Category: Golf Carts

Are you tired of walking around the golf course? Well, have no fear, because the golf cart is here!

But before you run off to buy one, you should probably know how much they cost. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this article on the costs of golf carts.

First off, let’s talk about the different types of golf carts. You have your standard gas and electric carts, but did you know there are also luxury carts and even 4-seater carts for those family golf outings?

The possibilities are endless. Now, on to the good stuff: the cost.

New Golf Cart Prices

New golf carts can run you anywhere from a couple of thousand dollars to a small mortgage. The average cost of a new gas cart is around $5,000, while an electric cart will set you back around $7,000.

And if you want something fancy, like a luxury cart, be prepared to fork over at least $10,000. Ouch.

But before you start breaking open your piggy bank, you should also consider the different types of new carts available. For example, a 2-seater cart is going to be cheaper than a 4-seater cart.

And let’s not forget, there are also factors that can affect the price, such as brand and additional features. So, it’s important to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

Used Golf Cart Prices

Now, let’s talk about used golf carts. Used carts can be a great option for those on a budget but remember: you get what you pay for.

The average cost of a used gas cart is around $3,000, while an electric cart will run you around $4,500. And as with new carts, the price will also vary based on the type and condition of the cart.

But, let’s be real here, no one wants to buy a lemon. So, it’s important to do your research and have a trusted mechanic inspect the cart before making a purchase.

Customization and Upgrades

Want to make your cart stand out from the rest? Customization and upgrades are the way to go!

Popular options include lift kits, custom paint jobs, and upgraded sound systems. But be warned, these upgrades can add up quickly and can easily push the cost of your cart over budget.

My advice, be picky and choosy about which upgrades you really want and which you can live without.

Maintenance and Operating Costs

Don’t forget about the ongoing costs of owning a golf cart. Fuel and battery replacement, tires, and general maintenance can add up.

Annual maintenance and operating costs can range anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars over the life of the golf cart, depending on the type of cart and how often it is used.

But, you can do things to minimize these costs, like keeping up with regular maintenance and limiting unnecessary upgrades.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, golf carts can be a convenient and fun addition to your golfing experience, but they come at a cost. New carts can range from a couple of thousand dollars to a small fortune, while used carts can be a more budget-friendly option.

Customization and upgrades can add to the cost, as well as ongoing maintenance and operating costs. So, it’s important to consider all of these factors before making a purchase. But hey, at least you’ll be the cool kid on the golf course with your fancy new cart.

Golf carts can be of great use when you’re spending hours every day on a golf course. They’re convenient and allow you to get across the golf course faster, saving golfers both time and energy they would have otherwise spent walking. 

However, one thing that golfers sometimes complain about is the slow speed at which golf carts operate. Fortunately, you don’t have to stick to the standard slow speed. 

Most gas golf carts come with a governor on them to make sure you don’t take the cart too fast. Most electric golf carts don’t have a governor on them however. 

There are ways you can increase the speed and make a golf cart go faster. This can be done by adjusting the golf cart governor if you have a gas golf cart or adjusting the engine in other ways if you have an electric cart. 

I will go more into how to adjust your golf cart governor later in this article.

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

What Is A Golf Cart Governor?

A golf cart governor is a device that can be used to adjust the golf cart’s top speed. Making changes to it allows you to make the golf cart go faster or slower instead of sticking to the standard speed. 

This device helps control the maximum speed of the golf cart as it moves across the ground and prevents the engine RPMs (revolutions per minute) from going faster than the set specifications.

Do Golf Carts Have Governors?

Whether or not a golf cart has a governor depends on the type of golf cart it is. Gas golf carts have governors that you can adjust to change speed, but do electric golf carts have governors? The answer is no. 

However, despite the lack of governors in electric golf carts, there are still many options available to adjust the speed.

If your golf cart does have a governor, it’s probably one of three kinds – a mechanical governor, a driven-clutch cable, and a rev limiter.

