Buying a golf cart is not something you can do on a whim. Golf carts can cost in the tens of thousands, and they usually don’t come with a long warranty, so, if you make a bad decision and buy a cart that’s unreliable, then you may regret your decision very fast. You also have multiple options to choose from when picking a cart and knowing these options will allow you to pick the perfect cart for your needs and budget. Let’s take a look at some of the things you should consider when buying a golf cart.
The Brand
Just like with any vehicle, you should look at golf cart brands before picking one. Some brands are more reliable than others, while some will have better features. Some brands are also made overseas and/or are rarer, which will affect things like part prices and availability. Rare carts will often be more difficult to fix as well and you might have a harder time finding a repair person who can service them, so think about that before making your decision.
Some of the top brands you should know about include EZGO, Yamaha, Polaris, and Garia. You might hear about other brands, but these are the only ones you need to worry about right now as they’re the most respected by insiders.
Electric vs Fuel Powered
Electric carts are considered the best option for golfers who only want to use their cart for golf. Gas carts are usually better for people who want to use the cart to run errands or to go in nature since they have more power and are more autonomous.
If you want to use the cart for golfing only then you won’t need some of the benefits a gas cart offers. You should also know that gas carts cost more over their lifespan because of maintenance and fuel costs. So, an electric cart would be a better decision from a financial standpoint too.
Batteries and Wiring
If you buy an electric cart, then you need to know about batteries. First of all, you should know that a golf cart battery is different than your car battery and will need special maintenance. Most importantly, golf cart batteries cost much more than your average car battery. So, if you buy a used vehicle, you have to be ready to spend a significant chunk of money on your next battery and you need to check the battery’s condition before you buy it.
Another thing you need to pay very special attention to when buying a used golf cart is wiring. You should check if the wiring is properly routed and spaced. It should not enter in contact with any mechanical parts either.
Safety Features
Safety should be on top of your mind as well, especially if you want to use the cart for things outside of golf. If you’re looking for a brand that takes safety seriously, then EZGO is a good option. They’re the first supplier to have an automatic parking brake feature that prevents carts from going downhill on a slope when left unattended. Their carts also come standard with features like head and tail lights and horns.
You’d be surprised at how many suppliers will charge you extra for these simple features, so don’t assume they’ll be standard, and get a full rundown of the cart’s standard safety features before you buy anything.
Many factors need to be taken into consideration when looking for a golf cart. Learn about the top brands, the different features available, and buy your cart from a reputable supplier if you want to avoid nasty surprises.
