The cost of new golf carts powered by gasoline generally ranges from about \$8,000 to \$15,000 for basic, entry-level models. Premium, custom, or heavy-duty commercial gas golf carts can easily push the price well over \$18,000 or more. This price range helps determine the average price of a golf cart when considering gas options specifically.
Golf carts have become much more than just tools for the fairway. They are popular for short trips around communities, large properties, resorts, and campuses. When looking to buy one, you quickly find yourself facing a big choice: electric or gas? This guide focuses solely on gas powered golf cart pricing. We will break down what makes the price go up or down. We will also compare these costs to electric golf cart cost options to give you a full picture of the market.
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Fathoming the Price Factors for Gas Golf Carts
The final sticker price for a gas golf cart depends on several key things. Think of it like buying a car; the engine type is just the starting point. The brand, features, and intended use all play a big role in setting the golf cart prices.
Brand Reputation and Quality
Just like with cars, some brands carry a higher price tag due to their reputation for reliability and service. Well-known manufacturers invest more in research and development. They often use better parts.
- Top-Tier Brands: Companies like Club Car, Yamaha, and E-Z-GO dominate the market. They offer warranties and a large network of service centers. Their new models often start at the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Lesser-Known or Budget Brands: You might find smaller companies offering surprisingly low prices. These are often the sources for cheap golf carts for sale price listings. Be cautious. While they save money upfront, maintenance costs or shorter lifespans might erase those savings later.
Engine Size and Power
Gas golf carts use small, durable engines, usually 300cc to 400cc. More powerful engines cost more. If you need your cart to haul heavy loads or tackle very steep hills, you will need a bigger, more robust engine. This directly increases gas powered golf cart pricing.
Cart Configuration (Two-Seater vs. Multi-Passenger)
The basic structure impacts the price significantly.
- Two-Passenger Carts: These are the standard and the most affordable option. They are lightweight and efficient.
- Four-to-Six Passenger Carts: These require a longer chassis, an extra seat assembly, and often a more robust suspension system. This added material and engineering increase the cost of new golf carts.
- Utility Carts: Carts designed for work often have specialized beds, heavy-duty tires, and lift kits. These specialized features mean higher prices.
Features and Accessories
This is where prices can really jump. A stripped-down model is far cheaper than a fully loaded one.
| Feature | Impact on Price | Example Cost Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Paint or Wrap | Moderate | \$500 – \$1,500 |
| Premium Seating (Marine Grade) | Moderate | \$400 – \$1,000 |
| Headlights/Taillights (Standard vs. LED) | Low to Moderate | \$100 – \$400 |
| Windshield Type (Split vs. Full Acrylic) | Low | \$50 – \$200 |
| Lift Kit and Larger Tires | Moderate | \$600 – \$1,800 |
| Cargo Box or Utility Bed | High | \$800 – \$2,500+ |
If you are looking for a budget golf cart cost, you must select a model with minimal factory additions.
New Gas Golf Cart Costs: How Much Gas Golf Carts Cost New
For someone purchasing brand new from a dealer, expect to pay a premium for the warranty and the latest technology.
Entry-Level New Gas Carts
These are basic, no-frills two-seater carts. They are perfect for flat terrain or light use around a neighborhood.
- Price Range: \$8,000 to \$10,500.
- What you get: A standard roof, basic bench seat, reliable but simple engine, and basic lighting.
Mid-Range New Gas Carts
This category includes carts with better suspension, slightly more powerful engines, and some popular accessories already installed. They are often four-seaters or utility models with basic features.
- Price Range: \$10,500 to \$14,000.
- What you get: Better comfort features, maybe a small cargo bed, standard safety features required for neighborhood driving (like mirrors and turn signals).
High-End and Custom New Gas Carts
These carts are often built for luxury resorts, heavy commercial duty, or street-legal customization. They feature premium materials, powerful drivetrains, and extensive accessories.
- Price Range: \$14,000 to \$20,000+.
- What you get: High-end upholstery, custom paint jobs, advanced braking systems, and sometimes specialized suspension systems for rough terrain.
It is important to realize that financing options can affect your final purchase price due to interest. Always check the total cost, not just the monthly payment, when looking at cost of new golf carts.
