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why do golf cart controllers fail

by Anabel Reynolds Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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The controller on a Yamaha golf cart can die when the battery voltage is too high, or because of loose wiring in the charger. The batteries’ voltage: This is one of the primary reasons for your golf cart controller’s death. There are times when the battery voltage is too low or too high.

Full Answer

What happens when a golf cart speed controller goes bad?

So a problem with the controller will have rippling effects throughout the cart. A common function of the speed controller is to control the speed of the golf cart. When this unit has failed, the golf cart will start up and possibly take off, without hesitation.

Why won't my electric golf cart run?

If your controller is damaged, your cart won't run. However, a few other reasons could lead your vehicle to stop running. Since the speed controller is the heart of your electric golf cart, you need to make sure that the problem is not something else first. Following is a list of things to check before you troubleshoot the speed controller.

Why is my golf cart solenoid not working?

In case you are not familiar with a solenoid, a solenoid is the main electrical switch in your golf cart, which is designed to allow the current from the batteries to flow into the motor. A bad or damaged solenoid could be the reason why your golf cart is not working correctly. Solenoid often stops working because of the following reasons.

Can you repair a motor controller on a golf cart?

Considering the price of hiring someone to troubleshoot your golf cart’s motor controller, it is far cheaper for you to do the repair work on your own. Fortunately, replacing the motor controller on a golf cart is fairly straightforward.

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How do I know if my golf cart controller is bad?

X Common Symptoms of Controller FailureTop Speeds Not Appropriate for Your Cart. Golf carts are designed to reach pretty specific speeds and to not go over them or beneath them. ... Sudden and Unexpected Slowing. ... Shuttering or Shaky Driving. ... Stalling Out and Refusing to Start. ... Surges in Speed When Driving.

How do I fix my golf cart controller?

Here are 5 steps you should follow for a DIY fix to your golf cart's speed controller.Flip the maintenance switch. ... Reset the battery cable. ... Check your connections. ... Test the solenoid. ... Check your controller's power output.

How do you test a golf cart motor controller?

How to Test a Club Car Golf Cart Speed Controller? The simplest test to ascertain your golf cart controller's performance is to to watch whether it runs when the batteries are fully charged with a slight push of the pedal. If you hear a distinct clicking noise, then your golf cart is running correctly.

How do you reset a golf cart controller?

Easily Reset the Club Car Golf Cart OBCKey switch to off.Set forward/reverse to neutral.Put tow/run switch to tow.Disconnect the negative battery terminal from the battery pack.Put the tow/run switch to run.Put forward/reverse switch to reverse.Put key switch to on.More items...

Can a golf cart controller be repaired?

Considering the price of hiring someone to troubleshoot your golf cart's motor controller, it is far cheaper for you to do the repair work on your own. Fortunately, replacing the motor controller on a golf cart is fairly straightforward.

How do you test a motor controller?

How to Test an Ebike Controller at HomeStep 1: Connect your controller to the battery.Step 2: Set the multimeter reading. ... Step 3: To test for continuity, set your multimeter to continuum. ... Step 4: Test every line that comes out of the controller. ... Step 5: Set your multimeter to resistance mode to test for resistance.More items...•

Where is the reset button on an electric golf cart motor?

First, you'll want to reset your motor. It should have a small reset button (Usually it will be red) located near the main battery supply. Hit the reset button and then put the cover back on the motor. The next step would be to recharge your cart and try turning it on again. If it starts up then you're in luck!

How do you bench test a golf cart controller?

0:002:12How to bench check curtis controller and golf cart motor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo the curtis controller. And just clap your positive. There then you're going to take anotherMoreTo the curtis controller. And just clap your positive. There then you're going to take another jumper lead to give you your voltage to power up the controller.

How do I know if my electric golf cart motor is bad?

You have enough going on in your life without your golf car refusing to start when you turn the key in the ignition. If your golf car won't start, is slower than it used to be, or is experiencing other technical problems, you could have a bad motor on your hands.

What does a potentiometer do on a golf cart?