Mechanical Spring Adjustment Governor

One of the most common types of golf cart governors is the mechanical, spring-loaded governor. It’s seen as a spring-loaded mechanism that is in line with the acceleration system in the golf cart. 

As you adjust the tension on the spring, the golf cart’s speed will either increase or decrease. You can find this type of golf cart governor located near either the carburetor or the differential.

Clutch Cable Governor 

If you have a 2-cycle golf cart engine, you’re likely dealing with a clutch/throttle cable. This consists of an arm located next to the driven clutch. 

When the belt is pulled into the clutch and spread, the clutch activates the arm and pulls a cable attached to the carburetor throttle lever. If you pull the throttle lever back mechanically, you can decrease the gas flow to the engine and control the speed of the golf cart. 

If you want to increase the golf cart’s speed, you can do so by adjusting the cable nut next to the throttle lever.

Spark Regulation Governor 

While the other two types of golf cart governors are mechanical, this one isn’t. It’s an electronic measure that is used to prevent RPM tampering. 

The rev limiter is used in combination with the golf cart’s ignitor to limit the speed through spark regulation. This is a tough adjustment to make, so if you want to increase your golf cart’s speed, you may need to consult professionals. 

At-home or DIY work on this kind of governor can end up doing more harm than good and can damage your golf cart, costing you hundreds or even thousands in repairs.

How To Adjust Golf Cart Governors

Governors on golf carts can be adjusted to increase the top speed. To do this, you should first check the type of governor you have. 

The most common solution involves loosening the tension on the springs using either a screwdriver or a wrench. By loosening the tension, the golf cart will be able to travel faster.

If you have a 2-cycle golf cart, the process is different. In this case, the adjustment will involve turning the cable nut connecting the throttle and cable in the counterclockwise direction. 

This will allow you to benefit from increased speed.

How To Remove Golf Cart Governors

For some golfers, it’s easier to remove the golf cart governor entirely. You can definitely do this on your own with a few general tools, but we would advise consulting someone with mechanical knowledge so that you don’t damage your golf cart. 

However, if you have a regular screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a wrench, you have all the tools you need to remove your golf cart governor.

If you own a gas golf cart and want to remove the golf cart governor, the following steps can help. This should be carried out by those with mechanical knowledge.

• Locate the carburetor and the cable connection.
  
• Remove the cable connection from the carburetor and pull it out. If you can’t pull it out on your own, you can use your screwdrivers to help you with the process.
  
• Make sure to remove the other end of the cable as well since both are connected.
  
• Once you do this, you should see the governor on top of the engine.
  
• The gas pedal is usually fitted to the governor. Remove the connection to the gas pedal as well.
  
• Re-route the gas pedal to the carburetor.
  
• There is likely a bolt on the shaft of the gas pedal. Remove this bolt.
  
• If you slide the shaft in an upwards direction, the gas pedal will have more play.
  
• Before starting the golf cart again, tighten the bolt and make sure everything is back in its correct place.
  

You may have to slide the shaft multiple times before you land at the perfect speed for your golf cart. This takes some time and should be done carefully and only if you have adequate mechanical knowledge.

Other Considerations

If the cable or governor spring aren’t visible, you won’t be able to adjust the governor. In this case, we would advise you not to do this yourself and take it to an expert who knows how to handle golf carts and their engines.

There’s only so much you can do by adjusting or removing the governor. This makes a difference in golf cart speed but cannot make drastic enhancements. If you’re still not satisfied with the speed, you may need to invest in a more powerful engine.

Final Thoughts

Golf carts can be useful for regular golfers and can make the sport much more enjoyable by saving time and energy and providing comfort. They can also be useful for getting around in gated communities. 

No matter what you’re using your golf cart for, I hope that this article answered all your questions about golf cart governors, whether or not they can be adjusted, and how to both adjust and remove them.  

The comfort and smoothness of any vehicle depends highly on its ability to reduce the number and frequency of shocks from the ground. Shock absorbers do this with the help of well-oiled springs that compress and extend according to the terrain below and ensure a smooth ride all the way.