The Used Market: Used Golf Cart Values and Pre-Owned Costs
Buying used is the fastest way to save money. Used golf cart values fluctuate widely based on age, condition, and mileage (or hours of use).
Determining Used Golf Cart Values
When assessing a pre-owned golf cart cost, you need to inspect the engine and frame closely. Gas engines are generally easier to inspect for wear than complex battery systems in electric carts.
Key Inspection Points for Used Gas Carts:
- Engine Health: Does it start easily? Does it smoke? Listen for unusual noises. A well-maintained gas engine can last for many years.
- Tire Condition: Old, cracked tires mean immediate replacement costs.
- Body Integrity: Rust is a major concern, especially in coastal areas. Major frame rust significantly lowers the used golf cart values.
- Hours/Mileage: Low hours suggest less wear on the mechanical parts.
Price Breakdown for Used Gas Carts
- Budget Used Carts (5-10 years old, basic needs): \$3,500 to \$5,500. These might need minor repairs or cosmetic work. These fall into the cheap golf carts for sale price bracket.
- Good Condition Used Carts (3-5 years old, well-maintained): \$5,500 to \$8,500. These often provide the best value, closely mimicking the performance of a new cart without the new price tag.
- Low-Use/Late Model Used Carts (1-3 years old): \$8,500 to \$10,000. These are often ex-fleet carts from resorts or golf courses that were regularly serviced.
Gas vs. Electric: Comparing Ownership Costs
When you discuss golf cart prices, you must compare gas to electric to see the full financial picture. While the upfront cost of new golf carts for gas might be slightly lower than comparable high-end electric models (which require expensive batteries), the long-term operating costs differ significantly.
Upfront Price Comparison
| Cart Type | Typical New Price Range | Key Upfront Cost Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Gas Cart | \$8,000 – \$12,000 | Engine/Chassis |
| Basic Electric Cart | \$8,500 – \$13,000 | Battery Pack (Lead-Acid or Lithium) |
| Premium Gas Cart | \$14,000 – \$20,000+ | Customization, Power |
| Premium Electric Cart | \$15,000 – \$25,000+ | Advanced Lithium Batteries, Speed Controllers |
The electric golf cart cost is heavily influenced by the battery technology. Lithium batteries are much more expensive initially than lead-acid batteries but last much longer, reducing long-term replacement costs.
Operational and Maintenance Costs
Gas carts require fuel, oil changes, and spark plugs. Electric carts require electricity and eventually, battery replacement.
Gas Cart Running Costs
- Fuel: Gas carts are efficient, often getting 40–60 miles per tank, using only a few gallons per week for typical use.
- Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, air filter replacements, and occasional carburetor cleaning are standard. This is similar to maintaining a small lawnmower.
- Engine Life: A well-kept gas engine can last 10–15 years before a major overhaul is needed.
Electric Cart Running Costs
- Electricity: Charging costs are very low—pennies per charge.
- Battery Replacement: This is the major expense. Lead-acid batteries typically need replacing every 3–5 years (\$1,200 – \$2,000). Lithium batteries last 8–10 years but cost \$3,000 – \$5,000 upfront.
- Motor/Controller: Less maintenance than an engine, but replacements can be costly if major electronic components fail.
If your usage is extremely high (e.g., commercial resort use), the fuel savings of an electric cart might offset the higher initial electric golf cart cost. For typical neighborhood or personal property use, the operational differences are less dramatic, but gas offers unmatched range flexibility.
Deciphering the True Budget Golf Cart Cost
If your primary goal is minimizing expense, focusing on a budget golf cart cost requires careful navigation of the market.
Strategies for Finding Cheap Golf Carts for Sale Price
- Look Off-Season: Dealers may offer better deals in winter when demand is lower.
- Consider “Neighborhood Vehicles” (NEVs): Some manufacturers sell stripped-down carts specifically for low-speed road use. These often have lower trim levels, keeping the gas powered golf cart pricing down.
- Buy Direct from Owners: Private sales often cut out the dealer markup. Be prepared to inspect the vehicle thoroughly or pay an independent mechanic to do it.