It sends an electrical signal to the speed controller from the accelerator pedal, indicating the pedal's position. When it is working properly, the potentiometer allows your golf cart to accelerate smoothly. Find your potentiometer and inspect it for any cracks, broken parts, or disconnected wires.

Do electric golf carts have fuses?

Yes, golf carts contain fuses just like those found in a car or truck.

Where is reset button on EZGO?

It should have a small reset button (Usually it will be red) located near the main battery supply. Hit the reset button and then put the cover back on the motor.

Where is the reset button on an electric golf cart motor?

First, you'll want to reset your motor. It should have a small reset button (Usually it will be red) located near the main battery supply. Hit the reset button and then put the cover back on the motor. The next step would be to recharge your cart and try turning it on again. If it starts up then you're in luck!

Where is the reset button on a Club Car golf cart?

Identify your main battery supply (usually the largest battery) on your motor. Check around this supply for a small red button that may or may not be labeled “Reset”. Press and hold this button for a few moments and then release it to reset the motor.

Where is the speed sensor located on a Club Car golf cart?

The speed sensor in a Club Car Precedent golf cart is located on the back of the motor. To remove the sensor, unplug the cables behind the motor. You can use a 5/16-inch socket to remove the pigtail connector and pop off the plastic housing that encases the speed sensor.

How do you test a Curtis controller?

0:002:12How to bench check curtis controller and golf cart motor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo the curtis controller. And just clap your positive. There then you're going to take anotherMoreTo the curtis controller. And just clap your positive. There then you're going to take another jumper lead to give you your voltage to power up the controller.

Why is my cart controller hot?

Then the reason will simply be that the load on the engine and motor is also causing the controller to get hot. But if the cart controller gets hot even while on a short distance run or even if it is switched on, then it can be due to faulty wiring and connections.

What is the purpose of a golf cart controller?

Golf cart controllers play an important part in which its main job is to control the speed of a golf cart. However, many times, the controller tends to act up or simply stops working. This is when it is very important to troubleshoot the problem immediately. Known as the heart of the EZGO golf cart, the controller’s core objective is to control ...

What is the purpose of the speed controller on an EZGO cart?

Major functions of the speed controller of the EZGO cart are: Acceleration: The controller controls the speed of the vehicle. It also regulates the speed when you apply full throttle to the cart. Battery health maintenance : The controller makes sure that the battery is working well and is not overloaded.

What is the controller on an EZGO golf cart?

Known as the heart of the EZGO golf cart, the controller’s core objective is to control the speed of the golf cart. It is a needed component in a AC and brushless DC motor. Without the controller, the golf cart will not work. The speed controller is not present in the DC motor vehicles, which is why they do not have varying speeds.

How to check the output of a controller?

To check the controller output, follow these steps: Press the pedal of the cart until the solenoid clicks. Keep watching the voltmeter and see if it is showing the battery voltage. Now again, keep pressing the pedal and see if the voltage is going down or not.

What is the 2005 Ezgo cart?

2005 EZGO TXT cart is one of the popular ones since it has some of the best features. The features include handles on the top, the plastic front bumper is not there, and the seatback is connected.

Why does EZGO have different speeds?

However, a vehicle with a speed controller will have different speeds as it will change the voltage and current input based on user input. This is why EZGO with controllers can be accelerated and decelerated and the rate ...

Why do electric golf carts fail?

These carts can start to show signs of wear and may fail just like any other vehicle over time.

What are the problems with electric golf carts?

These carts can start to show signs of wear and may fail just like any other vehicle over time. Learn about some of the more common issues associated with electric golf carts. 1. Solenoid Wear. The solenoid is the primary electrical switch in your golf cart and is designed to ensure the current from the battery flows into the motor. ...

What is the controller on a golf cart?

An electric golf carts' controller is known as the heart of the operation and closely resembles and operates much like the motherboard in a computer. So a problem with the controller will have rippling effects throughout the cart. A common function of the speed controller is to control the speed of the golf cart.

Why does my gas cart not work?

When you press down on the gas pedal and hear a tapping-like sound, this is the sound of the solenoid activating. When there is a disruption in the flow of the electrical current , your cart will not operate. A common reason for current disruption is solenoid wear.

