Whether you’re cruising around your neighborhood, navigating a campground, or enhancing your golfing experience, owning a golf cart offers a fun and practical way to get around. If you’re a first-time golf cart buyer, navigating all the options can be overwhelming. This guide will help you understand what to look for, the types of carts available, and what to consider before making your purchase.

1. Determine How You Plan to Use the Golf Cart

Before diving into specifications, think about how you intend to use the cart. This will help guide your choices.

  • Neighborhood Use: Choose a street-legal cart or one that can be upgraded with turn signals, mirrors, and lights.
  • Golf Course Use: Ensure the cart meets your course’s regulations.
  • Recreational Use: Campgrounds, trails, and private property may require a more rugged or lifted cart.
  • Work Use: For farms, resorts, or warehouses, utility-style carts with cargo beds may be best.

2. Electric vs. Gas Golf Carts

One of the first big decisions is whether to go with electric or gas-powered.

Electric Golf Carts

  • Pros:
    • Quiet operation
    • Eco-friendly
    • Lower maintenance
  • Cons:
    • Limited range per charge (20-35+ miles)

Gas Golf Carts

  • Pros:
    • Longer range and more power
    • Quick refueling
  • Cons:
    • Noisier
    • Requires fuel and more frequent maintenance

Tip: For neighborhood or golf course use, electric carts are typically more popular. For rugged terrain or longer drives, gas may be the better option.

3. New vs. Used Golf Carts

New Carts

  • Come with warranties
  • Offer the latest features and technology
  • Customizable before delivery

Used Carts

  • More affordable
  • Great for budget-conscious buyers
  • Be sure to check battery age, tire wear, and motor/controller health

Always inspect used carts thoroughly or buy from a reputable dealer who services and certifies pre-owned models.

4. Important Features to Consider

  • Battery Type: Lead-acid is more affordable; lithium lasts longer, charges faster, and requires little to no maintenance.
  • Seating: Standard carts have 2 seats, but 4- or 6-seat configurations are available.
  • Lift Kits: Lifted carts are ideal for off-roading and offer a rugged look.
  • Accessories: Lights, mirrors, windshields, Bluetooth speakers, and enclosures can enhance your experience.
  • Tires: Turf tires are great for golf courses; all-terrain tires are better for trails and off-road use.

5. Street Legal Requirements

If you plan to drive your golf cart on public roads:

  • Check your local laws. Requirements vary by state and municipality.
  • Most street-legal carts (often called Low Speed Vehicles or LSVs) need:
    • Headlights, taillights, turn signals
    • Mirrors, seat belts, windshield
    • Speed capability of 20–25 mph

Learn more about street legal requirements.

6. Maintenance & Storage Tips

  • Electric carts: Keep batteries charged and water levels topped off (if using lead-acid).
  • Gas carts: Perform regular oil changes and filter replacements.
  • Storage: Keep it covered and out of the elements; long-term storage may require battery maintenance or fuel stabilizer.

7. Budget & Financing

  • Used Carts: $3,000–$6,000+
  • New Carts: $7,000–$14,000+
  • Custom Builds or LSVs: $10,000+

We offer financing.  Learn more here.

 

Final Thoughts

Buying your first golf cart is exciting, and taking the time to understand your needs will ensure you get the right fit. Whether you go with a sleek new electric model or a rugged gas-powered utility cart, you’ll be joining a growing community of golf cart enthusiasts who enjoy fun, freedom, and flexibility on four wheels.

Need help choosing the perfect cart? Contact us today!