Save Money by Purchasing a Used Golf Cart
Golf carts that are not used on a golf course are used as utility carts or transportation. Many businesses and individuals have a need to haul heavy loads but cannot afford the $4,000 it may cost to purchase a brand new cart. One economic measure is to consider a used cart from a country club or a dealer. Private golf courses upgrade their cart fleets every three or four years.
Most of the time, carts bought from private country clubs will be sold “as is.” The clubs probably have kept regular maintenance and made sure there is no major damage, but they usually do not clean the carts for you or do any other kind of refurbishing just for the sale.
There are no warranties for as-is carts. You take the risk of having to repair it yourself when you buy it.
The key to buying golf carts without warranties is to make sure you test-drive the cart before paying for it. If it is possible to test drive it on a hill with some weight in it, you should do it before you pull out your checkbook. Also, inspect the body of the cart for rust or signs that parts of the cart have been replaced.
Unlike country club purchases, buying directly from a golf cart dealer will ensure you have a cart that has been refurbished with presentable upholstery and cleaning. Dealers also offer 30- to 60-day warranties in case you need a different feature on your cart.
Do not ever make the mistake of settling for the first golf carts that you may find. Shop around to several dealers or private golf clubs to get the cart that fits your needs.
Maintenance becomes a key activity after you have made your purchase. How much maintenance will cost will depend on what kind of golf cart you purchase: gas-powered or electric. Electric carts need the water level checked regularly and require a $400-500 battery replacement every two years. Gas-powered carts need the spark plugs, oil and air filters changed regularly.
Expect to spend about $2,000 for a used golf cart. New carts cost about $4,000. Most of the used golf carts at country clubs are electric carts, so if you want a gas cart, you probably will have to go through a dealer. Remember to ask lots of questions and compare the prices and cart quality of several sources.
The Golf Cart Covers Guide was established to help people learn about golf cart covers.