CFMoto is a worldwide powersports brand which also produces ATVs, such as the CFMoto CForce 800. Unfortunately, this model suffers from several issues that affect the driving experience, but that does not detract from the fact that it is a good vehicle. Every vehicle has its problems, including the CForce 800.
In this blog, we’ve outlined all the most important things you should watch for when you’re in the market for a CFMoto CForce 800. In the rest of the article, we’ll discuss every single problem in detail. Furthermore, we’ll tell you how to identify it and fix. Read on!
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1. Overheating
An overheating problem is never fun, as it means you have to stop driving to avoid damage to the vehicle. The CForce 800 has a number of overheating issues, some of which are easily resolved with regular maintenance and some are difficult to fix. We start with the first cause of overheating.
Low coolant level
The first thing you think of when you have overheating problems is the coolant. If the coolant level is low, the engine is cooled less. The coolant level can be topped up with coolant. Check the coolant level regularly now, if this drops, then there is probably a leak. This could be a leak in the radiator, water pump or head gasket.
A user shared:
“Check the coolant level in the reservoir and top up if necessary. Also check for any leaks in the cooling system, including the radiator, hoses and water pump.”
You can do this yourself by looking around the cooling system where there are wet spots. Once found, you will have to replace parts, especially if it concerns the water pump.
Clogged Radiator
Dirt, debris and other contaminants can build up in the radiator, restricting airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. This problem is more common when you drive your ATV through rough, sandy and muddy terrain. And this will certainly happen because you probably bought an ATV for that.
A rider explains how he handled the problem:
“Check the radiator for signs of clogging or damage. If it’s clogged, you can try flushing it with a garden hose or pressure washer. Make sure to flush it from both sides to remove any debris.”
Faulty Thermostat
The CForce 800 is also equipped with a thermostat to monitor the temperature of the engine. If the problem is not with the clogged radiator or coolant system, it could be the thermostat.
The thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the engine, and if it is not functioning correctly, it may not allow enough coolant to flow through the system, which can lead to overheating.
Also read: Is CFMOTO a Good Brand? Everything You Need To Know!
Locate the thermostat and check that all connections are clean and tight. If this is the case, then the thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced with a new one.
Electrical Issues
As a final cause of overheating, it could be an electrical problem, such as a faulty fan or sensor. The fan helps cool the engine by blowing air over the radiator.
An owner gives a number of tips on how to tackle this problem:
“Check the fan and wiring for signs of damage or wear. You can also test the fan by running wires directly to the battery and seeing if it spins. If the fan isn’t working properly, it may need to be replaced”.
Check the temperature sensor, and its wiring, for signs of damage or wear. You can also test the sensor with a multimeter to see if it is sending the correct signals. If the sensor is defective, it must be replaced.
2. Starting Problems
Engine starting problems are never fun and even frustrating if not resolved quickly. It means that you cannot drive your ATV. The following 4 problems can cause starting problems.
Empty battery
A weak battery or an empty battery is one of the causes of starting problems. If the battery is not supplying enough power, the engine may not start or have difficulty turning over.
Check the battery voltage with a multimeter. If it is below 12 volts, the battery cannot provide enough power to start and keep the engine going. You can charge the battery, but if it is an older battery, I recommend that you replace it with a new one.
When you check the battery, also check the battery connections and wiring for signs of damage or corrosion.
Defective starter motor
Another cause of the starting problem can be a faulty starter motor. If the starter motor does not operate correctly, the engine may not turn over, or it may turn over slowly.
If the starter motor is the problem, there is only one thing you can do yourself. If this does not work, you will have to replace the starter motor.
Also read: All CFMoto CForce Top Speeds & how to boost the engine!
You can try tapping the starter motor lightly with a hammer while someone is trying to start the engine. If the engine starts, it is a sign that the starter motor is faulty and needs to be replaced.
When you turn the key and the starter motor just turns, you have to look further, then the starter motor is not the problem.
Clogged air filter
A clogged air filter can also cause CForce 800 starting problems. Dust, dirt and other contaminants cannot enter the engine because of the air filter. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will not get enough oxygen, and it will not start.