Why won't my sped controller accelerate?

Problems with the sped controller occur for a variety of reasons, but most often the cause is degradation due to age or lack of use.

What happens if your cart doesn't move?

If the cart doesn't move in either direction, both switches have failed. Diagnosing a problem with the direction switches isn't a complicated matter, but repairing the switch is more complex, especially if the switches are built into the speed controller.

Why won't my golf cart run?

If your controller is damaged, your cart won't run. However, a few other reasons could lead your vehicle to stop running. Since the speed controller is the heart of your electric golf cart, you need to make sure that the problem is not something else first. Following is a list of things to check before you troubleshoot the speed controller.

Why is a golf cart controller important?

From being able to change your golf cart's speed to manage all the electrical components perfectly, the controller is an important element of your cart. You could say the controller is the heart of your cart. A properly selected and maintained controller will allow the vehicle to operate smoothly and safely. Learn more about your Club Car speed ...

What to do if your golf cart doesn't start?

If the cart doesn't start, check the solenoid. If the solenoid is working fine and allowing power to flow, then you can begin inspecting the controller. Learn more about symptoms of a bad golf cart solenoid. If all the components are working well, the next step is to check the speed controller.

How to start a golf cart when it's dead?

Start with batteries and make sure they are working properly. If your batteries are dead, your golf cart will not start. Charge your batteries completely, and then try to drive the cart.

What is the function of a speed controller on a golf cart?

Following are some of the primary functions of the speed controller: Limiting Motor Current – Protects the motor and controller from damage in case of stalling and overloading. Limiting Battery Current Managing current drawn from the battery ...

What is a club car controller?

The Club Car controller is also known as a speed controller, and the best thing about the controller is that it works as a brain and speed control system for the golf cart.

What is a programmable controller?

Programmable Controller. The programmable controller can easily be configured for the needs of your cart. This controller's most significant and important advantage is that programmable controllers produce 60% less heat than other controllers.

Why is it important to troubleshoot a golf cart controller?

Troubleshooting the controller is extremely important for the golf cart’s smooth functioning. Generally, controllers face major issues only when there is a problem with wires or defects on the controller itself, such as marks or cracks.

What to do if your golf cart controller does not increase?

If it does not increase, then there is a problem with the controller or the batteries. Examine the batteries and check if they are dead. If dead, replace them. Examine the controller, as discussed in the previous sections. Remember to always consult a mechanic to have your golf cart controller repaired.

What are the problems with a Yamaha G22?

Yamaha G22 also faces similar problems like G9 and G16. Overheating, battery faults, wiring issues, voltage issues are some problems that might occur with your Yamaha G22. To avoid these problems, test the golf cart’s major components connected to the controller regularly.

Why is my Yamaha golf cart controller so hot?

The primary reason why a Yamaha golf cart controller gets too hot is because of overuse. When the golf cart is used for long periods of time, the controller can start overheating. The driving surface might also be a cause of heating. If driving on a straight and soft surface, the problem of heating should not occur.

How to troubleshoot a G9 controller?

Here are some easy steps for troubleshooting the G9 controller: Check the controller’s body to locate any major defects such as cracks, scratches, or black marks. If these are found, then replace the controller immediately. If no major defects are found, then check the wiring.

Why is my golf cart not heating?

If driving on a straight and soft surface, the problem of heating should not occur. But, if driven on uneven or steep surfaces , there are chances of heating. Another reason could be the brakes. It is essential to check if the brakes are dragging while the golf cart controller is driven.

What happens if the voltage does not increase?

If the voltage does not increase, then there is a defect in the controller. Another component that should be tested is the carburetor located in the engine.

Why won't my golf cart start?

Like any other electric vehicle, the batteries are mainly at the root of why your cart won't start. After all, they are the primary source of power for your electric golf cart. If your cart is not working, this is the first place to check. Generally, lead acid-based batteries are used for electric golf carts, and you must recharge them regularly so that they function correctly.

What is a direction switch on a golf cart?

