Thousands of golfers drive golf carts each day as they maneuver the many courses in the United States and around the globe. Thousands more use golf carts for regular transportation. Anyone who has considered buying a golf cart knows the first step is to decide whether to buy a gas or electric golf cart. Each of the two main varieties offer a range of benefits and drawbacks, and understanding them plays a key role in the selection process.

What Year is My Club Car ® Golf Cart?

Since 1981 Club Car Golf Carts have positioned their serial numbers just under the glove box on the passengers side of the vehicle. The first two numbers (not letters) indicate the last two digits of the year of manufacture.

On Club Car Golf Carts prior to 1981, you can find the serial number by raising the seat and locating the aluminum, I-beam frame section closest to the batteries on the driver's side of the car. If the serial number plate has been removed, you can confirm it is a 1975-1980 model if it has two brake pedals and one accelerator pedal.

Differences Between 1982-2000.5 and 2000.5-Present Club Car DS Models
1982-2000.5 Club Cars have two distinct seat backs while 2000.5-present models have a connected (one piece) seat back 1982-2000.5 Club Cars have silver aluminum top supports while 2000.5-present models have black top supports 1982-2000.5 Club Cars have a thin top while the 2000.5-present models have a thicker top with handles on each side of the back third of the top.

Choosing a Golf Cart: Gas versus Electric Power

If you're in the market for a golf cart, one of the first decisions that you'll need to make is the choice between gas and electric power. While both models will get you across the green, one may suit your style or budget more than the other, so you'll need to consider the pros and cons of each type to make a fully-informed purchase decision.

But what if you've never bought a golf cart before? How can you be sure which features are better or cheaper than others? What should you look for in terms of power, performance and precision?

If you're new and confused in the world of golf carts, consider this your comprehensive guide to gas versus electric power.

How do golf carts work?

Gas-powered golf carts run on combustion engines. These engines are usually four-stroke, but older models might use two-stroke instead. They're fueled with regular gas like any car or truck.

Electric golf carts run on battery cells. Most of them are 36-volt or 48-volt. The batteries need to be regularly recharged to keep the cart going.

Price difference between electric and gas golf carts

It's difficult to give a price range for golf carts since there are so many factors that go into their cost, but speaking very generally, used gas-powered carts are more expensive than electric ones. They're also harder to find good used gas carts since there are fewer of them coming back in on trades.

On the flip side, electric carts can be cheaper depending on the condition of the batteries. At RMI Golf Carts, we sell every used golf cart with a set of brand new batteries. We are unique in that aspect. Many of our competitors will sell used carts with used batteries. That’s something to be mindful of when shopping.

Think carefully about your budget before you decide on your chosen golf cart. The decision that you make today could have a big impact on your expenses tomorrow.

Strength and durability of each golf cart

This too also depends on make and model. The common thought with most first time buyers is gas carts are more powerful than electrics. This can be true when looking at the older 36v carts, however the newer 48v carts, specifically the Yamaha and EZGO AC Electric carts have a ton of power and will actually pull hills just as well, or even better than many gas carts.

Pollution from golf carts

Gas-powered golf carts run on traditional fuel and produce carbon monoxide emissions. They do have a “gas smell” especially in confined area like a garage or shed. A lot of the newer gas models do a better job of routing exhaust and minimizing the gas smell.

Electric golf carts, on the other hand, produce no fumes or emissions. They run on rechargeable batteries that don't harm the surrounding environment. They're the "green" option for buyers concerned about their carbon footprint. When it comes to eco-friendliness, electric golf carts have a clear edge over gas ones.

Noise level of each golf cart

Electric golf carts accelerate quickly and quietly. They make very little noise on the green, so they're an attractive option for golfers who don't like to announce their presence on every hole.

Gas-powered golf carts are relatively noisy. Newer models are better in this regard than older ones, but even a high-tech gas vehicle can only muffle so much of the combustion engine's natural rumble. If noise level is an important concern of yours, you'll probably want to avoid a gas-powered golf cart.

Golf cart maintenance

All golf carts require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly, but the type and duration of this upkeep will vary depending on your cart's model, brand, size and power source.

Gas-powered golf carts need things like oil changes and replacement parts. You might need to repair anything from a spark plug to a starter belt, and if you aren't able to DIY it, you'll be on the hook for both labor and material costs. Gas carts also require a steady stream of fuel, and that will cost you every time that you're at the pump.

Electric golf carts require charging. Golf Carts need to be charged after every single use. If the cart is not being used regularly then they should be charged every few weeks. We normally don’t like going over a month without a good charge on the batteries. All electric carts do come with a charger. However, batteries will need replacing at some point. Again, this varies on usage and maintenance. Most of our customers get on average 4-5 years out of a set of batteries before they will need to be replaced. Finally the most important thing for maintenance on an electric cart is checking the water on the batteries. It’s a good habit to check the water level in the batteries once per month. Do this year around if possible! Doing this will significantly increase the life on the battery pack!

