How to Know When Golf Cart Batteries are Dying

If you are the owner of a golf cart or have ever owned one in the past, you know that it is important to keep an eye on the battery life.

Golf carts require electricity to function properly, and when their batteries start dying, they can be challenging to operate.

It might seem like there is no way for you to tell when your golf cart’s battery needs replacement without just waiting for them to die – hence the need for how to know when golf cart batteries are dying.

How to Know When Golf Cart Batteries are dying

When golf cart batteries start to go bad, there are a few signs that will let you know.

1. Low Voltage Production

One of the most common signs that a golf cart battery is dying is low voltage production.

If you start to notice that your golf cart isn’t running as smoothly as it used to or that it takes longer to get up to speed, then this might be a sign that the battery is starting to die.

2. Corrosion on the Battery Terminals

Another common sign of a bad golf cart battery is corrosion on the terminals. If you start to see rust or other signs of corrosion on the battery terminals, this is a clear indication that the battery needs to be replaced.

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3. Difficulty Starting the Cart

One of the most common symptoms of a golf cart battery dying is difficulty starting. If you turn on your key and nothing happens, or you turn your key, and the engine only sputters, then you might need to replace your battery.

4. Checking Under the Hood for Loose Connections

If you’re not sure whether or not your golf cart battery is dying, it’s a good idea to check under the hood for loose connections. If you see any loose or disconnected wires, then this is a clear sign that the battery needs to be replaced.

5. Checking the Fluid Levels in Your Battery

One of the best ways to tell whether or not a golf cart’s battery is dying is by checking its fluid levels.

If you don’t know how to check the fluid levels, follow this guide: take off your battery’s cap and then use a dipstick to check the levels. If they are below the minimum line, this is a clear sign that you need to replace your battery.

6. The Overall Performance of Your Golf Cart is Slowing Down

Another sign that a golf cart’s battery might be dying is if its overall performance is slowing down.

If you notice that your golf cart isn’t running as smoothly as it used to, or if it takes longer for the battery to get up to speed, then this is a clear sign that the battery needs replacement.

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7. Checking Your Electrical System for Shorts and Other Damage

If you’re not sure whether or not your golf cart battery is dying, it’s a good idea to check your electrical system for shorts and other damage.

Look for loose or disconnected wires, check your battery terminals to make sure they’re not corroded – and if the problem isn’t apparent, then take your golf cart to a mechanic for further inspection.

Bad Habits That Decrease Your Golf Cart Battery Life

There are a few bad habits that you might be guilty of that can decrease the lifespan of your golf cart’s battery.

a) Not Keeping the Battery Charged

One of the most common bad habits people have is not keeping their batteries charged. If you’re not going to be using your golf cart for an extended period, it’s essential to keep the battery charged – otherwise, the battery will die prematurely.

b) Overcharging the Battery

Overcharging your golf cart’s battery can cause a lot of damage, and it will also decrease its lifespan. If you’re not sure how to properly charge your golf cart battery, just follow these instructions:

• Make sure that the battery is disconnected from the cart
• Hook up the battery charger and set it to 13 volts – no higher than 14
• Leave your golf cart plugged in for at least 12 hours, but not more than 24

c) Leaving Lights on in the Golf Cart Overnight

If you’re guilty of this bad habit, then you need to stop – especially if you have a lead-acid battery. If your golf cart has a 12-volt electrical system and it’s equipped with lights, you should never leave them on overnight.

Not only will the battery lose its charge if this habit continues for an extended period, but it will also damage the battery.

d) Running the Golf Cart with a Low Battery

Another bad habit that can shorten your golf cart’s battery life is running it with a low battery. If you notice that your golf cart won’t start or keeps dying, then this might be the reason why – so if this continues to happen, then you need to replace your battery.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Golf Cart Battery Life

Keep Your Golf Batteries Healthy

If you’re not sure whether or not your golf cart battery is dying, it’s a good idea to check your electrical system for shorts and other damage and take it to a mechanic for further inspection.

And if you’re guilty of any of the bad habits mentioned in this article, then you need to stop – otherwise, you’ll damage your battery and shorten its lifespan. Thank you for reading. We hope this article was helpful. Please visit our blog for more helpful articles. We hope to see you again.

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Last Updated on July 13, 2024 by Tom Fiore