How To Protect Your Golf Cart From Winter Weather

As a proud golf cart owner, you know that winter can be tough on your trusty four-wheeled companion. In this guide, we'll discuss various ways to protect your golf cart from winter weather, ensuring it remains ready to hit the course come springtime. Here are five important tips to maintain your cart in tip-top shape.

Properly Store Your Golf Cart

Proper storage is crucial when it comes to protecting your golf cart from the harsh winter weather. Firstly, choose a dry, covered location to park your golf cart. An insulated garage or a covered shed will protect your golf cart from the elements, as well as any potential vermin. Secondly, if possible, elevate the golf cart off the ground to prevent tire flat spots or potential water damage. Lastly, remove the key and unplug any electrical connections to preserve the battery life. Covering your golf cart with a breathable fabric cover can provide an additional layer of protection against dust, moisture, and UV rays. By taking these steps, you can ensure your golf cart will be ready to roll once the snow melts.

Keep the Battery Charged

Maintaining the battery charge is key to ensuring your golf cart's longevity over the winter months. When left unused, the battery can discharge and degrade, resulting in a shorter life span and potential replacement costs. It is recommended to fully charge the battery before storing the golf cart for the winter season. Additionally, periodic charging every four to six weeks during the storage period will keep the battery in good condition.

A well-maintained battery ensures your golf cart will be ready for action once the winter weather subsides. If your golf cart has a lead-acid battery, we recommend keeping an eye on the water level and periodically topping it off throughout the storage season. Using distilled water can help keep your battery in good condition. If you can't store your golf cart out of freezing temperatures, you may want to remove the battery so that the water inside doesn't freeze.

Clean and Lubricate All Moving Parts

Keeping your golf cart clean and well lubricated is another way to protect your golf cart from winter weather. Start by cleaning all the moving parts including the wheels, brakes, and steering components to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. This not only helps to ensure the longevity of these parts but also to prevent any rust or corrosion during the winter months.

After cleaning, apply a quality lubricant to all moving parts. This includes the wheel bearings, suspensions, and any rotating element. Select a lubricant that's specifically designed for golf carts or similar vehicles, as these have the right balance of viscosity and stickiness to stay in place and provide protection for an extended period.

The lubricant will create a protective layer that repels moisture and reduces friction, preventing parts from sticking or seizing. Remember to wipe away any excess lubricant to avoid attracting dirt. By meticulously cleaning and lubricating, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure smooth operation when you're ready to hit the road or the links again in spring.

Protect the Tires

Your golf cart's tires are another crucial component that require attention before the onset of winter. Prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions, particularly the cold, can lead to cracking and premature wear of the rubber. Start by deeply cleaning the tires, removing any mud, stones, or debris stuck in the treads. This prevents the accumulation of moisture which could lead to rust and corrosion of the rims.

Before you store your cart, consider inflating the tires to the optimal pressure level. This process helps maintain the tires’ shape and prevents the formation of flat spots during the storage period. Check the golf cart's manual for the recommended tire pressure or consult with a professional.

If possible, as mentioned earlier, elevate the golf cart off the ground. This reduces the pressure exerted on the tires, especially if the cart is stored for an extended period. If elevation is not an option, consider rotating the tires once a month to distribute the pressure evenly and prevent flat spots.

Lastly, consider using a quality tire protector product. This can be sprayed or brushed onto the tires to create a protective barrier that helps keep the rubber flexible and resilient, fighting off the damaging effects of cold weather and UV radiation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying any tire protector product.

By following these measures, you ensure your golf cart's tires remain in prime condition, ready for your springtime adventures.

Invest in a High-Quality Cart Cover

An investment in a high-quality golf cart cover can be a game-changer when it comes to preserving your cart during the winter months. These specialized covers help provide a shield against harsh weather conditions—everything from snow and hail to heavy rain and biting winds. If you don’t have a designated shed or storage unit to keep your golf cart in, a cover is a must-have!

When choosing a cart cover, look for a material that’s both waterproof and breathable. The waterproof feature ensures that moisture doesn’t seep into the cart, protecting it from rust and corrosion. Breathability, on the other hand, prevents the buildup of condensation inside the cover, reducing the risk of mildew or mold growth.

Ensure the cover you choose fits your golf cart snugly, offering comprehensive protection, but is also easy to put on and remove. Some high-end covers also come with venting systems, allowing for better air circulation, and zippered access panels so you can reach the cart without removing the entire cover. While a high-quality cover might seem like a considerable investment upfront, the protection it offers your golf cart from the ravages of winter weather makes it a worthwhile expenditure. With a quality cover, your golf cart will be well protected and pristine once spring arrives.

Don’t let your golf cart be a casualty of the winter season. At Ben Nelson Golf & Outdoor, we’re committed to offering you the best deals and service when it comes to golf carts in Memphis. We offer a range of services and products to keep your golf cart in optimal condition all year round. We have new and pre-owned golf carts from some of the most popular brands, like Cushman and E-Z-GO! So gear up, get in touch with us today, and let us help you protect your investment. Ensure your golf cart is ready and raring to go when the fairways turn green again in the spring! Contact us today if you have any additional questions, comments, or concerns, or just stop by one of our dealerships!