Club Car Golf Cart Won’t Start & No Power to Key Ignition Switch

I’ve got a 2013 Club Car Precedent that’s just sitting like a giant paperweight. Turn the key, and it’s like it’s dead—absolutely no power to the ignition switch. I’ve tried the basics, but no luck. Has anyone else been through this nightmare? How did you get out of it?

Response

I have a 2009 Club Car Precedent and had the same problem with mine. I was messing around with some wires and accidentally shorted something. Lost all power to the key. But guess what? I found a blown 15 amp fuse near the controller, replaced it, and it was like magic—everything started working again.

Solutions that worked for users

SolutionUsers Who Found SuccessPersonal ExperienceEstimated Cost (USD)Time Needed (Minutes)
Check for a Second Fuse1Found a unique 10 amp fuse and replaced it$07-10
Blown 15amp Fuse to OBC1Replaced a blown 15amp fuse going to the OBC$05-10
Check Fuses Near Controller1Replaced a blown 15 amp fuse near the controller$05-10

Symptoms

  • No power to the key ignition switch
  • Cart won’t start or move
  • Lights and other electrical components may still work, but not always

Possible Causes

  • Blown fuses
  • Faulty wiring or loose connections
  • OBC (On-Board Computer) issues
  • Run/Tow switch in the wrong position
  • Battery issues

Solutions that Worked

1. Check for a Second Fuse

What I Did:

I found a second, unconventional 10 amp fuse that was the issue.

Outcome:

The cart started running again.

Personal Experience:

I was messing around with the ignition wires and found this unique 10 amp fuse. Replaced it, and the cart was back in action.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

10-15 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the fuse box, usually under the seat or dashboard.
  2. Look for any unconventional fuses, not just the standard ones.
  3. Use a multimeter to check the fuse for continuity.
  4. Replace the blown fuse with a new one of the same rating.

Expert Tip:

Always check for secondary fuses, especially if the main fuses seem to be in good condition. Some carts have hidden fuses that are not immediately visible.

2. Blown 15amp Fuse to OBC

What I Did:

I found a blown 15amp fuse going to the OBC and replaced it.

Outcome:

The cart started running again.

Personal Experience:

I had no power coming from the OBC wiring harness to the ignition switch. Replacing the 15amp fuse solved the issue.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

10-15 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the OBC, usually near the batteries.
  2. Find the 15amp fuse going to the OBC.
  3. Use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to remove the blown fuse.
  4. Insert a new 15amp fuse into the slot.

Expert Tip:

Always start with the basics when troubleshooting electrical issues. Fuses are often the first point of failure and are easy to check and replace. Keep a set of spare fuses in your cart for emergencies.

3. Check Fuses Near Controller

What I Did:

I checked the fuses near the controller and found a blown 15 amp fuse.

Outcome:

The cart started running again.

Personal Experience:

I was trying to locate the hot wire powering the battery voltage meter and accidentally shorted a wire. Replacing the 15 amp fuse solved the issue.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

10-15 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the controller, usually under the seat or in the rear compartment.
  2. Find the fuses near the controller.
  3. Use a flashlight to inspect the fuses for any visible damage.
  4. Replace any blown fuses with new ones of the same rating.

Expert Tip:

Accidents happen, especially when dealing with electrical components. Always disconnect the power source when working on electrical systems to minimize the risk of short circuits and other electrical issues. Also, consider labeling the fuses for easier identification in the future.

Golf Cart Models Where This Worked

  • 2004 Gas Club Car
  • 2009 Club Car Precedent
  • 2012 Club Car Prec
  • 2013 Club Car Precedent 48v

Safet info

  • Some carts have a Run/Tow switch that can affect the power to the ignition. Make sure it’s in the ‘Run’ position.
  • Always check the battery connections and ensure they are clean and tight.
  • Some older models may have unique fuses or wiring setups not found in newer models.

Ernie

Ernie loves documenting interesting facts about golf.

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