6 Common Golf Cart Problems and How To Fix Them
Golf carts have become the preferred mode of transportation for many golfers, and for good reason. They’re efficient, environmentally friendly, and provide a smooth ride on the green. However, like any vehicle, they’re not immune to problems. In this article, we’ll go over six common golf cart problems and how to fix them, so you can get your cart back up and running in no time.
1. Low Battery Power
Low battery power is one of the most common issues golf cart owners encounter. This problem can manifest as the cart not starting, moving slowly, or running out of power suddenly. It’s crucial to regularly check your golf cart’s battery to ensure it’s in optimal health.
The first step to determine whether you’re having battery power issues is to check for a full charge. Connect it to a charger and let it charge for the recommended amount of time. You may need to replace your battery if the problem persists.
Another possible cause of low power could be corroded or loose battery cables. Make sure they’re clean and securely connect them to the battery terminals. Replace any damaged or worn cables if necessary.
2. Faulty Charger
A faulty charger is also a common reason for power issues in a golf cart. The charger could be to blame if the battery isn’t charging properly or at all. You can identify a faulty charger by checking if the power indicator lights up when you plug the charger into a power source. You likely have a faulty charger on your hands if it doesn’t.
You could also try using a different charger that you know works if one is available. Your original charger is indeed faulty if the battery charges with a different charger.
In such cases, we recommend you replace the faulty charger. Remember to get a charger that matches your golf cart battery’s specifications. Using an incompatible charger could lead to further battery problems, so always double-check the compatibility before making your purchase.
3. Bumpy Rides
Experiencing a bumpy ride in your golf cart? An uneven or jolting ride is another common issue that can negatively impact the comfort and enjoyment of your driving experience. The culprit behind these bumpy rides is often a faulty suspension system.
The suspension system consists of several components, including the shock absorbers, springs, and axles, all of which work together to provide a smooth ride. Worn or damaged components in the suspension system could cause the golf cart to ride unevenly or become excessively bouncy. Check for visible signs of wear, such as leaks in the shock absorbers or sagging springs.
Wheel alignment can also cause a bumpy ride. Misaligned wheels can result in the golf cart pulling to one side or the other. A simple wheel alignment can correct this issue.
Additionally, tire pressure plays a vital role in the smoothness of the ride. Under- or over-inflated tires can cause your cart to bounce or feel unsteady. Ensure you inflate your tires to the recommended pressure levels.
Should these checks not resolve the issue, we recommend you take your golf cart to a professional for a thorough inspection and repair. Regular maintenance of your golf cart can prevent these issues and ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride on the golf course.
4. Faulty Speed Controller
A speed controller is an essential golf cart component, regulating the cart’s speed. You could be dealing with a faulty speed controller if you notice inconsistent speeds or an unresponsive accelerator. The problem may display as the cart not reaching the desired speed or accelerating uncontrollably.
Visually inspect the controller. Look for any signs of physical damage or wear and tear. In some cases, you’ll notice damage to the controller. In which case, replacing it is the only solution. The problem may lie inside the controller if there is no visible damage, which is harder to diagnose without professional help.
It’s also worth checking the wiring connected to your speed controller. Loose or corroded wires can interfere with the controller’s operation. Make sure all connections are secure and clean.
Unfortunately, a faulty speed controller isn’t something that you can easily fix without specialized knowledge or tools. So, we advise a professional consult if you’ve inspected the controller and wiring and the issue persists.
Remember, a malfunctioning speed controller isn’t just an inconvenience—it could potentially be dangerous. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of the golf cart’s riders.
5. Steering Issues
Steering issues in golf carts can manifest in multiple ways, including encountering difficulty when turning the cart, the steering wheel feeling loose, or the cart pulling to one side while driving. These problems can affect your control over the cart, making for a less-than-optimal golfing experience.
A worn or damaged steering gearbox is one common cause of these issues. The gearbox is part of the steering system that translates the rotational motion of the steering wheel into the left or right movement of the wheels. Over time, the gears inside this box can wear out or become damaged, resulting in steering problems. Inspect the gearbox for any visible signs of wear or damage if you’re experiencing steering issues.
Misaligned wheels could be another culprit. An incorrect alignment can make the cart drift to one side or the other, leading to steering difficulties. Regular inspections and alignments can help prevent these issues.
The tie rod ends, which connect the steering rack to the wheels, could also be responsible for steering issues. These parts can wear down over time, resulting in a loose steering wheel. Inspect the tie rod ends for wear or damage and replace them if necessary.
6. Brake Problems
Brake problems can seriously hamper the safety and performance of your golf cart. These issues can present themselves in various forms, including unresponsive brakes, squeaking or grinding noises when braking, or the cart pulling to one side when you apply the brakes.
Worn-out or damaged brake pads are the most common causes of brake issues in golf carts. The brake pads create friction against the wheels, thus slowing down or stopping the cart. Over time, these pads can wear out, reducing their efficiency. It’s likely time to replace the brake pads if you’re noticing a reduced braking performance or hear a squeaking noise when applying the brakes.
A faulty brake cable is another potential cause of brake problems. This cable plays a critical role in the braking system, transmitting the force from the brake pedal to the brake mechanism. A snapped or damaged cable can cause the brakes to fail to respond. Thoroughly inspect the brake cable for any visible signs of damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
Faulty brake calipers can also lead to brake issues. The calipers squeeze the brake pads against the wheel, causing the cart to slow down or stop. Stuck or damaged brake calipers can result in poor braking or even complete brake failure. Inspect the calipers for any signs of damage or corrosion. A professional may be able to repair them if they’re stuck. However, replacement is typically necessary if they are beyond repair.
Brake fluid levels can also impact your golf cart brakes’ performance. A low brake fluid level can result in spongy or unresponsive brakes. Check the brake fluid reservoir regularly and refill it with the recommended fluid as necessary.
As with any other issues, we advise you to consult a professional if you’ve done these checks and the problem persists. Regular maintenance and checks, particularly of the brake system, are crucial for the safe operation of your golf cart.
Look no further than Ben Nelson Golf & Outdoor for all your golf cart needs! We offer a wide range of services, from regular maintenance and repair to high-quality golf cart parts. Want to purchase a new cart? Check out our wide selection of E-Z-GO golf carts for sale that have the perfect blend of performance, durability, and style. Visit one of our Ben Nelson Golf & Outdoor dealerships today, and we’ll help you find the perfect cart to suit your needs! Or contact us anytime online and we’ll be happy to assist you.