Golf carts aren’t like your traditional vehicle, though, and so a question arises. Do golf carts have shocks or do they use a different method to ensure a smooth drive? Where are these shocks, and how can you take care of them?

This article will take a closer look at golf cart shocks and help you learn more about them.

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

Do Golf Carts Have Shocks?

Golf carts do have shock absorbers.They use shock absorbers and leaf springs to absorb the impact of any debris underneath the cart, giving everyone on the cart a better experience, even on rough terrain. 

It is important to note that the shocks in a golf cart aren’t designed to eliminate bumps but to smooth them out.

Usually, more expensive golf carts have heavy-duty golf cart shocks (or leaf springs) and last longer than traditional ones. Even on poorly constructed cart paths, these shocks can keep your cart straight and eliminate the risk of your suspension sagging.

You know that rough feeling your cart’s steering wheel gives out, or how hard it gets when you try to turn the wheel without moving? Heavy-duty cart suspensions are designed specifically to eliminate this rough feeling known as suspension sagging.

Under normal use, good-quality golf cart shocks can last anywhere from 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles. This figure can increase or decrease, depending on how you use your cart. For example, if you don’t keep the shock absorbers well-maintained or don’t slow down even on rough patches, the shocks will, of course, suffer.

Although shocks don’t have any bearing on the engine’s performance directly, faulty or broken shocks can severely affect your golfing experience, not to mention your stamina. The smooth ride gives your body some time to rest. 

Instead, if your body still has to experience golf cart vibrations, your muscles will tire out much more quickly.

Testing Golf Cart Shocks

To test your golf cart shocks, you need to check three very important things.

1. The feel. You want your cart to be relatively bouncy as you climb into it or when hitting a bump in the road. If the cart struggles to bounce and instead gives you “thudding” feels and sound, your shock absorbers may have rust in them or not be oiled properly anymore.

2. The sound. If you hear a thudding sound when you hit a bump along with the feel each time you hit a pebble in the road, you may have rust. However, if you hear a squeaking noise as you drive over rough terrain, your shocks may need to be oiled again. You may need to head back to the clubhouse or mechanic for this.

3. The look. And finally, conduct a visual inspection of the shocks to make sure no oil is leaking. Leaking oil means damaged shocks, and over time you may start losing out on the smoothness.

Golf cart shocks can also be used to ‘lift’ the cart, which is known for improving cart efficiency but, at the same time, introducing a risk of the cart rolling over.

Are Lifted Golf Carts Faster?

As mentioned above, golf cart shocks can be adjusted to ‘lift’ the cart up. You should only consider this if you can handle the risk of the cart turning over and are a veteran driver. The goal of lifting golf carts is to increase their speed.

You can install some lift kits on golf cart shocks. However, if you don’t want to increase the risk of rolling over but at the same time get a taller, faster ride, you can go for larger tires. 

The tires are more expensive than the lift kits, but these kits aren’t exactly cheap, either.

It is important to note that a normal golf cart can go up to 15-20 mpg, while with lift kits, you can expect your cart to go beyond 25mph to even 40 mph easily. Be very careful on the greens at this speed, as golf tires may slip if spinning too fast.

Consider replacing your golf cart shocks when you start noticing sagging, or the current shocks have gotten extremely hard. If you let the shocks be, something may get damaged within the cart, or the wheels may even start rubbing against the wheel walls under extreme conditions!

Remember, it is common for golf cart shocks to go through normal wear and tear. The primary factors you may need to change these shocks are age or usage. If you have a lot of hard terrain and poorly maintained cart paths, you should consider buying a heavy-duty suspension pair.

You can find golf cart shocks quite easily by simply looking underneath the cart from the front or the back. It is easier to find the rear shocks in many models because the bumper may cover the front shocks.

