ATV clicks but won't crank: battery, cables or solenoid

Applies to: Any ATV / UTV (Honda, Yamaha, Polaris, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Arctic Cat, Can-Am), All years

Symptoms

  • Single click or rapid clicking when you press start
  • Dash lights work fine
  • Engine doesn't turn over
  • Fine today, clicks tomorrow

Why it happens

The click is the solenoid trying to engage. About 60% of the time the battery is weak; otherwise it's corroded cables or grounds, or a worn starter / pitted solenoid.

How to fix it

  1. Headlight test: lights dim hard when you press start means a weak battery.
  2. Check for 12 V at the starter terminal while pressing start.
  3. Bridge the two big solenoid terminals. Starter spins means a bad solenoid.
  4. Check the ground: voltage drop battery negative to starter case should be under 0.5 V.
  5. Tap the starter. If it then cranks, the brushes are worn.

Tools and parts

  • Multimeter
  • Heavy jumper / screwdriver
  • Rubber mallet
  • Starter brushes (~$20) or starter ($60–150)

What the factory service manual covers

Electrical: starting circuit diagram, voltage specs, starter brush minimum length. The full procedure, specs and wiring diagrams are in the factory service manual for your machine.

Get the factory service manual

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