I own a 2001 EZGO TXT golf car where every time I gently tap the throttle pedal, it rockets to full speed! It’s not just unnerving; it’s downright dangerous. I’m really hoping someone here has had a similar issue and can guide me on how to fix this. I need my cart for daily use, and this problem is making it impossible to operate safely.
Response
I’ve been in your shoes with my own EZGO cart. After a bit of digging and some trial and error, I discovered the culprit was the ITS (Inductive Throttle Sensor). Replacing it did the trick for me. It’s a common issue, so it might just be what you need to look into.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace ITS Module | 1 | $30 – $60 | 30 – 60 |
| Check for Moisture in ITS Unit or Pedal Box | 1 | $0 (if DIY) | 15 – 30 |
| Controller Replacement | 1 | $100 – $300 | 60 – 120 |
Symptoms
- Sudden full-speed acceleration with minimal throttle input.
- Lack of speed control, regardless of pedal position.
- Persistent issue, even when ITS is disconnected.
Possible Causes
- Malfunctioning ITS (Inductive Throttle Sensor) module.
- Moisture or corrosion within the ITS unit or pedal box.
- Controller defects or failures.
Solutions that Worked
1. Replace ITS Module
- What I Did: Swapped out the ITS module, suspecting it was malfunctioning.
- Outcome: Restored normal throttle response and speed control.
- Personal Experience: The cart stopped its erratic full-speed bursts.
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate the ITS Module: Find the ITS module, typically situated near the pedal box.
- Safety First: Disconnect the cart’s power source to prevent any electrical hazards.
- Remove the Old ITS: Carefully take out the malfunctioning ITS module.
- Install the New ITS: Place the new module in, ensuring it’s correctly positioned.
- Reconnect and Test: Power up your cart and test the throttle response for smooth operation.
- Expert Tip: When installing the new ITS, double-check for any loose connections or misalignments. A misaligned ITS can lead to inaccurate speed readings.
2. Check for Moisture in ITS Unit or Pedal Box
- What I Did: Inspected and dried the ITS unit and pedal box.
- Outcome: Improved throttle response with no unintended acceleration.
- Personal Experience: Found that moisture was short-circuiting the ITS unit.
- Detailed Steps:
- Access the ITS Unit: Remove the floor mat and any cover to expose the ITS unit.
- Dry Out Moisture: Use a hair dryer or a dry cloth to remove any moisture thoroughly.
- Inspect for Corrosion: Look for any signs of rust or corrosion and clean if necessary.
- Reassemble and Test: Put everything back and test the throttle.
- Expert Tip: To prevent moisture issues, avoid washing the pedal area aggressively. If the cart is exposed to rain or water, check these areas afterward.
3. Controller Replacement
- What I Did: Opted to replace the controller after ruling out other issues.
- Outcome: The cart regained normal speed control and responsiveness.
- Personal Experience: A faulty controller was the root cause of the erratic behavior.
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate the Controller: Find the controller, usually under the seat or in a compartment near the batteries.
- Remove the Old Controller: Carefully disconnect and take out the existing controller.
- Install the New Controller: Fit the new controller in place, making sure all connections are secure.
- Test the Cart: Power up and test the cart for proper functioning.
- Expert Tip: When installing a new controller, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s compatible with your cart’s model. Also, check for any firmware updates that might be available for the new controller.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2001 EZGO TXT