Golf Cart Maintenance Guide
Keep your cart running like new for years.
Maintenance Schedule Quick Reference
| Interval | Electric | Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Tire pressure, battery water (lead-acid), cable connections, brake test | Tire pressure, oil level, air filter, spark plug check |
| Quarterly | Battery terminal clean, charger test, tire rotation, brake adjust | Oil change, air filter clean/replace, fuel filter, belt inspect |
| Annually | Full inspection, brake service, suspension lube, software update | Full tune-up, valve adjust, carb clean, compression test |
| Every 2 Years | Battery load test (lead-acid), coolant flush (if liquid cooled) | Fuel system clean, transmission service |
Lead-Acid Battery Care (Critical)
- Water monthly: Distilled water only, 1/4" above plates. Never tap water.
- Charge after EVERY use: Never store discharged. Sulfation kills batteries.
- Clean terminals: Baking soda/water mix, wire brush, dielectric grease.
- Equalize charge: Monthly (if charger supports) removes sulfation.
- Load test annually: Replace when capacity drops below 80%.
Lithium Battery Care (Zero Maintenance)
- No watering, no terminal cleaning, no equalizing
- Charge whenever — no memory effect
- Store at 50-80% for long periods
- Bluetooth app monitors health automatically
- 10-year warranty covers defects
Tire Maintenance
- Check pressure monthly (cold): typically 18-22 PSI
- Rotate every 3,000 miles or annually
- Inspect for cracks, dry rot, uneven wear
- Replace at 3/32" tread depth
- Torque lug nuts to spec (usually 50-65 ft-lbs)
Brake Service
- Test before every ride: firm pedal, straight stop
- Adjust cables annually (mechanical drums)
- Replace shoes at 1/8" lining thickness
- Bleed hydraulics every 2 years (if equipped)
- Regen braking (electric) reduces wear significantly
Seasonal Prep
Winter Storage
- Fully charge batteries
- Disconnect negative cable
- Store indoors if possible
- Jack up to remove tire load
- Cover with breathable cover
- Monthly charge top-off
Spring Startup
- Reconnect batteries
- Full charge before first use
- Check tire pressure
- Test brakes & lights
- Lubricate moving parts
- Software/firmware check
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Won't move, solenoid clicks | Low battery / bad connection | Charge, check cables |
| Moves but slow/weak | Discharged or bad batteries | Load test, replace if needed |
| Charger won't start | OBC fault / bad receptacle | Check receptacle, reset OBC |
| Brakes squeal/grind | Worn shoes / glazed drums | Replace shoes, resurface drums |
| Steering loose/wander | Worn kingpins / tie rods | Inspect, replace, align |
When to Call a Pro
- Controller/motor diagnostics
- Welding or frame repair
- Lithium BMS issues
- Warranty claims
- Annual safety inspection
Our mobile techs come to you. Schedule service →