Whether you’re winterizing your golf cart or preparing for an extended period of non-use, properly storing your golf cart batteries is essential to maintain performance, extend battery life, and avoid costly replacements. Here’s a guide to best practices for long-term golf cart battery storage—applicable to both lead-acid and lithium batteries.

1. Clean the Batteries Thoroughly

Before putting your golf cart into storage, start with a good cleaning:

  • Disconnect the batteries (start with the negative terminal).
  • Remove any dirt, corrosion, or acid residue using a solution of baking soda and water.
  • Dry completely to avoid moisture-related damage.
  • Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly or a terminal protectant spray to battery terminals to reduce corrosion during storage.

2. Check Electrolyte Levels (Lead-Acid Only)

For flooded lead-acid batteries:

  • Check electrolyte levels and top off with distilled water if necessary—after charging the battery.
  • Don’t overfill; electrolyte expands during charging.

3. Fully Charge the Batteries

Regardless of battery type, always fully charge your batteries before storage:

  • A fully charged battery is less likely to freeze (especially for lead-acid types) and resists sulfation (crystal buildup that reduces capacity).
  • Use the manufacturer-recommended charger and follow safety instructions.

4. Disconnect or Shut Down Power

If your golf cart is equipped with a storage or maintenance mode, enable it. Otherwise:

  • Disconnect the main battery pack (especially for lithium systems with a Battery Management System, or BMS).
  • Remove or disconnect any accessories that might draw parasitic power during storage.

5. Store in a Cool, Dry Environment

Environmental factors significantly impact battery longevity:

  • Ideal storage temperature: 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C).
  • Avoid direct sunlight, freezing temperatures, or excessively humid conditions.
  • Never store batteries directly on concrete floors—use a wooden pallet, rubber mat, or other insulating surface.

6. Periodically Recharge or Monitor Batteries

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Recharge every 30–60 days to prevent deep discharge.
  • Consider a battery maintainer or smart trickle charger to keep the batteries topped off automatically.

Lithium Batteries:

  • Many lithium batteries with BMS will self-discharge very slowly.
  • For long-term storage, maintain a 50–80% charge, and recharge every 3–6 months if needed.
  • Avoid keeping lithium batteries at 100% charge for long periods.

7. Avoid Deep Discharge

Letting a battery fully discharge during storage can result in permanent damage:

  • Lead-acid: Can lead to sulfation and reduced capacity.
  • Lithium: Risk of dropping below the BMS cutoff voltage, which may prevent recharging.

8. Label and Inspect Before Use

Before returning your cart to service:

  • Inspect for signs of corrosion, damage, or leakage.
  • Reconnect batteries, ensuring terminals are clean and tight.
  • Fully charge the batteries and test voltage levels.
  • Consider a load test to check battery health.

Bonus Tip: Consider Battery Type Upgrades

If your lead-acid batteries are nearing the end of their life, storage season is a great time to consider upgrading to lithium batteries, which:

  • Have no maintenance or watering needs.
  • Offer longer lifespans and faster charging.
  • Weigh significantly less, reducing wear on your cart.

Conclusion

Taking a few extra steps before storing your golf cart batteries can prevent major issues down the road. Clean them, charge them, disconnect them, and store them smartly. Whether you’re preparing for a snowy winter or a summer away, these best practices will help ensure your batteries remain reliable and ready when you are.