If you play golf, then driving the golf buggy around can easily be one of the best parts of the game. Buying your own golf cart can be an exciting moment as a golfer, and there is certainly no shortage of options available to choose from, which can make the entire process quite overwhelming. When choosing the right golf cart for you, you’ll be faced with a range of different motors, brands, seat numbers, and more. Keep reading for a guide to buying a golf cart to find out more about some of the main things you should consider before making the purchase.
What to Consider Before Buying
If this is your first time buying a golf cart, the sheer number of different cart types and brands on the market can easily become overwhelming; it can often feel like you’re buying a car. When shopping for a golf cart, you are likely to come across several different types such as gas-powered, electric, and even vintage era golf carts, so it’s a good idea to go shopping with an idea of what you are looking for.
Electric Golf Carts
If you want to be kinder to the environment with your golf cart purchase, then an electric golf cart is likely going to be the best option for you. You can learn more here about the evolution of golf cart batteries. The first electric golf cart was designed all the way back in 1934, but it was not designed specifically for golf. Today, most people opt for a fleet or second-hand model that is owned by a golf resort or course when buying their first electric golf cart.
Gas Powered Golf Carts
Similar to electric golf carts, gas-powered golf carts have been around for quite some time. The main advantage of these carts over the electric models is that generally, they will have higher speeds along with being able to travel faster. They are easy to fill up in the same way that you would a car, and there are no expensive batteries to replace. However, just like a car, gas golf carts can be more trouble-prone and you will need to ensure that you keep on top of maintenance, including oil changes, brakes, filters, and belts.
New or Used?
As is the case with any other vehicle, you have the option to go with either new or used when it comes to purchasing your next golf cart. However, just like with buying a car, you should be cautious if you decide to purchase used or refurbished instead of brand new. Ideally, if you are buying a used golf cart, look for a seller that offers purchase protection in the way of a warranty that covers you should anything go wrong with the cart in the first few months or year after purchase.
Battery Age
If you decide to buy a used electric golf cart, it’s important to know how old the battery is before you make the decision whether or not to buy. While replacement batteries are available, they can cost quite a lot – at several hundred dollars each, it might be cheaper for you to simply buy a newer cart in the long run. It’s important to find out the age of the existing battery as generally they will need to be replaced every four to six years. Checking the date codes will provide you with the information you need. They’re usually on a sticker or stamped onto the terminal.
Buying your own golf cart can be an exciting process, but with so many options to choose from, there’s plenty to think about before you make the investment.
