12 Major Coleman UTV 550 Problems and Solutions

Are you are true owner of Coleman UTV 550 and face problems with it? You are not alone because most owners also face issues with it. So don’t worry; here we will discuss the 12 most common Coleman UTV 550 Problems and their easy solutions. Stay with us to explore these problems!

The most common problems of Coleman UTV 550 are bad fuel injectors, engine won’t start, overheating issues, electrical problems, brake issues, clutch issues, lack of support, gear sticking issues, dashboard problems, steering problems and tire issues.

Here we explore these problems in detail and provide their easy solutions.

12 Major Coleman UTV 550 Problems

Now we are going to discuss the most common problems of Coleman UTV 550 along with their easy solutions and you see these are alike of Coleman UTV 400 Problems.

1. Bad Fuel Injector   

Coleman 550 UTVs are great for off-road trips, but they can have some issues, especially with the fuel injector. Let’s talk about these issues:

Problem with Fuel Injector:

Signs: If the fuel injector isn’t working right, you might notice these signs:

• The engine misfires because the injector is dirty or clogged.
• The “check engine” light comes on if the injector is dirty or clogged.
• The engine shakes because it’s not getting enough fuel, especially when going fast.

You might smell gas if the injector is leaking.

• Fix: Here’s what you can do:
• Make sure your seatbelt is on because the UTV won’t go faster than 10KPH without it.
• Clean the throttle body with a spray cleaner to get rid of dirt.

Check if the vacuum hoses and spark plugs are clear and working fine.

• Other Issues with Coleman 550 UTVs:
• Engine stutters or stops: Fix the seatbelt and throttle body.
• Engine won’t start: Figure out why it’s not starting.
• Problems with the clutch: See if there are any clutch issues.
• Gears are hard to shift or stick: Look into the gears.
• If the engine gets too hot: Keep an eye on the temperature and see if the cooling system needs fixing.

2. The engine won’t start

Most of the time you’re trouble to getting your Coleman 550 UTV to start. Let’s know how these issues occur and how to solve them.

A. Battery Check:

• • • Make sure your battery is charged up and connected properly. A dead or cold battery can stop the engine from starting.

B. Fuel System Check:

• • • Check that the fuel switch is set to “on.”
    • Make sure there’s enough gas in the tank.
    • Look over the fuel pump and fuel lines for any blockages or problems.

C. Spark Plug Inspection:

• • • Take a look at the spark plug to see if it’s damaged or dirty. A bad spark plug can make it hard to start the engine.
    • Check if the ignition switch is working as it should.

D. Throttle Body Cleaning:

Sometimes a dirty throttle body can cause the engine to sputter or stall. Here’s how to clean it:

• • • • Take out the throttle body from your Coleman UTV.
      • Use a cleaner made for throttle bodies to get rid of any dirt or gunk.
      • Clean the area where the shaft turns.
      • Put the throttle body back in place.

E. Coolant/Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Issue (Code E118):

• • • If you’re seeing this error code, it means there’s a problem with the temperature sensor.
    • Find the sensor near the engine head and check its wires.
    • If the sensor is broken, think about replacing it.

F. Valve Check:

• • • Take off the valve cover and see if the valves in the affected cylinder are working right.
    • Turn the engine by hand to watch how the valves move: one lets in air, one pushes the piston down, and one lets out exhaust gases.

G. Fuel Pump Test:

• • Issues with the fuel pump can mess with how fast you can go, how quickly you speed up, and how smoothly the engine runs.
  • Test the fuel pump to see if there’s a problem with it.

3. Lack of support

One big issue that owners have been talking about is the lack of help and service available. 

Problem with Support & Service:

• Issue: A lot of folks who own the Coleman 550 UTV feel frustrated because they can’t get the help they need when something goes wrong.
• Impact: When you’re stuck with a problem or need a hand, not having good support can mess up your experience with the UTV.

Possible Reasons:

• Manufacturer Not Being Helpful: Some people have a hard time getting in touch with Coleman or getting answers back from them quickly.
• Not Enough Repair Places: There aren’t many places where you can take your UTV to get fixed up, which makes it tough when something goes wrong.

What You Can Do:

• Do Some Research: Look around online at forums, groups, and social media where other Coleman 550 UTV owners share their stories and tips.
• Fix Things Yourself: Learn about how to do basic maintenance and fixes. There are lots of guides and manuals online that can help you out.
• Find Local Mechanics: See if there are any local mechanics or small shops that know about UTVs. They might be able to give you some personal help.
• Speak Up for Better Help: Tell Coleman about your experience and ask them to do better with their support and help services.

Remember, when the official help isn’t cutting it, the UTV community and being resourceful come in handy. If you need help, feel free to contact other Coleman UTV owners or local experts for assistance.