 

Golf cart considerations

Gas-powered golf carts can come with a fuel gauge that will let you know when you're running on empty. Electric carts don't always offer a battery gauge like this, though they can be purchased and installed as an extra.

Some electric golf carts are "street legal." They can be driven on roads and boulevards with speed limits less than 30-35 miles per hour.

With the purchase of any golf cart, it's important to look at their features and functions to ensure that you're making the right choice. How many passengers can sit comfortably? How much storage space do you have for your clubs? Does the cart's aesthetic match your personality?

Finding the right golf cart for you

Gas-powered golf carts are strong, steady operators. Electric golf carts are more convenient to use and better for the environment. There's no right or wrong answer when deciding which of these sounds more appealing to you; it all depends on your personal needs and preferences. No matter what you're looking for in a golf cart, just make sure that you give the matter plenty of thought before pulling out your credit card! 

 

Please feel free to reach out to us anytime with any questions!

Gone are the days when a simple white golf cart will suffice for getting around the course, the cul-de-sac or the lake. Just like your car, your home and your phone, you want functionality, the latest technology and maybe a little flash as well. The newest 2020 golf carts to hit the market have just that. Things such as usb charging ports are becoming standard, but the ability to customize almost everything else in your new golf cart from color to head lights is on the table as well. 

Take a look as some of the newest options for Yamaha 2020 Golf Carts as well as the 2020 E-Z-GO Golf Carts. 

Yamaha 2020 Golf Carts

New colors have been rolled out this year for selected models of the Yamaha line. The new matte finishes include Arctic Drift, Mica (a bronze metallic), graphite and atomic flame. While not available on all models, they are on many including Drive2 PTV model. 

Additionally Yamaha’s 2020 models include an LED emblem that’s upgradeable as well as headlights. 

The final big change that has come with the 2020 Yamaha models is the mechanized windshield. Windshields are especially important for the non golf course models. Having Yamaha take special care to improve this area shows that nearly every detail is being taken into account in the 2020 model. This comes with the Drive2 featuring the most interior room in the industry and now it also features an independent rear suspension. 

If buying a new golf cart is in your future, consider these features and reach out directly to us at  (913) 829-1211 or visit our new cart inventory. 

E-Z-GO 2020 Golf Carts

One thing E-Z-GO is proud to do is stand behind its product. In 2020, many of the E-Z-GO models, such as the EXPRESS S4 ELITE, feature a zero maintenance lithium battery that comes with an eight-year warranty. That’s a warranty that’s tough to beat in the golf cart industry, no matter the brand. 

For those who want a little bit more power with their golf cart, the EXPRESS S4 Gas has that. In 2020 this model comes with a standard brush guard, a convertible rear seat as well as nine different colors to choose from. 

Whether it’s a new or used model you are looking for, there’s no better way to tell exactly what you need until you get behind the wheel. Head into RMI Golf Carts to see which cart in our inventory is the right fit for you. 

If you want to drive a cool golf cart around your neighborhood, you'll need to upgrade it with practical and convenient accessories. Although many products can enhance a golf cart on a course, there are only a few golf cart accessories and golf cart add ons that can provide helpful benefits on streets and paths in your neighborhood. 

Mirrors 

In most neighborhoods, the streets have bikers and teen drivers who you will be sharing the road with, which is why you'll need strategic mirrors that can detect everything in the surroundings. The best mirrors for a golf cart that's driven on local streets should have adjustable hardware. Mirrors that move boost safety because they can be easily adjusted according to each driver's height and driving habits. 

Covers 

Many brands make covers for golf carts that serve various purposes. If you buy a cover that's thick and dense, you'll keep rain off the cart when sudden storms occur in your neighborhood. A cover that's designed with mesh pieces will give you opportunities to unwind comfortably on a hot day while the cart is parked. The mesh material is the key element that makes a mesh cover unique because it lets fresh air into a cabin while keeping bugs away. 

Steering Wheel Cover 

A steering wheel cover can provide performance perks and flair. Thick rubber covers boost performance by giving enhancing grip. A firm grip is important while driving a golf cart as it can simplify the process of steering around obstacles on streets and paths. All performance covers for golf carts are available in a variety of colors, so you'll have no problems picking an accessory that will give your cabin curb appeal. 

If you're going to drive your golf cart at night, select a wheel cover that's a bright, vibrant color. A bold shade will pop after the sun sets, and it will make your golf cart appealing when it's parked in a dim driveway. 

