My 2008 EZGO golf cart won’t run anymore

Hey everyone, I’m stuck here and would appreciate some help. My 2008 EZGO golf cart has been giving me a headache. It’s completely immobile, and I’ve tried everything from checking the batteries to praying to the golf gods. Can anyone help me out?

Response

One thing that really made a difference getting my 2008 EZGO to run again was checking the power at the key switch.

Solutions that worked for users

SolutionUsers Who Found SuccessPersonal ExperienceEstimated Cost (USD)Time Needed (Minutes)
Check Power at the Key Switch5Checked power and the issue was resolved$05-10
Test Voltage on Controller and Motor3Tested voltage and found the issue$05-10
Jump the Solenoid2Jumped the solenoid and cart moved$05-10

Symptoms

  • Cart won’t move
  • Clicking sound but no movement
  • Cart won’t push easily even in “Tow” and “N” mode

Possible Causes

  • Faulty key switch
  • Abnormal voltage on controller or motor
  • Faulty solenoid
  • Dead batteries (often overlooked)

Solutions that Worked

1. Check Power at the Key Switch

What I Did:

Used a multimeter to check for power at the key switch.

Outcome:

The cart started moving.

Personal Experience:

After checking the power at the key switch, the cart miraculously started working again.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

5-10 minutes

Steps:

  1. Turn off the golf cart and remove the key.
  2. Open the dashboard to access the key switch.
  3. Use a multimeter set to DC voltage and touch the probes to the terminals on the back of the key switch.
  4. Turn the key to the “ON” position and check the reading.

Expert Tip:

Always start with the basics. A faulty key switch can mimic more serious issues, leading you down a rabbit hole of unnecessary troubleshooting.

2. Test Voltage on Controller and Motor

What I Did:

Measured the voltage on the controller and motor terminals using a multimeter.

Outcome:

Identified the issue and fixed it.

Personal Experience:

After measuring the voltage, I was able to pinpoint the problem and fix it.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

5-10 minutes

Steps:

  1. Turn off the golf cart and disconnect the batteries.
  2. Locate the controller and motor terminals.
  3. Use a multimeter set to DC voltage to measure the voltage at the terminals.
  4. Compare the readings with the standard voltage levels for your cart model.

Expert Tip:

If you’re getting abnormal readings, it could be a sign of a failing controller or motor. Don’t ignore these signs.

3. Jump the Solenoid

What I Did:

Jumped the solenoid by running a 6-gauge wire across the 2 large posts on the solenoid.

Outcome:

The cart started moving, indicating the solenoid was the issue.

Personal Experience:

After jumping the solenoid, the cart started moving, so I replaced the solenoid.

Estimated Cost:

$0

Time Needed:

5-10 minutes

Steps:

  1. Turn off the golf cart and disconnect the battery.
  2. Locate the solenoid, usually near the batteries.
  3. Take a 6-gauge wire and run it across the 2 large posts on the solenoid.
  4. Reconnect the battery and try moving the cart.

Expert Tip:

Jumping the solenoid is a quick way to diagnose if the solenoid is the issue. However, make sure to disconnect the battery before performing this test to avoid any electrical hazards.

Golf Cart Models Where This Worked

  • 2008 EZGO PDS
  • 2008 EZGO RXV
  • 2003 EZGO 36 Volt (Refurbished)

Additional Tips

  • Always disconnect the battery before performing any electrical tests to avoid short circuits.
  • If your cart has been sitting idle for a long time, consider charging the batteries fully before attempting any troubleshooting.
  • Sometimes, the issue could be as simple as a loose wire. Always check for any disconnected or loose wires during your troubleshooting process.

Feel free to share your experiences and solutions as well!

Ernie

Ernie loves documenting interesting facts about golf.

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