Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Carts
Do you have questions about golf carts? Well, we have lots of answers. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you on your quest to find your next golf cart.
How much does a used golf cart cost?
A used golf cart will cost on average between $4,000 - $8,000.
How much does a new golf cart cost?
The price of a new golf cart will vary based on make and model. You can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 - $15,000 for a new golf cart.
Can you finance a golf cart?
Yes, at RMI there is financing for both new and used golf carts. Head here if you are ready to apply for financing.
Are golf carts street legal?
Technically golf carts are not DOT approved. However, many municipalities have passed ordinances to allow them on city streets with some requirements. We recommend you research your local ordinances before taking them on the streets.
Is a golf cart considered a motor vehicle?
No, golf carts are not considered motor vehicles.
What golf cart is the best?
At RMI, we feel that E-Z-GO, Cushman, Yamaha, and Star EV build the best golf carts.
Are electric golf carts better than gas golf carts?
Both electric and gas golf carts are very reliable and great golf carts.
Do golf carts need insurance?
We recommend you contact your insurance provider as every plan is unique.
Do golf carts need license plates?
Nope. Since golf carts aren't street legal, no license plates are needed.
Will a golf cart fit in a truck bed or a trailer?
You bet. A standard 2 passenger golf cart will fit in a truck bed. However, the longer golf carts will not fit in a truck bed. A 10’ and 12’ trailer is recommended for transporting most golf cart models.
How fast can a golf cart go?
The top speed for a golf cart is around 20 mph.
Do golf carts have seat belts?
They sure can. Seat belts are an easy add on to install to a golf cart.
Can a golf cart tow a trailer or a jet ski?
Most golf cart models can pull a light trailer or jet ski.
My gas golf cart ran the other day, but now wont do anything. I've tested the battery and know its good. What's my issue?
More than likely you need to replace the starter generator brushes. This is a very common issue. You'll need part # 529.
How often should I check the water in my batteries?
It's a good idea to check it at least once per month. Adding distilled water when needed.
How much oil does my cart take?
If you have a Yamaha then its 1 qt. If you have an EZ-GO, then its 1.5 qts. Needs to be changed once per year.
How often do I need to charge my batteries on my golf cart?
You should give it a full charge at the end of every day of use.
How often should I have my golf cart serviced?
It's a good idea to do it once a year. Gas cars should have the oil and filters changed every season. For electric carts, its good to have the batteries tested, transmission fluid changed, and brakes inspected.
When should I water my batteries?
Water is lost during charging. Therefore, the best time to water your batteries is always at the end of the charge cycle. However, if the electrolyte level is extremely low or the plates are exposed to air, add some water to cover the plates before starting the charge cycle.
Can a golf cart battery freeze?
The only way that a battery can freeze is if it is left in a state of partial or complete discharged. As the state of charge in a battery decreases, the electrolyte becomes more like water and the freezing temperature increases. The freezing temperature of the electrolyte in a fully charged battery is -92.0oF. At a 40% state of charge, electrolyte will freeze if the temperature reaches approximately 16.0oF.
Does my deep cycle battery develop a memory?
Lead acid batteries do not develop any type of memory. This means that you do not have to deep discharge or completely discharge a battery before recharging it. For optimum life and performance, we generally recommend a discharge of 20 to 50% of the battery's rated capacity even though the battery is capable of being cycled to 80%.
Do batteries self-discharge when not in use?
All batteries, regardless of their chemistry, self-discharge. The rate of self-discharge depends on the type of battery, the age of the battery, and the storage temperature the batteries are exposed to. As an estimate, Trojan batteries self-discharge approximately 4% per week at 80o F.
How long do golf cart batteries last?
Lead-acid golf cart batteries typically last 2 to 6 years with proper maintenance, while lithium batteries commonly last 8 to 10 years or more. Actual lifespan depends heavily on charging habits, how often the cart is used, and climate.
What's the difference between a golf cart and a low-speed vehicle (LSV)?
A golf cart is limited to under 20 mph and isn't classified as a motor vehicle, while an LSV is built to reach up to 25 mph and must include federally required safety equipment like seat belts, mirrors, and turn signals. LSVs can be titled and registered; standard golf carts cannot.
Is lithium or lead-acid better for a golf cart battery?
Lithium batteries cost more upfront but last roughly 2 to 3 times longer, require no watering or maintenance, and weigh a fraction of a lead-acid battery bank. Lead-acid remains the lower-upfront-cost option and is still a reliable choice for lighter, occasional use.
How far can a golf cart go on a full charge?
Most electric golf carts travel 20 to 40 miles on a full charge, depending on battery type, terrain, cart weight, and how many passengers or accessories are on board. Lithium-equipped carts tend to hold a consistent range longer into the charge cycle than lead-acid models.
Can you drive a golf cart in the rain?
Yes, most golf carts can be driven in light rain without issue, though electrical components should be kept from prolonged, heavy exposure and carts should never be driven through deep standing water. Enclosures and covers are available to keep the cabin dry.
What's the difference between a 4-seater and a 6-seater golf cart?
A 4-seater golf cart carries up to four passengers and has a shorter wheelbase, making it easier to transport and store, while a 6-seater is longer, seats up to six, and generally requires a larger trailer for hauling. Seating capacity is usually the biggest factor in choosing cart length.
How often should golf cart tires be replaced?
Golf cart tires generally last 3 to 5 years or around 500 to 1,000 hours of use, though rough terrain, sun exposure, and low tire pressure can shorten that significantly. Cracking, low tread, or visible dry rot are signs it's time to replace them.
Can a golf cart handle hills?
Most golf carts can handle moderate inclines up to roughly 20 to 25 degrees, but performance depends on motor size, battery type, passenger load, and tire traction. Carts used regularly on steep terrain often benefit from higher torque motors or upgraded batteries.
Do golf carts hold their value?
Well-maintained golf carts from established brands like E-Z-GO and Yamaha tend to hold value better than off-brand models, especially with documented service history and factory-certified pre-owned status. Battery condition is usually the single biggest factor affecting resale value.
What's the warranty on a new golf cart?
New golf cart warranties vary by manufacturer but commonly range from 1 to 5 years depending on the brand and component, with batteries sometimes covered under a separate, shorter warranty term. Always confirm warranty terms with the dealer at time of purchase.
How do I know if my golf cart needs new batteries?
Common signs include noticeably reduced range per charge, slower acceleration, batteries that won't hold a charge overnight, and a cart that struggles on inclines it previously handled easily. A dealer can load-test batteries to confirm whether replacement is needed.
Can I install a lift kit on my golf cart myself?
Basic lift kits can sometimes be installed with mechanical experience and the right tools, but improper installation can affect handling, tire wear, and safety, so professional installation is generally recommended. Lift height also may affect a cart's street-legal status in some jurisdictions.