Modern golf carts are generally powered with electricity, which makes them more environmentally friendly instead of ones that run on gas.
Despite the advantages of battery power, all batteries have an eventual expiration date.
This may make you wonder, how long do golf cart batteries last?
The answer depends, as the lifespan of these batteries depends on whether they are well cared for or not.
In short, if you charge them properly and maintain them well, a golf cart’s batteries can last between five and ten years.
However, if they are neglected, the batteries could give out in just a few months.
You’ll learn more about the lifespan of golf cart batteries in this post, as we’ll go over the factors that affect their lifespan.
Factors That Affect How Long Golf Cart Batteries Last
Here are some of the things that can affect a golf cart battery’s lifespan.
Overcharging Batteries
This is one of the main factors that can affect how long a battery lasts.
Overcharging occurs when the charger continually powers the battery to burn out the internal components, even when the battery is fully charged.
If this occurs frequently, the battery’s lifespan will quickly dwindle.
The good news is that modern chargers automatically turn off once the battery is fully charged.
As long as nothing happens to the power supply or the charger, you won’t need to worry about overcharging being an issue.
If your golf cart is older, its charger may not have an automatic switch-off feature built in.
If this is the case, it’s best to use an alarm clock that lets you know when to stop charging the battery.
Taking the steps to avoid overcharging will give your golf cart’s battery more chance of living longer.
Lack Of Upkeep
A lack of maintenance is another one of the reasons why a battery’s lifespan can become shorter.
An important thing to remember is that the batteries need watering once per month, at minimum.
You need to use distilled water, never tap! Tap water will damage the battery beyond repair.
Make sure that the batteries are charged to full beforehand.
The upkeep also involves cleaning. You may notice a corrosive residue accumulating along the battery terminals.
This needs to be cleaned thoroughly ASAP to avoid further damage.
Maintenance also involves the way that you charge the batteries. A good rule of thumb is to recharge them each time that you use them.
Avoid leaving the batteries empty for too long. Frequent charging and discharging cycles are good for the batteries, which will help to extend their lifespan.
Remember to charge the batteries in a well-ventilated space, as this prevents overheating.
Make and Quality
Generally speaking, you get what you pay for with golf cart batteries.
There may be some cheaper options that can last a few years, but if you want ones that may last a decade, you will need to spend more.
Do your research to compare all of the factors involved, like shipping prices, costs, and insurance, as this will ensure that you get the most out of your purchase.
Rate of Use
Some golf carts are used less than others, and vice versa, which all affect the batteries’ lifespan.
The batteries in golf cart fleets are used more frequently, sometimes two or three golf games each day, than private golf carts.
If they are looked after, the batteries in fleet carts can last between four and six years.
Private golf cart batteries that aren’t used as much, likely an average of three games each week, have a greater chance of lasting longer, as the battery isn’t being used as frequently.
Batteries in private golf carts may last between six and ten years, provided that they are well cared for.
Golf Cart Features
A different element that impacts battery life is how many extra features the golf cart has built-in.
For example, some golf carts are completely embellished with horns, windshield wipers, and headlights.
These features may make the cart street-legal, but they can place more pressure on the battery, having an impact on its durability.
Despite this, the effect isn’t as great as the previous points on this list, so don’t let this deter you from updating your golf cart with extra accessories.
Storage Conditions
If you are keeping your golf cart battery for a while, you should make sure that the storage environment is cool, not hot.
Exposure to high temperatures can have a detrimental effect on the battery life.
Cooler temperatures are ideal for storing batteries, but you should avoid keeping them in freezing conditions.
You should also examine the battery voltage regularly, around every six weeks. Give them an extra charge when they are under 70% charge.
How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?
Taking the above factors into account, how long will a golf cart battery last?
Going over the worst-case possibility first, if you purchase a cheap, low-quality battery, keep overcharging it, don’t keep up with regular maintenance, and store it in hot temperatures, you will struggle to make it last over three years.
Conversely, if you purchase a battery that’s of high quality, stick to good charging customs, clean it regularly, supervise the water levels, store it in a cool location, and use it under five times a week, the battery may last a decade, at best!
Taking the time to give the golf cart battery some regular care may save you more in the long run, as you won’t need to pay for the replacement battery.
The Bottom Line
Golf cart batteries are complex gadgets, and there are lots of elements that can affect their lifespan.
As battery lifespan depends on many different factors, it’s hard to estimate exactly how long the battery will last.
However, if you purchase the battery from a trustworthy manufacturer, keep up with regular maintenance, and stick to proper charging customs, you may find that your battery gives your golf cart ten years of use to enjoy on the golf course!
Hi, my name is Garratt Shmidt and I have been playing golf in my spare time for almost a decade.
Before I found a passion for golf, I didn’t see the appeal. I thought it was slow, repetitive, and quite frankly boring.
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