In conclusion, the answer to the question at hand is most likely: No, you shouldn’t always leave your cart plugged in when you are not using it. However, depending upon which type of golf cart you have, the proper guidelines from your manufacturer will differ.
Full Answer
What to do if your golf cart is not working?
If your cart is not working, this is the first place to check. Generally, lead acid-based batteries are used for electric golf carts, and you must recharge them regularly so that they function correctly. Make sure to charge and, if needed, clean your batteries properly. Apart from this, golf cart batteries need water added regularly.
How do you drive a golf cart on a course?
If you need to drive the cart quickly around the course (maybe you left a club behind a few holes back, maybe you badly need to find a restroom, etc.), be aware of golfers you are passing by. If a golfer is about to swing or attempt a putt, slow down as you approach and stop the cart until the golfer has completed his or her stroke.
Should you leave your golf cart plugged in during storage?
According to Club Car, you should leave your cart plugged in during storage and let the computer detect when the batteries need a charge. According to E-Z-GO, you can leave your cart charging during storage, but you should consistently check on your power source. And, according to Yamaha, you should remove your batteries from the cart completely.
Can I run my golf cart down to charge the battery?
If you are running to get your mail for 5 minutes every day and throw the charger plug in, you will be doing more harm than running them down a bit more to get more battery discharge before they are recharged. In general, Club Car has manufactured golf carts with two different types of batteries over the last several years.
Should I keep my golf cart plugged in when not in use?
Manufacturers suggest leaving your golf cart plugged in all of the time while using an auto battery charger, as it will keep the batteries fully charged and always available. If batteries are not charged for prolonged storage, they may damage over time and deliver less capacity.
How long will golf cart batteries last when not in use?
They may last anywhere from months, up to 5-7 years under the right circumstances. But when left idly in high temperatures for long periods of time (such as in a hot garage in the summertime) or when left unused for months, it can really take a toll of the lifespan.
How long can a golf cart sit without charging?
An electric golf cart can sit for months without charging if the battery is at about 50% and not exposed to temperatures above 100°F during the storage time. If you leave battery power too high or low while parked, this will damage the battery cells and cause them to wear out sooner.
Should I leave my golf cart?
Caring for your golf cart battery with regular charging is a way to extend its longevity. However, experts advise not to leave your cart unplugged all the time. It is essential for golf cart batteries to undergo a charge-discharge-recharge cycle for durability.
What is the life expectancy of a golf cart?
For example, some experts estimate that the average golf cart has a useful life range of about 5-7 years. That said, golf carts can still be used for 10 years or more depending on how well they are maintained and how much money a buyer wants to put into their vehicle.
How much does it cost to charge a golf cart a month?
The national average is about $0.12 per hour but gets as high as $0.33 and as low as $0.08 per hour. So if you multiply that by the six kilowatts you'll use in your cart, you get a cost of about $0.48 to $1.98 for every time that you charge your cart's battery. That's not a lot of money, even at the highest end.
How often should you water golf cart batteries?
The typical schedule is about once every 30 days, but this may vary by several days depending on your specific situation. When filling the batteries, add just enough water to bring it 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch shy of the indicator ring to prevent overfilling.
How do you keep golf cart batteries charged in the winter?
Find an Indoor Storage Area The best place to store any golf-cart batteries is by looking for a cool and dry area. It shouldn't be cold, such as an exposed area to the elements, but cool. Cool temperatures will slow the battery's discharge rate. You want a slow discharge so that the battery maintains its charge.
How do you store an electric golf cart?
Electric Golf Cart Winter Storage TipsClean the vehicle.Park the vehicle in a covered, dry location.Fully charge the battery.Disconnect battery cables.Check the tire pressure.Turn the key switch to the OFF position and remove the key.Turn the power switch under the seat to the TOW position.
Can a golf cart be left outside?
Yes, golf carts can be left outside for both short- and long-term periods, though this does end up shortening their life if you choose to do so.
Can you leave a golf cart outside in the winter?
