Home Blogs-Tips and Tricks How Long Does A Golf Cart Battery Last? A Simple Guide
golf cart

How Long Does A Golf Cart Battery Last? A Simple Guide

David Lee
David Lee
—
09/10/2023

Typically, golf cart batteries can last for many years if recharged after each use. However, their longevity can vary based on usage. Although they are deep cycle batteries designed primarily for golf carts, they can also be used to power other devices. While you can't start a car with a 6-volt golf cart battery, you can connect multiple batteries to an RV for auxiliary power or to a solar panel system for backup. Keep in mind that, like all lead-acid batteries, they don’t perform well in extreme heat or cold.

Golf cart batteries are built to provide hours of power and should be fully recharged after use—similar to how your phone battery functions (though your phone battery prefers not to stay at 100% all the time).

That said, all batteries have a finite lifespan. If you're shopping for your next set of golf cart batteries, you might be wondering how often you'll need to replace them.

Let’s break down a few key points.

How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last on Average?

On average, golf cart batteries can last between four to six years with proper maintenance. To maximize their lifespan, be sure to keep them charged after each use and refill the water levels if they drop during recharging. Most golf cart batteries are equipped with removable caps for easy fluid maintenance.

When comparing lifespans, typical lead-acid car batteries last about three to five years, depending on their treatment prior to purchase. Generally, car batteries have a shorter lifespan than golf cart batteries due to the deep cycling capabilities of the latter. Draining a regular car battery to just 75% can cause permanent damage, while a 6-volt or 8-volt golf cart battery is designed with thicker plates and modified internal chemistry, allowing it to be discharged down to 20% without losing its ability to hold a charge.

starter vs deep cycle battery

Considering normal wear and tear, a golf cart battery can last up to six years. However, if not properly maintained, your batteries may fail much sooner.

Factors Affect Golf Cart Battery’s Lifespan

Type of Battery:

Golf cart batteries primarily come in two variants: lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.

Lead-acid batteries are the most common due to their affordability. On average, lead-acid batteries can last between 4 to 6 years if well-maintained.

On the other hand, lithium-ion golf cart batteries have a longer lifespan, typically lasting 8 to 10 years. Although more expensive initially, lithium-ion batteries prove to be a cost-effective choice in the long run due to their extended longevity. Read on lithium batteries other advantages vs lead acid.

Usage Patterns:

The way you use your golf cart can significantly impact the battery's lifespan. If you frequently use your golf cart for long distances or ride on challenging terrains, the battery will undergo more strain, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Conversely, if the cart is used sparingly or for shorter distances, the battery can last longer. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of the extent of strain you put on your battery during usage.

Maintenance:

Proper battery maintenance is vital to extend its lifespan. Regularly inspecting the battery for any signs of damage and cleaning it can prevent corrosion, ensuring optimum performance. Additionally, maintaining the right water levels in lead-acid batteries and ensuring a clean and tight connection will help the battery last longer. Adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and cleaning routines is essential to optimize the battery's lifespan.

Charging Habits:

The way you charge your golf cart battery also affects its overall lifespan. It is recommended to recharge the battery after each use and avoid overdraining it. Shallow discharges and consistent charges are better for battery health compared to deep discharges. Moreover, using a suitable charger specifically designed for your golf cart battery type is crucial. Avoid relying on cheap chargers or using automotive chargers, as they may not provide the optimal charging current, affecting the battery's lifespan.

Related reading: Can I Keep My Golf Cart Plugged in All the Time?

To summarize, the lifespan of a golf cart battery can range from 4 to 10 years, depending on several factors. Choosing the right type of battery, maintaining it regularly, adjusting your usage patterns, and incorporating proper charging habits are vital for prolonging battery life. Remember, proper care and attention to your battery will not only optimize its lifespan but also ensure consistent and reliable performance during every golf cart adventure.

