What to Consider When Buying a Golf Cart

All golf carts are pretty much alike, right? Actually, that would be like saying all cars are basically alike. However, just about everyone can agree there's a big different between a compact commuter car and a top of the line sports car. While it might not seem like there's that much difference between various makes and models of golf carts, reality is there are certain features that can completely change how a golf cart handles and what type of maintenance the cart requires. So if you're considering buying a golf cart, there definitely things you need to think about. What are you going to use the cart for? How much time or effort do you want to spend on maintenance? How many passengers will you need to carry? How fancy do you want to get? What's your budget like? The answers to these questions will certainly affect which golf cart is the right one for you. To discover more about what options are available as well as the advantages and disadvantages, read on for a list of things to consider when buying a golf cart.

Gas or Electric?

Which type of golf cart you choose - gas or electric - will make a big difference in cost and performance. The engines in gas powered golf carts run on unleaded gasoline with an engine that is very similar to that of a car while electric golf carts are powered by rechargeable batteries. Each type of cart has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Gas powered carts:

• Advantages. More power. Horsepower, to be exact. Gas powered carts generally have 10 to 12 horsepower engines. This means increased acceleration, higher top speeds, and better performance on hills. Gas powered carts will also run longer on one tank of gas than an electric cart will run on one battery charge.
• Disadvantages. Depending on the price of gasoline, these types of golf carts can be costly to refuel and they also make a lot more noise than their electric counterparts. However, the main disadvantage is that because the engine is much like a car engine, the maintenance is similar as well so maintenance fees tend to be higher for gas powered carts.

Electric carts:

• Advantages. Electric carts are virtually silent when running and have no emissions the way gas powered carts do. Maintenance costs are minimal and depending on the type of battery you use, electric carts can last up to two rounds of golf on just one battery charge.
• Disadvantages. You'll only get three to five horsepower out of an electric cart and batteries need to be recharged frequently. Additionally, batteries will need replacing either every two or three years, or every five to six years, depending on how well they are taken care of. However, batteries can be purchased for well under $200, depending on the type and brand.

If you're planning on using a golf cart to play golf, electric is the best way to go due to its low operation and maintenance costs. However, if you're going to use a golf cart as a utility vehicle or transportation, the power a gas powered cart provides is better for hauling passengers or cargo.

New or Used?

The advantages and disadvantages are similar to those of buying new or used cars. Used carts save you money but new carts give you peace of mind and a warranty. Companies such as Blockbuster Golf Cars, Inc. are a great place to start looking, and have a great selection of both new and used carts - as well as a wide selection of replacement parts.

About the Author: Emma A. Johnson is a golf cart expert and contributing writer who enjoys helping clients choose the golf cart that's right for them.

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