So you are thinking of buying a Golf Cart for off-course usage. Here are some good points as to what you should look for in your Golf Cart purchase.
A golf cart is a smart purchase for avid golfers, people living in retirement communities, or for business people who work on large sites, such as construction and landscaping projects. Golf carts are versatile vehicles that allow users to drive places that cars and larger vehicles cannot go. Buying a used golf cart can save buyers up to fifty percent off the cost of a new cart. Buyers should learn about golf carts and their various features, as well as how to evaluate a used golf cart.
Used Golf Cart Overview
Whether buyers plan to use a golf cart for golfing or as a utility vehicle, buying a golf cart used can save up to half the cost of a new cart. Golf carts were originally designed for elderly golf players or those with disabilities. Today, golf carts are commonly used by everyone on the course to increase the rate of play and allow golfers with limited walking abilities to still enjoy the game. Golf carts can be powered by gas or electric batteries. Many people use golf carts for general transportation, especially those who live in retirement communities. Most gas carts are used by those who use their carts for general transportation, and electric carts are still popular on the golf course.
Golf Cart Types and Features
In order to narrow the options available, buyers should consider a few important factors, such as whether they want a gas or electric golf cart, what added features they desire, how much they are willing to spend, and where they will store the golf cart once it is purchased. By determining the right type, features, price, and size, buyers can filter the wide pool of options to a select few.
Gas Versus Electric Golf Carts
One of the first decisions buyers have to make when purchasing a cart is whether they prefer gas or electric carts. Gas carts have engines similar to cars that run on gasoline. Electric carts are powered by rechargeable batteries that are generally charged after each use. Use the chart below to learn about gas and electric golf carts and the advantages and disadvantages of both types.
Most golfers will be satisfied with the convenience and capabilities of electric carts. Buyers who need more power or need carts to run for a long time without being recharged should buy gas carts. Maintenance costs and noise factors as well as local and state laws should be taken into account when deciding between gas or electric carts.
Used Golf Cart Features
Golf carts have many features buyers should consider before making a purchase. Some features are essential for the needs of the buyers, and other features offer convenience, comfort, and luxury.
- Windshields: Some carts come with windshields affixed. They often can fold down or can be removed completely. Windshields are especially useful in areas that frequently experience poor weather.
- Radio: Some carts have radios installed that allow riders to listen to music, sports, or talk radio while in use.
- Seat Material: Buyers can select seat materials that provide more comfort. Leather, for example, looks nice and provides comfortable seating for riders.
- Rear Seats: Some carts come with rear seats to add extra riders facing backwards at the rear of the cart. This is useful if the cart will be used to carry a large number of people.
- Extra Seats: Some golf carts are built with an extra row of seats. These carts are longer and allow up to six riders.
- Horns: Horns are useful for those taking carts on public roads to alert other drivers of the cart’s presence.
- Mirrors: Carts should have side and rear-view mirrors so drivers have better visibility and can see behind the cart.
- Headlights: Some areas or establishments mandate headlights on golf courses. Any golf carts operated at night or on roads must have headlights to increase visibility.
Used Golf Cart Storage
Buyers should ensure they have enough space to properly store the cart. Carts that are stored indoors will stay in better shape when they not exposed to weather conditions on a 24-hour basis. Also, golf carts are relatively light and susceptible to theft. Storing a cart indoors can deter theft.
Used Golf Cart Budget
Buyers should determine a budget for how much they are willing to invest in a golf cart. Many used carts start at $2,000. Buyers with smaller budgets may have to sacrifice looks or features for a reliable cart that will last. Buyers with a slightly larger budget can look for newer models with more features and comfortable seats.
Evaluating a Used Golf Cart
When buying a used golf cart, buyers should inspect each individual component of the golf cart, such as the tires, to ensure it is satisfactory. Buyers should determine what features they need and inspect the golf cart to make sure each component is functional. Knowing the difference between reconditioned golf carts and as-is models will help buyers make an informed purchasing choice.
Examine the Tires
Buyers should examine the tires on the golf cart. Look for tires with deep treads and no visible punctures or damage. Check the tire pressure to make sure the tires hold air and the pressure in the tire matches the recommendation. Buyers who find the right cart with worn tires should note that tires can be replaced for as little as $90. A quality cart should not be overlooked just because of poor tire quality.
Examine the Canopy
Look at the canopy of the golf cart. There should be minimal damage to the roof or frame. Look for rust. Canopies that have rust damage will only further erode, becoming more problematic. Buyers should lightly shake the canopy to make sure it feels secure. Any shifting or looseness in the canopy is a sign of poor construction or deteriorating parts.
Examine the Body
The body of the cart is important from a structural as well as cosmetic standpoint. The body of the cart should have minimal rust or visible damage. Minor scratches, faded paint, or small dents that do not compromise the integrity of the cart should not deter a buyer from considering the cart. Buyers should put pressure on each component on the body, testing for stability.
Inspect the Battery
Buyers should inspect the battery before buying a used electric cart. Batteries can cost up to $1000 to replace. The newer the battery, the longer the battery will last. Batteries are usually stamped with a code consisting of a letter and a number that indicate the month and year the battery was made. The letter signifies the month, A being January, B being February, and so on, until I, which represents December. The second part is a single-digit, one through nine. Batteries last five to six years, so buyers can assume the number represents the closest preceding year ending in that single number.
Ensure a Good Price
Buyers should always match the model of a used cart with the price of a new golf cart. This will give buyers context for the used price. Depending on wear and tear, a used cart should be roughly fifty percent of the cost of a new cart. Carts with less wear and tear, new batteries, or carts that have seen under a year of use will have higher prices. A quality cart can be purchased for as little as $2,000, but a used cart that has a lot of customized features may cost up to $9,000.
Consider the Brand
Buyers should consider the brand of the golf cart when shopping. Brands such as Club Car, EZ Go, and Yamaha are popular, reliable golf carts. Buying major brand names allows buyers to know the carts are built with quality parts that are made to last and can be replaced easily.
"As Is" Versus Reconditioned Golf Carts
People buying used golf carts from dealers should know the difference between "as is" and reconditioned golf carts. Reconditioned carts were taken in by the dealer, inspected, and then worked on by the dealers. These carts may have new mechanical pieces, new seat material, or even new paint. Buyers can be assured of their quality by the 60- to 90-day warranty many dealers offer. Buyers may pay more for a cart that is reconditioned, but this is a good investment for the quality reconditioned carts offer.
As-is golf carts have had no refurbishment work and come with no warrantee. Dealers and sellers generally inspect these carts for major mechanical or structural flaws, but the inspection stops there. These carts are sold without warranties but are generally cheaper than reconditioned golf carts.
Test Drive Used Golf Carts
Test driving a golf cart is a great way to determine the quality and performance of a cart. Buyers should take the cart for a minimum of a 15-minute test drive. Buyers should first notice how comfortable the cart and seats are. The cart should be comfortable enough to have a driver and passenger ride in the cart for a few minutes without discomfort. Buyers should then examine the responsiveness of the car. Test how fast the cart accelerates on flat ground and inclines. Test the brakes. Make sure they are reliable, and test to see how they respond when making a hard, fast stop. Look at the battery life and fuel. A short test drive should make a very minor impact on the amount of fuel or battery left. The test drive will help buyers get a feel for how the cart performs.