Symptoms Of Bad Solenoid On Golf Cart

The symptoms differ slightly on a gas cart and an electric cart. Fortunately, they are fairly easy to identify, you do not need to be a rocket scientist to spot them.

This is one of the most obvious signs of a solenoid issue. A clicking sound without any power or activation is the next most common symptom.

With a gas-powered cart, you will generally note that the starter simply does not engage. This is often the result of the contacts not releasing. What it does is cause the starter to operate continuously, even when the ignition is in the off position.

Another common issue on gas golf carts is the eventual wear on the spring that is designed to retract the pinion. This also prevents it from returning to a stop position.

Electric golf carts are also prone to solenoid issues although they are slightly less prevalent than with gas models.

When you use the ignition, you expect to hear a click sound. If you do not hear this sound when using the ignition, it is quite likely to be an issue with the solenoid. This is because it is not sending electrical power to the vehicle.

Again, there could be several reasons for this. The battery is often the cause. It could be faulty, worn out, or have a loose connection.

The contacts could have overheated which not only causes problems and damage but is also a potential danger.

If you find that the golf cart solenoid just clicks but does not move it could be one of several issues and more diagnostics will be necessary.

The last thing you want is to be stranded at the far end of the golf course with a cart that will not function. It is important to look out for these symptoms and take corrective action when necessary.

A faulty solenoid could not only leave you without a functioning golf cart but poses a safety risk. It could also result in further damage to the starter, the golf cart solenoid diode, and other parts of the golf cart’s dimensions. This will mean additional repair costs.

How To Test Golf Cart Solenoid

Golf cart solenoid testing is easier than most people imagine. Even if you are not technically inclined, you should be able to do the testing without too much difficulty.

The first thing you will need is a few tools and other items. Here is what you need:

• A basic voltmeter or multimeter
• A wrench (1/2” is the ideal size)
• Gloves
• Electrical tape

The gas golf cart starting system differs slightly from an electric cart. Switch the cart to the off position.

Using the ohms feature on the voltmeter or multimeter make contact with probes on the larger terminals. What you should see is a reading of zero. Once that is checked, you want to set the key to the on position and the cart set in drive. Repeat the process.

Apply pressure to the pedal, and listen. What you want to hear is a clicking sound. If this happens, check the reading on your instrument. You want a reading of  under  0.4 ohms. Anything above that indicates that the solenoid is faulty and needs replacing.

• On electric golf cart

With an electric golf cart solenoid, you might experience no clicking when you try to engage the vehicle. Using the voltmeter on the DC volt setting in the 200 range, you need to test. Do this by checking the reading on the smaller terminals first while turning the ignition on.

If there are no results, depress the accelerator. If the needle moves and shows full voltage then you have a solenoid issue and you will need a new one. If there is no activity on the voltmeter then the solenoid is not the issue.

If you are replacing the solenoid, ensure you purchase the correct one. Look at the existing one you are replacing to see if it is 36 or 48 volts.

Can You Bypass A Golf Cart Solenoid

As an emergency hack or last resort, you can bypass the solenoid. Only do this if you do not have access to multimeter or voltmeter and only in an emergency.

It can be a useful practice but there it does pose some danger to you as well as the other components in the golf cart.

Bypassing Golf Cart Solenoid Method

If you do decide to bypass the solenoid, this is what you need to do:

Take the two larger wires that connect to the solenoid and connect them directly (keeping all safety precautions in place).

This should do the trick and if it does not work then the solenoid is not the problem. This should be done as a temporary measure only and then have the golf cart tested by someone with knowledge and the correct equipment.

Even if bypassing the solenoid works it does not necessarily mean that there are no other issues or problems that need to be addressed.