5 Common Cub Cadet Challenger 550 Problems and Solutions

Cub Cadet is probably familiar to you as a lawn care equipment brand. But they have been producing UTV vehicles since 1960 and they are doing great at that. The Cub Cadet Challenger 550 came to market in 2017 and has been a popular UTV vehicle. Their UTVs are regarded as being well-built, durable, stable, and extremely comfortable. However, there are some drawbacks reported by users as well which can be easily fixed with a little knowledge.

In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know, regardless of whether you are buying a new Cub Cadet Challenger 550 or are an existing Cub Cadet Challenger 550 owner with problems and seeking solutions.

5 Common Cub Cadet Challenger 550 Problems

  1. Problems With Starting
  2. Can Produce Low Power for Some Purposes
  3. Often Problems with the Shifting
  4. Engine Has a Tendency to Shut Down
  5. Problems With Steering

Cub Cadet Challenger 550 Problems and their Solutions

A UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) is built and used primarily for heavy-duty work. They are mainly used for hauling equipment to places where vans and trucks can not reach. Because of rough use, every UTV vehicle is bound to have problems after usage, especially if not well maintained. Most of the Cub Cadet Challenger 550’s problems occur due to poor maintenance. That is why we are going to introduce you with the common problems and give you solutions accordingly.

1. Problems With Starting

Starting problems are a very common problem for any vehicle including Cub Cadet Challenger 550. It is very likely to happen when the temperature is too low. The fuel can dry up so the engine does not start.

Solution

As the starting problem occurs because of dried fuel and cold weather, you can use starting fluid to start your Cub cadet UTV which will get rid of the problem.

2. Can Produce Low Power For Some Purposes

The UTVs are used as the alternative for trucks which means it is expected to do heavy duty work. So, many people tend to use it for off road purposes and to cross rough terrains  Cub Cadet Challenger 550 goes 50 miles per hour and this is not enough power for users like that. For them it is not enough power.

Solution

The easy solution for this problem can be said as Challenger 550 is not made for racing, so do not race with it or try to cross really rough terrain at high speed. In that case you will get nothing but disappointment.

3. Often Problems with the Shifting

If you hear a loud grinding sound when you move forward or reverse, then this might be the indication of shifting problems with your Cub Cadet Challenger 550. Problems with shifting can result in many dangerous accidents. It is likely that the ECM in your UTV is failing to function properly, which could cause your automatic transmission to not shift smoothly. This problem mainly occurs in transmissions due to rusting.

Solution

When you encounter shifting problems with your Cub Cadet, you can troubleshoot the issue and replace rusted internal parts. Maintaining your Challenger 550 regularly will help you avoid shifting problems in the future.

4. Engine Has A Tendency to Shut Down

Sometimes you might face the engine to shut down in the middle of your off road rides. This problem can be shocking and frustrating especially if it happens with zero warning. It might happen even when you have enough fuel in the engine.

Solution

It is possible to avoid the sudden stopping problem by checking the manual. If you had checked the manual you should know that they mention replacing the old air filter regularly or cleaning it when it gets dirty.

5. Problems With Steering

Most users expect a light steering on their UTV. But, Cub Cadet Challenger 550 comes with heavy steering. This creates a problem for the users as they feel it hard to drive and turn. It takes up a lot more energy than regular UTVs. So, here many users get discouraged by Cub Cadet. And even if they buy it, they end up being very disappointed.

Solution

Unfortunately, there is no solution to the steering problem of Challenger 550. Getting used to the steering could be the solution to the problem. If heavy steering is a serious issue for you then, you should reconsider purchasing this UTV by Cub Cadet.

Final Words

Cub Cadet is a very renowned brand and they offer long warranty so there is high reliability of Cub Cadet Challenger 550. Although it has some drawbacks, the reliability and durability and other characteristics make it an excellent UVC altogether. However, if you are bothered by the shortcoming, you are welcome to not buy it.

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