How to Take Care of Your Lithium Golf Cart Battery in the Winter

As a golf cart owner and business owner selling lithium batteries, I’ve seen firsthand how cold weather can impact the performance, health, and lifespan of lithium batteries. Whether you’re storing your golf cart for the winter or still using it on chilly days, knowing how to care for your lithium battery in freezing temperatures is critical.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to protect your lithium battery during the winter, from storage tips to charging precautions. These steps apply to golf cart owners, RV users, off-grid solar setups, and anyone relying on lithium power.

Why Lithium Batteries Need Special Attention in Cold Weather

Lithium batteries are far more efficient and long-lasting than traditional lead-acid options, but they also require more thoughtful care, especially when temperatures drop. Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries are more sensitive to extreme cold. If mishandled, cold weather can:

• Reduce battery capacity and performance
• Cause internal damage during charging
• Shorten overall battery lifespan
• Trigger built-in battery management system (BMS) safety shutoffs

1. Avoid Exposure to Extreme Cold

The ideal operating and storage temperature range for most lithium batteries is between 32°F (0°C) and 68°F (20°C). Below freezing, the battery’s internal chemistry slows down, reducing performance. In extreme cold, it may not even function at all.

Tip: If your golf cart is stored in an unheated garage or outdoors, consider moving the battery to a temperature-controlled space.

2. Keep the Battery Warm in Use

Using your cart in the cold? Whether you're just riding around the neighborhood or getting things done on your property, keeping the battery warm really helps it perform better.

Here are a few practical ways to insulate or warm the battery:

• Use a battery thermal blanket or insulated battery box
• Install a 12V battery heating pad (with a thermostat control if possible)
• Park in a garage or insulated shed between uses

Some high-end lithium batteries even come with self-heating technology, which is ideal for cold-weather applications.

3. Charge Before Storing, But Not to 100%

If you're planning to store your golf cart for the winter (or any lithium-powered vehicle or device), it's crucial to charge the battery properly beforehand.

Best practice: Charge your lithium battery to 40% to 60% before long-term storage.

Why not 100%? Storing a battery at full charge for months can accelerate chemical degradation. Similarly, never store a lithium battery fully discharged, as this can lead to deep discharge damage.

Note: Some lithium batteries may have unique storage requirements depending on their BMS or chemistry (e.g., LiFePO₄ vs NMC). Always check with your battery manufacturer for model-specific storage guidelines.

4. Never Charge a Lithium Battery in Freezing Temperatures

One of the biggest mistakes people make is charging lithium batteries in below-freezing conditions. Charging below 32°F (0°C) can cause lithium plating, a process that permanently damages the battery and reduces capacity.

What to do instead:

• Wait until the battery warms up to at least 40°F (5°C)
• Use a heated enclosure or battery warmer to bring it to a safe temperature
• Use a smart charger with temperature sensors or a BMS-integrated solution

5. Cycle the Battery Periodically

If your golf cart or lithium-powered system is sitting all winter, try to use the battery once a month. A light cycle helps prevent stagnation and keeps the internal components in healthy working condition.

Even a short 10 to 15-minute use (or low-current draw) can help keep the battery from entering deep sleep or losing capacity.

6. Store in a Dry, Cool, and Ventilated Space

Proper storage location is just as important as the battery’s charge level. Here’s what you should aim for:

• Cool (40°F to 60°F is ideal)
• Dry (humidity under 60%)
• Well-ventilated (to prevent condensation)
• Avoid direct sunlight, freezing areas, or heaters

If you're storing a full golf cart with the battery still installed, make sure the cart is parked indoors or under cover, and disconnect the battery to avoid phantom drain.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment

Lithium batteries are a major upgrade for golf cart owners, offering longer runtimes, faster charging, and better reliability. But they’re not set-it-and-forget-it, especially in winter. By following these proven cold-weather care tips, you’ll get the most life, performance, and safety from your lithium battery investment.

Bonus: Quick Winter Battery Care Checklist 

• Charge to 40–60% before storing
• Store in a dry area between 40–60°F
• Avoid charging in below-freezing temperatures
• Insulate or use a battery heater in cold conditions
• Cycle the battery once a month during storage
• Follow the manufacturer’s winter storage recommendations

Not sure how to prep your battery for the cold? Drop us a message! We’ll help you choose the right lithium golf cart battery and give you tips to keep it protected all winter long. Whether you're driving through snowy paths or storing your cart for the season, we’ll make sure your battery stays in top shape. Happy to help!