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5 Things to Look For When Buying a Used Electric Golf Cart
- Is the Golf Cart Refurbished or Used? When looking for a used or refurbished vehicle, it is good to decipher their underlying differences. ...
- What is the Age of the Golf Cart? It is important that you consider the age of the electric golf cart that you are looking forward to buying. ...
- What Features Does it Have? ...
- How are the Batteries? ...
Full Answer
What should I look for when buying 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.
How to choose the right electric car for You?
Newer electric vehicles and their batteries will top off their charge much quicker. If you plan to top off your electric car at work, or if you bank on regular, brief visits to public charging stations, consider an electric vehicle that charges quickly.
Can You Drive an electric golf cart on the course?
You have to check whether you can drive it only on the course or in the gated community as well. Check to see if it needs to be licensed (see our state law guide for questions) Make sure that the electric golf cart you select is comfortable to drive 4) How are the Batteries? We talked about this briefly earlier.
Are used electric vehicles a good value?
Electric vehicles require some different thinking compared to gasoline- — or diesel-fueled vehicles. There are some extra things to consider when looking at a used electric vehicle. Used electric vehicles can be a fantastic value. However, a little research ahead of time can help you make an intelligent decision.
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 do you inspect an electric golf cart?
0:312:46Golf Cart Inspection - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt must be the bottom edge. Three feet off the ground. And it can't be higher than five feet andMoreIt must be the bottom edge. Three feet off the ground. And it can't be higher than five feet and must have a working parking brake. And last must have an electric.
What are the most common problems 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.
What is the life expectancy of an electric 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.
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.
Do golf carts have titles?
The bottom line is that standard golf carts do not have titles. But, if they are modified to become an LSV then you must obtain a certificate of title.
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.
When Should golf cart batteries be replaced?
4 Signs You Need to Replace Your Golf Cart Batteries It takes twice as long to charge your batteries as it did when you first had them installed. ... Your Golf Cart loses power very quickly. ... Your Golf Cart does not accelerate as fast as it used to. ... The batteries are leaking acid and are beginning to bulge.
Is there an alternator on an electric golf cart?
Moreover, the battery for a cart does not recharge itself as the vehicle runs like batteries in cars do (cars have alternators). Therefore, regular use will drain the battery which, in turn, may shorten its life.
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 does a 48v golf cart last?
How Long Will a Cart Last Fully Charged? # Typically, an electric golf cart has between 45 and 90 minutes of full-power run time on a fully charged battery.
How long do lithium batteries last in a golf cart?
One of the main advantages of a lithium-ion battery-powered golf cart is that they have a much longer lifespan than a traditional lead-acid one. The average lithium golf cart battery has around 2,000 to 5,000 cycles; whereas the average lead-acid one only has anywhere from 500 to 1,000 cycles.
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 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.
Why are used golf carts so popular?
Used golf carts are also equally attractive to most people. Reason being, most of the time, because of the lower price tag. Most used golf carts will sell for much less and be way easier on the pocketbook than a refurbished golf cart and carry the same maintenance record, good up-keep and new parts / pieces.
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 does a red flag mean on a golf cart?
RED FLAG ALERT: If the seller or dealer does not want to let you test drive the golf cart, you may want to pass.
How long should golf cart batteries be set?
Golf cart batteries that are a year old or less and look to be in great condition should be set for the next couple years without needing to be replaced. Ask a ton of questions.
What happens if a golf cart doesn't show cycles?
Generally, if a seller or dealer does not want to show you the cycles and hours, they may be trying to “sugar-coat” or cover up the amount of rounds on the cart. Nobody wants to get stuck with a golf cart that has a zillion rounds on it, that will likely be in need of major repairs as soon as you pull it off the lot.
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.
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 a used golf cart still under warranty?
Depending on the age of the used electric golf cart, it may still be under warranty. This is the best case scenario and protects you in the near future. Without asking you may never know!
Do electric golf carts have batteries?
Electric golf carts are reliant on the batteries that power them. Much like the battery in your cell phone, over time electric golf cart batteries deteriorate. Some batteries are better than others, so there isn’t an exact battery life. Ask the seller how many amp hours have been used.
What happens when a golf course upgrades its fleet of golf carts?
Every time a golf course upgrades its fleet of golf carts, it will auction off its old fleet of carts. Because there are usually so many carts for sale, often there won’t be enough buyers. Luckily for you, this drives down the price so you’ll probably get a great deal!
Do electric golf carts charge?