If you want to replace your golf cart shocks or conduct routine maintenance, you will have to get your hands dirty. Either crawl under the cart or lift it with a forklift to work on it. Usually, the rear springs are useful for heavier loads, while the front shocks are more geared towards driver and passenger comfort.

Some considerations to make when you are searching for new golf cart shocks include:

• Whether or not the golf cart shocks are easy to install. For some, there is a snap-and-roll mechanism, while it may not be as straightforward for others.

• Spring strength

• Its ability to handle torque. It is best to go over customer reviews for this.

• The shape. Ach-shaped shocks are more useful for making the ride more pleasant.

• Brushings. These little brushes go a long way in helping you prolong the life of your shocks. If you ever find that the shocks are getting hard, you can change the brush and get that ‘new shocks’ feeling.

Golf cart shocks need to be maintained regularly because of the terrain it drives in. Consider getting it checked (or doing it yourself) once every 2 months, oiling the shocks, and ensuring there is no damage.

Water and electricity don’t mix well together, and as most golf carts today are electric vehicles, a common concern among people who own them is whether it’s safe to leave their golf carts in the rain or will they still function if they get wet? 

You can rest easy knowing that golf carts can be driven in the rain and get wet without getting damaged.

Many golf carts are electric, but the batteries of the golf cart are enclosed in a waterproof casing under the seat. 

Golf carts nowadays are all-weather vehicles that you can use in the rain, snow, and sunshine throughout the year. However, this doesn’t mean you should leave your golf cart outside to the mercy of the elements.

This guide will look at how and when you should use your golf cart when the weather is bad, share how to care for your golf cart, and discuss what problems heavy rain can cause for your golf cart.

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

Can You Leave Your Golf Cart in the Rain?

If you just got a golf cart for the first time you might be wondering if it needs to be kept in a garage or out of the rain. 

Modern golf carts can be left out in the rain because they are engineered to be waterproof. They are four-wheel-drive electric vehicles running on a battery that is locked in a weatherproof box that is completely enclosed. 

Therefore, you can rest easy knowing that your golf cart is safe if you leave it outside in the rain or are driving it around the golf course while the grass is wet. 

Most people prefer driving their golf carts on the golf course when it is raining because it shelters them from the weather elements (assuming you have a covered one). You never want to get caught in heavy rain when you’re in the middle of your round, and it’s prudent to take your golf cart on the course when there is heavy rain forecasted.

Most golf carts have roofs that stop the rain from falling inside and on top of the people and driver. They also may have windshield wipers to wipe away raindrops when you’re driving on the course. 

If you have a high dollar golf cart, it might even have heated seats and side windows to keep you comfortable when you’re playing in cold weather on the golf course.

Precautions for Driving Golf Carts in the Rain

All golf carts have been designed to withstand being left out in the rain, but you should still take some precautions when driving in rain or wet weather conditions. 

Here’s what you must consider when you’re driving in bad weather on the golf course:

1. Avoid Bad Weather Conditions

It’s always advised to assess the conditions and check the weather forecast before you go to play a round of golf. If it’s predicted to be stormy with strong winds and torrential rain, it’s best not to head out to the course. 

Golf carts don’t have a limit on how much snow and rain they can withstand however, even though the batteries are enclosed tightly in a waterproof casing, you don’t want to risk water getting inside the wiring or gearbox of your golf cart and causing it to malfunction. 

You never want to be in the position of risking your golf cart breaking down in torrential rain on the course.

2. Never Play on Saturated Terrains

Golf courses become saturated after heavy rainfall, causing the ground to be soaking wet and soggy. Most golf courses prohibit players from driving golf carts if there has been a lot of rain. 

That is done to stop players from leaving wheel markings or tire tracks on the fairways and damage them. The ground will also be soft from the water and won’t withstand the weight of the golf cart.

You don’t want to take your golf cart on saturated terrain as it may get stuck in wet ground and may damage the fairway as well. It’s a risk because it may be muddy, and the cart may not be able to handle it. 

