Buying a golf cart is not something you should do on a whim. You have to make sure that you get a cart that will last for a long time and give you the type of performance that you need. You also want to pick up a cart that won’t require taking it to the shop every few weeks. A good golf cart will make your golfing experience so much better, and if you buy the wrong one, you might end up disappointed. If it’s your first time buying a golf cart, here are a few things you’ll need to be on the lookout for.
New or Used?
The first thing you have to think about is whether you’re going to buy a new or used golf cart. Both options have their pros and cons, so don’t dismiss one for the other just yet. Getting a new cart means that you’ll get to enjoy a full warranty, but you can buy a used cart that is still under warranty and save some money. Getting a cart that is about two years old will allow you to avoid some of the depreciation while getting a cart that still looks new.
One thing you have to consider when buying a used cart, however, is the cost of the parts. Both wheels and tires will need to be replaced at some point, so you should start looking at how much these parts will cost for your vehicle. You also have to know if the cart in question is known for having issues before you buy it. This is something you can tell by learning some history about the manufacturer, which brings us to our next point.
Choose the Right Manufacturer
You must know who the main manufacturers are and what they’re known for. The top three brands in the business are Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha. You really can’t go wrong with these three, but if you want a cart with a nice design, then E-Z-GO and Yamaha are the best options. They have a great inside configuration, and they feel just like any ordinary vehicle. Things are placed conveniently hidden, not below the dash or on the sides. Yamaha carts are also known for being economical and reliable.
However, if you’re looking for a luxurious vehicle made with high-end materials and mechanics, then you have to go with Club Car. Their console design might be outdated, but they’re still regarded as the gold standard in the industry, and this is the brand of golf carts you’re most likely to see on high-end resorts. Know that all of this comes at a price, however, so be prepared to pay a bit more.
Once you have whittled your shortlist down to a few models, it is time to read the reviews. Do some research into each golf cart model and look out for any recurring issues reported by reviewers. If a particular model is well-known for mechanical breakdowns, for example, you may want to cross it off your shortlist.
Visit golfing forums and ask members if they have any recommendations. People who invest in a golf cart are usually happy to discuss their experiences. Find out what they like and what they were less happy with. How was the after-sale experience? Is the manufacturer responsive to questions and problems? These things all matter. A golf cart is a big investment, and you need to know that if you have issues, the manufacturer will be there to help in any way they can.
Related: How to Swing a Golf Club- Beginners Guide
Electric or Gas?
Some people would assume that electric carts are automatically the best option, but that depends on how you want to use the cart. If you only want to use the cart for getting around the course, then an electric cart could work. But if you want to do other things like riding around your community or hunting, it would be a better idea to go for a gas-powered cart.
Remember that electric carts need to be charged, so you’ll always need to have access to a charging point, either at home or at your golf club.
The Seating
Next, you have to look at how many seats you need, as well as their configuration. If you usually play with a small party, then a two-seater could be enough. But if you need more space, there are carts that can seat as many as six people. You can also go with a convertible cart that will allow you to carry more people or your equipment in the back.
These are all things you’ll need to pay close attention to when buying a golf cart. Take your time and do your research on different brands and more so you can make the right decision.
