Full Answer
Should I buy a used electric golf cart?
When you are purchasing a used electric golf cart, you want to make certain that the batteries / battery pack is in good condition. Bad batteries are just an added expense to the buying experience and it can be avoided. Check the condition of the batteries. Are they badly corroded, bulging at the sides and all around yucky lookin’?
What to look for when buying a used golf cart?
In addition, inspect the tires, suspension, charger, and overall condition of the vehicle. Undoubtedly, a used golf cart will not be perfect, therefore it is good to determine what repairs in the future you could expect when evaluating the price of the unit.
What are the different types of electronic golf carts?
There are four main types of electronic golf carts. These are regular golf carts, golf cars, low-speed vehicles (LSVs) and neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs). A golf cart is powered by a four-stroke engine and goes no faster than 15 miles per hour.
What should I look for when buying an electric 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...•
How long do electric golf cart motors last?
Golf Cart Motor Just like solenoids (mentioned above), your golf cart motor works HARD. When properly taken care of, the typical gas or electric golf cart motor can last many, many years (20 to 30+).
Does the age of a golf cart matter?
If the age dates back years ago, parts may not be available anymore. Perhaps that golf cart company is no longer around and there is no one to repair what needs fixing. The model is also important because you can do research on that model and find other carts of the same year and make and see how they panned out.
What can go wrong with electric golf carts?
5 Common Electric Golf Cart Problems and How to Solve ThemTroubleshooting Batteries. Like any electric vehicle, the battery is often the root of the problem. ... Ignition or Motor Issues. ... Solenoid Woes. ... Faulty Direction Switch. ... No Speed Control.
How do I know if my electric golf cart motor is bad?
You have enough going on in your life without your golf car refusing to start when you turn the key in the ignition. If your golf car won't start, is slower than it used to be, or is experiencing other technical problems, you could have a bad motor on your hands.
Do golf carts hold their value?
Golf cart everywhere 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. The golf cart has universal application as it can be used by both old and young, rich and poor.
Which brand of golf cart is best?
Here are the top best 5 golf cart brands to choose from.Club Car. If you're looking for a classic ride, look no further than the Club Car. ... E-Z-Go. If safety is your first priority, then the E-Z-Go brand is perfect for you. ... Yamaha. Chances are, you're very familiar with the Yamaha brand. ... Polaris. ... Garia.
Which is better ezgo or club car?
E-Z-Go Golf Carts, while cheaper than Club Car golf carts, do not offer the same quality. The motors used in most E-Z-Go golf carts are not nearly as powerful as the motors used by Club Car. When going up hills or carrying a heavy load, the motors in an E-Z-Go golf cart tend to struggle.
What is the difference between a 36V and 48V golf cart?
Basically, a 48V system gives you more “pep in your step” and picks up/speeds up a bit faster than a 36V system. Energy Needed/Amps Drawn- A 48V system draws less amps and provides a little more range with all things being equal (cart/passenger payload weight, motor horsepower, etc).
How much does it cost to replace golf cart batteries?
Average Price of Golf Cart Batteries The average price of a golf cart battery replacement is going to be in the $800 to $1,500 range. Depending on the type of battery, it could even be in the $2,000 ballpark because powerful golf carts like a 72V need more expensive batteries installed.
How long do golf cart batteries last?
That all being said, properly maintained battery packs in fleet carts tend to last about 4-6 years while private owners tend to get about 6-10 years out of their battery packs. Other major factors include the type of options on the cart that may increase the draw from the battery pack.
What breaks on a golf cart?
Drum brakes are installed in the rear set of wheels of your golf cart and this drum braking system auto-adjusts the brake when you're driving the vehicle.
How long does a golf cart engine last?
However, their durability is the same as that of an electric vehicle, which is nice for those who are interested in gasoline or diesel golf carts. That said, some manufacturers claim that the average golf cart will last 30-40 years if the engine is properly maintained, repaired, or even replaced.
How do you reset a golf cart electric motor?
First, you'll want to reset your motor. It should have a small reset button (Usually it will be red) located near the main battery supply. Hit the reset button and then put the cover back on the motor. The next step would be to recharge your cart and try turning it on again. If it starts up then you're in luck!