Golf carts can be stored outside for shorter and even longer periods. But one thing comes under consideration while keeping them outside and without any protection, i.e., they can quickly wear out. Golf carts left outside for weeks can cause severe exterior and surface damage and even sometimes become immovable.
How do you store golf cart in garage?
7 Tips for Long-Term Golf Cart StorageStep 1: Fully Charge the Battery. The typical golf cart is run by a 6-volt battery. ... Step 2: Disconnect the Battery. ... Step 3: Refill Water Level. ... Step 4: Secure the Cart. ... Step 5: Take Care of The Tires. ... Step 6: Make Sure it's Clean. ... Step 7: Store it in a Secure Place.
Confusion Among Golf Cart Owners
At present, there are three major manufacturers of golf carts: Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha, and it comes off that most of the confusion surrounding the issue at hand is their difference of instruction. It can become confusing for many when each of these three prominent golf cart companies gives opposing instructions.
Why Should You Leave a Golf Cart plugged in?
Manufacturers suggest leaving your golf cart plugged in all of the time while using an auto battery charger, as it will keep the batteries fully charged and always available. If batteries are not charged for prolonged storage, they may damage over time and deliver less capacity.
Conclusion
A crucial point to remember is that a golf cart battery is built to discharge and recharge. Retaining a persistent state of full charge is not adequate for your overall battery performance. Enabling the battery to lose its charge before plugging it up again boosts its operational stability, resulting in optimal functioning for much longer.
Why won't my golf cart start?
Like any other electric vehicle, the batteries are mainly at the root of why your cart won't start. After all, they are the primary source of power for your electric golf cart. If your cart is not working, this is the first place to check. Generally, lead acid-based batteries are used for electric golf carts, and you must recharge them regularly so that they function correctly.
What is a direction switch on a golf cart?
The direction switch or forward/reverse switch controls whether the golf cart moves forward or backward. This switch is one of the most used parts in a golf cart, which means it will be subject to wear and tear. You'll find what the issue is if the switch is acting up. There is a big chance that it will need to be replaced. Again, it's best to choose a mechanic for repair.
What are the rules for driving a golf cart?
We'll go over the variations of golf cart rules you might see posted at your local golf courses, but first, here are a couple reminders of things you should never do in a golf cart: 1 Never drive the cart within hazard boundary lines, or within about 10 yards of water hazards or bunkers, or within about 50 yards of greens (unless you're on a designated cart path, of course). These areas are especially susceptible to damage by the wheels of golf carts. Never drive onto or close to tee boxes, either, unless on the cart path. 2 Never drive the cart through mud, on or off the fairway. 3 Never drive through casual water on any part of the golf course (unless it's a little bit of water over a paved cart path). The wheels of the cart can do serious damage to the turf, including leaving ruts, in wet areas. 4 Never go joyriding in the golf cart. In other words, don't act stupid! People do get injured in cart accidents. See golf cart safety for specific suggestions.
How to be courteous when putting a golf cart in reverse?
Along the same lines, many golf carts beep when they are in reverse. So if you need to put the cart in reverse, be aware of any golfers close to you and whether they are about to begin a stroke.
What is the 90 degree rule for golf carts?
The " 90-degree rule " means that the golf course is allowing carts onto the grass -- but only at 90-degree angles from the cart path.
What does "don't take the cart beyond this point on the fairway" mean?
The meaning is the same: Don't take the cart beyond this point on the fairway; go back to the cart path. These are the signs golfers are most likely to see on a golf course regarding cart usage. Observe the signs - and don't forget to ask about golf cart rules when you check in.
What is cart path only?
A " cart-path-only rule " is exactly what it sounds like: Keep your golf cart on the designated cart path at all times. Don't drive onto the grass. Over time, golf carts speed up soil compaction, which can lead to less-than-ideal growing conditions for turfgrasses.
How far from greens can you drive a golf cart?
Never drive the cart within hazard boundary lines, or within about 10 yards of water hazards or bunkers, or within about 50 yards of greens (unless you're on a designated cart path, of course). These areas are especially susceptible to damage by the wheels of golf carts. Never drive onto or close to tee boxes, either, unless on the cart path.
