How Long do Golf Cart Batteries Last?
How Long do Golf Cart Batteries Last?
At Isle Golf Cars, we often receive this inquiry. Unfortunately, it’s one of the most complex questions to answer. The most accurate response is: “It all relies on how well you maintain them.” But why is that? Deep cycle battery packs need essential upkeep, such as ensuring the correct levels of electrolyte (water) and keeping the battery pack fully charged, avoiding a discharged state (always plug it in after every use or round of golf).
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Besides maintenance, the way batteries are used is a major factor in their lifespan. In golf course fleet applications, battery packs are subjected to significantly higher usage than those owned privately. Fleet carts may be used for 2-3 rounds of golf daily during peak seasons, while private carts typically see around 3-5 rounds weekly (or potentially more, depending on multiple users). Generally, well-maintained fleet battery packs last around 4-6 years, while private owners can expect 6-10 years from theirs.
Other critical factors include optional accessories on the cart that may increase battery draw. Items like headlights, taillights, or an optional speed code can significantly affect the performance, range, and longevity of deep cycle golf cart batteries.
For residents of golf course communities who drive to and from the course, this can also impact battery life. For instance, a round of golf combined with the drive to and from the course can equal 2-3 rounds of golf for a fleet cart. Owners who operate their carts regularly in this manner often observe decreased battery lifespans.
To gauge the age of your Trojan deep cycle battery, look for two digits on the negative terminal. The letter represents the production month (A=Jan, B=Feb, C=Mar...) and the number indicates the year (9=2019, 0=2020, 1=2021, etc.). For instance, a battery marked A9 was manufactured in January 2019.
Golf Cart Batteries: 3 Signs It's Time for a Replacement ...
With warm weather, golf carts are once again hitting the road. Whether you're out for a quick round or cruising around the neighborhood, there’s a refreshing sense of freedom in the spring air, especially after a long winter. But what happens if your first turn of the key is met with silence, or if your smooth ride suddenly feels sluggish?
It’s common for batteries to need some care after being dormant for winter—especially if they were stored improperly. In this article, we’ll identify signs that indicate a failing golf cart battery and provide a step-by-step guide for replacing it.
Are you ready to get rolling?
3 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Golf Cart Battery
Typically, golf cart batteries last an average of three to five years. Even if your battery is not within this range, it’s essential to look for specific signs indicating it’s time for a replacement.
- Reduced capacity. If your cart seems sluggish or has less power than before, or if it takes longer to charge, it could signify reduced capacity—the battery’s diminished ability to hold a charge. Signs include:
- Inability to cover the same distance on a single charge.
- Slower acceleration than usual.
- Lengthened charging periods.
- Issues climbing hills.
- Swelling, bulging, or leaking. If you observe any of these conditions, stop using the battery and replace it immediately. Visible damage signifies that the battery has reached the end of its lifecycle. Common causes for damage include:
- Excessive overcharging.
- Physical damage due to dropping or incorrect installation.
- Extreme temperature exposure.
- Sulfation, the buildup of lead sulfate crystals on battery plates.
- Low or uneven voltage readings. Periodically testing your battery's voltage—especially at the beginning of a new season—is advisable. Fully charge your batteries and test their voltage using a multimeter or hydrometer, depending on your battery type. Fully charged deep-cycle batteries should read:
- 12-volt: 12.7 volts or above
- 8-volt: 8.4 volts or above
- 6-volt: 6.3 volts or above
Consult the manufacturer or battery retailer for specific details on your battery type. If you're not comfortable testing your batteries, take them to your nearest Continental Battery Systems retailer for accurate testing.
Choosing the Right Replacement Battery
Most golf carts use a series of batteries for operation, typically consisting of 6-volt, 8-volt, or 12-volt configurations to provide the necessary voltage and amperage. Standard golf carts need either 36 volts or 48 volts, reflecting their power capabilities. Amperage influences how far your cart can travel before requiring a recharge.