Some people favor gas golf carts because after a round of golf you can simply fuel it up and it’s good to go again. Electric golf carts generally take hours to charge, yet you don’t have the recurring cost of gasoline.
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 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.
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 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 much does a used cart cost?
Used carts are cheaper than new ones. They may cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, and some even come with an extended warranty. What is more, buying a used cart gives you the freedom to customize the cart as you see fit without having to worry about voiding the warranty.
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:
How many hours of maintenance does a golf car need?
A gas vehicle with good maintenance will provide 5,000-6,000 hours of use, and an electric car will provide 40,000-50,000 amp-hours before major overhaul. You should be very wary of any dealer who ...
Is golf car regulated?
It’s important to know, though, that the golf car industry isn’t regulated quite like the automotive industry. Some companies will try to scam you by purposefully failing to disclose all of the information about a used golf car. Buying a golf car, new or used, should be fun and exciting, not stressful! Here’s everything you need to consider ...
Do used golf cars come with batteries?
You should ask your dealer if your used golf car comes with new batteries. If they say yes, that’s not the end of the discussion. There are some dealers who will say yes, even if it isn’t true. Some situations to look out for include: Look at the brand name of the battery. All golf car batteries are not equal.
Do dealers replace safety parts?
Some dealers—the good ones—will replace everything that needs replacing , including cosmetic and safety parts. They’ll have a consistent build process that the dealer can define for you. These kinds of dealers will spend more time talking about what they didn’t replace, since that should be a much shorter list.
Is a gas golf car better than an electric golf car?
Generally speaking, used gas golf cars sell for a higher price than electric because you will have to replace the battery in an electric golf car every 3-4 years to the tune of $1,000. Because of that large future expense, your immediate expense will be lower. There are some situations, however, where a gas car would work much better for you.
Can you tell the age of a golf car battery?
The date code on the batteries have been removed so you can’t tell their age. Look at the brand name of the battery. All golf car batteries are not equal. There are only a couple of leading brand names that you should see under hood – Trojan and U.S. Battery are two of the top brands for longevity and performance.
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 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.
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.
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)
Is a golf cart a good investment?
When buying a used golf cart, some prospective buyers take a golf cart for a short spin around a parking lot and call it good. Even worse, they buy a golf cart without riding it at all, or sight unseen. 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 ...
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.
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.
How far can an electric car go on a full charge?
Electric car development has sped up considerably over the past decade. Early electric cars were lucky to hit 100 miles on a full charge, while today’s Tesla Model S can reach nearly 400 miles. Future electric vehicles are likely to surpass that number.
Why do brakes last longer on electric cars?
Even brakes tend to last much longer on electric cars because they bring a charge to the car batteries through the regeneration of otherwise lost power. Also be sure to use Kelley Blue Book’s tool to know what recall items may affect your used electric vehicle purchase. 5. Locate the Battery’s Charging Capacity.
How long is battery warranty?
Many used electric cars will still be under warranty. But read the fine print. Most battery coverage runs for eight years or 100,000 miles after the initial purchase, whichever comes first.
How much does a level 2 charger cost?
If buying the electric car from a private party, it may be worth asking if the seller would sell their Level 2 charger. Level 2 chargers cost an estimated $500-600 new, and they are easy to install as long as you have a 240-volt power outlet.
Do electric cars charge at the same rate?
Electric cars don’t necessarily charge at the same rate, and bigger battery packs usually mean more time to charge. For instance, earlier Nissan Leaf electric cars offered a 6.6-kW onboard charger as an extra-cost option on the base S trim level. Without this charger, Level 2 top-off can take twice as long.
Do electric car tax rebates apply to new cars?
While most electric car tax rebates apply to new vehicles, some apply to used electric cars. You’ll want to research these on government or other websites. You can also check with your tax preparer or your local motor vehicle office about any specific deals that may apply to you.
Does Tesla use model years?
The most significant change — and the one that can affect a used electric car’s battery — is an increase in battery capacity. Tesla doesn’t use model years for its updates; you’ll want to view the car’s information through its touchscreen.
How Old Is The Cart?
Who Is The Manufacturer?
Is It Gas Or Electric?
What Features/Accessories Does It have?
What Shape Are The Batteries in?
- If you opt to purchase a used electric golf cart, it’s very important that you ask about the condition of the batteries. Take a quick look under the seat to see if any of the batteries have any corrosion or an excessive buildup of dirt and grime, as these things can weaken the battery power. You should also ask the previous owner if the batteries a...
Are There Any Potential Repairs That Need to Be Made?
Was It Previously Owned by An Individual Or A Golf Course?
What’s The Asking Price?