Golf carts have worked their way from a simple machine meant for course transportation to being in the garage of many homes in middle America. As a result, the need to learn about golf cart maintenance continues to grow. The initial price tag is above the average “fun money” expense, making optimal performance and longevity crucial. In this guide, we will explore the essential aspects of golf cart maintenance to help ensure you have the best experience.
Battery Care
There is nothing more important than the heart of the electric golf cart, which is the battery. To maintain optimal battery performance long term, there are a few key steps. First, always keep your battery terminals clean and free of corrosion. This will help with the lifetime efficiency of your battery. Check the water levels in your lead-acid batteries and add distilled water as needed. Keep good habits for battery charging. Make sure to use the proper charging cables. If a charging cable was not included with the purchase of your golf cart or new battery, there should be detailed information in the manual for proper cable type. Keep in mind there are likely unique specifications for each battery manufacturer. Following these practices can extend the lifespan of your battery and thus, your electric golf cart.
Tire Maintenance
With a plethora of options for golf cart tires and their impact on handling and efficiency, tires are quite important for golf cart maintenance. Regular inspections to check for punctures, flat spots or bubbling paired with ensuring proper inflation according to the manufacturer’s recommendations does wonders for longevity. Overinflated tires contribute to a stiffer ride and can make tires more prone to bubbling and punctures. Underinflated tires can impact the vehicles suspension over time and will lead to less mileage efficiency. For a few dollars your local hardware store can supply a tool that measures tread depth. Monitoring your tread depth will give you an idea of when tire replacement will be necessary. If treads start to wear unevenly you will know to rotate your tires, get an alignment or have early signs of other mechanical issues that could be present.
Cleaning and Appearance
While dirt and grime won’t appear as quickly as it does on traditional vehicles, cleaning your cart often is another essential part of golf cart maintenance. If you live in colder climates where salt is used on the roads be sure to take special care of the undercarriage of your cart to mitigate corrosion. Avoid harsh chemicals to protect the paint and decals on your cart. Keeping your wheel wells clear of debris will protect your tires from unexpected damage. Use protective wax and sealants on your exterior surfaces to shield from UV damage. Mild soap and water with regular cleaning intervals increase cart longevity and there is also satisfaction as being known as the person who always has a clean vehicle.
Inspection and Lubrication
Performing regular inspections to identify potential issues before they can become significant problems is a best practice. Take the time to make sure all moving parts are properly lubricated. Don’t forget about smaller things like hinges and bushings. Inspect your braking systems for damage and adjust cables as necessary to ensure you are always equipped with the optimal stopping power. Check for loose parts in the suspension components and steering systems. Unique items should always be included in an inspection for each manufacturer. Do some research online for your specific model and create your own checklist to follow. Staying proactive with your golf cart maintenance will allow you peace of mind that your cart will remain reliable and safe for years to come.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your golf cart in tip-top shape and maximizing its lifespan. By following the tips outlined in this guide you can increase your chances of operating a safe, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing golf cart for as long as possible. Create a checklist and make golf cart maintenance a regular occurrence and you will have a much more pleasant experience as a golf cart owner.
