Why Won't My Quad Start With Electric Start?

Published: 6.7.23

Updated: 20.8.24

You've got big plans for your ride, but your quad is unresponsive. Nothing. Nada. DEAD… It's as if it decided to take an unscheduled holiday. 

So, why won't your quad start with the electric start?  

Here, we will delve into this issue, arm you with the knowledge to understand what could be going wrong, and offer practical solutions to get your quad roaring to life again.

We will guide you through all types of quads, whether they're general ATVs, kids petrol quads or kids electric quads.

Here’s the short answer to: Why Won't My Quad Start With Electric Start?

A quad won't start with an electric start due to various reasons such as a discharged battery, engaged kill switch, lack of fuel or stale petrol, faulty spark plug, or issues in the electrical system. Start by checking the battery's charge using a voltmeter. If it's low, revive it using an ATV-specific battery charger. Other solutions may include disengaging the kill switch, refuelling, replacing the spark plug, and inspecting the electrical system for loose connections or corrosion. If these steps don't work, professional help from a mechanic is advised.

Uncovering the Mystery of Your Unresponsive Quad

The kill switch is engaged

The simplest reason might be right in front of you. Your kill switch might be engaged without you noticing it.

It's there for safety reasons, but when activated unintentionally, it can leave you scratching your head.

So, before you break into a sweat, make sure the kill switch is not the party pooper here.

Stale or no petrol: a fuel problem

Petrol, the lifeblood of your quad, could be another culprit. Check your petrol. Is the tank empty?

If yes, you've found the problem. However, if the petrol is there but it's old or contaminated, it's as good as having no petrol at all.

Over time, petrol can become stale and lose its ability to ignite properly, leading to start-up issues.

Dealing with a dead battery

Now, imagine you've planned a surprise party for a friend, but when you yell, "Surprise," you realise your friend is not at home.

A dead battery is somewhat like that friend. Without sufficient charge, it won't give the starter motor the jolt of electricity it needs to bring your quad to life.

Related: Common Issues with Kids' Toy Car Batteries

Electrical system corrosion: The Silent Saboteur

Your quad's electrical system is like its neural network. But this network can be infiltrated by an invisible enemy: corrosion.

Over time, your quad's electrical system can corrode, leading to a break in the connection.

The result?

An unresponsive electric start.

If you're struggling to start your quad without a pull cord, this article "How To Start A Quad Without Pull Start" may help.

Solutions to a Quad that Won't Start

Alright, we've covered possible problems. Now, let's dive into how to fix them using our quad bike troubleshooting guide.

Bear in mind, though, that these solutions are for when you've identified a specific issue.

When in doubt, it's always safe to consult with a professional mechanic.

Replacing the spark plug

If your quad's spark plug is worn out or damaged, it won't create the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in your quad's engine.

Replace it with a new one, and make sure it's the correct type for your quad.

Tackling the fuel pump issue

The fuel pump is what gives your engine its much-needed fuel. A worn-out fuel pump can fail to create enough fuel pressure for the injection system, making it difficult for the quad to start.

In such cases, a replacement could solve the problem.

Addressing a faulty solenoid

When you hit the start button, you should hear a clicking sound. This sound is from the solenoid, a switch that sends current to your starter.

If it's faulty, your quad won't start. Check for any issues and replace the solenoid if necessary.

Taking care of loose connections and broken wiring

Remember the neural network we talked about?

A single loose connection or broken wire can interrupt this network, preventing your quad from starting.

Check for any visible damage and repair or replace as necessary.

Consult a Mechanic

If your quad still refuses to start, it's time to seek professional help. A mechanic will be able to further troubleshoot and diagnose the problem, providing you with a comprehensive solution.

Routine Maintenance to Keep Your Quad in Tip-Top Shape

Prevention, they say, is better than cure. By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, you can ensure your quad remains in top form and avoid many of the issues that might stop it from starting with an electric start.

• Regular Battery Checks: Battery-related issues are among the most common causes of quads not starting. Regularly check the battery's charge level and look out for signs of wear and tear or damage. Remember, a well-maintained battery is key to a well-performing quad.
• Fuel System Upkeep: Ensure that you always use fresh petrol for your quad and avoid leaving fuel in the tank for extended periods of inactivity. Also, consider cleaning the fuel system occasionally to avoid clogs and to maintain optimal performance.
• Spark Plug Maintenance: Inspect your spark plug regularly for signs of wear or damage. A worn-out spark plug can cause starting issues and impact the overall performance of your quad. As a rule of thumb, consider replacing your spark plug every 20-30 hours of quad usage.
• Periodic Electrical System Inspections: A thorough inspection of the quad's electrical system from time to time can help identify any corrosion or loose connections early on. Nip these issues in the bud before they result in a quad that won't start.

Remember, maintenance is a small price to pay for the countless hours of fun and adventure your quad offers.

Keep it in top shape, and it will return the favour.

Here's our ultimate buyer's guide to kids' quad bikes that include tips on maintenance.

In Summary

A quad that won't start with an electric start is frustrating, but with a little bit of understanding and some troubleshooting, you can often identify and fix the issue yourself.

Whether it's an engaged kill switch, stale petrol, a dead battery, or corrosion in the electrical system, the solution could be simpler than you think. However, knowing where to ride can also play a role in the lifespan of your quad bike.

Check out this guide on where you can ride dirt bikes and quad bikes in the UK for more information. But remember, when in doubt, don't hesitate to consult a professional.

Whether you're looking for kids' electric quads, kids' petrol quads, or other types of ATVs, it's always important to keep them in good condition and to know the common issues you might encounter along the way.

FAQs

Can extreme weather conditions affect my quad's ability to start?

Yes, extreme weather conditions can indeed affect your quad's starting ability. Cold weather can lead to battery discharge, thicken engine oil and fuel, making it difficult for your quad to start. Likewise, extremely hot conditions can also affect battery life and fuel efficiency.

What is a starter relay and could it cause my quad not to start?

A starter relay is a switch that controls the high current needed to turn on your quad's starter motor. If this relay is faulty, it can indeed prevent your quad from starting. Symptoms of a bad starter relay include the quad not starting despite a charged battery, or you might hear a clicking sound when trying to start the quad.

Why is my quad stalling or running rough after I start it?

If your quad stalls or runs rough after starting, it could be due to a variety of reasons such as issues with the carburetor, a clogged air filter, or problems with the ignition system. It's advisable to have a mechanic check it out to correctly diagnose and fix the issue.