Tips to Care for Your Street-Legal Golf Cart
Owning an electric cart and operating it in a low-speed environment is a fun lifestyle change. However, golf carts can easily fall into the "out-of-sight.. out-of-mind" category. If you don't drive your car for months, it will simply sit there waiting for your next trip. Electric golf carts on the other hand do require certain maintenance whether they are used daily or not. If you received an Owner's Manual when you purchased your street-legal golf cart, take the time to read all the information provided about regular maintenance as well as how to prepare your vehicle when it is not going to be used for a longer period of time, like harsh winter months.
Your maintenance schedule may vary slightly due to the actual model you purchased as well as what you use it for and how often you use it. However, there are four basic requirements for the ongoing maintenance of any electric golf cart:
Routine Inspections - It is always important to observe how your vehicle is performing. If your steering seems loose or your brakes grab when deployed, then those things should receive immediate attention from an authorized service center. If the cart pulls in one direction or squeals a tire when braking, you likely need to check the tire pressure.
TIP: Keeping your tire pressure balanced is imperative to safe operation on the road at any speed.
Keep the Battery Charged - You should charge the battery every time the cart is used, even after a short drive. Golf cart battery chargers automatically shut off when the battery is fully charged, so it is best to keep the charger connected anytime the cart is parked. Leaving a battery partially discharged for any extended period of time can cause permanent damage.
TIP: Never allow the battery to become fully discharged.
Maintain Water Levels in Battery - Starting with a fully-charged battery (water level is at the highest point), pop off the caps and fill each cell (as needed) until the water level is 1/8" to 1/4" below the neck that protrudes inside the cell. It is helpful to keep a dedicated turkey baster nearby to carefully remove and dispose of any excess water. Do not charge or operate the cart with an overfilled battery.
TIP: Never look or lean directly over cells during charging to avoid sulfuric acid fumes.
Clean Battery Terminal Connections - Use a mixture of baking soda and water to keep corrosion off terminal connections. Connectors should not be loose but should not be over-tightened either. If you see signs of leakage, contact the dealer before charging or operating the vehicle.
TIP: Don't leave caps for battery cells off when cleaning or charging the battery to avoid getting dirt and debris inside.
