Initial Question
Im the owner of a wonderful 1999 EZGO and it’s just not responding when I turn the key. No power at the key ignition switch, no clicks, no nothing. I’ve tried the basics, but I’m stumped.
Response
I had a similar issue with my 2000 Ez-Go PDS. After some serious digging and a bit of trial and error, I found that checking the voltage on the smaller wire of the charge receptacle was a game-changer.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Reed Switch and Micro Switch | 3 | Checked the reed switch and micro switch | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check Solenoid Voltage | 2 | Checked voltage on both big bolts on the solenoid | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check Voltage at FNR Framing and Switches | 2 | Checked varying voltage at the FNR framing | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check Controller for Damage | 1 | Checked for diagnostic codes or beeping sounds | $0 | 5-10 |
Symptoms
- No power at the key ignition switch
- Golf cart does not start
- No clicking sound from the solenoid
- No dashboard lights
Possible Causes
- Faulty reed switch
- Faulty solenoid
- Wiring issues
- Faulty controller
- Dead battery
Solutions that Worked
1. Check Reed Switch and Micro Switch
What I Did:
Checked the reed switch and the micro switch (MS-2) on the F/R switch assembly.
Outcome:
The cart started showing power at the key ignition switch.
Personal Experience:
After checking the reed switch and micro switch, I found low voltage at the micro switch but it resolved the issue.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the reed switch and micro switch. They are usually near the F/R switch assembly.
- Use a multimeter to check for voltage at these points.
- If the voltage is low, consider replacing the switches.
- Re-test to confirm the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
Always use a multimeter to check the voltage at key points like the reed switch and micro switch. Low voltage readings can indicate a problem. Also, make sure the cart is in “Tow” mode before doing any electrical checks to avoid accidental starts.
2. Check Solenoid Voltage
What I Did:
Checked for voltage on both big bolts on the solenoid.
Outcome:
The cart started showing power at the key ignition switch.
Personal Experience:
I was getting voltage on both big bolts on the solenoid but none on the small positive side.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the solenoid, usually near the batteries.
- Use a multimeter to check for voltage on the big bolts.
- If the voltage is inconsistent, consider replacing the solenoid.
- Re-test to confirm the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
If you’re not getting the expected voltage at the solenoid, it could be a sign of a faulty solenoid or wiring issue. Also, a clicking sound from the solenoid usually indicates it’s working, so no sound could mean it’s faulty.
3. Check Voltage at FNR Framing and Micro Switches
What I Did:
Checked the voltage at the FNR framing and the bolts holding the micro switches.
Outcome:
The cart started showing power at the key ignition switch.
Personal Experience:
I found varying voltage at the FNR framing and the bolts holding the micro switches.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the FNR framing and micro switches.
- Use a multimeter to check for voltage at these points.
- If the voltage is inconsistent, consider replacing the switches or checking the wiring.
- Re-test to confirm the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
Inconsistent voltage readings at different points can indicate a wiring issue or faulty switches. Make sure to also check the wiring for any visible damage or loose connections.
4. Check Controller for Damage
What I Did:
Checked for diagnostic codes or beeping sounds from the controller.
Outcome:
The cart started showing power at the key ignition switch.
Personal Experience:
I was concerned that the controller might be fried, but after checking, it seemed fine.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the controller, usually under the seat.
- Check for diagnostic codes or beeping sounds.
- If you find any, consult the manual for what they mean and consider replacing the controller if necessary.
- Re-test to confirm the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
If you suspect that the controller is damaged, look for diagnostic codes or beeping sounds that might indicate a problem. Also, make sure the cart is in “Tow” mode before doing any checks to avoid accidental starts.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 1999 EZGO
- 2000 Ez-Go PDS