Things to Know Before Buying a New or Used Golf Cart
- Figure Out What Its Main Purpose Will be. The first thing you should figure out is your goals for the golf cart. If...
- Decide Between Gas and Electric You’ll also want to figure out if you want a gas or electric golf cart. Gas golf...
- You Won’t be Traveling Far or Fast. Whether you choose a gas or electric...
Full Answer
Should you buy a used golf cart?
Nov 28, 2018 · Both gas and electric carts can be made street legal, a plus for the many golfers who live in a gated community or who like to take their cart to a nearby shopping center or clubhouse. Street legal carts require a windshield, headlights and taillights, turn signals, seat belts and a valid license plate.
What should you look for when buying an electric golf cart?
Apr 10, 2017 · Therefore, if you are going to buy a golf cart to sit six or more, make sure it has proper suspension, seat belts, power system, and braking system. 2 3. Verify Golf Cart Laws based on Fed- eral, State, and Local Ordinances Not every community allows Golf Carts to be used. Some do not even allow Gas Golf Carts to be used.
How can I tell how old my golf cart is?
Feb 01, 2022 · Things to Know Before Buying a New or Used Golf Cart 1. Figure Out What Its Main Purpose Will be. The first thing you should figure out is your goals for the golf cart. If... 2. Decide Between Gas and Electric You’ll also want to figure out if …
What is the difference between a golf cart and a car?
If you’re buying an electric golf cart, you’ll want to know how old the batteries are and whether they were cared for. Also, whether the golf cart was stored well. Looking into the previous ownership is highly recommended as well. Inspect a used cart thoroughly or take someone with you that knows about golf carts to take a look for you.
What should I know before buying a golf cart?
10 Things to Look for When You Buy Used Golf CartsIs the Golf Cart New or Refurbished? ... How Old Is the Golf Cart? ... Is It a Gas or Electric Golf Cart? ... If Electric, Are the Batteries in Good Condition? ... Are the Tires in Good Shape? ... How Does the Golf Cart Run? ... Who Is the Manufacturer? ... Is the Cart Itself Damaged?More items...•Jul 30, 2018
What is high mileage for a golf cart?
An average electric golf cart with a 48-volt system can go for 40 miles on a single charge up to 80 miles if driving through flat and level surfaces.Dec 26, 2017
When's the best time to buy a golf cart?
The biggest advantage to buying used golf carts in the spring is that you will have the first pick of the refurbished trade-ins. You might find one in the right color that has just the accessories you want; if not, you will have time to get your new golf car decked out as you want it.
Is a golf cart a good investment?
Many first-time buyers are surprised by the price of golf carts relative to more mainstream vehicles. Golf carts are not cheap! All the more reason to do your due diligence to help increase the chances that the cart you get will end up being a good investment for your money and lifestyle.Mar 19, 2021
Is a golf cart a waste of money?
Golf carts are only a good investment if you use the cart regularly. Renting a golf cart typically costs $25-$100 daily. Buying a cart costs between $1,600-$11,000 depending on the cart's age, condition, and make. If you only need a cart every few months, rent a golf cart.
Do gas or electric golf carts last longer?
Reliability: Both carts are very reliable, but newer electrics do generally last longer than gas. On an electric cart, there are fewer parts and therefore fewer parts to go bad. with a gas cart, you have clutches, carb, fuel pump, belts, valves, starter and more.
How long will a 48v golf cart run?
How Long Will a 48 Volt Golf Cart Run? A 48 volt golf cart, depending on its amperage can go from 12 miles to 35 miles.
How long do golf carts last?
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.
Do golf carts hold their value?
Essentially, the golf cart market is flexible, and it allows owners to flip their old cart for a new one without affecting their bank. A product that is accepted by the majority in a market will hold its value because there will always be someone interested in buying what you have.
Why should you get a golf cart?
