Golf Cart Won't Move? Here's What's Usually Wrong
A cart that clicks, hums or does nothing at all is almost always one of a handful of problems. Here is how I think it through.
I'm a Certified EZGO Technician with 20+ years of experience, and "my cart won't go" is the call I get most. The cause depends on whether the cart is electric or gas, so start there.
Check the simple things first
Make sure the key is on, the forward/reverse switch is fully in gear, and the Tow/Run switch (on many carts) is set to Run. On EZGO and some other models the Tow/Run switch is easy to bump, and a cart left in Tow will not drive. Check that the charger is unplugged, because many carts will not move while plugged in.
Electric carts
- Weak or dead batteries. The most common cause. A cart can show a charge and still not have the strength to move under load.
- Loose or corroded battery cables. A cable that looks fine can still have a poor connection. White or green crust on a terminal is a warning sign.
- A bad solenoid. If you hear a click when you press the pedal but the cart does not move, the solenoid or a connection feeding it is a likely suspect.
- Controller or motor trouble. Less common, and the last thing I check, because it is the most expensive fix.
Gas carts
- Old fuel. Gas that sat all winter can gum up the fuel system.
- Fuel, spark or air. An engine needs all three. A dirty air filter, a worn spark plug or a clogged fuel filter can each keep it from running.
- Drive system. If the engine runs but the cart does not move, the problem may be in the clutch or belt rather than the engine.
What I do onsite
I test the batteries and connections first, then work down the list. I do the diagnosis where the cart is parked, and I tell you what I found and what it will cost before I fix anything. Many repairs are done in under an hour.
If you are unsure, do not keep trying to force the cart to run. Cranking or driving a cart with a bad connection can damage parts that were fine to begin with.
What it costs, and how to book
Diagnostic and labor is $100 an hour, a Tune-Up is $150 flat with the oil change included, and the trip fee depends on distance from Warsaw. I text you the trip fee before I come out. Request service or text me at 574-221-5501 and tell me what the cart is doing.
My pricing: Tune-Up $150 flat (oil change included) · Diagnostic and labor $100/hr · Trip fee quoted by text before I come out.
More common problems
Battery won't hold a charge · Tune-up cost in Indiana · Golf cart clicking noise · Golf cart slow or no power · Golf cart won't charge