Golf carts are some of the nation’s most used utility vehicles. These cheery, boxy utility carts can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and hold between two and 10 passengers, making them truly the best designed vehicles for the purposes of golf and other leisurely country club activities. If you’re in the market for used golf carts, we want to make sure you get the most bang for your buck. To this end, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping around for used golf carts:
1. Get a warranty.
Shopping for used golf carts is a lot like shopping for used cars. You and the dealer are usually locked in an intense negotiation, each one trying to get the best deal for themselves. Unfortunately due to the information asymmetry that’s almost inevitable when talking to a car dealer, that means buyers often end up purchasing vehicles with problems. Fortunately, you can guard against a slippery golf cart dealer by getting their promises in writing. If you’re shopping for used golf carts, get a careful warranty drawn up and understand exactly what it does and does not cover. This will give you an idea of the money you may have to shell out on it later.
2. Choose between gas and electric before you start shopping.
Due to the relatively low speeds and short distances they have to run, many people elect to purchase electric powered golf carts. This makes them nearly silent and means they don’t emit any exhaust, which is both green and pleasing to the nostrils. Just be aware, if you choose to “go electric,” maintenance of the batteries can be tricky and constant. You’ll also have to charge your golf cart frequently.
3. Also, if you go electric…
Pay particular attention to the age of the golf cart’s battery. This is important because the average cart battery lasts only six years, so before you buy a used model, you should know how many good years the battery has left, as a replacement could end up costing you $800. The best way to figure this out is to check the cart’s serial number, which reveals the model and the date it was made. The serial number can be found at the base of the steering wheel or on the driver’ side near the top of the shock absorbers. It will feature two letters followed by ten numbers. The letters indicate the name of the model, and the first two numbers indicate the model’s year.
4. Know the law.
It’s important to review the laws about driving on and off road with your golf cart, as some county’s allow limited road travel with golf carts and some do not. You don’t want to get a ticket every time you have to move your golf cart or park it in a lot!
