How to Buy a Golf Cart
Cost savings counts in the current economy even when you are shopping for golf carts. Perhaps you need to use the golf cart as a utility cart but you do not have a lot of reserve cash to make the purchase. Country clubs and private golf clubs are prime searching ground for used carts, since they upgrade their fleet of carts every three or four years.
Private golf courses primarily sell golf carts “as-is.” They inspect the carts for any kind of major damage, but often will not do refurbishing or cleaning just to sell their fleets. This work is a part of their regular maintenance.
As-is golf carts come with no warranties. It is understood at the time of your purchase that you will take on any repairs or replacements that have to be done.
Make sure that you test-drive the cart before paying for it. Add weight to it and drive it up a hill to see how well the motor runs. Look at the body of the cart for signs of rust or to see if there have been any replacement parts.
Unlike country club purchases, buying directly from a golf cart dealer will ensure you have a cart that has been refurbished with presentable upholstery and cleaning. Dealers also offer 30- to 60-day warranties in case you need a different feature on your cart.
It is important to shop around and not settle for the first golf cart that you believe is a great deal. Chances are there is a better deal just around the corner that better fits your needs.
Maintenance is extremely important for golf carts, especially if they are used. Gas-powered carts, which always need new air filters, oil changes and spark plugs, require ongoing maintenance. The electric carts will require the most attention to batteries, which need to keep a safe water level and need to be changed every two years.
Expect to spend about $2,000 for a used golf cart. New carts cost about $4,000. Most of the used golf carts at country clubs are electric carts, so if you want a gas cart, you probably will have to go through a dealer. Remember to ask lots of questions and compare the prices and cart quality of several sources.
The Golf Cart Rain Cover Guide was established to help people learn about the various aspects of golf cart covers.