3. Check Your WindshieldWipers

If you know you will be driving your golf cart in wet weather conditions, it’s better to take all safety precautions. You should check your windshield wipers and ensure they are working properly and have enough padding and grease on them. 

That will ensure you will not have problems wiping the rain from the windshield and allow you to see where you are driving on the course.

4. Your Tire’s Grip and Air Pressure

You must check the tire pressure, tread depth, and grip of your golf cart’s tires before you head out onto the golf course. It’s especially critical to check whether the tires are in good condition when you’re heading out in the rain because the surface will be slippier. 

You don’t want a faulty tire and be stuck driving a golf cart that is slipping and sliding all over the course.

You will be driving on hilly terrain with grass, and after rain, the ground underneath will be slick, so you need to ensure your golf cart’s tires are in perfect condition.

5. Test the Brakes On Your Golf Cart

Always check the brakes of your golf cart after you have driven over a puddle of standing water on the course when driving in wet weather. It’s not something you want to risk because if the brakes of your cart fail when you’re going downhill, your cart may have a hard time stopping. 

You should also be careful about parking it near water hazards or on a slope.

Most golf carts will lock their brakes automatically when parked, but if they have been left out in the rain, there’s a chance that the brakes could become slick. 

Therefore, it’s best to park it on a horizontal level and not on a hill when the brakes might be wet. 

Final Thoughts

Modern golf carts are meant to be waterproof and can withstand heavy rainfall if you leave them parked outside. However, it is always best to be cautious and take precautions when your golf carts get wet in the rain. 

Water may still seep inside and damage the wiring. 

I hope this guide has helped answer your question about whether golf carts can get wet or be left outside in the rain.  

Golf carts can seem mysterious until you jump into one. The small, silent cart can seem pretty daunting from afar, but using them is fairly straightforward. 

They are very convenient and can help you avoid getting exhausted as you walk from the tee to wherever your ball is.

Modern golf carts use electric motors and are designed specifically to be an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas ones. However, despite the evolution, one common question remains; do golf carts have reverse?

Golf carts do have a lever that controls which direction the motor turns and hence, can have reverse capabilities as well. Unfortunately, though, not every golf cart has the option of going reverse. 

Since every golf cart is different your model will have the capability of having reverse but it might not be present on your exact model. 

Let’s take a closer look at how to make your cart go in reverse and how to operate one properly. 

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

How to Make Your Golf Cart Go in Reverse?

Making your gas-powered golf cart go reverse is relatively easy. There will most likely be a gear-like lever next to the steering wheel or on the other side (depending on the model). 

Simply pull or push it in the opposite direction to make your golf cart go in reverse.

The gas-powered cart can be put in reverse gear without you having to turn the cart off or getting off.

If, however, you have an electrical golf cart, you may have to dig around a little in your cart. Usually, there is a small lever under the driver’s seat. 

You will have to get off to flip it. Some models have you flip it while some have you pull it; this is known as a controller.

Again, this depends on the model you choose to work with, but there is a definite chance that the lever won’t be labeled.

You will have to turn the engine off before switching gears, mind you. Once pulled/flipped, you will (as usual) need to push the brake pedal and then start the engine. If you hear a beeping sound as soon as you turn the key, know that you are now in reverse.

 Simply let go of the brake, and you are good to go.

A golf cart’s top speed varies depending on the model you go with. Some models can go up to 45 mph, but you can find these models mostly in Alaska and Texas. 

It is important to note that electric golf carts are faster than gasoline-powered golf carts.

The average top speed for a gas-powered golf cart is 19.9 MPH, while the average electric golf carts can go 25 MPH or more. The battery and engine power (electric and gasoline respectively) also dictate the speed.

In reverse, golf carts usually go up to 15 MPH, but if the controller malfunctions (or is about to), you can expect the cart in reverse to be faster as well. 

This way, you can know beforehand that something is about to go wrong with the cart.

How to Operate a Golf Cart

Operating a golf cart is relatively easy. Here is a quick guide to help you drive the cart.

