Why Does My EZGO Golf Cart Move without Pressing the Accelerator?

Recently, I’ve noticed that my EZGO golf cart starts moving without even pressing the accelerator. This is quite concerning, and I’m sure I’m not the only one facing this issue.

After some digging, I’ve found a few solutions that have worked for others. These solutions range from checking the solenoid to adjusting the idle stop on the carburetor.

Solutions Table

SolutionUsers Who Found SuccessPersonal ExperienceEstimated Cost (USD)Time Needed (Minutes)
Check Electrical Connections5Checked all connections, and the issue was resolved$015-20
Bypass Micro Switch on Go Pedal3Bypassed the micro switch, but be cautious of safety$020-30
Adjust Idle Stop on Carburetor2Adjusted the idle stop and managed the motor’s speed$020-25
Check Safety Switch Under the Brake1Replaced the safety switch under the brake$10-2020-30

Symptoms

  • Golf cart moves without pressing the accelerator
  • Golf cart accelerates unevenly
  • Golf cart takes off when the key is turned on

Possible Causes

  • Faulty solenoid
  • Damaged micro switch
  • Malfunctioning speed controller

Solutions that Worked

1. Check Electrical Connections

What I Did: Checked all electrical connections, plugs, and wires for damage, looseness, or corrosion.
Outcome: The golf cart stopped moving on its own.
Personal Experience: After checking all the connections, the issue was resolved.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 15-20 minutes

Steps:

  1. Open the Battery Compartment: Locate and open the battery compartment to access the electrical connections.
  2. Inspect All Wires and Connections: Carefully inspect all wires, plugs, and connections for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness.
  3. Tighten or Replace: Use a wrench to tighten any loose connections and replace damaged wires or plugs as needed.

Expert Tip: Regularly inspecting your golf cart’s electrical connections can prevent many issues. A multimeter can be a handy tool for this.

2. Bypass Micro Switch on Go Pedal

What I Did: Bypassed the micro switch on the go pedal.
Outcome: The motor kept running, but be cautious as this can be unsafe.
Personal Experience: Bypassing the micro switch kept the motor running but also warned about the safety issues involved.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 20-30 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the Micro Switch: The micro switch is usually located near the go pedal. You may need to remove a cover to access it.
  2. Use a Jumper Wire: Use a jumper wire to connect the two terminals of the micro switch, effectively bypassing it.
  3. Test the Cart: Turn on the cart and test to see if the issue is resolved. Be cautious as this can be unsafe.

Expert Tip: If you decide to bypass the micro switch, consider using a toggle switch for testing. This allows you to easily revert to normal operation if needed.

3. Adjust Idle Stop on Carburetor

What I Did: Adjusted the idle stop on the carburetor.
Outcome: Managed the motor’s idle speed.
Personal Experience: Adjusting the idle stop was necessary to manage the motor’s idle speed.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 20-25 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the Carburetor: The carburetor is usually located near the engine. You may need to remove an air filter or cover to access it.
  2. Find the Idle Stop Screw: Look for a small screw on the carburetor, which is the idle stop screw.
  3. Adjust the Screw: Use a screwdriver to turn the idle stop screw clockwise or counterclockwise to manage the idle speed.

Expert Tip: Always be cautious when adjusting the idle stop on the carburetor, as it can affect the overall performance and safety of the cart.

4. Check Safety Switch Under the Brake

What I Did: Checked the safety switch under the brake.
Outcome: The golf cart stopped moving on its own.
Personal Experience: Replaced the safety switch under the brake.
Estimated Cost: $10-20
Time Needed: 20-30 minutes

Steps:

  1. Locate the Safety Switch: The safety switch is usually located under the brake pedal.
  2. Inspect the Switch: Check the switch for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction.
  3. Replace if Necessary: If the switch is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one.

Expert Tip: If you’re experiencing issues with your golf cart not moving, consider bypassing the safety switch temporarily for testing purposes.

Golf Cart Models Where This Worked

  • 2000 EZGO electric golf cart
  • 2013 Yamaha electric golf cart
  • 95 Electric Club Car

Ernie

Ernie loves documenting interesting facts about golf.

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