Golf carts are no longer just for the golf course. Today, they’re used in neighborhoods, resorts, farms, and even for daily commuting in some communities. If you’re considering owning one, a common question you may ask is: how many batteries do golf carts have? The answer depends on the make, model, and voltage system of your cart. In this guide, we’ll explain the typical number of batteries in golf carts, why that number matters, and how it affects performance, range, and maintenance.
Typical Battery Setups in Golf Carts
Most golf carts use multiple batteries wired together to power the vehicle. Unlike cars that use one large battery to start the engine, golf carts need several smaller batteries connected in series to create the system voltage. The number of batteries usually depends on whether the cart runs on 36 volts, 48 volts, or 72 volts. Here are the most common setups:
- 36-Volt Carts: Six 6-volt batteries.
- 48-Volt Carts: Six 8-volt batteries or four 12-volt batteries.
- 72-Volt Carts: Six 12-volt batteries.
While some specialty or custom carts may vary, these are the most widely used configurations. So when you ask how many batteries do golf carts have, the short answer is usually between four and six, depending on the system voltage.
Why Golf Carts Use Multiple Batteries
Golf carts rely on electric motors for propulsion. Motors require higher voltage than a single battery can provide. Instead of using one oversized battery, manufacturers connect several smaller batteries in series. This setup is easier to manage, more affordable to replace, and provides flexibility in how power is delivered. For example, six 6-volt batteries wired together provide the same total voltage as one large 36-volt unit but at a lower cost and with more manageable weight distribution.
How to Identify How Many Batteries Your Cart Has
If you’re unsure about your golf cart’s battery setup, checking is quick and simple. Start by looking under the seat—this is where most golf cart batteries are located. Count the number of individual batteries you see. Next, check the voltage rating printed on the top or side of a single battery, then multiply it by the total number of batteries to determine your cart’s overall system voltage. For added confirmation, review your owner’s manual, which usually lists the exact battery configuration for your cart model. This simple inspection can help you understand your cart’s power system and make better decisions about maintenance or upgrades.
36-Volt Systems: Six Batteries
Older golf carts often use 36-volt systems with six 6-volt batteries. These carts are affordable and practical for flat terrain and light use. While they don’t provide as much power as newer 48-volt systems, they are reliable for casual neighborhood driving or course use. The downside is shorter range and slower acceleration compared to higher-voltage setups.
72-Volt Systems: High Performance
High-performance or specialty golf carts sometimes use 72-volt systems powered by six 12-volt batteries. These carts deliver more speed, torque, and climbing ability. They’re great for off-road use, hauling heavy loads, or for people who want maximum performance. However, 72-volt systems are more expensive to maintain and often unnecessary for casual users.
Impact of Battery Count on Performance
The number of batteries directly affects performance. More batteries mean higher system voltage, which provides:
- More Speed: Higher voltage systems accelerate faster and reach higher top speeds.
- Better Hill Climbing: More power helps carts handle inclines with ease.
- Longer Range: Efficient voltage systems extend the distance your cart can travel on a single charge.
That said, more batteries also mean higher replacement costs and more weight, which can affect efficiency.
Maintenance Considerations
Asking how many batteries do golf carts have is not just about numbers—it’s about maintenance too. Each battery requires care. Lead-acid batteries, the most common type, need regular watering, terminal cleaning, and proper charging habits. The more batteries you have, the more time and effort this requires. For example, maintaining six 8-volt batteries takes more work than maintaining four 12-volt ones. Lithium batteries, which are becoming popular, require almost no maintenance but cost more upfront.
Battery Lifespan and Replacement
The lifespan of golf cart batteries depends on their type and care. Lead-acid batteries typically last 4–6 years, while lithium packs can last 8–10 years. When it comes time to replace them, the number of batteries matters. Replacing six 8-volt batteries may cost around $900–$1,200, while replacing four 12-volt batteries could run $800–$1,000. Lithium conversions are more expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000, but they pay off in longevity and convenience.
Signs You Need New Batteries
Knowing when it’s time to replace your golf cart batteries can save you from costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns. A noticeable reduction in driving range, difficulty climbing hills, or struggling to carry passengers are early warning signs that your batteries are wearing out. You may also find that charging takes longer than usual or that the charge drains much faster than before. In some cases, physical damage such as corrosion, swelling, or leaking on the battery case makes the need for replacement even more urgent. Addressing these issues promptly not only ensures reliable performance but also helps protect the cart’s motor and controller from unnecessary strain.
Cost of Ownership
The number of batteries impacts long-term ownership costs. More batteries mean higher replacement expenses and greater maintenance demands. However, higher-voltage carts with more batteries often operate more efficiently, which can save money on electricity over time. Weighing these factors helps you determine the best balance between upfront cost and long-term value.
Lithium Batteries: A Modern Option
While most traditional carts still use lead-acid batteries, lithium technology is gaining traction. A single lithium pack can replace a group of lead-acid batteries, simplifying maintenance. Lithium packs are lighter, charge faster, and last longer. For many owners, upgrading reduces the hassle of maintaining multiple batteries, even though the upfront cost is higher. As technology improves, lithium options may soon become standard.
Choosing the Right Setup
Here’s how different setups fit various golf cart uses. For occasional use on flat ground, a 36-volt system with six 6-volt batteries is usually sufficient, offering a budget-friendly option for light driving. For regular neighborhood use or navigating hilly terrain, a 48-volt system—either with four 12-volt batteries or six 8-volt batteries—provides better power, range, and efficiency. For heavy loads or demanding conditions, stepping up to a 72-volt system or upgrading to lithium batteries delivers the strongest performance, ensuring faster acceleration, longer range, and greater durability under stress.
Conclusion: How Many Batteries Do Golf Carts Have?
So, how many batteries do golf carts have? Most models carry between four and six, depending on whether they are 36-volt, 48-volt, or 72-volt systems. The number of batteries affects speed, power, range, and maintenance needs. While more batteries mean greater performance, they also increase replacement costs and upkeep. With newer lithium options available, owners now have more flexibility than ever before. Understanding your cart’s setup ensures you make the right choices for performance, cost, and convenience.
At Hartville Golf Carts, we help customers choose the best carts and battery configurations for their needs. Whether you’re driving around the golf course, through your neighborhood, or across a campground, knowing your battery setup is key to keeping your cart reliable and efficient.
