
Dear Rider, We hope to discuss some interesting and important facts regarding a few common topics of ATVs (all-terrain vehicle). One of the significant issues is the most common complaint is ATV won’t start.
ATV Won’t Start? – Here are the ATV issues at a glance!
We are sure that you, too, experience the numerous issues of your ATV, and you know how frustrating it is. So today, we wish to share some vital information about a few common problems in your ATV. As these vehicles are used for different tasks, including both heavy and lightweight tasks, it is real that the spare parts get worn out soon. But other than that, there are some other crucial issues that we come across. So, let us see what they are and how we can solve them.
Common issues with the ATV
The ATV indeed acts as a great supporting hand. But it too has its flaws. So let us see what the common issues you come across are.
Start up Issues
- Unable to start up is one of the most common issues. It happens even if you have enough fuel and battery power to start the vehicle. It means an electrical issue or the spark plug needs cleaning and re-gapping. Most of the time resolves the problem.
- The loss of power happens if you slip the pug very frequently. It might happen when the Engine pitches at a higher level than usual and lacks traction. Replacing the clutch will be the simplest solution for this.
- If there is an issue or fault with your ATV key or if you lose the key, what should you do to start up your ATV? This article will guide you on how to start an ATV without the key.
Engine issues
- The Engine not getting fuel properly is another reason your ATV stops working. The spark plug needs to be moist, and better to check if the fuel pump to the fuel supply is blocked. The same issue may happen. So, it is essential to check on these and clean them occasionally. Read article about why your ATV leaking gas and how to fix it from here.
- Smoking when you start your ATV is another critical issue we see commonly. In most instances, it is nothing to worry about, as it is the condensation burning off. Read the full article about why ATV smoking? and how to fix it from here.
- Also, most of the time, the batteries won’t charge, which can be easily tested and fixed by consulting an expert, or you can read this article about ATV Battery Won’t Charge and fix the issue without spending any bucks.
- To avoid clogged air filters, check them regularly and clean them. Also, replace on time.
Good fuel mixture and cleaning
- Sometimes, the ATVs needs a richer fuel mixture to start in the cold Engine. Installing a larger pilot jet can help you with this issue.
- Also, oil leaks are a prevalent issue with the ATVs. It is essential to have an intense inspection of all parts to check for the cracks and damages which cause leaking. It helps to identify the issues sooner and take the necessary precautions.
Out of all these issues, the most common is that the ATV is not starting. So, we feel it would be ideal to discuss this in detail.

ATV not starting even with fuel?
One of the major concerns most ATV owners have is that the Chinese ATV has spark and fuel but won’t start. Let us see! We all know the frustration when the vehicle does not start even with power. But first, you need to check on these areas before moving into a severe remedy. Below is the quick checklist:
- Make sure the run switch of your vehicle is in the correct position.
- Is it in the park or in neutral?
- Is your battery healthy enough?
- Is the fuel in the tank old?
- Is the Engine getting enough airflow?
You need to check these facts before concluding a vehicle that does not even start with fuel. Taking a good look at the checklist helps you take care of the most needed issues quickly. The simplest solution if your ATV has a spark and fuel but won’t start is to check on the switch.
ATV Won’t Start? – Does ATV backfire when trying to start?
Have you ever noticed that your ATV backfires when trying to start? Well, let us see what the reason behind it is. We have noticed a few common reasons for this matter.
- For the ATV to work, the balance of the fuel mixture is essential. The Engine gets power from the spark plug to propel the fuel forward. If the fuel mixture contains too much energy and less air, you will surely experience a minor explosion in the wrong location. It makes the vehicle jump start. It is what you called the Backfiring of the Atv. You ensure that the fuel used in the vehicle is up to the standard.
- A faulty carbonator is another solid reason for the vehicle to backfire when starting. If the fuel you put in sits in the Engine for a longer time and expires over time, it affects the proper functioning of the vehicle. The power tends to degrade and clog inside the carburetor and block the fresh air intake, resulting in a jump start. This issue can be a common scenario due to poor maintenance. You can eliminate the problem by cleaning the relevant parts regularly.
- The flaws of the Engine are another critical reason you might experience the backfiring of the machine. Make sure to check the spark plugs regularly. Proper cleaning is essential.
- Again, when you talk about the backfiring of your ATV, another critical issue that could be the cause is the weak or the low pressure of the fuel pump. It could be either an inadequate flow of fuel or too much energy allowed inside the Engine. This imbalance can cause backfiring at any time.
How to fix the ATV backfiring issue?
If you are very sure of the components of your ATV, you could quickly check and fix the issue. If not, the best solution is to get professional care and fix the problem permanently. You need to observe and clean the air and fuel filters regularly. Make sure to clean the fuel injector and the carburetor well.
You can use a solution to clean them. Also, another important fact is that you can use high-quality fuel. Adjusting the settings of the throttle to suit the Engine is another critical point. We recommend getting professional help whenever you need to clean and check-up. I wrote a full article about ATV’s backfire topic. why does it happen? how do diagnose? how to fix it step by step. You can read that article by clicking here.
ATV Won’t Start? – Bad starter solenoid symptoms ATV Might Be The Reason
The critical role of the starter Solenoid is to get a tiny electric spark from the ignition key and convert it into a high voltage signal to start the vehicle. So if the car is not creating, a significant portion of the issue could be with the solenoid. How can you know if your starter solenoid is bad? It is a good question.
If this part is not up to the standard of proper functioning, you get a clicking sound from the starter, and the motor won’t start up. If the issue is worse, you get the clicking sound continuously. You can get this checked up through a professional. But it replacing this with a more one is always not necessary. You can also check how to bypass this issue and start your ATV.

ATV Won’t Start? – How to start a four-wheeler with a dead battery?
In the case of an emergency, here are a few tips that would help you to start your ATV with a dead battery.
- One primary way is to jump-start your battery. You can do this with jumper cables between your vehicle and another. But you need to ensure that you do not have any other issues in the car. The alternator gives a significantly higher voltage than the battery can manage. Try this by leaving the Engine off as it still has enough power to jump-start.
- Bump-starting the battery is another way. It is also called the compression method. It would help if you pushed the Atv to get the tires to turn the Engine on so that the spark plugs fire appropriately.
- Finally, you can charge your battery. It might be the easier option. Driving with a dead battery is not healthy for the vehicle. So always make sure to set it as soon as possible.
The bottom line
So dear riders, we hope this article provided you with enough information for your concern “why won’t my ATV turn over.” With all the information provided, we think the best is to check for the fault well before getting to conclusions or home remedies. It is always good to get the knowledge and the expertise of professionals. It ensures the vehicle is safe and repaired under proper care and expertise.
More than anything, proper care and maintenance are a must. Cleaning the internal parts well, making sure the details are replaced on time when damaged, and also an observation of the performance of the vehicle makes sure that you do not have to face significant repairs in the car. Also, it is a must to use fuel up to a stand and is recommended for the particular type of vehicle.
It ensures long-lasting performance. The duty of the ATV is so much that it is essential to ensure the Engine and the spare parts are healthy. Regular examinations are necessary for those on duty at the farms and plantations. So, we hope that all our readers understand the importance of proper care and maintenance of the vehicle, as well as answers to the concern ATV won’t start to turn over.
Recent Posts
When I first bought my ATV, I imagined riding everywhere on it just like a flash. But some friends told me you couldn't ride it on public roads as you like. That's true! There are big rules to follow...
ATV tires need to be replaced when they wear off while riding over time. Sharpen obstacles on off-road trails always damage tires. So, How long should ATV tires last? Normally, it would be best if...