4. Coleman UTV 550 Overheating Problems

When your Coleman 550 UTV starts overheating, it can be a real worry when you are on offroading. Let’s look into why this might be happening and what you can do about it:

A. Faulty Temperature Sensor:

• The temperature sensor keeps track of how hot your engine is getting. When it gets too hot, it’s supposed to turn on the electric fan to cool things down.
• If this sensor isn’t working right, the fan might not turn on, which leads to overheating.
• You might need to replace the temperature sensor or set up a bypass switch to fix this.

B. Coolant System Check:

• Look over the radiator and hoses for any cracks, clogs, or leaks.
• Make sure there’s enough coolant in the system and that it’s clean.
• It’s a good idea to check and change the coolant regularly to keep things running smoothly.

C. Air Blockage:

• Sometimes, stuff blocking the airflow can stop the cooling system from working right.
• Take a look at the cooling system to see if anything’s getting in the way of the air flowing through.

D. Blown Head Gasket:

• If your UTV keeps overheating even after you’ve tried fixing things, it might be because the head gasket has blown.
• This can cause the overheating to happen again and again.
• If you think this might be the problem, it’s best to get help from a professional to diagnose and fix it.

5. Coleman UTV 550 Gear Sticking Problems

If you’re having trouble with gears sticking in your Coleman 550 UTV, let’s take a closer look at what might be causing it and how we can fix it:

Rotary Shift Linkage Issue:

• Signs: You might notice gears grinding or sticking, which could be because of problems with the rotary shift linkage.
• Cause: Sometimes, one or both of the bolts holding the linkage in place can come loose. This can make the linkage move to the wrong position.

Solution:

• Check Bolts: Take a look at the bolts that keep the rotary shift linkage in place. If they’re loose, tighten them up.
• Adjust Linkage: Make sure the linkage is lined up correctly. If it’s not, you might need to tweak it a bit to stop the gears from grinding or sticking.

6. Clutch Problems

If you’re experiencing issues with the clutch in your Coleman 550 UTV, it can affect how smoothly your ride goes. Let’s take a closer look at what might be causing the problem and how to fix it:

Symptoms:

• Problems with the clutch can mess up gear shifting, how fast you speed up, and how well your UTV performs overall.

Possible Causes:

• Clutch Components Worn Out: Over time, parts like the clutch plates or springs can wear down.
• Clutch Not Adjusted Right: If the clutch cable isn’t tensioned correctly or the clutch isn’t lined up right, it can cause problems.
• Clutch Contaminated: Dirt, oil, or other junk can get into the clutch and mess things up.

Solutions:

• Check Clutch Parts: Take a look at the clutch plates, springs, and other bits to see if they’re worn out. If they are, you might need to swap them out for new ones.
• Adjust Clutch Cable: Make sure the clutch cable is tightened up just like the manufacturer says it should be.
• Clean Clutch: Get rid of any gunk that’s built up in the clutch assembly.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Put some lubricant on the parts that move to keep things running smoothly.

7. Coleman UTV Brake problems

Coleman 550 UTVs are best offroad vehicle for adventures, but like any machine, they can run into issues. Let’s focus on the brake problems you mentioned and how to deal with them:

Parking Brake:

• Parking Brake Stuck:

• • • Signs: When your parking brake gets stuck, it stops the UTV from moving freely.

• Possible Reasons:

• • • Adjustment Needed: The parking brake cable might need some adjusting.
    • Mechanical Blockage: Dirt, rust, or stuff might be blocking the brake mechanism.

Solution:

• Loosen Adjustment Bolt: Take off the protective plate under the rear axle brake. Loosen the big adjustment bolt until the parking brake is free.
• Tighten Brake Cable Nuts: Adjust the nuts on the left cable connected to the main brake pedal until there’s no slack. This makes sure that stepping on the main brake lets go of the parking brake.

Front and Rear Brakes:

• The Coleman 550 UTV uses wet disc brakes in the front and pedal-braking axis brakes in the rear.
  • Keep an eye on the brake parts and give them regular maintenance to make sure they work like they should.

8. Coleman UTV 550 Electric Problems

The Coleman 550 UTV might run into electrical troubles that can mess with how well it works and how reliable it is. Let’s check out some common problems and how to fix them:

Loose Battery Terminals:

• Loose or rusty battery terminals can mess up the electrical connection.
• Solution: Look over the battery terminals and make sure they’re tightened up well. Clean off any rust or crud.

Problems with Alternator, Solenoid, or Starter:

• These parts are super important for charging up the battery and getting the engine going.
• Solution: Make sure they’re all doing their job right. If something’s not working, you might need to put in new parts.

