Coleman 550 UTVs are popular off-road vehicles. Although it is a reliable, easy-to-use vehicle, there are many Coleman 550 UTV problems. However, this vehicle’s affordability, accessibility, and features make it an appealing choice for many consumers.
It’s hard to find a better UTV than the Coleman 550. The Coleman 550 UTV has won the approval of many users, but some users need help to avoid issues.
The major problems in Coleman 550 UTV include gummed throttle bodies, sputtering, battery issues, the engine failing to start, improper valve clearances, faulty spark plugs, faulty temperature sensors, and blown head gaskets.
Let’s see the Coleman 550 UTV problems and solutions.
What are the Coleman 550 UTV Problems?
Engine failure is one of the most bothersome Coleman 550 UTV problems. In some cases, the engine will start and turn over. Some fundamental factors can account for the failure. They consist of the following:
1. A faulty or frozen battery
If the battery dies, your UTV’s engine won’t turn over. Check your battery with a multimeter. Your battery is good if the multimeter displays 12 volts. If not, it is gone forever.
Fortunately, replacing dead batteries is simple. To start the battery, use jumper cables, and to recharge it, use a compatible charger. The engine should start right away if you can revive your dead battery.
2. Insufficient Valve Clearance
The Coleman 550 UTV has an intake and outlet valve. The valve draw in air and remove exhaust air. Adjusting valves either too tight or too loose affects the clearance. In the first scenario, in particular, this may result in engine failure.
To check the intake valve clearance on your UTV, follow these steps.
- Rotate the crankshaft to position the engine at TDC (Top Dead Center).
- To select a gauge that fits, situate the feeler gauge alongside the cam and the shim bucket and alternate between them.
- While fitting the feeler gauge shouldn’t require much force, there should be some resistance.
- The ideal feeler gauge will reveal the valve clearance range.
- Repeat the same for the outtake valve, but place the feeler gauge between the exhaust rocker arm and the shim this time. We must now adjust the valves to the manual’s recommended clearances.
- To accomplish this, take out the cam and swap out the shim underneath.
For a practical idea on Coleman 550 UTV running issues you can check this out
3. Suspension Issue in Coleman 550 UTV
Choosing the correct suspension is crucial while off-roading. Since your UTV will bounce up and down without the proper suspension, your ride will be uncomfortable and risky.
Due to its nitrogen-filled MacPherson independent dual A-arm front and rear suspension, the Coleman 550 is popular among UTV riders. While these suspensions are sufficient for the UTV at higher speeds.
Several riders have complained that they are uncomfortable when traveling over the highlands.
The mechanism in 4WD mode causes this, which triggers a complete differential lock mode when a button is pressed. It’s essential to know the terrain, drive cautiously, and watch out for pushing the UTV too hard if you want to reduce the annoyance.
4. Engine problems in Coleman 550 UTV
- Faulty Spark Plugs in Coleman 550 UTV
One of the most frequent Coleman 550 UTV problems is dirty or poorly connected spark plugs. The engine can’t start because the spark plugs are filthy or malfunctioning. For corrosion or accumulation, inspect the spark plug.
Sand the spark plug to remove grit and file the spark plug to remove tough buildup. A wire brush and carb cleaner should then be used to remove the thread debris. Dry the spark plug before reinstalling. Change out rusted spark plugs for fresh ones.
- Stale Fuel
The gasoline will go stale if you keep your Coleman 550 UTV idle for a short time. A thin layer of stale fuel accumulating on engine parts is quite harmful. This might cause issues, including idle or total engine failure. After replacing the fuel, the engine should restart; however, before doing so, use Sea Foam Motor Treatment to clear the fuel lines of any debris and old fuel.
5. Overheating problems in Coleman 550 UTV
The engines of Coleman 550 UTVs are susceptible to irreversible damage because of their propensity for overheating. The following variables trigger overheating:
- Clogs in the Coleman 550 UTV Coolant System
For the radiator to cool down and prepare for another cycle, the water pump transfers hot coolant. Occasionally, air from the fan might enter the water pump and obstruct the flow of coolant to and from the radiator, resulting in overheating.
