Fix
Electric golf trolley not working: common faults
Published
Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
In short
Most electric trolley faults are simple. If it will not start, check the battery charge, the connector and any isolator switch. If it stops mid-round, suspect a low or cold battery or a loose connection. If it pulls to one side, adjust the front wheel tracking and check the wheels are fitted properly. If the wheels slip, check the wheel clips and tread. Brand-specific checks are in your manual.
Products for this job
Compare all 5 productsPowaKaddy FX3: lithium, 5 year UK battery warranty
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkPowaKaddy FX1: simple controls, 30 V plug 'n' play
Check price on AmazonAffiliate linkRemote 3 wheel trolley: 20 km range, folds 79 cm
Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
Electric trolleys are reliable, but when one misbehaves on the course it spoils the round. The good news is that most faults have a simple cause you can check in the car park or at home. This guide covers the four most common problems, will not start, stops mid-round, pulls to one side and wheels slipping, with the likely cause and first fix for each. Designs differ between Motocaddy, PowaKaddy, Stewart Golf and other makers, so use your manual for model-specific steps.
Quick fault finder
| Fault | Likely cause | First fix |
|---|---|---|
| Will not start | Flat battery, connector, isolator switch | Charge, reseat plug, check switch |
| Stops mid-round | Low or cold battery, loose connection | Check charge, reseat connector |
| Pulls to one side | Front wheel tracking, wheel not fitted | Adjust tracking, refit wheels |
| Wheels slip | Wheel clips not engaged, wet grass | Engage drive clips, check tread |
| Runs on downhill | No downhill control, speed set high | Lower speed, use downhill control if fitted |
Trolley will not start
If the battery is charged and the connector seated but nothing happens, the controller or a fuse may be at fault. Many trolleys have a fuse in the battery lead or motor circuit; your manual will show where and what rating. Replace a fuse only with the same rating, and if it blows again, stop and contact the maker.
- 1
Check the battery is charged; if in doubt, charge it fully.
- 2
Make sure the battery connector is pushed fully into the trolley socket.
- 3
Look for an isolator switch on the battery; the PowaKaddy FX1 listing describes a battery top isolator switch with an LED.
- 4
Check the handle controller is switched on and the speed is above zero.
- 5
Inspect the cable from the battery to the motor for damage.
Trolley stops mid-round
The most common cause is a battery running low, especially in cold weather or on a hilly course with a heavy bag. A loose connector can also cut power when the trolley bumps over rough ground. Reseat the connector firmly and check whether the battery indicator shows low charge. If an 18 hole battery regularly runs out, you may need a 36 hole battery or the battery may be ageing. Our battery guide explains range and replacement.
Trolley pulls to one side
Most trolleys have adjustable front wheel tracking so the trolley runs straight. If it veers, find the tracking adjuster on the front wheel, usually a bolt or dial, and make small adjustments until it runs straight on level ground. Also check that both rear wheels are fully clicked onto the axle, that tyres are not damaged and that nothing is caught around an axle. A cambered fairway will always make a trolley drift a little.
Wheels slip or will not drive
Many trolleys have a drive clip or locking pin on the rear wheels that connects them to the motor; one or both wheels may be set to freewheel. If the trolley hums but does not move, check the wheel clips are in drive position. On wet grass, worn tread or narrow wheels can slip on slopes. Winter wheels, required by many UK clubs, change grip as well, as explained in our winter wheels guide.
Note:Switch the trolley off and disconnect the battery before checking wheels, axles or wiring. Do not open the motor, controller or battery case; contact the maker for repairs.
Trolley runs away downhill
On steep slopes, a trolley without electronic downhill control can roll faster than walking pace. Lower the speed setting before a descent and keep a hand on the handle. Models with Motocaddy's DHC or PowaKaddy's EBS hold speed electronically; see our downhill control explainer.
When to call the maker
Error codes differ by brand and model, so look them up in the manual or on the maker's website rather than guessing. If repair costs approach replacement, our electric trolley guide compares current models.
- Fuses blow repeatedly.
- The motor makes grinding or clicking noises.
- The controller display shows a fault or error code.
- Water has got into the controller or battery.
- The frame or a weld is cracked.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my electric trolley stop on hills? Usually a low or cold battery that cannot deliver enough power on the climb. Fully charge it and keep it warm before the round.
Why does my trolley hum but not move? The rear wheels are probably in freewheel mode. Check the drive clips on the wheels.
How do I stop my trolley pulling to the left? Adjust the front wheel tracking a little at a time and check both rear wheels are fully fitted.
What you need
- Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
PowaKaddy FX3: lithium, 5 year UK battery warranty
- Check price on AmazonAffiliate link
Clicgear 4.5: folds to 33 x 38 x 61 cm
From: Best push golf trolleys