Rocker Panels 

In order to keep your cart looking cool, you'll need to keep the cabin clean. The big problem is that debris can easily stain surfaces inside the cart. A rocker panel with a diamond plate is the solution to this problem because it has etches and grooves that wipe away grass, dirt, and mud that commonly sticks to shoe soles. Rocker panels for golf carts are compatible with a variety of vintage and modern carts. 

Fender Flares 

Fender flares are ideal accessories for a golf cart that's driven on off-road trails. These parts mount directly over the wheel wells, and certain pieces can provide flair if the color scheme blends with the paint on a golf cart. 

When a golf car has bold fender flairs, the wheels pop. Also, after flairs are installed, people who roam on the streets won't have to avoid your cart as the tires roll over obstacles because the flairs will protect them from general road hazards. Fender flairs can block: 

• Sand
• Rocks
• Mud

Light Kits 

Lighting kits are golf cart add ons that increase safety and increase awareness during the night. If you only want to reach various destinations without worrying about visibility problems, simply upgrade your dull lights with traditional LED bulbs. These bulbs will illuminate the surroundings effectively from a distance. In order to make everyone notice your cart at night, you'll need to equip the unit with colorful lights. There are lights in a variety of bold colors, and some products can be mounted underneath a golf cart's cabin. 

Windshields 

Windshields are tactical golf cart accessories that can help you commute to different areas throughout the spring and summer more efficiently. On a spring or summer day, harsh sunlight can shine on a traditional windshield, and the glare can make the process of scanning the surroundings tough. Tinted windshields resolve this problem, and you can install them in front of the steering wheel on a golf cart. 

Pressure Washer 

Pressure washing equipment will simplify maintenance routines after dirt and grime build up on the exterior housing. Although you can wash a golf cart with a rag and a bucket of soapy water, pressure washing equipment provides faster results.

Stop by our shop today and start accessorizing your cart.

 

From work functions to family reunions or fundraisers, if you’re planning an event and need to move people or things more than 50 feet, a golf cart shuttle rental can be a smart investment that ensures your big day goes off without a hitch.

Golf cart rentals for events big and small

Golf cart rentals are affordable, making them suitable for events as small as a wedding or as large as marathons, multi-stage music festivals, or other affairs, where multiple golf carts may be desired. Rentals can typically be picked up from the rental location or delivered. There’s a wide range of cart types available, some more suitable as people movers and others more ideal for hauling things.

Selecting the right cart

There's an assortment of golf carts available to suit a variety of needs, including 2-, 4-, and 6-passenger golf carts as well as utility carts.

Passenger golf cart rentals are perfect for shuttling people. For example, they can be used at weddings to transport the wedding party, elderly and less mobile guests, or parents with young children. This transportation option can be especially crucial in particularly hot, sunny, or cold climates, where a long walk may be taxing on guests. Passenger golf carts are also perfect for moving staff or organizers around quickly, ensuring security, photographers, and event organizers or planners at parties or charity events can get where they need to be in seconds rather than minutes.

Utility carts are well-suited for hauling gear or supplies—for example, water coolers at a 5K race, audio equipment at a concert, or folding chairs, gifts, and plants at a wedding. Depending on the model, they can also be useful for medical personnel who may need to transport patients at marathons, music festivals, or other public events.

Golf season is one of the most exhilarating times of the year. It is the time where you head to the golf course during every spare minute to work on your swing and lower your handicap. Perhaps you are a more casual golfer and you just enjoy spending time with your family and friends in beautiful nature. Either way, golf is pure fun. However, golf can get pretty expensive. If you have decided to purchase a golf cart instead of paying expensive rental fees, you will save a great deal of money each year. Having the right trailer for your golf cart is essential. Here are a few ways that you can pick the right golf cart trailer.

Golf cart trailer size

You need to make sure that you are buying a trailer that is going to be the right size for your golf cart. If the trailer is too big, your cart may potentially move around in your trailer causing an unnecessary accident. Five feet by eight feet is a great size for a golf cart trailer.

Make sure you have an easy way to load and unload your golf cart

The best golf cart trailers will have a simple way to load and unload your golf cart. When you are shopping for golf cart trailers, make sure that the back hatch can be used as a ramp for your golf cart. This will help you easily load and unload your golf cart without having to pack any additional ramps.

Golf cart trailer safety

It is important to think about safety when you are picking out your golf cart trailer. Make sure that the trailer you are choosing has great safety rating. The right lights will be essential when you are traveling in heavy traffic. Read reviews online to find out which golf cart trailers are going to give you the best safety on the road.

These are just a few of the many different ways in which you will be able to pick the right golf cart trailer. Remember, you can't drive your golf cart to the golf course. You need to be able to transport your golf cart safely to the course with the proper trailer.