Go, Hunting, Golf and hunting seem like different activities, but golf carts come in handy for hunters. They're quiet to drive, so you don't have to worry about accidentally scaring off any prey. They fit into those small spaces that cars can't, with enough cargo space to still bring the tools you need.Oct 11, 2018
How much does a battery powered golf cart cost?
Customize the basic, stripped-down model will cost around $15,000. Majority of electric golf carts price between $5,000 and $10,000.
What can golf carts be used for?
Top Uses of Golf CartsTransportation to outbuildings, stables, and swimming pools.College campus transport/security patrols.Farm and commercial property maintenance.Gardening and spreading mulch.Off-road vacation property and camp ground vehicle.Cardio and lower extremity limitations or disability transport.More items...
How far can a golf cart go?
These are meant for short, leisure distances, so don’t think you’ll be able to go very far with your golf cart. If you choose the gas version, you’ll be able to go about 250 miles (with usually a 6 gallon tank). And with a fully charged set of batteries for the electric version, you can expect 25-40 miles.
Who is Chris Slocum?
Chris Slocum is the main author of Golf Cart Go. She loves traveling to state parks and finding the latest ways to customize her golf cart. You can find more about her here.
Is it safe to buy a golf cart?
Buying a golf cart can be great decision. They’re safer for the environment, fun to drive, and generally safer for you. However, there are a lot of things to consider before investing in a golf cart. Here are 11 things to know before buying a golf cart.
How much does it cost to fix a golf cart?
Of course, if you’re a good mechanic you can usually find a golf cart out of repair for less than $2000 and fix it up, but if you want a road ready golf cart, don’t go much lower than $2000. In the $5000-$7000 range, a lot can be found.
Do electric golf carts go faster?
Especially with the electric golf carts, the more weight you have on the cart, the slower it will go. It will also go shorter distances because of this. But the great thing is you’ll have friends tagging along for the ride.
Do you need an AC for a golf cart?
Unless you have a golf cart enclosure for your cart, you’re more at the mercy of the weather. Even if you do have a golf cart enclosure, you probably don’t have an AC so it can get stuffy in the cart. Especially in the hot Florida summers when it rains in the afternoons.
Can you tow a golf cart to the beach?
You’ll likely want to tow the golf cart to the beach or the music festival, so you’ll need to make sure you have a vehicle that can tow it or a truck that you can fit the golf cart inside the bed.
How long do electric golf cart batteries last?
In terms of the best for the envi-ronment, an electric Golf Cart will win every time. In terms of cost, some assume a gas Golf Cart costs less to operate due to batteries being expensive for Electric Golf Carts. However, a typical electric Golf Cart comes with new batteries that will last three to nine years depending on type of battery pack, maintenance of the battery pack, range driven per day, location vehicle is being used, and the speed and acceleration of the vehicle. Therefore, the batteries in an electric Golf Cart is a fixed fuel cost determined by the life of the batteries where as a gas Golf Cart has to be fueled on a weekly to monthly basis much like a car.
Is a used golf cart a car?
Purchasing a new or used Golf Cart is not entirely different from purchasing an automobile except for one distinctive difference. Most used Golf Carts have been used on Golf Courses. With this in mind, be aware of the dangers of purchasing a vehicle that was used on a Golf Course for 3-5 years. Many golf cart dealers will purchase these vehicles and re-furbish them. Therefore, you may here the term refurbished Golf Cart or reconditioned Golf Cart. The concern here is whether or not the vehicle is safe to drive on the streets. It may look new, however it most definitely is not.
What is a used cart?
Used Accessories: Generally, a used cart will come with most of the quality, trusted parts and accessories that you’ll want, but at a much better price! Most of these parts have not changed over the years and are the same parts you would find on a brand new cart, but at a better overall cost.
Is an electric golf cart environmentally friendly?
Less Noisy: Electric golf carts are super quiet. Eco-Friendly: Electric golf carts are more environmentally friendly with no carbon emissions ( no pollution).
Do new golf carts come with warranty?
