While we have a variety of golf cart services we perform at our service center, there are also several different home golf cart maintenance tasks that the average person can perform to ensure that their golf cart remains in top condition for as long as possible. Some of these services are essential to maintaining the life of a golf cart, and may help increase its lifespan over carts that aren’t as regularly serviced by owners.
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Bringing your cart to a service center at least once a year is recommended, but for the rest of the year, here are several home golf cart maintenance tasks to perform to ensure a long lasting golf cart.
Home Golf Cart Maintenance
Battery Maintenance
One of the most important tasks is making sure that an electric golf cart’s batteries are in their best condition and will last as long as possible. Many newer carts have a lithium battery system, which require virtually no maintenance, but for carts with a lead-acid battery system, regular maintenance is necessary. This includes checking the water levels and refilling with distilled water when they’re low – when refilling, the water levels are meant to be about an inch below the cap hole, or just touching the edges of where the hole begins. Cleaning the terminals is also essential to preventing damage to the posts or cables. Using a solution of baking soda and water, use a wire brush to clean any corrosion and the liquid solution to dissolve the acid deposits.
Keep the cart plugged in when not in use, though if you have an older model without a smart charger (one that shuts off automatically when the batteries are fully charged), take care to not overcharge the batteries to prevent shortening their lifespan. Always check your batteries for signs of damage as well, such as frayed or broken cables, or any cracks, leaks, or excessive swelling.
Tire Inspections
It’s recommended to use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure level of your tires and make sure none are over or underinflated. Depending on your golf cart, the specific ideal tire pressure may vary, but most cart tires range between 15 and 25 psi. Also make sure to inspect for any signs of excessive wear or damage, such as shallow grooves, exposed treads, or reduced firmness.
Brake Adjustments
Inspecting and servicing your golf cart’s brake system is recommended to perform at least once a year. Check brake pads, drums, and cables and adjust as needed, and ensure that you have enough brake fluid – top off if needed. Many golf carts have rear brake pads, so include those if your has them and replace when necessary.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Regular suspension lubrication, as well as greasing the steering wheel rack and pinion, or any other moving parts, is necessary to keeping your golf cart functioning its best.
General Maintenance
Along with greasing steering wheel components, also check the steering yoke system and make sure all bolts are tight. For carts that have lights and mirrors, check these regularly to ensure that nothing is loose or damaged, and all wires and connections are functioning and not frayed or broken. Don’t forget to check all lights – including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. If any of these are not working, consult the owner’s manual.
For gas golf carts, make sure there are no engine leaks by checking under your cart for stains on the ground. Inspect belts and cables, and check spark plugs as well. If you need an oil change, you may need to have your cart picked up and brought to our service center.
For any other more complex services, or if you run into a problem you’re not sure how to fix, use our contact page on our service site to get in touch with us and schedule a service call.