I’m really struggling here. My golf cart’s solenoid has been acting up for weeks now, and I can’t seem to get to the bottom of it. I’ve tried a few things, but nothing’s working. Anyone else been through this nightmare? What did you do to fix it?
Response
Oh man, I’ve been there. It’s incredibly frustrating when the solenoid starts acting up. I’ve had the same issue, and after a lot of trial and error, I found some solutions that actually worked. One thing that was a game-changer for me was thoroughly inspecting and cleaning the micro switches on the gas pedal.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Micro Switches on Gas Pedal | 1 | Cleaned the micro switches | $0 | 10-15 |
| Check Solenoid and Battery | 1 | Checked solenoid and charged battery | $0 | 10-15 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart won’t start or move
- Golf cart slows down suddenly and then stops
- You hear a clicking sound, but the cart doesn’t move
Possible Causes
- Faulty or damaged solenoid
- Drained or weak battery
- Micro switches under the gas pedal are dirty or damaged
- Wiring issues
Solutions that Worked
1. Check Micro Switches on Gas Pedal
What I Did:
I inspected and cleaned the micro switches located under the gas pedal.
Outcome:
The golf cart started running like a champ.
Personal Experience:
I found that the micro switches under the gas pedal were filled with sand and debris. After giving them a good clean, my cart was back in action.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
10-15 minutes
Steps:
- Turn off the golf cart and remove the key from the ignition.
- Locate the micro switches under the gas pedal area.
- Use a flashlight to inspect for any visible debris or sand.
- Carefully clean the switches using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Reconnect any loose wires if necessary.
- Test the cart to see if the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
Micro switches are a common point of failure but are often overlooked. Make sure they are clean and securely connected. If they look worn out, consider replacing them.
2. Check Solenoid and Battery
What I Did:
I inspected the solenoid and made sure the battery was fully charged.
Outcome:
The golf cart started running smoothly again.
Personal Experience:
I used a multimeter to check the solenoid and found it was functioning well. I also realized my battery was low, so I charged it up.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
10-15 minutes
Steps:
- Turn off the golf cart and remove the key.
- Locate the solenoid, usually near the battery compartment.
- Use a multimeter to test the solenoid for continuity.
- Listen for a clicking sound when you turn the key; this indicates the solenoid is working.
- Check the battery voltage using a multimeter.
- If the battery is low, charge it fully before testing the cart again.
Expert Tip:
Always use a reliable multimeter for these tests. A faulty solenoid will often fail to click or show no continuity on the multimeter.
Safety Tips
- Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components to avoid shocks.
- If you’re not comfortable doing these checks yourself, it’s best to consult a professional.
- A solenoid can also fail due to overheating. Make sure it’s not located near any heat sources.
- Corroded terminals can also cause solenoid issues. Check for any signs of corrosion and clean the terminals if needed.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2005 Club Car DS
- 2006 Precedent
I hope this helps anyone who’s struggling with golf cart solenoid issues. If you’ve tried any of these solutions or have new ones to add, please share your experiences!