Few things are more frustrating than gearing up for a day on the water, only to find that your jet ski won’t start. While this issue can be aggravating, the good news is that the most common causes are often easy to diagnose—and many can be fixed with professional help. Here are five common reasons your jet ski might not start and how EJS Racing can help you get back on the water.
1. A Dead or Weak Battery
A dead or weak battery is one of the most frequent culprits when a jet ski won’t start. Over time, batteries lose their charge, especially if they’re not maintained during the off-season.
Signs of a Battery Problem:
- No sound or just a faint clicking noise when you press the start button.
- Dim dashboard lights or no power to electronics.
Solution: Regularly charge your battery and replace it if it’s old or won’t hold a charge. At EJS Racing, we can test and replace your battery to ensure reliable starts.
2. Fuel System Issues
If your jet ski has been sitting for a while or wasn’t properly winterized, fuel system problems could be to blame. Stale fuel or clogged injectors can prevent the engine from starting.
Common Fuel Problems:
- Old or contaminated fuel.
- Clogged fuel injectors or a dirty fuel filter.
- Issues with the fuel pump.
Solution: Drain old fuel and replace it with fresh gas. If the problem persists, let EJS Racing clean or replace your fuel injectors and filters.
3. Ignition System Problems
The ignition system is crucial for starting your jet ski. Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can prevent the engine from firing up.
Signs of Ignition Issues:
- The engine cranks but doesn’t start.
- Fouled or worn spark plugs.
Solution: Replace old spark plugs and inspect ignition coils for damage. Our team at EJS Racing can perform a thorough diagnostic and make necessary repairs.
4. Water in the Engine
Accidentally flipping your jet ski or failing to store it properly can allow water to enter the engine, causing serious issues.
Symptoms of Water Ingress:
- The engine won’t crank or makes unusual noises.
- Milky oil or visible water in the engine compartment.
Solution: Immediate attention is critical to prevent further damage. Bring your jet ski to EJS Racing, where we can safely remove the water, clean the engine, and restore its performance.
5. Starter Motor or Solenoid Failure
If your jet ski’s starter motor or solenoid is faulty, the engine won’t turn over, even with a fully charged battery.
Signs of Starter Issues:
- A single click or no sound when you press the start button.
- Visible wear or damage to the starter components.
Solution: EJS Racing can test your starter motor and solenoid to pinpoint the issue and replace any faulty parts.
Preventative Tips to Avoid Starting Problems
- Maintain Your Battery: Use a trickle charger during the off-season.
- Regularly Inspect Your Fuel System: Keep fuel fresh and use stabilizers if storing for long periods.
- Schedule Routine Maintenance: A professional tune-up can catch small issues before they become big problems.
Why Choose EJS Racing for Repairs?
At EJS Racing, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing all types of jet ski problems. From electrical diagnostics to engine repairs, we’ve got the expertise to get you back on the water quickly and safely.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive diagnostics for all major jet ski brands.
- Expert repairs using high-quality parts.
- Fast turnaround times to minimize downtime.
Don’t Let Starting Issues Ruin Your Day
If your jet ski won’t start, don’t wait—contact EJS Racing today. Our skilled technicians will diagnose the problem and provide reliable solutions so you can get back to enjoying the water in no time!