The Kawasaki Mule Pro FX-T is a reliable workhorse with a focus on capability. Thanks to its high towing and cargo hauling capacity, the Mule Pro FX-T is for work more than comfort. Available with lots of cargo space, you can use the UTV to haul equipment and supplies. In fact, they are perfect for delivering supplies to locations impossible for trucks to access.
Despite their dependability, they have some common problems.
Want to learn more about Kawasaki Mule Pro FX-T problems?
Read on.
What is a Mule Pro FX-T?
The Mule Pro FX-T is a full-size side-by-side available in two trims – Pro-FX and FX-T. The Pro FX-T is a three-seater while the FX-T comes with a Trans Cab system. As such, you can convert from a three-seater to a six-seater.
Both versions use Kawasaki’s 812 cc inline three-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission. The engine has dual overhead camshafts, gearing, and liquid cooling that allow it to deliver seamless torque. Not only that, the UTV can top speeds of around 50 MPH.
The Mule Pro FX-T and FX-T are designed for cargo hauling and not for their handling prowess. In fact, the Pro FX-T features a cargo bed with the following measurements – 54.1 inches long by 53.3 inches by 11 inches high and can carry up to 999 pounds. The FX-T also has a cargo bed measuring 42.7 by 53.7 by 11.0 inches for the three-seaters and 22.0 by 53.7 by 11.0 inches for the six-seater.
Thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the UTV can avoid rocks and other obstacles at the work site. In addition, the double wishbone suspension will transmit undulations and bumps into the cabin. This is unlike other complex suspension systems.
7 Common Problems With Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT
The following are some of the common problems with Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT.
1. Overheating
The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT is one of the hottest UTVs on the market. However, the UTV has a dangerous heat problem. Several users reported that the exhaust, throttle body, and engine produce excessive heat.
Not only do the high temperatures make it uncomfortable when driving or riding the UTV. But they can affect and even damage the UTV’s performance. For example, when things become too hot, the heat can warp several components causing untold damage to the UTV.
In fact, the heat can melt several components so you’ll need a new engine for the UTV. The heat will also melt plastic pieces and deform them. Luckily, users can buy a heat shield that protects devices from high temperatures.
2. Problems With the Fuel System
Another problem that Mule Pro FX-T will encounter is with the fuel system. One of the most complaints about the fuel system is low power. Because of this problem, UTV users have been going under 15 MPH.
If you start experiencing power loss as you go up hills or when accelerating, the issue could be the fuel lines are either damaged or clogged. The UTV comes with a fuel filter between the engine and the fuel tank. Its purpose is to remove impurities from the fuel. Over time, the fuel filter becomes clogged with debris and dirt. Clogged or damaged fuel lines can make your engine stall or run rough. It can also make your UTV have poor gas mileage. To resolve this issue, take your UTV to a mechanic for inspection.
3. Steering Issues
Kawasaki recalled previous models due to a steering defect. This is usually caused by excessive wear on the steering shaft. When this happens, excessive wear leads to a loss of steering control. This poses a crash hazard and can result in an accident and serious injuries.
The wear and tear is a design and structural fault. To resolve this issue, we recommend giving a professional mechanic a visit. The mechanic will inspect, then carry out repairs or replace damaged parts. This will ensure that your UTV regains its steering capabilities.
4. ECU Problems
You may be planning to haul firewood one morning but when you try to start your UTV, it fails. In fact, some UTVs will start and shut off automatically. This automatic shutoff happens either when riding the UTV or immediately.
The cause of this problem is a faulty Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The ECU is a computer that acts as the brain of the UTV. This computer collects data and information from a couple of sensors in the engine.
Depending on the collected data and information, the ECU controls the engine’s output and performance. If the ECU becomes faulty, it will limit the performance of your UTV’s engine. As such, it won’t start.
5. Radiator issues
The radiator in your UTV helps to keep the engine cool. As you ride your UTV, the engine starts to produce a lot of heat. If your radiator is faulty or damaged, then it will not dissipate the heat as required. As such, your engine will overheat and seize up.
Due to the design of UTVs, debris, branches, and tree limbs can damage the radiator. When this happens, the radiator will be unable to work efficiently. If your radiator is not working, visit a professional mechanic to repair or replace the radiator and your engine will not overheat.
6. Idling issues
When you give your Pro FX-T gas, it will run like new but when you let off the gas pedal, the UTV will start to idle. When this happens, you may experience constant sputtering and the engine may even die at idle. This seems to be a common problem among other UTVs besides the Pro FX-T.
One reason why your UTV is idling is due to a buildup of carbon deposits inside the throttle body. The good news is you can alleviate this issue by cleaning the throttle body. Besides cleaning, you can change the spark plugs and fuel filter as they can cause idling too.
7. Brakes Squealing
Your brakes may screech or squeal when you apply brakes to slow down or come to a stop. The reason why the brakes screech or squeal is that they are out of shape. To ensure the brakes do not squeal or screech, replace them with new ones. Remember, if you added aftermarket tires to your UTV, look for brake pads designed to handle large-size tires. This will ensure that your brake pads do not wear out fast.
General Pros And Cons Of Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT
Pros
- Can carry three to six passengers
- Has a powerful engine
- Designed for hauling cargo
- It comes with double wishbone suspensions that ensure smooth travel
- Ideal for cargo hauling
Cons
- Engine problems
- Overheating issues
- Brakes may fail after 200 hours of use
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast will a Kawasaki Mule Pro FX-T go?
The Kawasaki Mule Pro FX-T can reach a maximum speed of 50 MPH.
What are the different models of Kawasaki Mule?
There are two models of Kawasaki Mule – Pro FX and FXT. The Pro-FX comes in three different trims while the FX-T comes in six different trims.
Who makes the Kawasaki Mule Pro engine?
The Kawasaki manufacturing plant in Lincoln, Nebraska makes the Kawasaki Mule Pro engine.
Are Kawasaki Mules good for trail riding?
Yes, the Kawasaki Mule is good for trail riding thanks to its high ground clearance and double-wishbone suspensions.
Final Words
The majority of the problems above are completely out of Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX owners’ control. However, you can address the problems above with regular maintenance and careful riding of the UTV. By doing so, the UTV will give you a long service and save you a lot of money.