- Older Models with Simple Fixes: Sometimes an older cart just needs a new belt or a simple tune-up. If you are handy, this is where the biggest savings lie.
Remember, a very low price often means you are sacrificing reliability or speed. A cart priced below \$3,000 is usually either very old, heavily damaged, or missing essential components.
The Cost of Street Legality
In many states and communities, you can register a golf cart for use on public, low-speed roads. This requires specific safety features, which adds significantly to the base price.
Required Features for Street Use (Varies by location):
- Headlights and brake lights
- Turn signals
- Side mirrors
- Seat belts
- Windshield wipers (sometimes)
- A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Adding these items to a base model can easily add \$1,000 to \$2,500 to the cost of new golf carts, pushing even a basic model into the mid-range price bracket.
Specialty Gas Carts: Heavy Duty and Commercial Pricing
When people ask how much is a gas golf cart, they might overlook the specialized segments that demand much higher prices due to heavy-duty requirements.
Heavy-Duty Utility Carts
These carts are built to haul heavy loads, like landscaping materials or maintenance tools. They feature reinforced frames and higher torque engines.
- Price Point: Generally \$13,000 to \$18,000 new.
- Why the High Cost? Increased suspension strength, heavier-duty transmissions, and often commercial-grade braking systems are required to handle payloads safely.
Lifted and Customized Carts
Customization is popular, especially in retirement communities or off-road settings. Lifts, custom metalwork, oversized off-road tires, and high-performance clutches add significant cost.
A basic two-seater might start at \$9,000, but after adding a 6-inch lift, 23-inch tires, custom seats, and a rugged brush guard, the final price can easily reach \$13,000–\$15,000.
Maintenance Costs: The Long-Term Investment
Owning a gas golf cart means budgeting for ongoing maintenance. While the initial purchase is one cost, the cost of keeping it running is another factor in determining the overall average price of a golf cart over its lifespan.
Routine Gas Cart Maintenance Schedule
| Service Item | Frequency (Approximate) | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 100 hours or Annually | \$50 – \$90 |
| Air Filter Replacement | Annually | \$20 – \$40 |
| Spark Plug Replacement | Every 2 Years | \$15 – \$30 |
| Fuel Filter Replacement | Every 2-3 Years | \$25 – \$50 |
| Valve Adjustment (If required by manual) | Every 500 Hours | \$150 – \$300 |
Unlike an electric cart where the major recurring cost is battery replacement, the maintenance for a gas cart is consistent but generally less expensive per event. A major engine failure, however, can cost \$1,500 to \$2,500 to fix or replace, which must be weighed against the lifespan of the cart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Golf Cart Pricing
Can I buy a gas golf cart directly from the manufacturer?
Generally, no. Most major manufacturers (like Yamaha, Club Car, E-Z-GO) sell through authorized dealerships. These dealerships handle assembly, warranty registration, financing, and local service, which is why you pay a dealer markup. Private sales are rare unless buying directly from a fleet owner (like a golf course selling off old stock).
What is the range on a full tank of gas for a standard golf cart?
Most standard gas golf carts can travel between 50 and 80 miles on a single tank of gas, depending on terrain, load, and engine size. This range is a major advantage over many standard electric carts, which often max out between 20 and 35 miles before needing a lengthy recharge.
Are gas golf carts loud compared to electric ones?
Yes. Gas carts produce engine noise typical of a small engine, usually around 60–70 decibels. Electric carts are virtually silent. This noise factor is a major reason why many residential communities prefer the electric golf cart cost structure despite potentially higher initial battery prices.
How do I find the best pre-owned golf cart cost?
Start your search online using classified sites, local marketplaces, and dealer trade-in lists. Always request service records. If you are serious, pay a small fee to have a qualified golf cart mechanic inspect the engine compression and check for frame damage before finalizing the purchase of any pre-owned golf cart cost item.
Is it cheaper to repair an old gas cart or buy a new one?
If your cart is over 10 years old and requires major engine work (engine replacement or a full rebuild), the repair cost often exceeds 50% of the price of a new budget golf cart cost model. In those cases, selling the old unit for parts and investing in a new one is usually the smarter financial move.