Golf carts aren’t just for the fairways anymore. Your golf cart is a trusty companion cruising along the beach or running up to the Big Store. But if you want it to stay in peak condition—especially in salty, sandy, beachside environments—it needs some love and care. Here’s how to keep your golf cart (gas or electric) running smoothly.
Regular Maintenance for All Golf Carts
Regardless of whether your golf cart runs on gas or electricity, some maintenance practices apply across the board:
- Clean It Regularly
Dirt, grime, and (if you’re at the beach) sand and salt can wreak havoc on your cart. Give it a good wash with fresh water at least once a week. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, where salt buildup from the ocean breeze can lead to corrosion. - Check Tire Pressure & Tread
Soft sand and uneven terrain demand good tire traction. Keep tires inflated to the recommended PSI (usually between 15-25 PSI, but check your manual). Low tire pressure can make the ride bumpy and put strain on the battery or engine. - Inspect the Brakes
Whether gas or electric, working brakes are essential. Sand and moisture can lead to brake pad wear and rust on the rotors, so inspect them regularly and replace them if they start feeling soft or unresponsive. - Keep It Covered
If you’re near the beach, invest in a weatherproof cover. Salt air and sun exposure can fade paint, dry out seats, and corrode metal parts faster than you can say “spring break.”
Electric Golf Cart Maintenance
Electric golf carts are easy to maintain but require special attention to their power source. Here’s how to keep your electric cart zipping along:
- Battery TLC
Batteries are the lifeblood of an electric golf cart, and salty air can accelerate corrosion on terminals. Clean the battery terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water monthly, and apply anti-corrosion spray. Also, keep an eye on the water levels in lead-acid batteries—low water can cause damage to the battery plates. Use only distilled water to top them off. - Charging Routine Matters
Avoid deep discharges; instead, keep the battery topped off after each use. Long periods of disuse? Store it fully charged and disconnect it if possible. - Avoid Waterlogged Adventures
Electric golf carts and saltwater puddles don’t mix well. Try to avoid deep puddles, as excessive moisture can cause electrical shorts and damage sensitive components. If you do get caught in a downpour, let everything dry out completely before using it again.
Gas Golf Cart Maintenance
Gas-powered carts require a little more mechanical upkeep but are great for long hauls. Here’s how to keep your gas golf cart in great shape:
- Regular Oil Changes
Much like your car, a gas-powered golf cart needs oil changes (every 125 hours or at least twice a year). Check the oil levels often and top off if needed. - Air Filter Check
Beachside environments are full of fine sand and dust, which can clog up your air filter faster than in other settings. Check and clean (or replace) the air filter every few months to keep that engine breathing easy. - Fuel System Care
If your golf cart sits unused for long periods, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from breaking down and clogging the carburetor. If you use ethanol-blended gasoline, be extra cautious—ethanol attracts moisture, which can cause corrosion. - Spark Plug Inspection
A fouled or worn-out spark plug can make your cart sluggish. Replace it annually or if you notice trouble starting or rough idling.
Special Beach Considerations
Now, let’s talk about what the salty sea breeze and beachside life throw at your golf cart.
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- Rust is the Enemy
Salt air accelerates rust like nobody’s business. Regularly inspect metal components, especially the frame and suspension, for signs of corrosion. Spray a rust inhibitor or apply a silicone-based lubricant to exposed metal parts. - Sand Gets Everywhere
If your golf cart is constantly rolling across the beach, expect sand in every nook and cranny. Blow out the undercarriage and moving parts with compressed air after each use to prevent grit from causing premature wear and tear. - Seat & Upholstery Protection
Vinyl seats can crack under prolonged sun exposure. Use a UV protectant spray or cover them when parked. If you’ve got cloth seats, a quick vacuuming now and then will prevent sand buildup.
- Rust is the Enemy
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained golf cart can be a reliable ride for years. By taking extra precautions against the salty air and sandy conditions, your golf cart will stay in great shape, ready for sunset cruises and surfside adventures alike. A little maintenance now saves a lot of hassle (and money) later. So keep it clean, keep it charged (or fueled), and most importantly—enjoy the ride!
