Ever been ready to tear up the trails on your Can-Am, only to be met with a frustrating click and… nothing? Chances are, your solenoid might be the culprit. This often-overlooked component plays a vital role in getting your machine started, and when it fails, it can leave you stranded. Understanding the common problems associated with Can-Am solenoids, how to diagnose them, and what you can do to fix them is crucial for any Can-Am owner who values reliability and wants to avoid costly repairs.

What Exactly Does a Solenoid Do? (And Why Should You Care?)

Think of the solenoid as the gatekeeper to your Can-Am's starting system. It's an electromagnetic switch that connects the battery to the starter motor. When you turn the key (or press the start button), a small current flows to the solenoid. This current energizes an electromagnet, which pulls a plunger to complete a circuit. This circuit then allows the full power of the battery to flow directly to the starter motor, cranking the engine.

Without a functioning solenoid, the relatively small current from the ignition switch wouldn't be able to handle the high amperage required to spin the starter motor. It's like trying to power a city with a single AA battery – impossible! So, a faulty solenoid effectively prevents your Can-Am from starting, making it a critical component to maintain.

The Usual Suspects: Common Solenoid Issues

Several factors can contribute to solenoid failure. Let's break down the most common culprits:

  • Corrosion: This is probably the biggest enemy of any electrical component, especially in off-road vehicles that are exposed to mud, water, and other harsh elements. Corrosion can build up on the solenoid terminals, creating resistance and preventing proper current flow. This is why keeping your electrical connections clean and protected is so important.

  • Loose Connections: Just like corrosion, loose connections can hinder the flow of electricity. Vibration and rough terrain can gradually loosen the wires connected to the solenoid, leading to intermittent starting problems or complete failure.

  • Internal Wear and Tear: Solenoids are mechanical devices that undergo wear and tear over time. The internal contacts can become worn or pitted, reducing their ability to conduct electricity efficiently. The plunger mechanism itself can also become sticky or damaged.

  • Overheating: Excessive cranking, especially on a cold engine, can cause the solenoid to overheat. This can damage the internal components and shorten its lifespan. Avoid excessively long cranking attempts and give the solenoid a chance to cool down between attempts.

  • Water Intrusion: While Can-Ams are designed for off-road adventures, water can still find its way into the solenoid. This can lead to corrosion, short circuits, and other electrical problems.

  • Low Battery Voltage: A weak or dying battery can put extra strain on the solenoid. If the battery voltage is too low, the solenoid may not have enough power to fully engage, leading to a clicking sound but no starting.

"Click, Click, No Start": Diagnosing a Solenoid Problem

When your Can-Am refuses to start, and you suspect the solenoid, here's how to troubleshoot the issue:

  1. Listen Carefully: The most common symptom of a failing solenoid is a clicking sound when you turn the key or press the start button. This indicates that the solenoid is receiving power but failing to fully engage. However, a single click can also be a sign of a dead battery or loose connections.

  2. Check the Battery: Before diving into the solenoid, ensure your battery is fully charged and in good condition. Use a voltmeter to check the battery voltage. It should read at least 12.6 volts when fully charged. If the voltage is low, charge the battery and try again.

  3. Inspect the Connections: Visually inspect the solenoid terminals and wiring for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections. Clean the terminals with a wire brush or sandpaper and tighten any loose connections. Apply dielectric grease to protect the terminals from future corrosion.

  4. Bypass the Solenoid (Use Caution!): This test should be performed with extreme caution, as it involves directly connecting the battery to the starter motor. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Locate the two large terminals on the solenoid. Use a heavy-gauge jumper cable (like one from a car battery jump start kit) to briefly connect the two terminals. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

    • If the engine cranks: This indicates that the solenoid is faulty and needs to be replaced.
    • If the engine still doesn't crank: The problem likely lies elsewhere, such as with the starter motor itself, the wiring to the starter, or a mechanical issue within the engine.

  5. Test the Solenoid with a Multimeter: You can use a multimeter to test the solenoid's continuity. Disconnect the wires from the solenoid. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting (the ohm symbol). Place one probe on each of the large terminals. You should get a reading of infinite resistance (open circuit). Then, have someone turn the key to the start position while you keep the probes on the terminals. You should now get a reading close to zero ohms (closed circuit), indicating that the solenoid is conducting electricity. If you don't get a reading when the key is in the start position, the solenoid is likely faulty.

Important Safety Note: When working with electrical components, always disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental short circuits and electric shock.

Cleaning vs. Replacing: What's the Best Approach?

If you find corrosion or loose connections, cleaning the solenoid terminals might temporarily solve the problem. However, cleaning is often a temporary fix, especially if the solenoid is internally damaged. In most cases, replacing the solenoid is the best long-term solution. A new solenoid will ensure reliable starting and prevent future headaches.

When replacing the solenoid, make sure to choose a high-quality replacement that is specifically designed for your Can-Am model. Avoid cheap, generic solenoids, as they may not be reliable and could fail prematurely.

Preventing Future Solenoid Problems: Proactive Maintenance

Here are some tips to help prevent solenoid problems and keep your Can-Am starting reliably:

  • Regularly Inspect and Clean Connections: Periodically inspect the solenoid terminals and wiring for corrosion and loose connections. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease to protect them.

  • Protect from Water and Mud: Avoid deep water crossings if possible. If you do encounter water, thoroughly clean and dry the solenoid and surrounding area afterward. Consider using a waterproof solenoid cover for added protection.

  • Avoid Excessive Cranking: Avoid excessively long cranking attempts, especially on a cold engine. Give the solenoid a chance to cool down between attempts.

  • Maintain Battery Health: Ensure your battery is fully charged and in good condition. Replace the battery if it is weak or failing.

  • Use Dielectric Grease: Apply dielectric grease to all electrical connections, including the solenoid terminals, to prevent corrosion and improve conductivity.

  • Store Properly: If you're storing your Can-Am for an extended period, disconnect the battery to prevent parasitic drain and protect the electrical system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Why does my Can-Am just click when I try to start it? This often indicates a faulty solenoid, low battery voltage, or loose connections preventing the solenoid from fully engaging.

  • Can I clean my solenoid instead of replacing it? Cleaning might temporarily fix corrosion issues, but replacement is generally recommended for a reliable long-term solution, especially if the solenoid is internally damaged.

  • How do I know if my battery is causing the solenoid problem? Use a voltmeter to check the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read at least 12.6 volts. If the voltage is low, charge or replace the battery.

  • Where is the solenoid located on my Can-Am? The solenoid is typically located near the battery or starter motor. Consult your Can-Am's service manual for the exact location on your specific model.

  • Can a bad ground cause solenoid issues? Yes, a poor ground connection can prevent the solenoid from receiving sufficient current, leading to starting problems. Inspect and clean all ground connections.

Conclusion

Dealing with a Can-Am that won't start due to a solenoid issue can be frustrating, but with a little understanding and some basic troubleshooting skills, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety when working with electrical components, and don't hesitate to replace the solenoid if necessary for reliable starting. By practicing proactive maintenance, you can minimize the risk of future solenoid problems and keep your Can-Am ready for your next adventure.