In this case, it is best to check the air filter and replace it if necessary. Also check the air filter housing and ducting for any signs of damage or wear.
If the air filter is clogged, it must be cleaned or replaced with a new one. The replacement cost is only a few dollars.
Also read: 9 × CFMoto Starting Problems and how to Fix it!
Problems with the fuel system
The fuel system can also be the cause of the engine not starting. Always make sure there is enough fuel in the tank. Additionally, use a fuel with the correct octane rating as specified by the manufacturer.
Also, use only good quality and clean fuel, this prevents damage to the vehicle.
You can also:
- Check the fuel filter and replace it if necessary.
- Check the fuel lines and connections for signs of damage or wear.
3. EVAP Problems
EVAP issues Evap problems can be a source of frustration for many ATV drivers. The Evap system captures and controls fuel vapors released from the fuel tank. There are a variety of problems that can be caused by this system, including engine performance issues and failed emissions tests.
Faulty Fuel Cap
A faulty fuel cap is a common cause of Evap problems. A bad fuel cap can cause the Evap system to fail, leading to a Check Engine Light (CEL) and engine performance issues.
One owner gave the following advice:
“Check the fuel cap and make sure it is tight and not damaged. You can also try replacing the fuel cap with a new one to see if that resolves the problem.”
If the fuel tank cap is loose or damaged, it must be replaced with a new one.
Blocked Fuel Vapor Lines
Blocked fuel vapor lines can also cause CForce 800 Evap problems. The Fuel Vapor Lines carry fuel vapors from the fuel tank to the Evap canister. If these lines become clogged, the Evap system may fail, which could lead to a CEL and engine performance issues.
The fuel vapor lines should be checked for signs of damage or wear. You can also try blowing compressed air through the lines to get rid of any blockage.
If the fuel vapor lines are damaged or clogged, they must be replaced with new ones.
Faulty Evaporator Canister
A faulty Evap bus can also cause CFMoto CForce 800 Evap problems. Evap canister captures fuel vapors and stores them until they can be burned into the engine. The Evap system can fail if the bus fails, which can lead to a CEL and engine performance issues.
You may want to test the Evap canister with a vacuum gauge to see if it holds pressure. If it fails to hold pressure, it should be replaced with a new one.
It is necessary to replace the Evap canister if it is defective.
4. Power Steering Problems
The power steering system makes steering easier. Less force is required and steering is much more direct. When the power steering fails, you notice this immediately because the steering is very heavy and very difficult. This can lead to a dangerous situation.
CFMoto has acknowledged the problems with the CForce 800s power steering, and they have recalled the ATV twice because of this issue.
Recall #18V229000:
In April 2018, CFMoto issued a recall for certain CForce 800 vehicles from model years 2016-2018 due to a defect in the power steering system. There was a lack of thermal protection for the power steering motor, which could cause it to overheat and fail suddenly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “If the power steering motor fails, it can increase the risk of a crash.”
According to the recall, approximately 5,300 units were affected and required thermal protection devices to be installed in the power steering system. CFMoto dealers were told to replace the power steering motor assembly with a new one that had a thermal protection device for free.
Recall #21V121000:
In March 2021, CFMoto issued another recall for certain CForce 800 vehicles from model years 2019-2020 due to a potential defect in the power steering system. The defect was a loose power steering wire that could cause the power steering to fail suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “if the power steering fails, it could increase the risk of a crash.”
There were approximately 4,800 units affected by the recall and the inspection and repositioning of the power steering wire. For no cost to the owner, CFMoto dealers were instructed to inspect and reposition the power steering wire and install a new wire guide
5. Exhaust Heat Problems
It is a common problem, excessive heat from the exhaust, and the discomfort this causes for the rider.
The exhaust system on the CFMoto CForce 800 is close to the rider’s leg, which can cause too much heat to be radiated to the rider or passenger. This heat can cause discomfort or even cause burns to the rider or passengers. Some owners have also said that the heat can make the plastic parts near the exhaust melt or warp over time.
