Ready, Set, Roll: Preparing Your Golf Cart for Summer Season

As temperatures climb and daylight stretches longer, it’s time to ready your golf cart for the busy season ahead. Whether your cart has been hibernating in storage or simply needs a refresh after lighter winter use, these preparation steps will help keep your unit running smoothly.

Battery Basics: Powering Up Your Cart

Gas owners can skip this part — but if you have an electric cart, it’s important to inspect your battery system before heading out for the summer.

For Lead-Acid Batteries:

• Look over battery terminals for any corrosion buildup and clean them thoroughly if needed

• Check water levels in each cell and add distilled water if low

• Ensure all connections are tight and free of damage

• Complete a full charging cycle and test voltage to make sure your batteries are holding a charge properly

One of the many advantages of lithium batteries is they are usually maintenance-free, but it’s still a good idea to run a full charge and check the voltage before hitting the road.

Gas Cart Preparation: Fuel and Fluids

Now that we’ve covered some tips for getting an electric cart ready, here is what gas owners need to know:

• Drain any old fuel from the tank — gas breaks down over time and can cause performance issues

• Refill with fresh fuel

• Check the oil level and replace it if it looks dirty or old

• Inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s clogged with dirt or grime

• Examine the spark plug and swap it out if it shows signs of wear

• Look over fuel lines for cracks or stiffness that could lead to leaks

During your first few drives, pay close attention to see if you hear any odd noises or rough idling that may require further inspection.

Tire Check: Ready to Roll

After addressing your power source, it’s time to inspect where the rubber meets the road. Golf cart tires tend to lose pressure during storage can develop issues from sitting in one spot too long:

• Check tire pressure and inflate to manufacturer recommendations

• Inspect for cracks, dry rot, or bald spots

• Look for flat spots that may have formed during storage

• Verify even tread wear across all tires

• Make sure lug nuts are properly torqued

Proper tire maintenance not only provides a smoother ride but can also improve your cart’s range and handling.

Exterior Care: Shine and Function

After months in storage or light use, your golf cart deserves some exterior attention before making its debut:

• Give it a thorough wash to remove dust, dirt, and any storage residue

• Clean the windshield for clear visibility on sunny days

• Inspect the body for cracks or rust that might need repair

• Test all exterior lights to make sure they’re working properly

Taking time to clean your cart isn’t just about looks—it helps you catch minor issues early and prevents premature wear from weather exposure. Plus, there’s nothing quite like cruising around in a freshly cleaned cart.

Brake Check: Safety First

Before hitting the road, make sure your stopping power is up to par:

• Check brake pads for wear and replace them if they’re getting thin

• Inspect brake cables for fraying, rust, or slack, ensuring they’re tight and secure
• Press the brake pedal to test for firmness and responsiveness before any long drives

Don’t ignore brake issues—they won’t get better on their own. Fixing problems early keeps you safe and avoids costly repairs down the line.

Steering Check: Smooth Turns Ahead

Before hitting the course or neighborhood, give your steering a quick check:

• Turn the wheel to ensure it moves smoothly without sticking or excessive play in the wheel

• Listen for unusual noises when turning from side to side

• Take a slow test drive, making several turns to confirm responsiveness

Ensuring your steering works properly is essential for a safe and smooth summer ride.

Final Thoughts

Taking a little time to perform these basic checks now can help you avoid breakdowns during the season and keep you and your passengers safe. Whether it’s your batteries, brakes, tires, or steering, these simple maintenance tasks will keep your cart running smoothly all summer long.

If you’d rather leave the work to a professional, many dealers’ golf cart repair services include spring tune-up packages that cover these key areas and more. Either way, the effort you put in now will pay off all season.

If your inspection shows it’s time for an upgrade instead of upkeep, be sure to explore our new golf carts for sale to find the perfect match for your needs.

With your cart prepped and ready, you’re set for another great season of fun in the sun.