Step 1. Put on your seatbelt first.

Step 2. Start by placing the key in the ignition. Some later models are also coming with a push-start option. You will need to keep the fob in your pocket in this case.

Step 3. Turn the key to the “on” position first.

Step 4. You can start it from here with a gentle turn of your wrist because the engine doesn’t require that much energy. Before you turn, though, you will need to push the brake pedal all the way down.

Step 5. Turn the key gently or push the button to start the cart. Do not remove your foot from the brake pedal yet.

Step 6. Listen for any sounds the cart may make. If you hear a beeping sound, your golf cart is in reverse. If you have a gas-powered golf cart, you can skip steps 7 to 9.

Step 7. Turn the key back counter-clockwise or push the start/stop button to turn it off.

Step 8. Lift the seat and find the controller.

Step 9. Pull or flip the controller switch and repeat the starting process.

Step 10. With the brake pressed, move the lever towards the forward’ or ‘backward’ position, if any.

Step 11. Make sure the lever is locked before you let go of the brake.

Step 12. Depress the brake a bit. This should get it out of its locked position. You will hear a slight pop when you depress it, indicating that the lock is now released. When you apply the brake again, you may hear a bunch of clicking sounds.

Step 13. Release the brake slowly. If you release it immediately, the cart will give you a jolt as golf carts will work at 100% capacity.

Step 14. Lock the brake back when you are parking it. Remove the keys, and you are good to go.

It is important to note that because golf carts are light and tall, they run the risk of toppling over. Make sure you apply the brakes softly when turning to slow down. 

Furthermore, compared to normal cars, golf carts require a bit more effort to turn. The steering wheel is stiffer than your car, so prepare for an adjustment.

Before you move a cart from the starting point, make sure that the cart is working properly. With the brake locked, flip the reverse switch or pull the lever to see if it makes the beeping sound. 

When turning it on, also consider how long it takes, as it would dictate the battery’s condition.

Gas Vs Electric Golf Cart Durability

Gas golf carts are relatively cheaper than electric carts and have always had reverse capabilities. Unfortunately, though, these carts don’t last that long, particularly their engine. 

You may have to replace it within 10 to 12 years with proper use. If abused, this number can drop significantly.

Electric golf carts, in contrast, are more expensive (if you go for a durable one, of course). They are much more environmentally friendly, are silent, and much more durable. 

The electric engine, even if abused, can last for 15 to 17 years. Even then, the damage isn’t as extensive as what a gas-powered cart will see at the same time.

Happy driving!

Cold weather in general can elevate the golfing experience for many, but the same cannot be said about snow or the frost. This is because many start wondering if golf carts can drive in snow without slipping or if the cart’s electrical system(s) can take it.

As long as you winterize your golf cart to protect yourself, you don’t need to worry about driving golf carts in the snow. Electric golf cars, just like gas ones, tend to run hot (though the former doesn’t get anywhere near as hot as the latter) and can therefore manage snow quite well.

However, there are a few considerations to make as well. For example, you shouldn’t leave the cart unattended in the snow for too long. If you are going to, make sure it isn’t turned off. 

Your cart will also be exerting more power. So, keep in mind that you will run out of battery relatively quicker.

Let’s look more closely at the concept to help you understand what it takes to drive your golf cart in snow.

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

Can Golf Carts Drive in Snow – A Detailed Overview

A bit of snow shouldn’t get your golfing spirits down. Instead of keeping your cart in the shed all winter, you should consider winterizing your golf cart to make yourself comfortable. 

Your golf cart can take on snowfall, unless there is a snowstorm or a blizzard out there.

The primary constituents on your road towards winterizing your golf cart should be adding tarps around to create a ‘compartment’ for staying warm. Cover the top and sides with the tarp, and, if possible, attach at least 3 metal binder clips on the beams around. 

These should be able to hold on to the tarp. If the wind starts howling, add a few more.