Warranty: When buying a brand new golf cart, oftentimes they will come with a warranty, whether it be a manufacturer’s warranty or a warranty from the dealer who you’re purchasing it from. This protects you as the buyer should anything go wrong with your golf cart. This is a major perk of buying a brand new, unused golf cart.
Is it cheaper to buy a used golf cart?
Lower Price: Purchasing a used golf cart is almost ALWAYS cheaper. This is a major advantage for so many people shopping for a golf cart. You can save a lot of money buying used, with prices starting as low as $1,500. Used golf carts are better on your pocket all around.
Where is the serial number on a club car?
Club Car – the serial number will be located in one of three places. Just to the right of the top of accelerator pedal, in the dash on the passenger side or near the passenger’s right foot. It will start with two letters followed by 10 digits.
What does it mean to own a new car?
With a new car you get the peace of mind of knowing that you are the first owner of the car with a manufacturer standing behind the warranty. For an electric car, this also means that you know the history of the batteries. Likewise, a new car provides the latest in technology, performance, safety and comfort. There are also excellent finance incentives for new cars regularly offered by the manufacturers that are not available for used cars.
How long do batteries last?
High quality batteries typically last 4-6 years based on the usage and maintenance, however batteries can fail much earlier if not properly cared for.
What are the pros and cons of electric cars?
Electric Car Pros – near silent operation, no exhaust fumes and smooth acceleration. Cars with lithium batteries do not require battery maintenance. Electric Car Cons – requires regular charging and maintenance of water levels in the batteries if they are lead acid.
Where is the steering column on a Ford Explorer?
On the base of the steering column, behind the driver’s left leg position on the body, under the front cowl near the top of the shock tower on the driver’s side, in the dash on the passenger’s side or under a plastic black flap directly behind the seating area when the seat is raised.
When did golf carts become popular?
Even so, golf carts did not become popular until the 1970s. Golf Carts are made by numerous manufacturers, including a few that date back to the 1950s. These include:
Who invented the golf cart?
A Short Peek at the History of the Golf Cart. J.K. Wadley was the first person to use an electronic cart on a golf course. His inspiration for the idea came from seeing senior citizens being transported to a nearby store in an electronic cart. Unfortunately, as Mr. Wadley quickly discovered, the electronic carts used to transport ...
What are the features of a golf car?
Additionally, golf cars are built with features that one would need to drive on a city street. These include brake lights, windshield wipers, and turn signals. It should be noted that local and state regulations for golf cars are often different than those for golf carts.
How fast can a golf cart go?
Golf Carts. A golf cart is powered by a four-stroke engine and goes no faster than 15 miles per hour. Golf carts can be used for general transportation but are specifically made for use on a golf course. In some states, teenagers as young as 13 are permitted to drive a golf cart.
What is ACG golf cart?
American Custom Golf Cars (ACG) Gulf Atlantic Vehicles. Harley Davidson manufactured golf carts in the 1960s. The company no longer makes and sells these vehicles; even so, its carts are highly sought after by aspiring golf cart owners and collectors around the nation.
How fast can a low speed vehicle travel?
Low-speed vehicles include a wide range of vehicles that travel no faster than 25 to 35 miles per hour. LSV cars and vans are made by various manufacturers, and one might not be able to immediately tell the difference between an LSV and a regular vehicle at first glance.
How fast can an LSV go?
Federal law states that an LSV must weigh less than 3,000 pounds and only be driven on roads with a maximum speed limit of 45 miles per hour. New and used LSVs for sale must have a 25 mile per hour speed limit; however, an owner can modify the vehicle so that it reaches up to 35 miles per hour.
What to look for when buying a used golf cart?
Bad batteries are just an added expense to the buying experience and it can be avoided. A few tips for what to look for: Check the condition of the batteries.
What is a refurbished golf cart?
