Problem |
Description |
Solution |
Engine won’t start |
Nothing happens when pressing the starter. |
Check battery, ignition switch, starter relay, kill switch, and fuses. |
Engine cranks but won’t start |
Engine turns over but doesn’t fire. |
Check for spark, clean carburetors, verify fuel supply, check compression. |
No spark |
Spark plug is not firing. |
Test ignition coil, CDI, stator, plug, and related wiring. |
Weak or intermittent spark |
Spark is inconsistent or weak. |
Replace spark plug, test ignition coil, inspect connections and grounds. |
Hard to start (hot or cold) |
Needs repeated attempts or throttle to start. |
Clean/rebuild carbs, inspect choke/enricher, check fuel and air filters. |
Starts then dies |
Engine starts but stalls within seconds. |
Adjust idle, clean idle jet, check vacuum leaks, inspect fuel delivery. |
Rough or unstable idle |
Idle surges, stumbles, or stalls. |
Adjust idle screw, clean pilot jet, check for vacuum leaks. |
Poor acceleration / power loss |
Engine bogs or struggles under load. |
Clean air filter, inspect carburetors, adjust throttle cable, clean jets. |
Backfiring (intake or exhaust) |
Popping sound on deceleration or throttle. |
Adjust air/fuel mixture, inspect exhaust for leaks, check ignition timing. |
Engine overheating |
Runs very hot or shuts down unexpectedly. |
Check radiator, fan operation, coolant level, thermostat, and oil. |
Excessive exhaust smoke |
Blue = oil burning; Black = rich fuel; White = coolant (rare). |
Blue: valve seals/rings. Black: adjust carbs. White: inspect head gasket. |
CVT slipping |
Engine revs high but slow acceleration. |
Inspect and replace CVT belt, clean and inspect clutches. |
Transmission won’t shift (park/neutral) |
Hard to get into gear or won’t engage. |
Check shift linkage, brake interlock, and CVT sheave condition. |
Clutch feels weak |
Lack of engagement or slipping under load. |
Replace drive belt, inspect driven clutch, clean clutch sheaves. |
Grinding while shifting |
Loud or harsh sound when shifting into gear. |
Inspect CVT belt tension, idle speed, and clutch engagement. |
Battery not charging |
Battery drains while riding or won’t hold charge. |
Test stator, rectifier/regulator, and battery. |
Starter doesn’t engage or slow crank |
Starter clicks or turns engine slowly. |
Check battery voltage, test starter motor, inspect cables and grounds. |
Electrical system not working |
Lights, fan, or dash fail to function. |
Inspect fuses, relays, switches, and wire connections. |
Fuel leak |
Fuel smell or visible drips around tank or carbs. |
Inspect fuel lines, tank seals, carb overflow, and clamps. |
Brakes feel weak or spongy |
Poor stopping power or soft brake lever. |
Bleed brakes, check fluid, inspect brake pads, check for leaks. |
Brake squeal or grinding noise |
Loud or high-pitched noise when braking. |
Replace worn pads, clean rotors, inspect for debris. |
Excessive vibration |
Unusual shaking or rattling while riding. |
Check motor mounts, driveshafts, wheels, and skid plates. |
Pulls to one side |
ATV veers left or right. |
Check tire pressure, wheel alignment, suspension, and brake drag. |
Suspension squeaks or bounces |
Harsh ride or squeaking over terrain. |
Lubricate bushings, inspect and replace shocks or worn suspension parts. |
Cooling fan not working |
Fan fails to turn on even when hot. |
Test fan motor, temperature sensor/switch, and fan relay. |