Scooter Start Woes: 7 Troubleshooting Tips For Young Two-wheeler Riders

Nothing is more frustrating than your motorbike or scooter refusing to start just when you thought you were going for a lovely ride. No, we're not talking about the all-too-common cold start issue. 

Before we "start," let's make sure you're not overlooking the most basic things as we sometimes overlook simple things like:-

• There is new fuel in the tank, and you are holding the left brake lever while pressing the start switch.
• Engine oil - No engine oil (even a small leak will drain the entire engine oil in a few months), oil filled more than needed, less oil, dark brown or black colored engine oil, and so on are common causes of starting problems.
• There is no blown fuse. Look through the service manual to find the fuse box.

7 Steps to Restore Your Vehicle's Performance

We'll walk you through seven extremely simple checks you should perform if your scooter won't start: -

        1.  Examine the Battery

When your scooter won't start, the most common cause is a faulty battery. First, check the voltage with a voltmeter to ensure it is fully charged. If the voltage is low, use a battery charger to charge the battery. If the battery continues to refuse to charge, it may need to be replaced.

       2.  Examine the Spark Plug

A faulty spark plug can also cause your scooter to not start. Look for signs of wear, such as cracks or deposits, on the spark plug. Replace the spark plug if it appears to be worn. You should also check and adjust the spark plug gap if necessary.

      3.  Examine the Fuel System

If your scooter has been sitting for an extended period, the fuel may have gone bad or evaporated. Check the fuel tank to ensure it is full of fuel. If there isn't one, fill it up and restart the scooter. Check the fuel lines and filter for clogs or damage if there is fuel in the tank. If any problems are discovered, clean or replace the affected parts.

      4.  Examine the Carburetor

The carburetor is in charge of mixing fuel and air before they enter the engine. If the carburetor is dirty or clogged, the scooter may not start. Remove the carburetor and thoroughly clean it with a carburetor cleaner. The idle and air-fuel mixture screws may also need to be adjusted.

       5.  Examine the Air Filter

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start the scooter. Examine the air filter and clean or replace it as needed. If the air filter becomes clogged, the scooter may run poorly or stall while riding.

       6.  Examine the Starter Motor

The starter motor is in charge of starting the engine when you press the start button. If the starter motor is faulty or worn out, the engine may be unable to start. Inspect the starter motor for signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.

       7.  Examine the Electrical System

The starter switch, ignition coil, and wiring are all part of your scooter's electrical system. Examine these parts for wear or damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections. Repair or replace any damaged parts if you discover them.

Conclusion

It can be frustrating to troubleshoot your scooter when it won't start, but don't give up! By checking these seven essential components - the battery, spark plug, fuel system, carburetor, air filter, starter motor, and electrical system - you can quickly diagnose and fix the issue. 

Whether it's as simple as charging the battery or cleaning the air filter, or as complex as replacing the starter motor or carburetor, taking the time to troubleshoot your scooter can save you time and money in the long run.

Always put safety first when working on your scooter. If you're not sure how to perform any of these checks, wear appropriate protective gear and consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic. You can get your scooter back on the road and enjoy the freedom and convenience of zipping around town on two wheels with a little patience and perseverance.