Issues with the Ignition Switch:

• If the ignition switch isn’t working right, your UTV might not start up.
• Solution: Check out the ignition switch and switch it out if it’s not doing its job.

Blown Fuses:

• Blown fuses can cause all sorts of electrical headaches.
• Solution: Take a look at all the fuses, including the ones in the fuse box, and swap out any that aren’t working anymore.

Faulty Temperature Sensors:

• These sensors keep track of how hot the coolant or oil is.
• Solution: If a sensor gives up the ghost, it could make your UTV overheat. Swap it out if it’s not working right.

9. PTO Problems

The Power Take-Off (PTO) system is a crucial component in the Coleman UTV 550, essential for transferring mechanical power to various attachments and accessories. This system’s efficient operation is vital for the overall functionality and performance of the UTV.

However, like any mechanical system, the PTO is susceptible to a range of issues that can affect its performance and reliability.

One common problem that owners of the Coleman UTV 550 may encounter is the PTO not engaging. This issue can stem from several causes, including mechanical wear and tear, electrical faults, or problems with the control linkage.

Mechanical wear and tear, often due to prolonged use or inadequate maintenance, can result in worn-out components that fail to engage properly. Electrical faults, such as damaged wiring or faulty switches, can disrupt the power supply needed for the PTO to operate.

Additionally, issues with the control linkage, such as misalignment or broken parts, can prevent the PTO from engaging effectively.

Another frequent issue is unusual noises emanating from the PTO system. These noises can be indicative of underlying problems such as bearing failure, gear misalignment, or insufficient lubrication.

Bearing failure, often due to excessive load or lack of proper maintenance, can cause grinding or whining sounds. Gear misalignment, which can occur due to improper installation or impact, can lead to clanking or rattling noises.

Insufficient lubrication, a common oversight, can cause components to wear out faster and produce squealing or grinding sounds.

Overheating is also a prevalent problem with the PTO system in the Coleman UTV 550. Overheating can result from factors such as excessive use, inadequate cooling, or lubrication issues.

When the PTO is subjected to prolonged operational periods without sufficient cooling breaks, it can lead to overheating. Inadequate cooling, possibly due to blocked air vents or malfunctioning cooling fans, can exacerbate this issue.

Lubrication problems, such as using the wrong type of lubricant or insufficient lubrication, can increase friction and heat generation within the PTO system.

Real-world data and user reports highlight the frequency of these issues among Coleman UTV 550 users. For instance, surveys indicate that a significant percentage of users have encountered PTO engagement problems, with mechanical wear and electrical faults being the primary culprits.

Unusual noises and overheating are also commonly reported, often linked to maintenance lapses or operational practices. Understanding these common PTO problems and their causes can help Coleman UTV 550 owners take proactive measures to prevent and address these issues, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of their UTV.

Effective Solutions

Addressing PTO (Power Take-Off) issues in your Coleman UTV 550 requires a systematic approach to both diagnosis and repair. When the PTO fails to engage, start by inspecting the electrical connections.

Make sure all the wires are tightly connected and not rusty. If the issue persists, check the PTO switch. Use a multimeter to test for continuity; a faulty switch will need replacement.

Additionally, examine the PTO clutch by visually inspecting for wear and tear or any signs of damage. If necessary, replace the clutch with a genuine Coleman part to maintain system integrity.

In cases where unusual noises originate from the PTO mechanism, identifying the source is crucial. Begin by inspecting the drive belt for signs of wear or fraying.

Replace it if necessary. Next, check the bearings and other moving components for wear and lubrication.

Worn-out bearings can cause grinding noises and should be replaced promptly. Regular lubrication of all moving parts can prevent such issues. Use the manufacturer-recommended lubricants to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding PTO problems. Regularly check the PTO system for any signs of wear or damage. Lubricate moving parts according to the maintenance schedule provided in the user manual.

Periodically check the electrical connections and switches to ensure they are functioning correctly. These simple steps can significantly extend the lifespan of your PTO system and enhance the overall reliability of your Coleman UTV 550.

10. Dashboard Issues

Here are several Coleman UTV 550 dashboard issues.

Problem 1: Unresponsive Dashboard Display

An unresponsive dashboard display is one of the most frequent complaints. This issue can stem from a variety of causes, including loose connections, blown fuses, or software glitches. When the display doesn’t light up or respond, it’s crucial to check the fuse box first.

According to the Coleman UTV 550 manual, the fuse box is located under the driver’s seat. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage.

If the problem persists, inspecting the wiring for any loose or corroded connections is advisable. Tightening or cleaning these connections often resolves the issue.

Problem 2: Inaccurate Readings

Another common issue is inaccurate readings on the dashboard, such as incorrect speed or fuel levels. This can happen because of faulty sensors or wiring problems.

