Essential Maintenance Tips for Electric Golf Carts / LSVs
Electric golf carts / LSVs are appreciated for their quiet, eco-friendly performance and relatively low maintenance compared to gas-powered carts. But even electric carts need regular care to ensure smooth operation, safety, and long-term reliability. Here’s a helpful guide to keeping your electric cart in top condition.
1. Battery Maintenance
The battery power is the heart of an electric golf cart. Keeping it healthy is vital.
- Charge regularly: Plug in your cart after every use and try to avoid deep discharges.
- Clean terminals: Check for corrosion and clean terminals using a baking soda and water mix if needed.
- (If using lead-accid batteries) monitor water levels: Top off with distilled water as needed.
- Store properly: Use a trickle charger or disconnect the battery pack if storing for a long period. Lithium batteries typically can be shut down via a switch for storage.
2. Tire Care
Well-maintained tires make your ride not only safer, but smoother.
- Check pressure: Low or high pressure can both adversely affect performance and tire life. Check monthly.
- Inspect tread: Replace tires with worn-out tread to maintain grip and handling.
3. Brakes
Electric golf carts may use simple mechanical brakes, or more sophisticated hydraulic disc braking systems; both require routine maintenance and attention.
- Test function: Brakes should engage smoothly without squeaks or grinding.
- Inspect pads, discs, and cables: Worn pads or discus, or loose cables reduce stopping power and safety.
4. Steering & Suspension
Suspension parts wear over time, especially if your cart sees off-road use.
- Listen for clunks or squeaks: These may indicate worn parts, loosened fasteners, or lack of lubrication.
- Grease moving parts: Keep components like bushings and joints lubricated as recommended. Your dealer should inspect and grease zerks periodically.
5. Electrical Components
A healthy electrical system ensures all features work as intended.
- Periodically test all lights and horn: Especially important if your cart is a street legal LSV or used at night.
- Check for loose wires: Look for fraying or loose or damaged connections periodically.
6. Cleanliness & Exterior Care
Protecting the outside (and underside) of your cart keeps it looking and performing like new.
- Wash regularly: Remove dirt and debris, especially after driving on grass, sand, or gravel.
- Cover when stored: UV rays can fade paint and crack upholstery. If you can not garage your cart / LSV, strongly consider using a cover when not in use and park / briefly store in a shaded area.
7. Modern Add-ons
Some newer electric carts come with smart features or accessories.
- Check software updates: Some models have updateable control systems.
- Inspect add-ons: Ensure things like GPS, Battery Management System (BMS) gauges, USB charging ports, inverters, voltage reducers, fuses, and Bluetooth connections are working properly.
Final Thoughts
A little routine care goes a long way. Regular maintenance not only helps your electric golf cart / LSV last longer but also keeps you safe and ensures the best ride quality possible. Whether you use your cart on the golf course, around town or the neighborhood, or for business purposes, these simple steps will help you enjoy worry-free driving for years to come. Luxury LSV is here to answer any maintenance questions you may and assist in any way.