As long as your golf cart remains on, you won’t have anything to worry about. In fact, if the engine and battery are under your seat, you can expect to stay slightly warm inside as well! What more could you ask for, right?

Another very important feature you should consider for your golf cart is that of winter tires, especially if the cart trail at your golf course is made out of asphalt or concrete. Black ice can be particularly dangerous as it can cause golf carts to slip and even roll.

Best Golf Cart Tires For Snow

You can also use different tires to use your golf cart in snow. These types of tires listed below will all help you get better traction when the weather out is bad. 

1. Off-road Tires

These tires give you good traction when the weather is mostly rainy with slight ice. The ice-covered paths and driveways should be easy to navigate, even with some ice on it. 

However, these tires are best suited for the first few snowfalls only. After that, once the snow melts and freezes over again because of the frost, it becomes a lot more slippery.

2. Snow Tires

These tires are usually studded, and the treads are much deeper. This is for when the snow is getting at least 3 inches deep. There is little to no risk of black ice at this point, especially because of these tires. 

The snow that gets lodged into the tires gives the tires more grip on the snow, and if you hit black ice, the snow gets dislodged and gives you some traction. 

However, at this point, you should consider driving slowly.

3. Chained Golf Cart Tires 

When all else fails, go with chained golf cart tires. They give you a much better grip of the cart path or driveway and eliminate the risk of slipping considerably. The drive may no longer remain as economical or as comfortable however. 

The chains will turn your golfing ventures into quite a bumpy ride. To be fair, though, large, chained tires on a golf cart do look pretty cool.

4. Knobby Tires

These tires are best suited for when the winter season is finally starting to relent. The melting snow will make it difficult to drive. The snow tires or off-road tires are best for when the ground is still relatively soft. By the time the snow starts melting, the ground will quite literally be frozen solid. 

Knobby tires are also best-suited for rainfall areas. The efficiency will still suffer, though.

5. All-terrain Tires

And finally, when things start getting back to normal, you should consider using all-terrain tires that allow multi-directional grip.

Driving your golf cart is one thing; parking it while you make your shot is entirely another. If it is still snowing, you should consider parking underneath a tree or shed to avoid having to clear snow off of the cart before driving.

If you must leave your cart in the snow, do not turn it off. Fight the urge to do so. If you turn it off, the snow might freeze up the terminals, battery chemicals, wiring, or other components. Frozen wires may also introduce increased resistance, which may lead to a short circuit or burned wiring.

During winters, it actually pays off to have more than one pair of battery(s) with you because of the severely impeded drive efficiency and since you shouldn’t turn the cart off. The backup battery can actually be lifesaving. 

People don’t often venture into the deep end of a golf course while it is snowing. Getting stuck may mean that you may have to call someone and wait for them alone in the cold with no other way out.

Final Thoughts 

While you can drive golf carts in snow, it is a good idea to winterize it first and have some sort of backup. Playing golf in rain and snow presents its own set of challenges and makes the game much more interesting.

However, with interest comes risk as well. There is a very good chance that you may end up slipping or getting stuck if you don’t take the proper precautions.

The question shouldn’t be as much as whether golf carts can drive in snow, but whether you should. Usually, golf clubs don’t let people go that far out in snow or don’t open at all because of player safety issues.

By design and purpose, golf carts are meant to be one of the safest vehicles in the world. They aren’t allowed to be driven on highways, and they have a very safe maximum speed of around 11mph.

Since no one really expects them to have safety issues, most golf carts are designed without standard safety features integrated in their blueprints. 

Naturally, there still seems to be a prevalence of accidents involving golf carts, which begs the question, “Do golf carts turn/tip over easily?”

Golf carts don’t tip over easily but it can happen if it is unbalanced or driven over giant hills at fast speeds. 

Truth be told, if you research mishaps on the golf course, you are bound to come across some cases of golf carts tipping over. The statistics of these carts flipping over all give us the impression that these vehicles have a knack for tipping over.

Of course, one can safely assume that most of these accidents are caused because of human error. With that said, let’s have a look at how common this mishap is in the US.

