Generac Generator 1910 Error Code Explained: Meaning, Causes & Fixes

What the 1910 Error Code Means on a Generac Generator

When a Generac standby generator displays the 1910 error code, it means "Overcrank." Simply put, the generator tried and failed to start several times in a row and then automatically shut itself down to avoid damaging the engine. This error is common in both home and business generators – and it's a safety feature designed to protect your equipment.

Why Is the 1910 (Overcrank) Code Displayed?

The generator attempts to start (crank) for a pre-set number of cycles if it senses an outage or is asked to run. If it does not start within these attempts—usually after three tries—it posts the 1910 code and locks itself out. This stops further cranking, which could drain the battery or harm the starter motor.

There could be several reasons why your Generac generator in St Louis or Nashville isn’t starting properly. The most common causes are:

• Low or empty fuel tank – The generator can’t run without fuel (usually natural gas, propane, or diesel).
• Battery issue – If the battery is weak or dead, the starter motor can't turn the engine over fast enough to ignite.
• Faulty spark plug or ignition system – Without a good spark, the air-fuel mixture inside the engine won’t ignite.
• Clogged air or fuel filter – Fuel or air flow can be blocked, preventing the engine from getting what it needs to run.
• Old or stale fuel (especially in portable models or those that use gasoline or diesel).
• Mechanical failures – Problems with parts like the starter motor, fuel solenoids, or sensors can all trigger the overcrank code.
• Low oil or low coolant (on liquid-cooled models) – Some generators won’t allow starting without proper oil or coolant levels because this could quickly damage the engine.

Immediate Steps to Take After a 1910 Error Code

If your Generac generator shows a 1910 code, here are practical actions anyone in St Louis or Nashville can take before calling in a professional:

• Check the generator’s fuel level. If your unit runs on propane, make sure the tank valve is open and there’s enough fuel. For natural gas, check for local outages or supply problems.
• Inspect and test the battery. A weak battery is one of the most common causes. If you have a multimeter, test for at least 12.4 volts. Replace or charge the battery if it’s weak or more than three years old.
• Examine the area around the generator for obvious issues—blocked air intake, debris, or animals nesting inside (especially after long idle periods).
• Try resetting the generator. This involves moving the control switch to “OFF” (wait 30 seconds), back to “AUTO,” then try starting again. Often, this clears false alarms after fuel or battery issues.
• Review your owner’s manual. The troubleshooting section will be tailored to your exact model and may list specific checks or reset processes.

If these steps don’t resolve the problem, it's best not to keep trying to start the generator. Ongoing failed starts can cause further damage. At this stage, professionals who serve St Louis and Nashville can diagnose and safely repair more complex issues.

How Professionals Diagnose and Fix a 1910 Overcrank Issue

When a Generac generator in St Louis or Nashville needs repair for a 1910 error, experts follow careful steps:

• Visual inspection – Checking for loose wires, corroded connectors, damaged fuel lines, or signs of leaks.
• Battery load testing and cable inspection – Ensuring the battery provides full power and is free of corrosion or bad connections.
• Testing fuel pressure and flow – For natural gas or propane units, professionals use special gauges to ensure proper delivery. Low pressure, clogs, or stuck regulators are common culprits.
• Ignition system examination – Removing and checking the spark plug for wear and gap, verifying ignition coil performance, and making sure timing is correct.
• Examining air filters and intake – Replacing dirty or clogged filters that can choke the engine.
• Starter motor and solenoid assessment – Determining if these parts are drawing too much current or not engaging the flywheel correctly.
• Checking for engine codes and reviewing error log – Many newer Generac models allow technicians to pull error histories for more targeted diagnostics.

Once the problem is located, professionals repair or replace faulty parts, clear the code using the control panel, and then test the generator to ensure it starts and runs reliably. After repairs, it’s also common to check for and update any software or firmware associated with the controller panel to prevent recurrence.

Preventing 1910 Errors in the Future

To greatly reduce the chance of a 1910 code on your Generac, regular preventative maintenance is important:

• Operate the generator at least once a week using its automatic exercise cycle, or manually if necessary.
• Check and top off fuel levels and ensure fuel valves and vents are open and unobstructed.
• Replace batteries every 2–3 years, even if they’re still working, to avoid sudden failures.
• Inspect and change spark plugs, air filters, and oil per the manufacturer’s schedule (usually every 1–2 years or 100 hours of operation).
• Have qualified technicians service your generator at least annually, especially before storm season in St Louis or Nashville.

Summary: What to Know About the 1910 Error Code

A 1910 error code on your Generac generator means the engine has attempted to start and failed several times, so the system locked itself out to avoid damage. This is often a warning that there’s a fuel, battery, electrical, or mechanical problem. Homeowners and business owners in St Louis or Nashville can take some simple initial checks—fuel, battery, and reset—before seeking professional help for deeper issues or repairs. Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid overcrank errors and keep your backup power ready when it’s needed most.