To correct this, move the front end of the UTV up a steep hill. After the engine has cooled down enough, remove the radiator cap and bleeder bolt. Until the coolant exits the bleeder line, fill the radiator with coolant. Reinstall the bleeder bolt, then finish topping off the radiator with coolant. As a result, we should resolve the problem of overheating.
6. Faulty Temperature Sensor in Coleman 550 UTV
The temperature sensor detects the coolant temperature and activates the electric fan when it reaches a particular degree. The radiator fan doesn’t operate when this sensor malfunctions, which causes overheating and other issues with the Coleman 550 UTV.
Bypass switches or new temperature sensors can be used to overcome this problem. By bypassing the temperature sensor, this switch enables you to operate the radiator fan whenever possible. However, it is preferable to replace the temperature sensor.
- Blown Head Gasket in Coleman 550 UTV
The head gasket will blow if it overheats. A burst head gasket causes air and fuel leaks, worsening the overheating issue.
You must disassemble the engine and inspect the head gasket yourself to determine whether you have a blown head gasket. You can consult a mechanic to determine if you should fix or replace the blown head gasket.
7. Clutch problems in Coleman 550 UTV
Coleman 550 makes use of the wet clutch. The clutch is lubricated with engine oil. A wet grip is ideal for prolonging the life of the transmission, but these clutches are prone to malfunctioning in many cases.
You can notice when you initially rev your machine, it moves slower than it should. It is a sign your clutch may be slipping due to worn or clutch shoes. Then you need to replace it as early as possible.
A wet clutch may fail for several reasons. For instance ;
- Driving in high gear at low speed
- Hauling heavier loads in high gear
- The use of regular motor oil rather than oil approved for wet clutches.
8. Engine Sputtering and Idling in Coleman 550 UTV
Although the Coleman 550 UTV can perform heavy-duty work, the engine has choppy idles, sputters, or complete stalls. Most owners find this annoying, but there is a simple solution. There are two causes of idling and sputtering in engines, and they are as follows:
- The Safety Feature on Seat Belts of Coleman 550 UTV
A safety belt feature on the Coleman 550 UTV prevents the vehicle from entering limp mode. When your safety belt is fastened, a sensor in the belt only permits limp mode, which keeps the speed at 6mph. Because of this, the engine sputters, which is bothersome for drivers who don’t want to fasten and unfasten their seatbelts while driving.
Fortunately, there is an easy fix for this issue. Just purchase a seat belt blank to connect to the seatbelt for short rides. Remove the blank and use the authentic seat belts on lengthy, perilous journeys.
- Gummed Throttle Body in Coleman 550 UTV
The throttle body gets sticky as soot, dust, and particles build up. The UTV’s performance could be better by this stickiness since it causes stalling and sputtering. Gum can be used to clean the throttle body and solve this issue.
Here’s how to go about doing that:
- Take your UTV’s throttle body out. Specifically, in the region where the shaft is held, clean the throttle body of any debris with a wire brush.
- To get rid of tenacious dirt clumps, spray with carburetor cleaner. Watch the motion of the throttle body as you turn the key.
- The throttle pushed the body back. Your throttle body will only clog up if you clean it occasionally. For routine use, do this every 30,000 miles and every 20,000 miles if you go through dusty or muddy terrain.
What are the top features of the Coleman 550 UTV?
Engine
The engine’s specifications are enough to make anyone swoon. A four-stroke motor powers the Coleman 550 UTV. The cylinders’ cooling system relies on liquid. The engine also features a bore stroke. It has a very respectable displacement ranging between 500 and 546 cubic cm. This UTV offers a dependable compression ratio of 9.6:1. One notable feature of the engine is its power, which is 20-22.5HP. There is a 28-liter (7.4-gallon) fuel economy in the machine.
