Are you tired of constantly having to rent a golf cart each time you visit your favorite golf course? Do you live in a neighborhood that allows for golf carts to get around, making it quick and easy to visit the neighborhood pool, park, gym or even community mailboxes? There are many reasons a person may want to invest in a golf cart, but just like with any other vehicle, there are considerations to be mindful of. These will help ensure you spend your money wisely and get exactly what you want.
Start with a Budget
One of the most surprising things about golf carts is just how affordable they can be. They tend to cost only a fraction of what a new full-sized vehicle would be, which means that working on a tight budget won’t be a limiting factor. So, set a budget you’re comfortable with and that you can stay firm on.
New or Used – Both Have Pros and Cons
Then there is the question of purchasing a new or used golf cart. Both have extensive lists of pros and cons so there is no right answer here. It will be based on your preferences, your budget, how long you plan to keep the golf cart, how much maintenance you are willing to take on, and if you want a cart that still has a warranty.
New golf carts will also have the latest features and gadgets, but that’s not a necessity for every person.
You Can Always Upgrade Later On
It’s worth noting that there are loads of aftermarket accessories available, which means you don’t have to look for the “perfect” golf cart from the get-go. You can make upgrades, tweaks and adjustments, transforming the cart into exactly what you want. You’ll find things such as roof racks, lift kits, seat covers, steering wheels, drink holders, radios, wheels and so much more. This helps take the pressure off when trying to find the perfect cart.
Choose a Well-Known Make of Golf Cart
While it’s not necessary to shop for brand names in all circumstances, when it comes to a golf cart, it is usually the smartest approach. You want to pick a company that has a proven track record so you know that the golf cart will hold up in the long run and have little to do in terms of repairs.
Gas or Electric Powered – Is There a Clear Winner?
Golf carts can be powered by gas or a battery, with each providing plenty of power to get around the course. The thing to remember is things like the cost of maintenance, which is higher with electric golf carts. When the time comes to replace the battery, it can be quite expensive. The good news is that, generally speaking, batteries last 5-7 years. If you’re worried about how loud the cart is while operating it, battery-powered will come out as the clear winner, since gas-powered golf carts can be quite loud. This could be important if you’re using it in your neighborhood.
That doesn’t mean gas-powered carts are without their expenses and cons. You’ll need to pay for the cost of fuel, which, as you’re aware, has been quite volatile over the past year. They are also responsible for much more pollution, and you’ll need to do regular tune-ups, oil changes and filter changes.
All in all, once you factor in everything throughout ownership, they are usually on a par with each other in terms of costs.
Purchasing a golf cart can be seen as a fabulous investment that you’ll get plenty of use of; just be sure you find the right cart for your needs and wants and follow all the safety tips when driving.