Refer to your manufacturer’s specifications for the required voltage and amperage, and locate the appropriate battery here.
Golf cart batteries come in various chemistries, including flooded lead-acid, AGM, Gel, and lithium. Below is a comparative overview:
Type of Golf Cart Battery Benefits Drawbacks Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA)- Long-lasting and durable
- Cost-effective
- Needs maintenance
- Can spill
- No maintenance needed
- Cost-effective over lifespan
- Higher initial cost
- Sensitive to extreme temperature charging
- No maintenance required
- Performs well across temperatures
- High power output
- Lightweight
- Maintenance-free
- Higher initial investment
- Needs a compatible charging system
Regardless of the battery type for your golf cart, it’s best to replace all batteries simultaneously, even if only one is underperforming. Mixing new batteries with old ones can lead to unbalanced charging cycles, placing additional stress on all batteries and diminishing overall cart performance.
How to Replace Your Golf Cart Battery: Step-By-Step
Step 1: Preparation and Safety
Gather your tools.
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- Wrench set
- Personal protective gear, including safety glasses and heavy gloves
- Baking soda and water mix along with a wire brush to clean the battery bay
- Battery strap
- Battery charger
Prioritize safety. Before you begin, ensure your golf cart is powered off and the key is removed. Use safety glasses and rubber gloves to guard against potential acid spills and corrosion.
Document the setup. Start by taking a photo of the battery configuration inside your cart. You can also sketch out the connection points, including the main negative and positive terminals. This documentation will aid in correct battery replacement.
Step 2: Remove the Old Batteries
Identify the battery compartment. Typically located under the seat at the front.
Disconnect the batteries. Begin by removing the main negative cable first, followed by the main positive cable. Main cables connect to a terminal, not another battery. After disconnecting main cables, disconnect any accessories. Finally, remove the remaining cables.
Extract the batteries. Utilizing the battery strap, carefully remove each battery from the compartment. Clean the battery bay using a baking soda and water solution. Scrub any corrosion or grime with the wire brush and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Step 3: Install the New Batteries
Refer to your diagrams to ensure correct layout and placement of the batteries. Once positioned, it’s time to reconnect them.
Reconnect the batteries. Following your diagrams, reconnect the batteries in reverse order of removal. Start with interconnecting cables, then accessories, finishing with the main positive and negative batteries.
Verify your setup. Check your diagrams and photos again to confirm the correct battery installation and connections.
Secure the batteries. Replace the battery hold-downs to ensure the batteries are anchored in place.
Step 4: Charge and Test
Charge your new batteries. While new batteries should arrive with some power, make sure they are fully charged before taking your cart for its initial excursion. Adjust your charger settings to match the battery type (AGM, FLA, Gel, or Lithium).
Get ready to hit the greens! Turn on your cart and test all lights and electronics. Make sure it moves forward and backward seamlessly. Then, enjoy a ride around the course.
Step 5: Dispose of Your Old Battery
Take your used batteries to the nearest Continental Battery Systems retailer for proper recycling.
Tips for Prolonging Your Golf Cart Battery Life
Proper battery maintenance and storage can greatly extend the lifespan of your new golf cart batteries.
- Recharge when necessary. Keep batteries charged to about 80% capacity; avoid allowing them to fully discharge.
- Maintain your flooded lead-acid (FLA) battery. Regularly check water levels in flooded batteries, filling halfway between the top of the plate and bottom of the case with distilled water while ensuring they are fully charged prior to filling.
- Avoid extreme weather use. While golf carts are generally stored during colder months, heat can also adversely affect battery life. Limit use in high temperatures, and park in shaded or cooler locations.
- Regular battery checks. Conduct visual inspections at the start and end of each season along with periodic voltage tests.
- Store batteries properly. If your batteries will not be in use for extended periods, remove them from the golf cart. Store fully charged in a climate-controlled space. Utilizing a battery maintainer can ensure their health during storage.
If you're interested in learning more, please check our page on What is the difference between an AGM battery and other batteries?.