How long should a 48v golf cart run?
The average range of the electric golf cart is 8-10 miles on a lead-acid battery.
How many hours is a lot for a golf cart?
A gas vehicle with good maintenance will provide 1,000-2,500 hours of use before a major overhaul. An electric car will provide 40,000 to 50,000 amp-hours of use before a major overhaul.
Why is it important to consider the age of an electric golf cart?
You have to pay attention towards the model of the cart because that will help you get the features that you require. As well as if the model is older, it can be increasingly difficult for you to find parts for the unit.
What is a refurbished golf cart?
A refurbished golf cart is a vehicle that was used on a golf course for a number of years and is now being resold to the general public as a “refurbished/reconditioned” golf cart. In this scenario, it is very easy to simply paint the body and suspension of the cart, add new tires and seats and call it a day.
Can a used golf cart be perfect?
In addition, inspect the tires, suspension, charger, and overall condition of the vehicle. Undoubtedly, a used golf cart will not be perfect, therefore it is good to determine what repairs in the future you could expect when evaluating the price of the unit. If you have additional questions, then feel free to use our golf cart valuation tool ...
Is it necessary to buy a golf cart?
However, it is one of the best ways for you to travel around your community and play golf with. It is not always necessary to buy a brand new golf cart because there are many ways to buy a pre-owned or refurbished golf ...
Can you buy a used electric golf cart?
Some accessories can be found at reasonable prices online, however some accessories can be custom and expensive like paint jobs and custom enclosures. Golf Carts can be very custom, therefore buying a used electric golf cart could be customized for someone that is not you. Sometimes, it is worth spending more for new to insure you get ...
How reliable are electric golf carts?
As long as you do your due diligence, you will be able to find a highly reliable electric golf cart that you will love to ride for years to come. Chances are you may never buy new again after seeing how much you can save buying used.#N#Highly reliable: Electric golf carts have significantly less moving parts than gas golf carts. Fewer parts mean less maintenance. It also means you can find used electric golf carts that will ride like new. While you need to be careful and pay close attention to the condition of the used cart, opting to go electric will greatly increase the chances of finding a highly reliable used golf cart.#N#Great way to get into the market: New to the market? A used golf cart is a great way to get into the market without having to spend more than you are comfortable with. Many newer electric golf carts are more expensive due partially to their improved feature set. If you are new to the market, chances are you will not need many of these luxury features.#N#New isn’t always better: It is common to believe that new is always better than used. We are here to dispel this myth once and for all. While we aren’t ignorant of the advantages of new electric golf carts, what is better is determined by each buyer’s individual needs. At the end of the day, you will need to decide whether a new or used golf cart is better for your needs. Just make sure you consider both options before deciding newer is better.
What is a refurbished golf cart?
Typically the process of refurbishment focuses mostly on external beautification. Refurbished golf carts are usually re-painted, get new tires, seats, etc. However, refurbished doesn’t necessarily mean a new motor, battery, controller, bearings, etc.
Is a used golf cart good?
Great way to get into the market: New to the market? A used golf cart is a great way to get into the market without having to spend more than you are comfortable with. Many newer electric golf carts are more expensive due partially to their improved feature set.
Can you find a used golf cart?
It also means you can find used electric golf carts that will ride like new. While you need to be careful and pay close attention to the condition of the used cart, opting to go electric will greatly increase the chances of finding a highly reliable used golf cart.
Can you buy a new electric golf cart again?
Chances are you may never buy new again after seeing how much you can save buying used.
Is the age of a golf cart important?
The age of any used product is an important indicator. You may even have age as a criterion to help narrow down your search. Some electric golf cart manufacturers, such as Icon EV, make golf carts with much longer lifespans than traditional electric golf carts. This means doing research into the exact manufacturer is important in order to fully understand how the age of the used golf cart will affect you in the coming years.
Do electric golf carts need all the features?
We won’t dive into all of the available features now found in electric golf carts but take our word, there are a lot. You won’t need all of them, but you should create a list of required features. This is often a great way to narrow your search and remove the overwhelming feeling of so many options.