To diagnose this, start by checking the relevant sensors. For example, if the speedometer is inaccurate, inspect the speed sensor located near the UTV’s wheel hub. Cleaning or replacing the sensor can often fix the problem.

Additionally, ensure all wiring is intact and properly connected. If the issue remains unresolved, consulting a professional mechanic is recommended for a thorough diagnostic check.

Problem 3: Warning Lights Staying On

Persistent warning lights can be a major concern and are often caused by sensor malfunctions or software errors. If the check engine light or other warning indicators remain on, it’s essential to run a diagnostic scan using a code reader.

This tool can pinpoint the specific issue, whether it’s a sensor fault or a software glitch. For software-related problems, updating the UTV’s software might be necessary. Refer to the Coleman UTV 550’s user manual or contact customer support for guidance on software updates.

11. Steering Problems

One of the most reported issues with the Coleman UTV 550 is the difficulty in steering, often described as stiff or unresponsive steering. This can be caused by several factors, including:

• Low Power Steering Fluid: The power steering system relies on hydraulic fluid to function smoothly. A low fluid level can make steering effortful.
• Damaged Steering Rack: The steering rack is crucial for translating the driver’s input into wheel movement. Wear and tear can lead to unresponsive steering.
• Worn Out Tie Rods: These components connect the steering rack to the wheels. If they are worn, they can cause steering problems.

Solutions

Once the problem is identified, the next step is to implement the appropriate solutions. Here are some actionable steps:

• Check and Refill Power Steering Fluid: Regularly check the power steering fluid level and refill it as needed. Use the manufacturer-recommended fluid for best results.
• Inspect and Replace the Steering Rack: If the steering rack is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Consult a professional mechanic for inspection and replacement.
• Replace Worn Tie Rods: If tie rods are worn out, replacing them can significantly improve steering responsiveness. This is a relatively straightforward repair that can be done at home with the right tools.

12. Tire Issues

One of the most common problems with the Coleman UTV 550 tires is uneven wear.

This can happen due to various factors such as improper alignment, incorrect tire pressure, or even the type of terrain you frequently drive on.

Another frequent issue is punctures, which are often caused by sharp rocks, debris, or nails on the trail.

Lastly, tire bulges or blisters can occur due to manufacturing defects or severe impacts.

Solutions

To address uneven wear, regularly check and adjust the tire alignment. It’s advisable to have your UTV inspected by a professional mechanic if you’re unsure how to do this yourself.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is also crucial. Refer to the Coleman UTV 550’s manual for the recommended PSI levels and use a reliable gauge to check the pressure before each ride.

In case of punctures, carrying a tire repair kit can be a lifesaver. Kits typically include patches, plugs, and the necessary tools to temporarily fix the hole until you can replace or professionally repair the tire.

For bulges or blisters, the only safe course of action is to replace the tire immediately. Driving on a compromised tire can lead to sudden blowouts, posing significant safety risks.

Coleman UTV 550 top speed

The Coleman 550 UTV boasts a top speed of 45 mph. With a maximum power output of 35 hp (26.1 kW), it’s ready to tackle off-road adventures with confidence. Keep in mind that factors like maintenance, modifications, load, and terrain can influence the actual speed.

What is the fuel capacity of Coleman 550 UTV?

The Coleman 550 UTV has a fuel tank capacity of 7.4 US gallons or approximately 28 liters. This ample fuel capacity ensures you can explore off-road trails and cover long distances without frequent refueling.

Coleman UTV 550 specifications and Features

Category	Details
Manufacturer	Coleman Powersports
Model	UTV 550
Type	Utility Task Vehicle (UTV)
Engine	4-stroke, single-cylinder, 546cc, EFI
Power Output	Approximately 27 horsepower
Transmission	Automatic CVT with high/low range and reverse
Drivetrain	2WD/4WD selectable
Dimensions	Length: 108 inches, Width: 57 inches, Height: 75 inches
Wheelbase	76 inches
Ground Clearance	10 inches
Curb Weight	Approximately 1,350 pounds
Payload Capacity	Around 500 pounds
Towing Capacity	1,200 pounds
Fuel Capacity	7.6 gallons
Suspension (Front)	Independent Dual A-Arm
Suspension (Rear)	Independent Dual A-Arm
Brakes (Front/Rear)	Hydraulic Disc
Safety Features	ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure), seat belts, side nets, headlights, taillights, horn, rearview mirror
Price Range	$8,000 – $9,500 (varies by dealer and location)

Conclusion:

As you see here we discuss the 12 most common Coleman UTV 550 problems along with their easy solutions. So whenever you encounter any of these problems, you can solve it easily by following the solutions we discuss here.