Golf cart batteries can last for years if recharged after each use, but their lifespan depends on usage and battery type. In this post, we’ll explore how long these batteries typically last, the different types available, when to replace them, and some handy tips to extend their lifespan.
How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last on Average
With proper care and charging, lithium-ion golf cart batteries can last 10 years or more. This is significantly better than the typical loodzuurbatterijen, which last only about 3 to 5 years.
Different Types of Golf Cart Batteries
Golf cart batteries come in several types, including lead-acid, AGM, gel lead-acid, and lithium-ion, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are common in golf carts because of their affordability and ease of maintenance. However, they last only 3 to 5 years and are heavy, which is not ideal for small vehicles.
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Golf Cart Batteries
AGM batteries feature absorbable electrolytes and fiberglass plates, which enable them to charge up to five times faster than traditional lead-acid batteries. This design also prevents leaks, reducing corrosion and extending lifespan.
They require minimal maintenance and can last 3 to 7 years, but their higher cost can raise expenses when maintaining a fleet of golf carts.
Gel Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries
everything leak-proof and low-maintenance. This design enhances performance in extreme temperatures, especially cold weather that can shorten other batteries’ lifespan.
However, gel batteries don’t charge as fast as AGMs. They usually stick around for 4–6 years or about 500 cycles with an 80% depth of discharge.
Lithium-Ion Golf Cart Batteries
Lithium-ion golf cart batteries are small, lightweight, and initially more expensive, but they can lead to long-term savings. If you take good care of them, they’ll last over a decade and barely need any maintenance since there’s no need to add water.
Unlike other golf cart batteries that quickly lose charge when not in use, lithium-ion batteries have a low self-discharge rate, allowing them to hold their charge much longer.
5 Signs a Golf Cart Battery Needs to be Replaced
Wondering if it’s time to replace your golf cart battery? Watch for these signs indicating it’s ready for a change before it fails completely.
Reduced Driving Range
Your golf cart used to travel several miles before needing a recharge, but now it only goes one or two miles. This indicates a battery replacement is necessary. The battery should last long enough to cover several rounds of golf.
Slower Acceleration
If your golf cart feels sluggish and takes longer to reach top speed, the battery may not be delivering enough power. Consider having it checked or replaced to improve performance.
Longer Charging Times
If your golf cart is taking forever to charge, that’s a warning sign. Batteries degrade over time, and if charging takes longer than usual, it might mean they’re struggling to hold a charge.
Difficulty Climbing Hills
Does your golf cart struggle to climb moderate inclines? It likely has a power deficiency, a common sign of a failing battery.
Physical Damage
Check for signs of physical damage to the battery, including:
- Bulging: Indicates internal pressure and potential safety hazards.
- Leaking: Acid leaks can damage the battery and nearby components.
- Cracking: Compromises integrity and may cause internal shorts.
How to Make Your Golf Cart Batteries Last Longer
Here are tips to extend the life of your golf cart batteries:
Driving Habits
- Avoid Full Discharge: Don’t completely discharge your batteries.
- Smooth Driving: Avoid harsh acceleration and braking to reduce strain on the batteries.
- Proper Tire Inflation: Keep tires properly inflated to lessen battery load.
Keep It Cool
Don’t leave your batteries in hot places because heat accelerates their wear and tear. Extreme cold isn’t great either – it can damage them too. Find a nice, cool spot (but not freezing) to store them when you’re not using them.
Charge Properly
- Proper Charger: Use a charger designed for your specific golf cart batteries.
- Periodic Charging: Charge batteries regularly during storage to maintain their health. Use a charger with a storage mode for automatic maintenance charging.
- Avoid Undercharging: Keeping batteries below 20% charge for long periods shortens their lifespan.
- Avoid Overcharging: Overcharging can damage batteries, so use a charger with an automatic shutoff or disconnect when fully charged.
Regular Maintenance
- Disconnect: Disconnect the batteries from the cart to prevent slow discharge for the off-season, if possible.
- Cleanliness: Keep your battery tops clean and dry. If you see corrosion on the terminals, use a baking soda solution to clean it.
- Terminal Connections: Double-check that all terminals and connections are snug and free from any corrosion.
- Watering (for flooded batteries): Keep an eye on the water levels, and remember to top them off with only distilled water.
- Voltage Checks: Make sure to grab a voltmeter every now and then to check the voltage of each battery cell. This way, you can spot any weak ones before they cause trouble.
How Long Should You Recharge Your Golf Cart Battery
Never fully drain your golf cart batteries, whether lithium or lead-acid, as both can incur permanent damage.
Lead-acid batteries experience sulfation when depleted, which hardens active material almost immediately and reduces lifespan upon recharging. Lithium batteries also suffer capacity loss when drained to zero due to irreversible bonding with other metals in their construction. To preserve lithium battery health, recharge them after each use.
