Recently, I’ve been facing a frustrating issue: my Club Car golf cart just won’t start. I’ve tried the usual quick fixes, but nothing seems to work. I’m desperate for a solution!
Response
I completely understand the frustration of a golf cart that won’t start. I’ve been through it myself, and it’s maddening. After replacing my gas cap, checking the ground wire, and even swapping out the spark plugs, I finally got mine to start. It’s a process of elimination, but hang in there—you’ll find the solution that works for you!
Solutions Table
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Gas Cap and Ground Wire | 2 | Replaced gas cap and ground wire | $20 | 15-20 |
| Replace Engine Lock-Up Components | 1 | Replaced components to fix engine lock-up | $50 | 30-45 |
| Replace Spark Plugs | 1 | Replaced spark plug | $10 | 10-15 |
| Replace Throttle Cable and Governor | 1 | Replaced throttle cable and governor | $40 | 20-30 |
| Replace Coil and RPM Limiter | 0 | Replaced coil and RPM limiter | $60 | 25-35 |
| Replace Carburetor Throttle Valve | 0 | Replaced carburetor throttle valve | $30 | 20-25 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart won’t start
- Engine doesn’t turn over
- No “click” sound from the solenoid
Possible Causes
- Depleted battery
- Faulty solenoid
- Engine lock-up
- Ignition issues
Solutions that Worked
1. Replace Gas Cap and Ground Wire
What I Did:
Replaced the gas cap and the ground wire off of the rev limiter.
Outcome:
The golf cart started successfully.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the gas cap and the ground wire, the cart started without any issues.
Estimated Cost:
$20
Time Needed:
15-20 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the gas cap and remove it. Usually, it’s on the side of the golf cart near the seat.
- Replace it with a new one, ensuring a snug fit.
- Locate the ground wire off of the rev limiter. This is typically near the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the old ground wire carefully, using pliers if necessary.
- Connect the new ground wire, making sure it’s securely attached.
Expert Tip:
A faulty gas cap can create a vacuum in the fuel tank, preventing fuel flow. Also, a bad ground wire on the rev limiter can cause the engine to lose spark.
2. Replace Engine Lock-Up Components
What I Did:
Replaced the components related to engine lock-up.
Outcome:
The engine was no longer locked up, and the cart started.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the necessary components, the engine was no longer locked up.
Estimated Cost:
$50
Time Needed:
30-45 minutes
Steps:
- Identify the components related to engine lock-up. These are usually the piston, cylinder, and crankshaft.
- Remove the old components by loosening the bolts and detaching any connected parts.
- Install the new components, making sure they are aligned correctly before tightening the bolts.
Expert Tip:
If you suspect engine lock-up, consult a professional for proper diagnosis and replacement of components.
3. Replace Spark Plugs
What I Did:
Replaced the spark plug.
Outcome:
The engine turned over, and the cart started.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the spark plug, the engine turned over.
Estimated Cost:
$10
Time Needed:
10-15 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the spark plug, usually found on the engine block.
- Use a spark plug socket to remove the old spark plug.
- Apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant on the threads of the new spark plug.
- Install the new spark plug using the socket, but don’t overtighten.
Expert Tip:
A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from turning over. Always opt for high-quality spark plugs for reliable performance.
4. Replace Throttle Cable and Governor
What I Did:
Replaced the throttle cable and governor.
Outcome:
The golf cart started successfully.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the throttle cable and governor, the cart started without any issues.
Estimated Cost:
$40
Time Needed:
20-30 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the throttle cable and governor, usually near the carburetor.
- Remove the old throttle cable and governor by loosening the clamps and disconnecting any links.
- Install the new throttle cable and adjust the governor settings according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Expert Tip:
Properly balancing the throttle cable and governor is crucial for optimal performance.
5. Replace Coil and RPM Limiter
What I Did:
Replaced the coil and RPM limiter.
Outcome:
The golf cart started successfully.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the coil and RPM limiter, the cart started without any issues.
Estimated Cost:
$60
Time Needed:
25-35 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the coil and RPM limiter, usually near the ignition system.
- Disconnect the old coil and RPM limiter by removing the electrical connectors and any mounting screws.
- Install the new coil and RPM limiter, making sure to securely attach all connectors and screws.
Expert Tip:
Aftermarket parts can sometimes be faulty right out of the box. Always opt for OEM parts for reliable performance.
6. Replace Carburetor Throttle Valve
What I Did:
Replaced the carburetor throttle valve.
Outcome:
The golf cart started successfully.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the carburetor throttle valve, the cart started without any issues.
Estimated Cost:
$30
Time Needed:
20-25 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the carburetor throttle valve, usually attached to the carburetor itself.
- Remove the old throttle valve by loosening the screws and detaching it from the carburetor.
- Install the new throttle valve, making sure it’s properly aligned before tightening the screws.
Expert Tip:
If you’re experiencing backfires and non-fires, inspect the carburetor throttle valve and consider adjusting the governor throttle arm.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 1997 Club Car DS Gas
- 2000 Club Car DS Gas
Feel free to share your experiences and solutions that have worked for you. Let’s help each other out!