When will Brent Kelley update his golf cart rules?
Brent Kelley. Updated December 03, 2019. After paying your greens fee and cart fee, but before you clamber into that golf cart and speed off to the first tee, make sure you know what the course's cart rules are.
Do E-Z-Go Golf Carts have titles?
E-Z-Go Golf Carts, unlike vehicles, do not have a title, but they do have serial numbers. If you are buying a golf cart, it is essential to check the serial number to ensure you do not buy a stolen one. Each E-Z-Go Golf cart has a unique serial number that you can use to identify your golf cart.
Where is the E-Z-Go Cart Serial Number
As mentioned above, all E-Z-Go Golf carts have unique serial numbers. These numbers are essential when buying replacement parts for your golf cart. Textron Specialized Vehicles has been building golf carts for a long time, and the serial numbers are placed on different parts of the golf carts.
How do I push my E-Z-Go Golf Cart?
It can be frustrating when your battery is flat and your golf cart will not roll. To push it to the nearest charging or gas station, you need to release the motor brake. Follow these easy steps to do that.
Why does my E-Z-Go golf cart not move
There are several reasons why your cart refuses to move, but you should check the battery before anything else. If the battery is charged, here are some other reasons why your golf cart will not move.
Are all E-Z-Go Golf carts electric?
No, there are both electric and gas-powered E-Z-Go Golf carts available. Bear in mind that there are several models you can drive on the street, but those are all-electric. These electric models run on batteries that you have to charge at least every 24 hours, depending on how much you use them.
How to tell the Assembly year of my E-Z-Go golf cart
The placement of serial numbers is discussed above, and you will find the manufacturer’s number right next to it. The manufacturer’s number consists of one letter and 3 or 4 numbers. The last two numbers indicate the last two digits of the year of assembly.
How to service E-Z-Go Golf Cart
Like all vehicles, E-Z-Go golf carts require regular maintenance to enhance longevity and performance. You should ensure that your golf cart is serviced after every six months of use. That will ensure that you spot problems and repair them early, which will help reduce repair costs. Here are essential guidelines for E-Z-Go golf cart maintenance.
Step 2. Unplug your golf cart charger from your golf cart
If your charger is currently plugged in to your golf cart. Unplug the charger from the golf cart.
Step 3. Check AC power from wall outlet
Starting the troubleshooting process begins with checking the simplest to correct stages of the charging process first. In this case, we’ll begin by checking the AC power from your wall outlet to the golf cart charger.
Step 4. Check the reset switch on charger (if applicable)
After you’ve confirmed that your wall outlet is energized and providing proper power, quickly check if your golf car charger has a reset switch.
Step 5. Confirm charger is properly plugged into golf cart
After unplugging your charger from the golf cart and making sure your outlet is providing power, wait at least 20 seconds before plugging the charger back into the golf car. This is particularly important for Club Car vehicles equipped with an on-board computer (OBC).
Step 6. Check Battery pack voltage
The most common reason a golf cart isn’t charging has to do with an issue with the battery pack, battery cables, or a single battery. Well run through how to check for each issue.
Step 7. Test the charging receptacle
If your golf car battery pack is within the ranges above, but your golf car is still not charging with the golf cart charger, you may have an issue with your charging receptacle on the golf car.
Step 8. Test On-board Computer (Club Car only)
At this point, there are only a couple of components left that could be preventing your golf cart from charging. On Club Cars only, one component is the on-board computer, or OBC. This component is involved in the charging system on your 48V Club Car on troubleshooting this component will be discussed in a separate article.
How to reduce golf cart issues?
However, the best way to reduce your chances of golf cart issues, later on, is by performing regular preventative maintenance. With preventative maintenance, you can extend the life of your golf cart and potentially save money in the long run.
Why won't my electric golf cart start?
As the main source of power to your electric golf cart, the batteries are commonly the cause for why your electric golf cart won’t start. Acid-based batteries are typically used for electric golf carts and must be recharged in order to work properly.