Powertrain
The vehicle’s powertrain is controlled automatically. Produces two different speeds. Compatible with the CVT gearbox. These requirements ensure that a Coleman product is simple to use. And the back is dual as well. Having both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (2WD) is included. Electronic power steering is also included in the package. Regarding providing extra reliability, the EFI’s Delphi nature is crucial.
Spark Plug
It has an electronic starter. A separate toggle manages the ignition. This UTV requires a 12-volt battery with a Cold Cranking Amp rating of 300 CCA.
Scale Of Lubrication
This UTV has a unique oil filter. Hence, it has a limited lubrication range and oil volume. This UTV should be lubricated with SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 oil for optimal operation. DOT 3 braking fluids are the industry standard and never fail to perform.
Wheels
Aluminum is used for the rims. It has AT26 X 9-14 wheels up front. However, the rear wheels have a dimension of AT26 X 11-14. The wheel rims are also a good fit. These help the vehicle maintain stability when traveling through rough terrain.
Brakes
The front brakes are wet discs. Axle brake pedals are located in the back. Specialized hydraulic disc brakes with vents are standard on several Coleman UTV models.
Suspension
The front and rear suspensions each have a pair of A-arms. These MacPherson arms are filled with nitrogen. The rest provides a remarkable turning radius as well. The vehicle’s stability is increased as a result. One of the best features of a 4WD system is how it prevents the tires from slipping. The various locking modes can also be accessed with a single button.
What’s the Benefits and Drawbacks of Coleman 550?
As far as possible, we’ve covered the most often encountered issues with the Coleman 550. It is time to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of Coleman 550.
Benefits
- With a 500 cc engine, it has a lot of power thanks to an increase in displacement of 16%.
- Exceptional quickness is available from idle speeds.
- This utility vehicle has all the conveniences you might want.
- These UTVs are affordable options.
- You can trust these on just about any trail surface.
- None of the quads’ owners reported braking issues.
- Each Coleman 550 UTV comes with a one-year warranty. Depending on the dealer, the maximum allowed age could be as high as two years.
Drawbacks
- When the UTV’s rev limit is exceeded, it may experience numerous jolts.
- Having to use the parking brake all the time might get annoying.
- Measuring the equilibrium between suspensions could take some time.
- Air pressure can change along the trail.
Final Thoughts about Coleman 550 UTV problems
A typical UTV with average power and performance is the Coleman 550. This quad is competitively priced and capable, yet there may be some limitations, such as the requirement for independence while handling mechanical concerns.
For the vehicle to operate at its optimum, it is critical to be aware of its limitations and to execute regular maintenance. The Coleman 550 UTV is ultimately up for purchase by the user. You should be able to get the most out of your Coleman 550 UTV now that you understand its most common problems.
FAQs
What qualities does the Coleman 550 UTV possess?
To ensure the comfort and functionality of this UTV, it has a variety of amenities. These include independent suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, a digital dashboard display, and a two-inch hitch receiver. A roof, tilting steering, and adjustable seats protect the car’s occupants from the elements.
How much does the Coleman 550 UTV costs?
The Coleman 550 UTV’s pricing varies depending on the retailer and any relevant special offers. The car’s MSRP was about $8,000 as of 2021.
Why is it difficult to start a car?
A dead battery or a damaged starter motor are the two most typical reasons a Coleman 550 UTV has trouble starting. A dirty spark plug or a blocked fuel filter are some additional probable culprits.
How would I repair the brakes on my Coleman 550 UTV?
A defective master cylinder, worn brake pads, or damaged brake lines can all lead to brake problems in a Coleman 550 UTV. You might need to swap out the broken components or bleed the brake system to solve the issue.
How can I keep my Coleman 550 UTV from having issues?
It’s crucial to do routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections, on your Coleman 550 UTV to avoid issues. Additionally, you should refrain from overloading the car and operating it in hazardous situations. Additionally, always operate and maintain your UTV in