How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last? [4-6 Years]

Golf cart batteries can last between 3–12 years based on the type or brand. The batteries tend to be worth between £60 to £600 based on various factors. How you maintain the batteries determines their lifespan.

The golf cart batteries are designed to be used by the power golf carts. The carts are essential as they help golfers to move around the field or golf course with ease. Additionally, they are used when moving equipment across a facility; for example a school or wedding venue.

You may think that they are the same as for the car batteries, but that’s not the case. The golf cart batteries have a unique design, different energy capacities, and discharging rates. Therefore, you can use them comfortably in the golf cart.

It is essential to know how long the golf car batteries last so that you can be prepared for any outcome. Luckily, there are also ways you can use to boost their longevity.

Table Of Contents

How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?

On average, golf cart batteries last for about 4 to 6 years based on the usage. Therefore, you are assured that the golf cart can last you for a while before you decide to buy another battery. When the time elapses, without any hesitation, think of replacing it to prevent any disappointment while in motion.

What Are The Factors That Determine The Lifespan Of A Golf Cart Battery?

The lifespan of a golf cart battery is determined by the type of battery, charging rate, storage, maintenance, frequency of charging, use, brand, quality of battery, and customization.

1. Type of battery

Just like any other commodity, the type of battery determines how long it will last. The different types include Sealed Lead Acid batteries, Absorbent Glass mat batteries, Lithium batteries, or Lithium iron phosphate batteries. Also, batteries from reputable brands tend to last longer than others.

Battery Type	Years	Hours
Sealed lead Acid (SLA)	3-5	300-1200
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM)	4-6	500-1300
Lithium	7-10	1500-3000
Lithium iron Phosphate	8-12	1700-3500

2. Charging

If you charge the golf cart battery to full charge often, it will last longer. However, if you don’t charge it fully, it can wear out easily. Also, frequent discharging and charging cycles can reduce the battery lifespan.

3. Storage

The way you store the battery can also affect how long it lasts. Both hot and cold temperatures can affect the lifespan, therefore, ensure you store it in a conducive environment.

4. Use and Maintenance

If you use the golf cart often, the battery will wear out and be depleted fast. Therefore, regular maintenance will ensure it lasts longer and has a higher battery life. The added features on the golf cart can also reduce its battery’s life.

How Can You Improve The Lifespan Of Your Golf Cart Battery?

There are strategies you can take to improve the lifespan of the golf cart battery.

1. Charge Your Battery Regularly.

When your golf cart battery seems depleted, you need to charge it to help it to last longer. It is even recommended to charge the battery after every use for a seamless golfing experience without the disappointment of a faulty golf cart.

Also, avoid discharging the golf cart battery to low levels as this can cause a strain and make it get worn out fast. A well-charged battery can last for 25–40 miles depending on the battery type.

2. Use a quality charger

When you purchase the golf cart battery, remember to buy its recommended charger to avoid disappointment. Therefore, use the right charger to charge the golf cart battery regularly to prevent excessive depletion that can reduce its lifespan.

3. Keep the batteries clean and dry

Just the same way you take good care of the golf cart by regularly washing it, you can also keep the batteries clean, by cleaning using distilled water and a brush to reduce instances of corrosion and ultimately boost its battery performance.

Also, remember to keep the battery in a cool dry place. Since freezing temperatures can affect it. You can also apply some petroleum jelly on the battery terminals to prevent corrosion.

4. Use the recommended type of battery

You need to purchase the golf cart batteries recommended for them. Otherwise, they may malfunction and not function properly as you would want them to. Additionally, the batteries should be able to withstand discarding and charging frequently. Also, consider buying quality batteries that will last longer, rather than those that will disappoint you after a short while.

5. Regular Maintenance Of The Battery

Also, always maintain the battery well and inspect it to see any malfunction or loose connections. Moreover, maintain the fluid levels to ensure they don’t go below levels. It will protect your golf cart battery during the off-season when it doesn’t get much use.

How Can You Know Whether You Need To Replace Your Golf Cart Battery?

You will know that it is time to replace the golf cart battery when:

The battery takes longer than normal to charge
The golf cart is a bit weak
Slow golf cart acceleration
Decreased battery range
Difficulty when climbing
Battery corrosion
Mechanical battery damage
Decreased run time
Difficulty in holding a charge
Excessive water consumption
Bulging battery case
The age of the cart battery has exceeded

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long Can a golf cart battery stay without charging when not in use?

It can stay for about 2–3 weeks without charging. However, you need to charge the battery after 30 days to ensure it doesn’t get damaged if stored for a long while.

Q. What is the effect of leaving a golf cart battery in high or low temperatures?

Hot temperatures can cause the battery to lose its charge fast, while cold temperatures can damage it or even make the battery freeze.

Q. What is the price of golf cart batteries?

The batteries' prices range between £60 to £600.

Determine When It is Time To Replace the Battery

When the golf cart starts having a slow charging time, poor acceleration, short distance travel, leaks, or visible battery damages, it might be time to replace it. A golf cart battery can last from 3 years to 12 years based on the battery type and brand, however, it also depends on how you maintain it through charging properly, storing the golf cart in a conducive environment, reducing strain on it, and regularly checking it out. Therefore, the next time you want to buy a new battery, make all the considerations to prevent any disappointments when running any quick errands.