The direction switch or forward/reverse switch controls whether the golf cart moves forward or backward. This switch is one of the most used parts in a golf cart, which means it will be subject to wear and tear. You'll find what the issue is if the switch is acting up. There is a big chance that it will need to be replaced. Again, it's best to choose a mechanic for repair.

How to troubleshoot a golf cart?

GOLF CART CONTROLLER TROUBLESHOOTING 1 Make sure it isn’t your batteries! If your batteries are old and dead, then your golf cart will not operate. Charge them fully first and attempt to drive the unit. 2 If your batteries are fully charged and your vehicle won’t run, when you press on the accelerator pedal, then you should hear a clicking sound which will indicate the solenoid is engaging and allowing power to flow to your controller. If there is no distinct clicking sound, then check your solenoid. Also, it could have to do with something in the accelerator device as well. But, we can eliminate the controller as being defective. 3 If your batteries are fully charged and you get a clicking sound ensuring the solenoid is allowing power to flow to the controller, then you can begin inspecting the controller 4 Check all the wiring and signs of disconnection or damage. Also, most controllers will have an operation light that will begin to flash a morse code that will unveil the secrets of the problem. If that is the case and all of the above have been eliminated, then you are getting closer to determining it is the controller.

Why won't my club car run?

Due to their expense, you want to be sure your controller is the major reason and problem with your Club Car. First off, if your controller is bad, your vehicle won’t run. However, there are other reasons that could lead to your vehicle not running. Here are a few quick troubleshooting tips.

What does it mean when there is no controller?

When there is no controller, it means batteries drainage is at its peak, as motors can operate independently at their high speed, which would gradually increase stress on the mechanical and electrical components and let motors and batteries degrade quicker.

What is the function of a motor controller?

Following are some of the main functions of the controller, irrespective of the type of the motor: Limiting the current to the motor so that both motor and the controller could be protected in case of motor stalling and overloading.

Does a golf cart controller degrade?

As a controller in the Club Car or golf cart is made up of electrical and electronics components, it degrades gradually over time with the frequency of usage. But usage is not the only factor, controllers and the Club Car parts may also degrade in case of non-usage. For example, if a golf cart is left for no use for a longer period, ...

Can you trust aftermarket controllers?

price difference. Generally, Club Cars are made with highly precise and quality ensured engineering practices, so you can easily trust the aftermarket controllers if you don’t want to spend much.

Do golf carts have solenoids?

In the old days of golf carts, a series of solenoids were used which was not an efficient means for battery management. As today’s technology does not use full-on DC Motors, instead there exist Brushless DC Motors and AC Motors by way of which operators have the option to drive the Club Car at varying speeds.

Where is the controller on a golf cart?

This controller is typically located under the seat on your golf cart. Determining if the controller is bad is a relatively simple procedure. Lift the golf cart's bench seat to gain access to the engine. Locate the governor on the engine. This is the small “T”-shaped metallic rod around the top of the golf cart’s motor.

How fast does a golf cart go?

The speed controller, also known as the “governor,” generally keeps a golf cart from exceeding 10 miles per hour.

How to find the governor on a golf cart?

Locate the governor on the engine. This is the small “T”-shaped metallic rod around the top of the golf cart’s motor. Look for the carburetor in the engine. The carburetor is the cylindrical shaped object in the engine that has valves pointing up and out of the motor. Pull on the governor closer to the carburetor.

What happens if the governor is not moving?

Pull on the governor closer to the carburetor. If the governor is moving with no resistance, then it is bad and needs to be replaced. If the governor cannot be moved, it is also bad and needs to be replaced. Charles Poole holds a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from Appalachian State University.

How to replace motor controller?

There are a few things you can try before resorting to completely replacing your motor controller. Remove the engine cover and disconnect the battery. View the wires leading to motor control unit. If the wires are corroded, scrub with a wire brush or replace. Replace the solenoid.

Can you replace a golf cart motor controller?

Fortunately, replacing the motor controller on a golf cart is fairly straightforward. It’s a question of removing the entire motor controller and replacing it as one unit. Unfortunately, a motor control unit is fairly expensive. There are a few things you can try before resorting to completely replacing your motor controller.

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