You push the start button, but nothing happens.
Maybe it clicks. Maybe the lights flicker. Or maybe the engine tries to start but never catches.
If your motorcycle won't start, it helps to learn key troubleshooting skills.
Whether you want to understand your own ride better or you're thinking about training for a hands-on career, knowing how to troubleshoot starting problems is a key skill. At Universal Technical Institute’s 48-week motorcycle mechanic program,7 you can learn the basics and get brand-specific training.1
Let’s break down what might be wrong, what you can check and when it’s time to call a pro.
Common Signs a Motorcycle Won’t Start
Sometimes your bike gives clues about impending problems before it fails completely. Here’s what to watch for.
No crank when pressing the starter
You hit the button and nothing happens. No noise. No movement.
That usually means power isn’t getting to the starter.
Read: Motorcycle Final Drives: What They Are and How They Work
Clicking sounds with no engine turnover
If you hear a fast clicking noise, that could mean your battery doesn’t have enough power to crank the engine.
Engine turning over but not firing
The engine spins but doesn’t start. This often points to issues with fuel, spark or compression.
Flickering power or intermittent electrical function
If lights flash or power cuts in and out, your bike might have a loose connection or fuse issue.
Read: 4-Stroke Engines: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Top Reasons a Motorcycle Won’t Start (and How To Fix Them)
Understanding why your motorcycle won't start is the first step toward fixing it. These are the most common causes.
Dead or weak battery
A drained battery is the top reason motorcycle starting problems happen. Try jump-starting it or using a charger. If it’s older or keeps dying, it might need replacing.
Faulty starter motor or relay
If you’ve got power but the engine won’t crank, your starter motor or its relay could be worn out. Testing these parts often takes a multimeter and some training.
Read: Oil and Filter Service for Motorcycles: 3 Most Common Mistakes
Ignition system problems
No spark means no start. Damaged spark plugs, bad wires or a faulty ignition coil could be the problem.
Fuel delivery issues
Check your fuel level. Check the fuel pump and lines, too. A clogged filter or bad pump can keep fuel from reaching the engine.
Electrical or fuse-related faults
Modern bikes have a lot of wiring. A blown fuse or corroded connector could be blocking power. This is where electrical diagrams and proper tools really help.
Read: Essential Motorcycle Tools Every Technician Should Know
When To Call a Professional
When home fixes don’t work
You’ve charged the battery, checked the fuel and tested the switch — still, nothing. If your motorcycle won’t start after basic checks, a technician may need to take a deeper look.
How diagnostics require training and tools
Some parts need special tools for testing. Others require electrical knowledge or system diagrams. That’s where pro motorcycle tech training makes the difference.
What we teach students about motorcycle troubleshooting
In Universal Technical Institute’s Motorcycle Technician Training program, students get hands-on practice diagnosing real motorcycle systems.18 That includes ignition, fuel and electrical circuits. The training goes far beyond quick fixes — it’s about learning how to find and solve the real problem.
Learn more about what a motorcycle technician does and how we help students prepare for entry-level jobs — both in and out of the classroom.1
Read: How To Become a Certified Motorcycle Technician: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn Skills for When Your Motorcycle Won’t Start and More!
If you like solving problems and working with your hands, motorcycle mechanic training might be for you. Fortunately, our 48-week Motorcycle Technician Training program can help you learn the skills needed by powersports techs today.7
Want to speak to someone now? Call to connect with an Admissions Representative at 1-800-834-7308, or enroll today to start your journey.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.