Skid Steer Won’t Drive Forward or Reverse: What to Check First

When your skid steer starts up fine but refuses to move — no forward, no reverse — you’re dealing with a drive system failure that can stem from hydraulics, electronics, or mechanical components. Whether it’s a Bobcat, CAT, Case, or New Holland, this is a common problem across all models and must be addressed methodically to avoid unnecessary part replacements or downtime.

Start with the Basics: Does the Engine Run Normally?

If the engine starts, idles, and revs as expected, that’s a good sign. But no motion? You need to focus on the drive circuit — not the engine or attachments.

Common Reasons a Skid Steer Won’t Move

• Hydraulic lockout engaged: Many machines have a seat sensor, safety switch, or arm bar that disables drive hydraulics if not fully engaged.
• Drive control interlock: Faulty joystick, deadman switch, or park brake sensor can prevent movement.
• Parking brake stuck on: If the solenoid controlling the park brake fails, the machine won’t budge — even under throttle.
• Low or contaminated hydraulic fluid: Starving the hydrostatic pump causes immediate motion failure.
• Hydrostatic pump or motor failure: If either unit seizes or bypasses, the machine won’t move despite full throttle input.
• Broken drive chain or final drive failure: In chain-drive models, a broken chain or damaged sprocket may appear as a complete drive loss.

Diagnostic Checklist

1. Ensure all safety interlocks are satisfied — seatbelt, lap bar, and operator presence switches.
2. Cycle ignition and listen for audible “clicks” from relays and solenoids during startup.
3. Check hydraulic fluid level and condition — foamy or burnt fluid may indicate cavitation or contamination.
4. Inspect parking brake solenoid and test for voltage at activation — no power = no release.
5. Test hydraulic charge pressure and drive pressure at diagnostic ports if available.
6. Jack up the machine and manually rotate wheels or tracks to check for drivetrain seizure or chain failure.

Possible Fixes Based on Diagnosis

• Replace failed seat, lap bar, or brake switches that are preventing hydraulic enable
• Flush and refill hydraulic system with OEM-spec fluid if it’s low, aerated, or burned
• Replace parking brake solenoid if it fails to activate or stays energized continuously
• Inspect and replace broken drive chains, gears, or sprockets if drivetrain is mechanically damaged
• Rebuild or replace hydrostatic pump or drive motors if bypassing or internal damage is confirmed

Preventing Drive Failures

• Keep hydraulic fluid clean, at the right level, and change filters on schedule
• Inspect control switches and interlock wiring regularly
• Operate machine within load and temperature limits to avoid pump overheating
• Listen for early signs like jerky movement, whine under load, or hesitation during travel

Conclusion

A skid steer that won’t drive forward or reverse is a dead machine — but rarely a dead end. From simple switch failures to more complex hydrostatic or mechanical issues, a methodical approach can get you moving again without unnecessary guesswork or part replacements. If in doubt, always test before tearing down.