Legal Operation of a Golf Cart
Before you make the investment in a golf cart, it’s important to know how to/if you can legally operate a golf cart in your state and neighborhood. Here are questions you should answer before you buy:
- Are golf carts street legal in your area?
- Does the golf cart need to be registered/need a license to operate?
- Is a title required to provide proof of ownership or sale?
- Does the golf cart need to be insured?
- Have you reviewed all safety instructions like helmet use, operator age and any training needed to operate the golf cart?
Essential Golf Cart Features to Consider
Battery Power: Lithium vs. Lead Acid
Electric golf carts typically run using one of two types of batteries: lithium or lead acid. There are some differences between the two that impact a golf cart’s performance.
- Lithium batteries for golf carts: The more expensive of the two battery options, lithium batteries are lightweight (allowing for more passengers), last more charge cycles than lead acid and charge faster.
- Lead acid batteries for golf carts: Lead acid batteries are more affordable but are heavier, take longer to fully charge, require more maintenance to operate and last for fewer charge cycles than lithium batteries.
Golf Cart Price Ranges
There’s a wide range of prices for a golf cart, ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000+. The type of motor, battery, seating and additional accessories all add to the overall cost.
Golf Cart Charging Times
Golf cart charging times vary depending on your battery type. A traditional lead acid battery can take anywhere from 8-12 hours to charge. Pay attention to the charging time listed on the specific model of golf cart you’re interested in though. Newer battery technology has shortened charge times. A lithium battery-powered golf cart charges in as little as 2-3 hours.
A few best practice tips for preserving your battery life: always use the correct/supplied charger for your cart and after a day of use, make it a habit to charge your cart overnight so it’s ready in the morning if you need it.
Golf Cart Seating Options
Be realistic about how many people you’re regularly carting around. Golf carts commonly feature two, four or six seats. As you’d expect, more seating usually means a higher price. Think about seat placement. Some carts have two seats attached to the back of the cart facing backwards. That configuration might not be as family friendly depending on the age of your kids.
Golf Cart Displays
Not all models come with a digital display, but some golf carts do offer LCD display screens and back-up cameras. The screen also easily shows you speed, battery life and what gear you’re in. It’s a nice feature that makes operating your golf cart easier, especially if you use your golf cart early in the morning and later in the evening.
Additional Golf Cart Features
These add-on features and accessories enhance your golf cart care and use experience.
- Coolers: Keep food and drinks cold while you ride.
- Cleaning products: Other UTV and auto cleaners can be used to clean your golf cart.
- Wheel stoppers: Keep your golf cart in place by stopping it from rolling on its own or into another golf cart.
- Front baskets: Add extra storage while making seats available for passengers.
- Soft covers: Preserve theof the interior when the cart isn’t in use.
- Canopies: Some golf carts come with a canopy, but if your model doesn’t, in some cases it can be bought separately.
Golf Cart Lifespan and Maintenance
If properly cared for a golf cart can last up to ten years. Regular maintenance, cleaning and proper storage when it’s not in use all contribute to the longevity of the vehicle.
Beyond charging, cleaning and battery care, a golf cart should be serviced at least once a year but keep an eye out for problems as they arise. Check the tire pressure and treads, the suspension lubrication, the belts and motor, battery health, spark plugs, and fluid and air filters. When in doubt, bring your golf cart in to a professional for annual maintenance.
Other Recreational Vehicles to Consider
If you’re looking for more alternative ways to get from point A to point B, check out our other recreational vehicles, like UTVs or mini bikes. Familiarizing yourself with the benefits and features before you shop helps ensure you’re investing in the right recreational vehicle for your needs.