Properly storing your electric golf cart during the summer months is crucial to maintain its longevity and performance. By following the right steps, you can ensure that your golf cart stays in top condition until it’s time to ride again. In this article, we will guide you through the necessary steps to store your electric golf cart safely for the summer, including battery care, cleaning, and choosing the right storage location.

Why Proper Storage Is Important for Your Electric Golf Cart

Electric golf carts are built to last, but like any vehicle, they require proper care to maintain optimal performance. Storing your golf cart for an extended period, especially in hot weather, can lead to damage if not done correctly. Issues such as battery drainage, tire flat spots, and body damage due to UV exposure can shorten the lifespan of your cart. By following the steps outlined below, you can ensure that your golf cart is protected and ready to go when you need it.

Step 1: Choose the Right Storage Location

Choosing the right place to store your electric golf cart is the first step in ensuring its safety. Here are some options:

Indoor Storage

If possible, store your golf cart indoors in a cool, dry area. A garage or shed is ideal for protecting the cart from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. By storing it indoors, you can prevent damage to both the battery and the body, keeping your golf cart in optimal condition. A climate-controlled environment is even better, but not necessary.

Outdoor Storage

If indoor storage is not an option, choose a shaded area outdoors to minimize exposure to the sun. UV rays can cause the body of your golf cart to fade and degrade, so make sure to use a high-quality waterproof cover to protect it. A well-fitting cover will also protect the cart from rain, dust, and other weather conditions that could harm it during storage.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

It’s important to avoid storing your golf cart in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause significant damage to the body, seats, and other plastic components. UV exposure can lead to fading, cracking, and premature wear. If you must store it outside, use a UV-resistant cover to protect the cart from harmful rays.

Step 2: Prepare Your Golf Cart for Storage

Once you've chosen a storage location, it’s time to prepare your golf cart. Here’s what you need to do:

Charge the Battery

Before storing your golf cart, make sure the battery is fully charged. A fully charged battery helps maintain the battery cells and prevents them from becoming damaged due to being left in a low charge state for too long. A well-charged battery also reduces the risk of corrosion and other issues.

Disconnect the Battery

Once the battery is fully charged, disconnect it to prevent any drainage during the storage period. This will help protect the battery from unnecessary power drain and prevent potential corrosion or damage to the terminals.

Check and Inflate the Tires

To prevent flat spots from forming on the tires, slightly raise your golf cart off the ground. You can use jack stands or a similar method to keep the tires from making contact with the surface. Additionally, check the tire pressure and inflate the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI to avoid damage during storage.

Clean and Protect Your Golf Cart

Before storing your cart, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. This will prevent grime from building up and causing damage while in storage. Use a gentle cleaner that’s safe for golf cart surfaces and apply a protective wax or sealant to keep the exterior looking fresh. Cleaning the cart before storage also helps to prevent rust and corrosion from forming on metal parts.

Prevent Rolling

If you're storing your golf cart outdoors, ensure that it’s parked securely and cannot roll away. Use wheel chocks or other secure methods to prevent the cart from rolling, especially if it's on an incline.

Remove Perishable Items

Remove any items inside your golf cart that may degrade over time, such as food, beverages, or other organic materials. These items can cause unpleasant odors, attract pests, or deteriorate in hot or humid conditions.

Step 3: Battery Care and Maintenance

Proper battery care is crucial for ensuring your golf cart is ready to use when you take it out of storage. Here’s how to maintain the battery during the summer months:

Check the Water Levels

If your golf cart has a lead-acid battery, check the water levels before storing it. If necessary, top off the battery with distilled water to ensure the electrolyte levels are sufficient. This will help prevent damage to the battery plates and extend the life of the battery.

Remove the Battery (Optional)

If you’re storing your golf cart for an extended period (several months), it may be a good idea to remove the battery entirely and store it in a cool, dry place. This can help prevent the battery from becoming overcharged or damaged by extreme temperatures. Make sure the battery is charged and disconnected before removal.

Step 4: Additional Tips for Long-Term Storage

Here are a few extra tips to keep your golf cart in the best condition during the summer:

• Lubricate Moving Parts: Before storage, lubricate the moving parts, including the throttle, brakes, and steering mechanisms. This helps prevent rust and keeps these parts functioning smoothly when you take the cart out of storage.
• Inspect for Damage: Check for any existing damage to your golf cart, including worn-out parts, cracked plastic, or damaged wiring. Repair any issues before storing it to prevent them from worsening during storage.
• Consider a Cover: Whether you’re storing your golf cart indoors or outdoors, a cover can provide extra protection from dust, dirt, and scratches. A high-quality cover will protect your golf cart from the elements and help keep it in top shape.

Conclusion

Properly storing your electric golf cart during the summer is essential for maintaining its condition and ensuring it’s ready to go when you need it. By following these steps, such as charging and disconnecting the battery, checking the tires, and storing the cart in a safe location, you can protect your investment and extend the life of your golf cart.