Electric Golf Cart Maintenance Tips

Electric golf cart batteries that are not being well charged is the number one cause for poor performance. Keeping proper battery water levels using distilled water is crucial, but be careful not to overwater. Keep the level right below the cap, ensuring water is covering the plates—double check that every cell is filled. A battery filler bottle is the best tool, and opting for a battery filling system can streamline this important step. In one step, it lets you fill all the batteries with minimal effort.

Make sure that the cart's batteries are charged first and then add the water if there isn't enough water to fully cover the plates. If not, "top off" the water levels just enough to cover the plates and then charge. If the batteries get over-filled before charging, the water boils over and you risk getting battery acid on the floor and battery terminals. In the long run, this leads to batteries that don't last as long and endure more wear and tear.

However, mistakes happen—that's why having a battery terminal cleaner on hand is a wise move. A few sprays and the corrosion dissipates. Battery acid on the floor can often be removed with a simple soap and water mix. It's toxic, so wash it off your skin immediately and wash clothes splashed with battery acid separately.

Staying on Top of Maintenance

Electric golf carts should be charged every day it is used. Electric carts feature batteries without memories, which means partial charges optimize the cycles the batteries charge. Use a heavy duty, 15 amp charging cord each time, since a lighter weight cord isn't as heat resistant. Anything other than a 15 amp may be a fire hazard.

Keeping the battery terminals clean is paramount to optimal cart performance and the most efficient charge. Golf Carts should be charged where there is good ventilation. When flooded batteries are charged, hydrogen gas is created and can be explosive without proper ventilation. Another option is adding a solar panel to keep charges more constant, minimizing discharge and dead batteries.

Tire Care

Improperly inflated tires means less range for the cart. For carts used primarily on pavement, consider adding legal street legal tires. Check brakes and lights regularly for maximum safety. Since most electric carts travel in the 20-25 mph zone (the same as a car in a school zone), keeping on top of brakes is a must. Cables and brake shoes need routine maintenance.  

The Basic Checklist

The rear axle differential needs regular checking and has oil similar to a car's. Remove the plug and check for oil. Maintenance is key to making your cart last as long as possible and with the best results. Just like your car, skipping maintenance can be a dangerous and expensive habit.

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