound of the coil when you press on the accelerator. If you don’t, then there are probably some issues with the solenoid of your vehicle.

If you do not hear the clicking sound of the solenoid when you start the club car gas golf cart, test the solenoid using a voltmeter.

If the voltmeter reading is between 0-0.4 ohm then the solenoid is good. Otherwise you will need a new one.

What Causes A Bad Solenoid On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

A bad solenoid can be the result of a series of malfunctions in the activation circuit wires or in the F&R switch.

You will need to locate the solenoid in the club car gas golf cart and check for the following causes: 

  • There could be a loose wire in the activation circuit.
  • The activation switches might not work in the correct order.
  • A poor connection in the green wire between the F&R switch and the controller.
  • The contacts could be overheated. 
  • The coil of the battery could be too old or worn out.

How To Fix A Bad Solenoid On Club Car Gas Golf Carts?

If you are sure that your solenoid is bad and is the cause of the club car gas golf cart not starting, you will need to replace it.

Replacing a solenoid is a pretty complex repair so it is better if you let an experienced person complete this job.In order to replace the solenoid, the necessary steps are-

  • Find the locations of the solenoid and the wire terminals in the club car gas golf cart. You can use a diagram that comes with the model for this.
  • Carefully find the connected elements of the solenoid. 
  • Use proper screwdrivers and wrenches to remove or take apart the elements.
  • Remove the connected wires from the solenoid and place it to the side.
  • Take out the bad solenoid carefully without disturbing any of the wires or connections much.
  • Put your new solenoid in the specific place and reconnect the wires properly as before.  

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Bad Solenoid On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

There are many different types of solenoid available in the market for different models and vehicles. A single solenoid can cost from $15 to $100 and a pack of solenoid can cost from $50 to $300.

  • Mechanic cost: $120-$400
  • Parts/replacement cost: $15-$300

Problem 5: Problematic starter generator 

Issues with the starter generator is the main reason that your club car gas golf cart is not getting started.

You can notice several symptoms with the starter motor and the engine that indicates trouble with the starter generator. The symptoms are-

  • Starter Motor Does Not Turn
  • Starter Turns Too Slowly
  • Starter Rotates But Cart’s Engine Will Not Start
  • Engine Runs Roughly or Loses Power
  • Engine overheating

What Causes A Problematic Starter Generator  On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

The starter generator acting up has lots of reasons. Every single problem we have discussed so far affects the starter generator directly or indirectly.

That is the main reason for the club car gas golf cart not starting. The causes for starter generator issues:

  • Low charge or dead battery
  • Corroded or loose battery terminals
  • Faulty ignition switch
  • Blown fuse
  • Faulty solenoid
  • Problematic accelerator switch

How To Fix A Problematic Starter Generator On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

To fix the problems going on with the starter generator, you will have to ensure the smooth and perfect functions of all of the components.

Start by identifying the component that is causing you the trouble and fix it accordingly.

  • Recharge the car battery
  • Replace the battery if it is too faulty
  • Clean the battery terminals
  • Replace the ignition switch
  • Inspect and change a blown fuse
  • Repair field coils or armature coils
  • Check the power and the ground circuits
  • Replace the solenoid if necessary

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Starter Generator On Club Car Gas Golf Cart?

In case you decide to get a whole new starter generator for your club car gas golf cart, it will cost you a lot. You will need about $130 to $500.

Usually fixing the other components only works great so you don’t need to make this expense.

Conclusion

Now we know the problems that might occur with your club car gas golf carts and their solutions. Check up on the solenoid, fuse and the key switch of your club car gas golf cart often to make sure they’re in good health.

Keep the fuel tank full and the batteries alive along with that to have a smooth experience with your ride.

Some of the solutions mentioned here require the assistance of a professional or a mechanical expert. If it is way too out of your expertise, it is best to consult with a repair shop and get it fixed from there. 

It might cost you a little more but it minimizes the possibility of damaging the club car gas golf cart further.

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