What is the best way to check if a golf cart battery is charging?
A Battery Hydrometer: A battery hydrometer measures the specific gravity of the electrolyte solution and can indicate whether or not your batteries are charging correctly. This method is inexpensive and reliable, making it a popular choice for golf cart owners.
Why does my golf cart make a clicking noise?
The solenoid is a critical component of your golf cart because it is the main switch that connects the current from the battery to the traction motor. That clicking noise that you hear when you press the gas pedal is the solenoid.
How to test golf cart batteries?
Another method to test your batteries is by using a load tester. Battery load testers can come in a variety of different price ranges. They give golf cart owners the ability to monitor their battery’s voltage to see how much the volt drops during testing, which indicates the health of the batteries.
How to check if a battery is charged?
Make sure your batteries are fully charged, first, and then check for the following: 1 Any cracks or dirt in the batteries. 2 The water-electrolyte levels (on a weekly basis). If the water runs too low, it can shorten the life of your batteries. Overfilling can also result in a loss of electrolytes. 3 Look for signs of corrosion on your connectors and ensure that they are tight. 4 Dirt and other debris can affect the performance of your batteries. Clean them regularly with a bristle brush, water, and baking soda, but take care not to get any of the electrical components wet.
What to check before checking batteries?
Make sure your batteries are fully charged, first, and then check for the following: Any cracks or dirt in the batteries. The water-electrolyte levels (on a weekly basis).
Can you turn off the radio on a golf cart?
Any lights, radio, or electric components in your cart should always be turned off when you stop using it. Leaving the radio or lights running on an idle golf cart can run down the battery incredibly quickly. In the case of a gasoline-powered golf cart, you may end up having to jump-start the cart to get it working again if this happens.
Can you use an automatic battery charger when it is fully charged?
It's important to make sure you're using an automatic battery charger that will stop being active as soon as the battery is fully charged. We've had clients come in with what they felt were "bad" batteries, only to have to explain to them that the battery had simply been damaged by being overcharged too many times.
Can you drive a golf cart up steep hills?
Forcing your golf cart up very steep hills or to go longer distances than it is made for will run the battery down and could leave you stranded. Just keep a careful eye on distance traveled and consider using a truck or trailer when transporting your golf cart longer distances.
Should golf cart batteries be charged?
Another common issue is golf cart owners who think that golf cart batteries should only be charged when they've become very low. If you drive your golf cart that day? Charge the battery. Letting golf cart batteries run down until near-empty or totally dead will damage them over time just as much as overcharging them.
Mario Good Times
My course charges an annual path fee if you have you’re own cart. They told me it is to help them cover their insurance premium, as they have more liability if customers use personal carts. I can see
Carolina Golfer 2
Liability insurance only covers course owned carts. If you were to injure yourself or someone else in your cart or scooter, they could be sued.
Cwing
2) Revenue. In my opinion carts are way over priced. How is I can rent a cart for $16 and ride solo yet when a second person is joining the rate goes to $32 ($16 p/person). That stated, the price they charge must include liability, fuel, cart repairs and maintenance, cart path maintenance and upkeep.
Carolina Golfer 2
Wrong, if that was the case, courses could charge a trail or usage fee. Some courses such as ours don't have a cart fee or a walking only feel. It's just a greens fee, cart included.
davep043
Improved pace of play can't make up for revenue lost. Pace of play won't pay the attorney fees for a negligence lawsuit for a golfer-owned "vehicle". Another factor, the course likely cannot reduce their cart fleet no matter how many people bring their personal vehicles, they need a minimum number to handle events and outings.
Carolina Golfer 2
All great points, and while this doesn't apply directly to personal carts/scooters. Having the single cart riders not only costs the courses more in operations--gas, maintenance, cleaning, labor, etc. It take a much harder toll on the course as well, having 16 tire tracks all over each fairway as opposed to 8.
davep043
I agree, the COVID stuff puts a different slant on a lot of issues, but we all hope it won't last forever. On the other hand, there ARE many clubs with long-standing policies banning personal vehicle use on the course.