One possible solution is aftermarket exhaust heat shields. These shields are designed to keep heat away from the rider or passenger, making the ride more comfortable.
Another solution is modified exhaust systems that divert the exhaust away from the rider’s legs. It may be more expensive, but it can also result in a significant reduction in exhaust heat.
6. Noise Problems
A loud noise from your ATV is a reason to be worried. This could be the start of a major problem. However, it can also be something small, such as a loose bolt or screw.
The problem becomes serious when the noise comes from the engine or transmission. Immediately stop driving and investigate to determine the location of the noise, so you can identify the problem.
The sound can range from a clicking or rattling sound to a grinding or whining sound.
Several factors could be responsible for the noise, including worn or damaged parts, loose bolts or screws, or poor engine or transmission lubrication.
There are several actions you can take to deal with the problem of excessive noise:
- Check and tighten all bolts and screws.
It is possible that loose bolts or screws will cause rattling or clicking noises. Check and tighten all bolts and screws to eliminate this noise source. - Replacing worn or damaged parts.
Parts that are worn or damaged can make grinding or whining sounds. You can eliminate the source of the noise by replacing these components and ensure that the vehicle runs smoothly. - Ensure proper lubrication.
Engine or transmission lubrication that is not properly maintained can cause excessive noise. By lubricating the engine and transmission, you can reduce the amount of noise generated by the vehicle.
To prevent sound issues from happening in the first place, you can take the following steps:
- Regular maintenance.
Regular vehicle maintenance can prevent wear and tear on parts that can lead to noise pollution by ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained. - Proper lubrication.
Ensure that the engine and transmission are properly lubricated to prevent excessive noise. - Drive Safely.
By driving the vehicle safely, you can reduce the risk of noise pollution.
See the next video if you are keen to know more about a beeping noise, it is the RPM limiter alarm.
7. Braking Problems
Brake problems can be a serious safety issue for any vehicle, including the CFMoto CForce 800. These problems make you feel unsafe because you are not braking your ATV as it should. This can cause unsafe and dangerous situations, especially when driving fast.
If your brakes are squealing or making grinding noises, the first step is to check the pads and replace them if they are worn. When the brake pads are worn, metal is exposed. This metal rubs against the discs and this causes the sharp squealing sound.
One owner said:
“I replaced the OEM rotors and pads with EBC rotors and pads. What a difference! The brakes are much more responsive and grippy, and I don’t have any of the noise I had before.”
The squealing of the brakes is actually a signal that the brake pads need to be replaced. This is something you can easily do yourself.
If the brakes feel soft or spongy, there is likely air in the brake system. To bleed the brake lines and remove all air, you can go through the following steps.
- Find the brake bleeder valve on the caliper
- Use a clear plastic hose to connect the bleeder valve.
- Place the other end of the hose in a container filled with brake fluid.
- Have a friend press the brake pedal slowly a few times and then hold it down for a while.
- Open the air purge valve to get rid of any air bubbles.
- Close the bleeder valve and have your friend release the brake pedal.
- Repeat steps 4-6 until no more air bubbles come out of the tubing.
It is also important to use the correct type of brake fluid as specified in the owner’s manual. In addition, it is also important to address any brake problems immediately, as they can greatly affect the safety of the ATV and passengers.
8. Oil Pressure Problems
The last problem we need to discuss here is low oil pressure. This can cause damage to the engine, resulting in costly repairs.
To solve this problem, it is important to find out the cause. The first step is to check the oil level and oil filter. If the oil level is low or the oil filter is clogged, you can easily fix these problems by adding oil or replacing the filter. But if these parts aren’t the problem, there may be a problem with the oil pump.
A replacement oil pump can be a more complicated job that may need professional help. A user says:
“I had low oil pressure on my CForce 800, and it turned out to be a bad oil pump. I took it to a local ATV shop and they replaced the oil pump. It wasn’t cheap, but it solved the problem.”
Also, regular oil changes and maintenance can help prevent low oil pressure problems.
CFMoto recommends changing the oil every 50 hours of operation or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Additionally, it is important to use the recommended type of oil and keep the oil level within the recommended range.
