Motorbike or scooter · Problems

Motorbike won't start

On a motorbike, half of all no-start problems come from the interlocks: kill switch, side stand and clutch switch. Check them first.

UrgencyModerate
Can I drive?No, stop
Likely causesKill switch, side stand or clutch interlock

Likely causes

  1. Kill switch, side stand or clutch interlock25%

    Before anything else: kill switch on RUN, side stand up, neutral or clutch pulled in. These three interlocks prevent starting.

  2. Weak or dying battery30%

    A battery over 5 years old that rests below 12.4 V is very likely the culprit.

    Garage price: Motorbike battery £60 – £140Fix it: Replace your motorbike battery
  3. Worn spark plugs15%
    Garage price: Motorbike spark plugs £40 – £225
  4. Dirty carburettor15%

    After winter storage with fuel in the bowl, the jets clog: unstable idle, flat spots when opening the throttle.

    Garage price: Carburettor clean £70 – £305
  5. Fuel tap or tank breather10%
  6. Worn starter motor5%

    A single click on starting with a healthy battery points to the starter or its solenoid.

    Garage price: Motorbike starter motor £125 – £375

What you can check yourself

  1. Kill switch on RUN, side stand up, clutch pulled in, neutral light on.
  2. If the starter turns slowly, charge the battery before going further.
  3. After winter storage, a gummed-up carburettor is the likeliest cause.

Fault codes often linked

P0562 System voltage lowU0100 Lost communication with ECM/PCMP0300 Random or multiple cylinder misfireP0301 Cylinder 1 misfire detectedP0302 Cylinder 2 misfire detectedP0303 Cylinder 3 misfire detectedP0304 Cylinder 4 misfire detected

Frequently asked questions

Motorbike won't start: what causes it?

Likely causes: kill switch, side stand or clutch interlock (25%), weak or dying battery (30%), worn spark plugs (15%).

Can I drive?

No, stop. Urgency: moderate.

Indicative estimate. MecaScan cannot see your vehicle: always have a diagnosis confirmed by a professional, and never work on brakes, steering or airbags without the skills.