What is the best way to select a golf cart? The best way involves looking at your main use, power source, budget, and required features. This golf cart buying guide will help you make a smart choice. Choosing the right cart makes your trips easier and more fun, whether you are playing golf or using it around the neighborhood.
Deciphering Your Needs: What Are Golf Cart Types and Uses?
Before looking at models, think about what you need the cart for. Different needs call for different golf cart types and uses. A cart for a huge golf course is not the same as one for a small retirement community.
Personal Transportation Carts
These are for moving people short distances. Think neighborhood driving, trips to the mailbox, or visiting friends nearby.
- Street-Legal Carts (LSVs): These carts meet road rules. They can drive on roads with speed limits usually up to 35 mph. They need lights, seatbelts, and sometimes mirrors.
- Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs): These are often similar to LSVs but have specific state rules. They are great for short trips off the main roads.
Golf Course Carts
These carts are built for the course. They focus on quiet running and easy navigation over turf.
- They usually have lighter suspension.
- They often have dedicated bag attachments.
- Speed is usually lower than street-legal models.
Utility and Commercial Carts
These carts haul things. They are workhorses.
- They often have large flatbeds.
- They can handle heavier loads.
- Commonly found at resorts, factories, or large campuses.
Specialty Carts
This group includes customized carts like lifted carts for rough terrain or carts made for handicapped access.
Powering Your Ride: Electric vs Gas Golf Cart
One of the biggest choices is the power source. Should you go for electric vs gas golf cart? Each has pros and cons that affect cost, use, and upkeep.
Electric Carts (Battery Power)
Most modern carts are electric. They use deep-cycle batteries (like lead-acid or newer lithium-ion).
Pros:
- Very quiet operation.
- Zero tailpipe emissions. Good for the environment.
- Low maintenance; no oil changes or spark plugs.
- Fueling is easy: just plug them in.
Cons:
- Range is limited by battery life.
- Recharge time takes several hours.
- Batteries need replacing every few years (a big cost).
- May struggle on very long, steep hills with heavy loads.
Gas Carts (Internal Combustion Engine)
These run on gasoline, much like a small car or lawnmower engine.
Pros:
- Longer range on a single tank of fuel.
- Quick refueling time.
- Better performance on steep inclines or heavy hauling tasks.
Cons:
- Loud engine noise.
- Produce exhaust fumes. Not good for indoor use.
- Require regular engine maintenance (oil, filters, belts).
- Fuel prices fluctuate.
| Feature | Electric Cart | Gas Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | Very Quiet | Loud |
| Emissions | None | Exhaust Fumes |
| Maintenance | Low (Focus on batteries/tires) | Higher (Engine servicing needed) |
| Refueling Time | Slow (Hours to charge) | Fast (Minutes to fill tank) |
| Hill Climbing | Moderate | Excellent |
Key Factors in Golf Cart Selection
When reviewing options, several factors in golf cart selection matter greatly. These details affect how well the cart suits your daily life.
Range and Battery Technology
How far do you need to go before charging? This is vital.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: These are standard but heavy. They require regular watering and careful charging cycles.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: These are lighter, hold a charge longer, and require almost no maintenance. They cost more upfront but last longer overall. If you use your cart often, lithium is often the better long-term choice.
Speed and Power
Most basic carts top out around 12-15 mph. If you need street legality (LSV), you must ensure the cart can reach 20 mph, often requiring a more powerful motor or controller upgrade.
Carrying Capacity
How many people do you need to carry? Carts come in 2-seater, 4-seater (often with a rear-facing seat that flips down), and even 6-seater configurations. Check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) if you plan on hauling heavy gear.
Choosing the Right Golf Cart Size
Choosing the right golf cart size depends on where you will store and drive it.
- Standard Size: Ideal for golf courses and paved neighborhoods. They fit easily in standard garages.
- Stretch Models (6-seaters): These are much longer. Make sure you have enough driveway or garage space before buying one. They can be harder to maneuver in tight spots.
- Compact Models: Good for very small lots or resorts where space is limited. They sacrifice passenger space for maneuverability.
Examining the Best Golf Cart Features
Do not just look at the base model. The best golf cart features can significantly improve your experience. Think about comfort, safety, and utility.
Comfort Features
- Seating Material: Weather-resistant vinyl is standard. Premium seating offers better cushioning for long rides.
- Suspension: Standard carts use basic leaf springs. Carts designed for rough roads or neighborhood driving benefit from independent or upgraded suspension systems for a smoother ride.
- Roof Type: A canopy is essential for sun or rain protection. Fold-down windshields help keep bugs and wind out of your face.
Utility and Safety Features
- Lights and Signals: Crucial if you drive near dusk or on public roads. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- Onboard Charger: Most carts come standard with this. Ensure it is high quality.
- Tires: Standard turf tires damage grass. Knobby tires are better for off-road use but can chew up delicate lawns.
