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Buying a Golf Cart takes a little research and a lot of choices.
If we hadn’t bought a brand-spankin’ new cart when we moved in, we would’ve saved lots of money buying used. We have seen so many cool vintage carts being driven and for sale out here at the Ranch. I personally love almost anything vintage with personality so a better, more economical choice would have been buying used. Golf carts are very fixable and fix-upable so new is certainly not the only choice!
Below are some of the key considerations when purchasing a golf cart.
When it's time to buy a
golf cart...
- Purpose and Usage: Assess how you plan to use the golf cart—just for golfing, or also as a community vehicle for short commutes?
- New vs. Used: Decide if you want a brand-new cart with the latest features or if a used cart fits your needs and budget better. Check out Robson Ranch HOA webpage for resident listings of used carts or local resident business in Ponder: Mulligan Carts
- Battery Type: Understand the differences between lead acid and lithium batteries, as they affect performance, maintenance, and cost. If you buy a cart with Lead Acid Batteries but want Lithium: you can always convert it to lithium.
Lead Acid Batteries:
Pros: Lower upfront cost ($1,100 – $1,800), well-established technology.
Cons: Heavier, requires regular maintenance (watering), shorter lifespan (5-7 years) compared to lithium batteries (8 years).
Best Types of Lead Acid Batteries: The best lead acid batteries for golf carts are typically Deep Cycle Batteries. These are designed for the long, continuous discharge required by golf carts, offering durability and reliability. Brands like Trojan and Interstate are well-regarded in this category.
Lithium Batteries:
Pros: Longer lifespan, constant power, lightweight, maintenance-free, lighter weight, more efficient & faster charging.
Cons: Higher initial cost ($2,500 and up).
Best Lithium Batteries: For lithium batteries, look for options that provide high energy density and longevity. Brands such as Eco Battery, Enduro Power, Ampere Time, ExpertPower and FlyPower are popular among golf cart owners for their performance and reliability.
Top Brands
- Club Car: Known for high-quality, durable carts with extensive customization options.
- EZGO: Offers a range of electric and gas-powered carts with robust features and good value.
- Yamaha: Renowned for innovative technology and fuel-efficient gas carts.
- Cushman: Best for utility and commercial use but also offers personal golf carts with rugged capabilities.
Club Car, EZGO, Yamaha, and Cushman have long been recognized for their reliability, extensive dealer networks, and high resale values. These brands also offer a wide range of models suitable for various uses, from golfing to utility tasks. Their long-standing reputation in the market means they have a proven track record of performance and durability.
As the popularity of golf and community living grows, so does the interest in various golf cart brands. ICON and EVOLUTION are two brands that have been gaining traction among new golfers due to their unique offerings. ICON and EVOLUTION, while newer to the market, offer fresh options that can be more affordable or feature-packed, appealing to those prioritizing modern design and eco-friendliness. However, potential drawbacks include their smaller service networks and the uncertainty regarding long-term reliability, availability of parts and resale value.
Used Cart Sources:
- The RR HOA website: Robson Ranch HOA > Homeowner to Homeowner > Classifieds > Golf Equipment/Carts to see used carts for sale by residents.
- Mulligan Carts offers full golf cart sales and services including Eco Battery lithium battery conversions, lead-acid battery replacements, DoorWorks enclosures, cart rebuilds, tires and wheels, and general service. We are also a dealer for Aventon e-bikes. Electric bikes are a great way to enjoy cycling while having the peace of mind that you’ll be able to make it home, even if it’s by battery power. Come check out these great e-bikes at our new facility and pick up or order yours today! Visit their new location (by appointment 817.966.7485) in Ponder at: 2342 Seaborn Rd, Ste 200
...What Else?
- Seating Capacity: Consider the size you need. Do you often have passengers, or is a two-seater enough? If a 2-seater is all that is available, you can easily have a backseat added.
- Features and Accessories: Investigate what extras are important for you, such as upgraded seats, entertainment systems, a lift kit, an enclosure, or custom wheels. If you are considering a lift kit, are you planning on using the cart for golfing? If so, think about how many times you get in and out of the cart during a round of golf . . . are you sure a lift kit is going to be the most practical?
- Warranty and Maintenance: Check the warranty coverage and understand the maintenance requirements of each model.
- Budget: Factor in the purchase price, battery replacement costs, and ongoing maintenance.
- Safety Features: Prioritize carts with safety features like seat belts, turn signals, and a horn, especially if you’ll be driving on community roads. If the cart you are considering doesn’t have any of these features, they can all be added to your cart.
Next Month we will have a Golf Cart Enclosure Comparison.
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