Golf Cart Maintenance Tips: Keep Your Ride in Peak Condition
- by Joe Weber - updated on 2/25/2025
A well-maintained golf cart ensures a longer lifespan and better performance, whether you're cruising the fairway or getting around your community. Regular upkeep enhances efficiency and prevents costly repairs. Follow these key maintenance tips to keep your golf cart in top shape year-round.
1. Charge Your Battery Correctly
To maximize battery life, charge your golf cart battery after every use. Letting the charge drop too low can reduce its lifespan, so aim to recharge when it reaches about 50% capacity. Overcharging can also damage the battery. If you have a standard charger, be sure to monitor the process or invest in an automatic charger that prevents overcharging.
2. Maintain Proper Battery Water Levels
If your golf cart uses flooded lead-acid batteries, check the electrolyte levels regularly. After a full charge, top off the electrolyte with distilled water, ensuring the liquid sits about 1/4 inch above the battery plates. Avoid overfilling, as it can lead to leaks and reduced efficiency.
If you need a refresher on how to check and fill your flooded lead-acid batteries, we have a very helpful guide to aid you in your task and help keep maintenance easy.
Investing in a watering system is a great way to ensure that your golf cart batteries always have the right amount of electrolyte.
3. Keep Battery Terminals Clean
Corrosion on battery terminals can weaken performance. If you notice a buildup of corrosion, clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water using a wire brush. For the best results, use a battery terminal cleaning kit. After cleaning, apply an anti-corrosion spray (included in the cleaning kit) and use terminal protectors to prevent future buildup.
4. Check and Maintain Tire Pressure
Proper tire pressure is essential for smooth handling and even wear. Most golf cart tires require inflation between 15 and 25 psi—check your owner's manual for the recommended level. Underinflated tires can cause poor handling, while overinflated ones can lead to excessive wear.
5. Inspect Brakes Annually
Even though golf carts travel at low speeds, brake maintenance is crucial. Nobody wants to roll into a sand trap. Inspect brake pads, drums, and cables at least once a year to ensure they function properly. Worn or misaligned brakes can make stopping difficult, posing a safety risk.
6. Keep Your Golf Cart Clean
Dirt, debris, and moisture can lead to rust and long-term damage. Wash your golf cart regularly with warm, soapy water, and dry it thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup. This not only keeps it looking great but also helps protect the frame and components.
7. Change the Oil in Gas-Powered Golf Carts
If you own a gas-powered golf cart, regular oil changes are essential to keep the engine running smoothly. Follow these steps:
- Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and change interval (usually every 125 hours of operation or twice a year).
- Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain. But, be careful, hot oil can burn you if you let the engine run for too long.
- Place a drain pan underneath, remove the drain plug, and let the old oil drain completely.
- Replace the drain plug, add fresh oil, and check the level with the dipstick.
- Dispose of the old oil properly at a recycling center.
8. Replace Air Filters and Maintain Fuel System in Gas-Powered Golf Carts
Just like any gas-powered vehicle, golf carts require clean air and a properly functioning fuel system for optimal performance. A clogged air filter can reduce engine efficiency, while dirty or stale fuel can lead to starting issues and poor acceleration.
How to Replace the Air Filter:
- Check your owner's manual for the recommended replacement schedule (typically every 6 months or after 100-150 hours of use).
- Locate the air filter housing, remove the old filter, and inspect it for dirt and debris.
- If it's reusable, clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. If it's disposable, replace it with a new one.
- Ensure the housing is properly sealed to prevent dirt from entering the engine.
Fuel System Maintenance Tips:
- Use fresh fuel – Gasoline degrades over time, so avoid letting old fuel sit in the tank for months. If storing your golf cart for an extended period, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation.
- Check the fuel filter – Replace it if you notice clogs or if the engine struggles to run smoothly.
- Inspect fuel lines – Look for cracks or leaks in the fuel lines and replace any damaged sections.
Keeping up with air filter and fuel system maintenance will help your gas-powered golf cart run efficiently and extend the engine's lifespan.
9. Store Your Golf Cart Properly in the Off-Season
If you won't be using your golf cart for an extended period, follow these steps:
- Battery Care: Fully charge the battery or batteries before storage and disconnect them to prevent discharge. A trickle charge (battery maintainer) can help maintain battery life.
- Tire Maintenance: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots and periodically check them.
- Protect the Cart: Use a breathable cover to shield it from dust, dirt, and moisture.
10. Know the Differences Between Gas and Electric Golf Carts
Understanding the key differences between gas and electric golf carts can help you make better maintenance decisions. Electric golf carts rely on deep-cycle batteries, requiring regular charging, water level checks, and terminal cleaning to stay in peak condition. Gas-powered golf carts, on the other hand, need routine oil changes, fuel system maintenance, and air filter replacements to keep their engines running smoothly.
If you're unsure which type is right for you, check out our in-depth guide on Gas vs. Electric Golf Carts to compare performance, maintenance needs, and overall benefits.
FAQs About Golf Cart Maintenance
Q: How often should I charge my golf cart battery?
A: Charge your battery after every use to extend its lifespan. Avoid letting it drop below 50% capacity to prevent damage.
Q: How do I clean corrosion off golf cart battery terminals?
A: Mix baking soda and water, apply it with a wire brush, and rinse thoroughly. Use an anti-corrosion spray or battery terminal protectors to prevent future buildup.
Q: How often should I change the oil in a gas-powered golf cart?
A: Change the oil every 125 hours of operation or at least twice a year to keep the engine running smoothly. Always check your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Q: What's the correct tire pressure for my golf cart?
A: Most golf cart tires require 15-25 psi—check your owner's manual for the exact pressure to ensure proper handling and even wear.
Q: How should I store my golf cart for the off-season?
A: Fully charge the battery and disconnect it, inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, and use a breathable cover to protect it from dust and moisture. If storing a gas cart, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
Extend the Life of Your Golf Cart with Quality Batteries
Routine maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your golf cart. If your battery isn't holding a charge like it used to, it may be time for a replacement.
Your local Batteries Plus carries a full selection of high-quality golf cart batteries, including flooded and AGM options. Stop by your nearest location for expert advice and free battery testing to keep your cart powered up and ready to go!