A refurbished golf cart is a cart that was used solely on the golf course for several years and now is being sold to the public as “reconditioned / refurbished”. A used golf cart is any other pre-owned golf cart whether it be previously owned by a dealer, private seller, Joe down the street, etc.
What is the best way to play golf with friends?
Golf carts in general are one of the best ways for you and your friends to not only play golf with, but also to cruise / travel around you neighborhood and community. You are probably sitting there right now wracking your brain, comparing prices, taking a look at pros and cons of new golf carts vs.
Do golf carts get better with age?
Believe it or not, most older golf carts are like a delicious fine wine: They just get better with age! Some however, can be sour grapes! It is very important to take the age of the golf cart that you are looking to buy into consideration. Paying attention to the: Make. Model.
What is the process of buying a used golf cart?
An essential part of the process of buying a used golf cart that is frequently overlooked (due to time constraints, cost, or just pure laziness) is taking a prospective vehicle to a trusted shop or dealer to have it professionally inspected.
How much does a golf cart battery cost?
Golf cart batteries don’t last forever, and can easily cost between $1,000-$2,000 for a new set. Faulty or old batteries can also damage other key components of the cart, such as the motor, or the onboard charger (this happened to us).
How to check battery voltage?
Ideally, you’d also want to do three tests when the batteries are fully charged and cooled: 1 Visual Inspection Inside (e.g. electrolyte levels) & Out (e.g. bulging, cracks/leaks, excessive corrosion, etc.) 2 Voltage Test (each battery and total) 3 Hydrometer Test (Specific Gravity)
What type of batteries are used in golf carts?
Keep in mind that these tips are specific to lead-acid batteries, which are the most common types of batteries you’re likely to encounter. In the off chance you come across a golf cart with newer lithium ion batteries or some other type, you’ll need to research tips specific to those batteries.
Can you drive a golf cart on public roads?
In many places, your golf cart will need to be modified to be permitted to drive on public roads. Some places require the addition of a street legal kit, while other places only allow gas-powered carts to use public roads.
Can you use a golf cart at a golf course?
If you plan on using the golf cart at a golf course, check the course’s rules and regulations first. Not all golf courses allow golf carts. Make sure you know the rules inside and out before even thinking of shopping for a golf cart.
Do you need to know the batteries of a golf cart?
If you’re buying a used golf cart that’s electric powered, you’ll also need to know some basic information about the batteries. If possible, you’ll also want to test and inspect the batteries as well.
What do you need to know before buying a golf cart?
You will need to consider the terrain on which you’re driving, as well how mechanically inclined you are. Determining these will help you see which one is best for you:
How old is a golf cart?
There are running golf carts that are over 30 years old so just because your potential golf cart is older doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy it. However, the older the cart is, the more difficult it becomes to source parts for it. Always make sure you have thorough maintenance history, especially with an older golf cart.
How many volts does a golf cart have?
Electric golf carts come with a power of either 36 or 48 volts. The batteries themselves come in either 6, 8, or 12 volts. Golf carts will have six 6 volt batteries for a 36 volt operating system. For a 48 volt operating system, they will have six 8 volt batteries or four 12 volt batteries.
Where is the serial number on a golf cart?
The serial number can be in a few places, including: Under the passenger side glove compartment. Inside the passenger side glove compartment. On the driver’s side frame behind the gas pedal.
What is a refurbished golf cart?
A refurbished golf cart is one that was used exclusively on a golf course for several years. Golf courses normally lease fleets of golf carts and return them when they replace the fleet every few years. The leasing agent then sells the carts to a wholesaler.
How long do golf cart batteries last?
You could get a cheaper set of batteries, but they may last only two years. In choosing batteries for a golf cart, spending more money upfront usually means spending less money over time. So, your first step in looking at a used or refurbished golf cart will be to check out the batteries.
Can you tell if a golf cart has cracks?
With the seat upholstery, you can frequently see how the golf cart was previously treated. If there are cracks in the seat, or the seats are discolored or faded, the golf cart may have been kept outside.