Kawasaki Side By Side Problems

The rumble of a Kawasaki side-by-side, slicing through trails or powering across open fields, is a sound many outdoor enthusiasts cherish. But like any complex machine, even the toughest Kawasaki UTV isn't immune to hiccups. Understanding the potential problems – from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical issues – can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration out on the trail. Let's dive into some common challenges Kawasaki side-by-side owners face and, more importantly, how to tackle them.

My Kawasaki Won't Start! What's Going On?

A non-starting UTV is arguably the most common and frustrating issue. Before you start tearing things apart, let’s run through the usual suspects.

Battery Blues: Is the battery fully charged? A weak or dead battery is the prime suspect. Even if the lights come on dimly, it might not have enough juice to crank the engine. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they're tightly connected. Consider using a battery tester to assess its health. If it’s old, replacement is likely the best solution.
Fuel Delivery Fumbles: Is there fuel in the tank? Sounds obvious, but it happens! Beyond that, check the fuel lines for kinks or blockages. A clogged fuel filter can also starve the engine. Replacing the fuel filter is a relatively inexpensive and easy maintenance task that can prevent a lot of headaches.
Spark Plug Snafus: Are the spark plugs firing? Pull a spark plug (carefully!) and check its condition. Is it fouled with carbon, oil, or fuel? A dirty or damaged spark plug won't ignite the fuel mixture. Replacing the spark plugs is another simple maintenance item.
Ignition System Issues: This is where things can get a little more complex. Problems with the ignition coil, stator, or even the key switch can prevent the engine from starting. A multimeter can be helpful in diagnosing these issues, but you may need to consult a mechanic if you're not comfortable working with electrical systems.
Safety Switch Surprises: Many UTVs have safety switches that prevent starting if the seatbelt isn't fastened or the brake pedal isn't depressed. Make sure these switches are functioning correctly. Sometimes, a little WD-40 can help free up a sticky switch.

Handling and Suspension Headaches

A smooth ride is crucial for both comfort and control. If your Kawasaki is bouncing around like a bucking bronco, or feels unstable in corners, it's time to investigate the suspension.

Worn-Out Shocks: Over time, shocks lose their damping ability. This leads to a bouncy ride and reduced handling. Inspect the shocks for leaks or damage. If they're worn, replacing them will significantly improve the ride quality. Consider upgrading to aftermarket shocks for even better performance.
Bushing Breakdown: Bushings are the rubber or polyurethane parts that connect suspension components. They wear out over time, leading to sloppy handling and increased noise. Inspect the bushings for cracks or excessive play. Replacing worn bushings is a relatively inexpensive way to tighten up the suspension.
Tire Troubles: Tire pressure plays a huge role in handling. Too much pressure makes for a harsh ride, while too little pressure can cause instability. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it to the recommended level for your riding conditions. Also, inspect the tires for damage or uneven wear.
A-Arm Adventures: The A-arms are the suspension arms that connect the wheels to the frame. Bent or damaged A-arms can cause alignment problems and handling issues. Inspect the A-arms for damage, especially after hitting rocks or other obstacles.

Engine Performance Problems: Losing Power and More

A loss of power or sluggish performance can take the fun out of your UTV experience. Here's what to check:

Air Filter Annoyances: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing power. Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially if you ride in dusty conditions.
Clogged Fuel Injectors: Fuel injectors spray fuel into the engine. Over time, they can become clogged, reducing fuel flow and power. Fuel injector cleaner can sometimes help, but severely clogged injectors may need to be professionally cleaned or replaced.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Troubles: The TPS tells the engine control unit (ECU) how much throttle you're applying. A faulty TPS can cause erratic engine performance or a loss of power.
Exhaust Issues: A clogged or damaged exhaust system can restrict exhaust flow, reducing power. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or damage.
Overheating: Overheating can cause a significant loss of power and potentially damage the engine. Check the coolant level, radiator, and cooling fan.

Transmission and Drivetrain Dilemmas

The transmission and drivetrain are responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Problems in this area can lead to a variety of issues.

Belt Breakage (CVT Systems): Many Kawasaki UTVs use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a belt. These belts can wear out or break, especially if subjected to heavy loads or aggressive driving. Inspect the belt regularly and replace it as needed. Consider upgrading to a heavy-duty belt for increased durability.
Differential Difficulties: The differential allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when cornering. Problems with the differential can cause noise, vibration, or difficulty turning. Check the differential fluid level and look for leaks.
Axle Agony: Axles transfer power from the differential to the wheels. They can be damaged by impacts or excessive stress. Inspect the axles for damage, especially the CV boots. Torn CV boots allow grease to escape and dirt to enter, leading to premature axle failure.
Clutch Catastrophes (CVT Systems): The clutch in a CVT system engages and disengages the belt. Problems with the clutch can cause jerky acceleration, belt slippage, or a loss of power. Inspect the clutch components for wear or damage.

Electrical Gremlins: Lights, Gauges, and More

Electrical problems can be frustrating to diagnose, but here are some common issues:

Fuse Failures: A blown fuse is often the culprit for electrical problems. Check the fuse box for blown fuses and replace them with the correct amperage.
Wiring Woes: Damaged or corroded wiring can cause a variety of electrical problems. Inspect the wiring harness for damage and repair any damaged wires.
Sensor Sensitivities: Many sensors provide information to the ECU. A faulty sensor can cause a variety of problems.
Lighting Lapses: Problems with the headlights, taillights, or other lights can be caused by blown bulbs, faulty wiring, or a bad switch.

Braking Bedlam: Stopping Power Problems

The brakes are obviously critical for safety.

Brake Pad Breakdown: Worn brake pads reduce braking performance. Inspect the brake pads regularly and replace them as needed.
Brake Fluid Fumbles: Low or contaminated brake fluid can cause braking problems. Check the brake fluid level and bleed the brakes if necessary.
Rotor Rust: Corroded or warped brake rotors can cause vibration or reduced braking performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kawasaki Mule overheating? Check the coolant level, radiator for blockages, and ensure the cooling fan is functioning properly. Low coolant, a clogged radiator, or a faulty fan are common causes.
My Kawasaki Teryx belt keeps breaking. What gives? Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and improper belt tension can cause premature belt failure. Consider a heavy-duty belt and ensure proper maintenance.
What does it mean when my Kawasaki side-by-side is backfiring? Backfiring is usually caused by an improper air/fuel mixture, often due to a lean condition. Check the fuel system and air filter.
Why is my Kawasaki UTV hard to shift? Low transmission fluid, worn shift linkage, or internal transmission damage can cause shifting problems. Check the fluid level and inspect the linkage.
How often should I change the oil in my Kawasaki side-by-side? Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil change interval, but typically it's every 100 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. More frequent changes are recommended for heavy use.

Conclusion

Owning a Kawasaki side-by-side is a rewarding experience, but understanding potential problems and performing regular maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly for years to come. By addressing issues proactively and consulting your owner's manual, you can spend more time enjoying the ride and less time stuck on the trail.