5 Things To Look For When Buying A Used Electric Golf Cart
Finding and buying a high quality used golf cart can be challenging. Used golf carts, depending on their age, can have a number of possible mechanical issues. Many of these issues are not evident until the purchase has been made and you are putting miles on your new (to you) golf cart.
Buying A Used Electric Golf Cart
Finding and buying a high quality used golf cart can be challenging. Used golf carts, depending on their age, can have a number of possible mechanical issues. Many of these issues are not evident until the purchase has been made and you are putting miles on your new (to you) golf cart.
What is a golf cart?
Golf carts are an ideal accessory for anyone who enjoys golfing. At the same time, even people who don’t golf can benefit from owning a golf cart. These handy vehicles can be driven not only on a golf course but also in housing communities and even on some public roads. They are very reasonably priced, and there are so many models to pick from that one should have no problem finding a cart that suits his or her exact needs and specifications.
How many miles can an electronic golf cart go?
Electronic carts can get up to 40 miles on a single charge; what is more, it costs less to charge an electronic cart than it would fill the tank of a gas-powered golf cart. Electronic golf carts are certainly a great investment. Nonetheless, it’s a smart idea to get to know the options before making a purchase.
What about Gas-Powered Golf Carts?
There are several good reasons why gas-powered golf carts are a popular alternative to electric ones. It’s faster to fill up a gas cart than it is to wait for an electric one to finish charging. What is more, gas-powered carts can go further on a full tank than electric carts can on a full battery and they are faster than electric carts to boot.
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.
When was the first electronic golf cart invented?
An electronic cart customized for use on a golf course was first built in 1932 . Other, similar models were built soon afterwards. However, only the disabled used them.
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:
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.
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:
What to do when buying a used golf cart?
If you are buying a used golf cart from an individual, the best tip we can give you is to negotiate. Always negotiate for a better price.
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.
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.
How to make sure a golf cart is not loose?
Grip the canopy and give it a good shake to make sure it is not loose or making an odd sound. Examine the tread on the tires. Used golf carts are better priced but refurbished golf carts are often better maintained. As always, ask questions and decide which is best for you.
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 many miles does a gas golf cart go?
One gas tank will go 110-175 miles. More moving pieces than an electric cart = more maintenance. No battery charger required. If you are handy around an engine, maintenance on a gas powered golf cart may be no problem for you. If you’re lacking in mechanical skills, this may not be the cart for you.
What to check on a used golf cart?
Seats – Check any signs of dents, discoloration, stains, or other irreversible damages on the seats of the used golf cart and make sure that everything looks good. Tires – These should not be too worn out to the point that you’ll be having to air them frequently or replace them soon.
What is a gas golf cart?
Gas golf carts are, as the name suggests, powered by gas, much like our regular cars.
Why are golf carts important?
With its numerous functions, from an easier alternative to getting around the neighborhood to being able to drive through narrower roads, golf carts have proven to be a necessity for people who live in communities with this lifestyle.
Is a used golf cart still good?
It goes without saying that the used golf cart you’re looking at buying is still in pretty good shape on the outside as much as on the inside as well.
Can you take a golf cart to the repair shop?
You have to make sure that the engines or batteries on the used golf carts are in pretty good condition—you wouldn’t want to take them to the repair shop so early after your purchase. Ask the right questions by requesting for the hour meter or amp-hour meter of the vehicle.
Can you personalize a golf cart after purchase?
If your used golf cart has been well-maintained, there won’t be much of a need to go to service centers immediately. You can potentially personalize your golf cart after your purchase if you’re looking to change up its look, or just leave it as is until your next visit.
What to consider when buying a golf cart?
Consider the use – If you’re buying a golf cart to get you from A to B on a relatively flat golf course or retirement community, you’re likely to value comfort and easy maintenance over durability, clearance, and battery range.
How to know if a golf cart is a good investment?
The only way to ensure that a particular golf cart will be a good investment for you is to take it for a drive that mimics how you intend to use the cart.
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).
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.
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 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)
Should golf cart batteries be inspected?
If you lack the tools, skills, and expertise to properly inspect golf cart batteries, critical deficiencies can easily be missed.
