How to Buy a New Golf Cart: A Simple Guide

Purchasing a new golf cart [1] is a matter of aligning your needs with the appropriate cart. This involves considering the following four aspects: determining the intended use, gas or electric, budget, and where you plan to buy from.

This is the guide you will need to capture the best cart for your family. Read on to find out more.

Key Takeaways

First, decide the main job for your cart, whether it's for play or work.
Choose between a quiet electric ride or a powerful gas-engine model.
Your budget should include the cart's price plus extras like insurance.

Defining your needs and budget: The Foundation for a Smart Purchase

Let's get right to it. Before you even look at a single cart, running through a mental new golf cart buyers checklist will save you invaluable time so that you can focus on the right options from the start.

Consider these points:

What’s its purpose? Is this for golfing, trips to the community pool, or hauling supplies around your property? A street-legal cart has different requirements than one used only at home.
How many seats? Will it be just you and a partner, or are you bringing the whole family along?
We offer carts that seat four or six, and for those who need maximum space, an 8-seater golf cart ensures no one gets left behind.
Where will you drive it? Flat, paved streets are easy. But if you have big hills or bumpy trails, you’ll want a cart that can handle them.
What’s your budget? Remember to plan for the total cost. This includes the price of the cart itself plus any insurance, maintenance, or accessories you want to add later on.

Electric vs. Gas: Choosing the Right Power Source

This is a big decision, but it’s a simple one. Are you looking for a quiet, smooth ride or raw power? There’s no wrong answer, just what’s right for you.

Electric Golf Carts

It is easy to understand the growing popularity of modern electric golf carts when you consider their quiet, clean, and low-maintenance operation.

They're Quiet: Go for an early morning ride without disturbing the peace.
Clean Operation: No gas means no fumes. It is more environmentally friendly.
Simple Upkeep: With fewer moving parts means less and easier maintenance.
Great Range: Our lithium batteries lets you travel 40 to 60 miles on a single charge.

Gas Golf Carts

For a little more muscle, a gas-powered cart is a great option.

More Power: Fantastic for towing and scaling steep hills.
Go All Day: You can refill the tank and keep going when you run out of fuel.

Researching Brands and Models: Finding Quality and Reliability

After identifying your needs, understanding what to look for in new golf carts saves you a lot in the future. You want a cart that you will trust and enjoy for years, not one that will give you stress.

This is more about trust than specifications. Consider working with quality brands and reputable dealers. Backyard Escapism specializes in high-end electric carts.

We are confident in the performance and luxury of the carts we sell. Reviewers of carts offer helpful insights. Responsive dealers will answer your questions and be available for assistance long after the sale.

Where to Buy: Dealerships and Online Marketplaces

Your choice of seller is almost as important as your choice of product. Great sellers make every part of the process enjoyable, even the servicing appointments.

You have a few options:

Specialized Dealers: Backyard Escapism is a specialized dealer focused on a particular lifestyle, which is luxury outdoor products. We provide expert advice because we understand luxury outdoor products.
Authorized Brand Dealers: These dealers are approved by a brand to sell its products. They provide access to factory warranties and services.
Online Sellers: It is possible to buy carts online, but make sure you are buying from a reputable seller who can provide post-purchase support.

Inspection and Test Drive: Ensuring Comfort and Performance

Don't skip this part. You need to see the cart in person and take it for a spin. This is the only way to know for sure if it’s the right fit for you.

Look it over. Do the lights work? Does the horn honk? Does it feel sturdy? Then, get in and drive it. See how it handles, how it brakes, and how it feels on the kind of terrain you’ll be using. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.

Customization and Future Needs: Planning for the Long Haul

This is the step that allows you to fully personalize your vehicle.

Exploring the world of custom golf carts shows just how unique your ride can become, ensuring your ideal model is an option.

Here are the common ways for cart enthusiasts to personalize their carts:

Integrating a Bluetooth audio system.
Custom seat options for added comfort.
Installing a lift kit to improve the cart’s stance.
Adding LED underglows for rides at night.

Financing and Warranty: Safeguarding Your Investment

Lastly, let's settle the details that concern you most: payment and convenience.

For many cart dealers, the standard practice is to offer payment plans. Spread the cost over a reasonable period to remain within your budget. Warranty plans are a standard practice.

Warranty covers several key servicing components and allows you to use your cart with peace of mind, including the motor. Batteries will often die long before the cart is out of use; you can consider the warranty on the lithium battery as a valuable guarantee.

FAQ

What kind of regular maintenance should I expect for my new golf cart?

For a new electric golf cart, regular upkeep is fairly simple. The most important task is managing your battery life by following the manufacturer's charging instructions to get the most out of it.

You will also want to check your tire pressure regularly. A gas golf cart requires a bit more attention because it has an engine, which means it will need occasional oil changes and filter replacements.

For both electric carts and gas carts, you should plan on having the brakes and alignment checked periodically.

Do I need special insurance or a license to drive a golf cart in my neighborhood?

This is a great question, and the answer depends on your local laws. Many towns require a separate insurance policy for your golf cart, especially if you plan to drive it on public roads. In some communities, you may also need to register your golf cart with the DMV. [2]

As for a driver's license, most places require anyone driving a golf cart on a public street to have one. Before finalizing your golf cart buying decision, we recommend checking with your local authorities and homeowner's association to learn the specific rules.

How can I make the batteries in my electric golf cart last as long as possible?

Getting the best battery life from your new electric golf cart comes down to good habits. Try to avoid letting the battery drain completely before plugging it in. It is also very important to use the specific charger that came with your electric cart.

If you plan to store your golf cart for a long period, like over the winter, make sure it has a full charge first. Following these tips will help extend the life of your batteries and keep your electric golf cart running great.

Are there special rules for driving a personal golf cart on a golf course?

Yes, every golf course has its own rules for personal golf carts. You will almost always be asked to keep your cart on the designated paths as much as possible to protect the grass. Most courses also enforce a "90-degree rule," which means you stay on the path until you are directly across from your ball.

Whether you have an electric golf model or a gas golf cart, respecting the course is key. Always check in with the pro shop before your round to ask about their specific policies for a personal golf cart.

What should I pay attention to during a test drive of a brand new golf cart?

During your test drive, focus on how the brand new golf cart feels to you. Is the steering responsive? Are the seats comfortable? Test the brakes to see how quickly they stop the cart. Listen for any strange sounds, which is easier to do with the quiet electric golf carts.

Pay attention to how it accelerates from a stop. The choice between electric vs gas carts will feel very different. A good test drive helps you make sure the golf cart you choose is one you'll truly enjoy driving.

Your Guide to Buying the Perfect Golf Cart

Finding the right golf cart is an exciting process. By following these simple steps, you can confidently choose a vehicle that will be a big part of your family's fun for years to come. It’s more than just a cart; it’s about making your backyard your favorite place to be.

Ready to find the one for you? Take a look at our collection of luxury electric golf carts. At Backyard Escapism, we’re here to help you find it.

Start your search today by visiting our collection here.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf_cart
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/vehicle-industry-registration-procedures-manual-2/miscellaneous-originals/7-045-golf-carts-vc-%C2%A7%C2%A7345-21115-21115-1-and-21716/

Golf Carts