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Golf Cart Tip Over Statistics

Typically, golf carts are considered to be novelty gadgets as opposed to real vehicles. However, there are always some users that prefer to run before they can walk. 

Usually, the root cause of the problem is when golfers choose to go beyond the manufacturers’ weight limit or recommended storage capacity. Failure to recognize these basic instructions is a potential risk for anyone who chooses to modify their golf cart. 

If you still do so despite all the warnings, you are bound to come across all the scary events that were previously considered to be impossible with golf carts.

The following are just some of the eye-opening statistics the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) gathered after conducting meticulous research. Each one of the statistics is bound to make you shudder.

● Golfers in the US witness just over 15,000 accidents involving golf carts every year.

● 10% of all the crashes involving golf carts include these vehicles tipping over.

● 40% of all the accidents involving golf carts happen when passengers fall off the cart.

● Golf carts contribute to at least 10,000 visits to the emergency room every year.

What Causes Golf Cart Accidents?

Since the original purpose and design of golf carts have made them very safe to use, the use of these vehicles is unregulated. There are many accredited safety organizations that have judged these golf carts to be safe. 

Their decision to do so is why so many people abuse their vehicles and are very relaxed about their usage.

But what are the reasons that cause accidents involving golf carts? Let’s answer your question by listing down some of the more common reasons:

● Unauthorized or unskilled drivers. You are bound to come across numerous under-aged golf cart drivers on the course, and a majority of them will not even have their drivers’ licenses.

● Drivers choose to ignore speed limits with these vehicles and go much faster than the manufacturers’ guidelines.

● Misjudgement is another very common reason for golf carts to tip over. Simply put, many drivers misjudge the weight or storage capacity of their golf carts, and this can be disastrous on bends and hills.

● Some golf carts may have insufficient braking systems.

● They were driving under the influence. Yes, some drivers can’t stay off the ol’ gin and tonic while cruising on their golf carts since they are so easy to drive.

● Other forms of inappropriate uses of golf carts.

● Some golf carts are considered to be outside the bounds of standardized golf cart designs.

Having read all of the above, it is quite clear that if golf carts are used according to the manufacturers’ recommended guidelines and safety tips, the numbers of tip-overs and other forms of accidents will be reduced to a bare minimum.

How To Improve The Safety Of Your Golf Cart

Accidents are involuntary actions, and they can happen even if you are mindful of all the necessary precautions. However, the following are just some of the most common etiquettes regarding golf carts. 

These tips will not only help reduce the cases of accidents, but they will also reduce your chance of tipping over.

1. Use your seat belt. 

Just as these simple gizmos help in protecting the occupants of a car, seat belts should be compulsory when they are used inside the open bodies of golf carts.

2. Avoid drinking and driving. 

Most of the accidents involving golf carts occur because the drivers or passengers were drunk or under the influence of other substances.

3. Drive under the recommended speed limit. 

While golf carts with stock bodies arrive at your doorstep with a very safe speed limit, some people choose to modify their cart to drive around faster. I recommend that you stick with the speed limit recommended by the manufacturer to avoid tipping your golf cart over.

4. Use the recommended pathways while driving your golf cart. 

Don’t drive these vehicles on sidewalks unless there is a risk of trampling pedestrians elsewhere.

5. Watch where you’re driving before you proceed. 

Golf carts that are street legal are also bound by laws when they are crossing road intersections. Don’t proceed unless you are absolutely sure it is safe to move on.

Final Thoughts

You probably saw a golf cart tip over or are worried about experiencing this in your own cart. However, most experts believe that golf carts are the safest mobility vehicles out there. 

Still, human error is known to be the root cause of most accidents. Hence, I highly recommend that you proceed with caution whenever you are driving these vehicles.

The only thing you need to do to avoid your golf cart from tipping over is to abide by the manufacturers’ recommendations and safety precautions.

Be safe. Don’t drink and drive, and happy golfing!