Generator Electric Start Not Working – Troubleshooting Guide

If your generator will not start using the electric start feature, follow the steps below to help identify the cause of the issue.

Step 1: Verify the Battery Is Connected

Generators are shipped with the negative battery terminal disconnected for safety during shipping.

Confirm the battery terminals are properly connected before attempting to start the generator.

Refer to the Battery Connection Guide if needed.

Step 2: Test the Battery Voltage

Check the battery voltage using a multimeter.

Recommended battery readings:

• 12.6 volts or higher when NOT under load

• 11.5 – 12 volts when under load

If the battery voltage is below these values, the battery may need to be recharged or replaced.

Step 3: Attempt to Start Using Recoil Start

Use the recoil (pull start) system to start the generator.

This helps determine whether the issue is related to the electric start system or the engine itself.

• If the generator starts with recoil, continue to Step 4.

• If the generator does not start, the issue may be unrelated to the electric start system.

Step 4: Attempt Electric Start Again

If the generator starts with recoil and the battery tested good, attempt to start the generator again using the push-button start.

Hold the start button down briefly to initiate the starter motor.

If there is no response, no clicking sound, and no attempt to start, the push-button start switch may be faulty.

To confirm this, the starter motor should be tested.

Starter Motor Test Procedure

⚠ Note: You will need a screwdriver to perform this test.

Step 1: Locate the Starter Motor

Follow the positive battery cable from the battery to the starter motor.

The starter motor is typically located just above the engine oil dipstick.

Step 2: Expose the Starter Motor Terminals

Pull back the rubber protective sleeves covering the starter motor bolts.

This will expose the electrical terminals.

Step 3: Test the Starter Motor

Use a screwdriver to briefly connect the two exposed starter terminals together.

This will bypass the start switch and directly engage the starter motor.

Test results:

• If the starter motor spins:
  The start switch / push-button start may be faulty.

• If the starter motor does NOT spin:
  The starter motor may need to be replaced.

Potential Parts That May Require Replacement

Based on the results of the troubleshooting steps above, one or more of the following parts may need replacement.

Battery

Replace the battery if:

• Voltage is below recommended levels

• The battery does not hold a charge after recharging

Start Switch / Push-Button Start

Replace the start switch if:

• The battery and starter motor test good

• Pressing the start button produces no click or response

Starter Motor

Replace the starter motor if:

• The battery tests good

• The start button produces a clicking sound

• The starter motor does not spin during the test

When to Contact Support

If the generator still will not start using electric start after completing the steps above, please contact support and provide:

• Generator model number

• Battery voltage reading

• Whether the generator starts with recoil

• Results of the starter motor test

AI Search Triggers (Internal Use)

generator electric start not working
generator push button start not working
generator starter motor troubleshooting
generator starter clicking sound
generator recoil start works but electric start does not
generator starter motor test
generator push start no response