- Storage: Look for ample space in the dash or under the seats for personal items.
New vs Used Golf Cart: Weighing the Investment
Deciding between new vs used golf cart is usually a budget decision. Both paths have clear benefits.
Buying New
- Pros: Full manufacturer warranty, latest technology (like lithium batteries), complete customization options, and peace of mind about the cart’s history.
- Cons: Highest initial cost. Depreciation starts immediately.
Buying Used
- Pros: Significantly lower purchase price. You might be able to afford a higher-end model used than you could new.
- Cons: Unknown maintenance history. Warranties may be expired or limited. Batteries in used electric carts might need replacement soon, which is a major expense.
If buying used, always inspect the battery pack’s age and health carefully. Ask for service records.
Comparing Golf Cart Brands
Different manufacturers have reputations for quality, service, and specific features. Comparing golf cart brands helps you align your purchase with known reliability.
Major industry players include:
- Club Car: Known for durable aluminum frames and high-quality engineering. Very popular on golf courses.
- EZ-GO (Textron): Offers a wide range, often focusing on passenger comfort and varied power options.
- Yamaha: Praised for reliable engines (in gas models) and solid build quality across their lines.
- Advanced EV/ICON: Newer brands often focusing on street-legal features and modern styling at competitive price points.
Research local dealer support. Even the best brand is hard to own if you cannot find reliable parts or service nearby.
Budgeting and Golf Cart Financing Options
Golf carts represent a significant purchase, often costing between $4,000 for a basic used model to over $20,000 for a fully loaded, street-ready luxury cart.
Initial Cost Breakdown (Estimate)
| Cart Category | Estimated Price Range (New) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Electric (Non-Street Legal) | $7,000 – $10,000 | Turf tires, basic seats. |
| Lifted/Custom Electric | $11,000 – $15,000 | Higher speeds, custom wheels, better batteries. |
| Street Legal (LSV) | $15,000 – $25,000+ | Includes lights, safety gear, higher top speed. |
| Used Cart | $3,000 – $7,000 | Condition varies widely; check batteries! |
Exploring Golf Cart Financing Options
You rarely need to pay cash outright. Look into these golf cart financing options:
- Dealership Financing: Many authorized dealers offer in-house financing, often partnering with third-party lenders. Terms can vary widely.
- Personal Loans: If you have excellent credit, a standard unsecured personal loan from your bank or credit union might offer better interest rates than dealer financing.
- Secured Loans: Some lenders may allow you to use your home equity or other assets as collateral for a lower rate.
- Leasing: More common for commercial users, leasing spreads the cost over time without ownership.
Always read the fine print regarding interest rates (APR) and loan duration.
Golf Cart Maintenance Considerations
Your purchase decision must include long-term costs. Golf cart maintenance considerations affect how much the cart costs you over five or ten years.
Electric Cart Care
The biggest expense is the battery pack.
- Routine Checks: Keep terminals clean and tight. Check water levels in lead-acid batteries weekly.
- Charging Habits: Do not routinely run batteries down past 50%. Use the correct charger for your battery type.
- Tire Pressure: Check monthly. Improper pressure wears out tires fast and reduces range.
Gas Cart Care
Gas carts require standard small engine maintenance.
- Oil Changes: Follow the manufacturer’s schedule (often every 100 hours of use).
- Filter Replacement: Air and fuel filters need regular inspection and replacement.
- Fuel System: Use fresh fuel, especially during long storage periods, to prevent carburetor issues.
Conclusion: Making Your Final Selection
Choosing the perfect cart involves balancing your budget against your needs for power, comfort, and features. Review this golf cart buying guide one last time. Decide if electric silence or gas power suits your terrain best. Prioritize safety features if you plan on driving near traffic. By carefully assessing these elements, you secure a reliable vehicle for years of use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long do golf cart batteries typically last?
A: Lead-acid batteries usually last 3 to 5 years with diligent care. Lithium-ion batteries often last 8 to 10 years or more.
Q: Can I convert a gas golf cart to electric?
A: While technically possible, converting a gas cart to electric is extremely complex and usually costs more than buying a purpose-built electric cart. It is not generally recommended for the average buyer.
Q: What is the difference between a golf cart and an LSV?
A: A standard golf cart is a low-speed vehicle restricted to private property or specific roads designated by local law. An LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle) is street-legal on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph and must meet strict federal safety standards (like seat belts, VIN, and lighting).
Q: Are golf carts considered vehicles for insurance purposes?
A: Yes, if you plan to drive them on public roads, even occasionally, you must check with your insurer. Street-legal LSVs usually require standard auto liability insurance. Carts used only on private property may only need coverage under a homeowner’s policy.
Q: What should I inspect when buying a used electric cart?
A: Focus heavily on the battery pack’s age and current charge capacity. Also, check the condition of the tires, the brakes, and look for signs of rust or frame damage, especially if the cart has been used near salt water.