Types of Golf Cart Batteries

Golf cart batteries come in various types, each with unique advantages and disadvantages. You can find 6-volt, 8-volt, or 12-volt batteries, which work together to create either a 36-volt or 48-volt system. While 6-volt batteries often provide longer run times, you need more of them, which can add weight and complicate installation.

1. Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the most common choice. They are affordable and easy to maintain. However, they typically last only 2-5 years. Their weight can be a downside in a compact vehicle.

2. Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Golf Cart Batteries

AGM batteries use absorbable electrolytes and fiberglass plates. This design allows them to charge up to five times faster than lead-acid batteries. They are leak-proof, protecting against corrosion and extending lifespan. AGM batteries require minimal maintenance and can last six to seven years. However, they tend to be more expensive, particularly if you maintain a fleet of carts.

3. Gel Lead-Acid Golf Cart Batteries

Gel lead-acid batteries use a gel to suspend the electrolyte. This setup allows electrons to flow freely while preventing leaks. They excel in extreme temperatures, especially cold weather, where other batteries may fail. Though they don’t charge as quickly as AGMs, they require little maintenance.

4. LiFePO4 Lithium Golf Cart Batteries

LiFePO4 lithium batteries are lightweight and compact. They often demand a higher initial investment but can save you money over time. With proper care, they can last more than 10 years, sometimes up to 20. These batteries need little maintenance, as you don’t have to add water. Unlike other batteries, they have a low self-discharge rate, allowing them to remain charged even when not in use.

Battery Type Lifespan Maintenance Cost
Lead-Acid 2 to 5 years Low Affordable
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) 6 to 7 years Minimal Moderate
Gel Lead-Acid 4 to 7 years Low Moderate
LiFePO4 Lithium 10 to 20 years Very Low High

Signs of a Golf Cart Battery Needs to be Replaced

Knowing the signs of when your golf cart battery needs to be replaced is important for maintaining the cart's performance and avoiding sudden breakdowns. Here are some key indicators that it's time to replace your golf cart battery:

1. Decreased Run Time

If you notice a significant decrease in the distance your golf cart can travel on a single charge, it may be a sign that your battery is deteriorating. As batteries age, their capacity diminishes, resulting in shorter run times between charges.

2. Difficulty Holding a Charge

If your golf cart battery struggles to hold a charge or loses power quickly even after a full charge, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. This can be observed if the battery drains faster than usual or if you consistently need to charge it more frequently than before.

3. Slower Speeds

Aging batteries can cause a reduction in the speed capabilities of your golf cart. If you're experiencing slower speeds despite proper maintenance and usage, it could be a sign that your battery cells are wearing out and no longer providing sufficient power.

4. Excessive Water Consumption

For lead-acid batteries, water levels need to be maintained regularly. If you notice that your battery is consuming water more quickly than usual, it might indicate a problem. Excessive water consumption can be a sign of internal damage or battery age.

5. Swollen or Bulging Battery Case

A visual inspection of your golf cart battery can also provide some clues. If you notice the battery case is swollen or bulging, it could indicate internal issues or the possibility of a faulty cell. In such cases, it's best to replace the battery promptly.

5. Battery Age

Lastly, consider the age of your golf cart battery. Even if you haven't experienced any apparent issues, if the battery is older than its expected lifespan (4-6 years for lead-acid, 8-10 years for lithium-ion), it's wise to proactively replace it to avoid unexpected failures.

Keep in mind that these signs are general indicators and may vary depending on the specific battery type and usage conditions. If you're uncertain about your battery's condition, it's always recommended to consult a professional or reach out to the battery manufacturer for guidance. Regular maintenance, proper charging habits, and routine inspections are crucial for ensuring the longevity of your golf cart battery.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Golf Cart Battery

To improve the lifespan of your golf cart battery, you can follow these tips:

  • Proper charging: Be mindful of the battery charging process. Avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging time and procedure.
  • Use a compatible charger: Make sure to use a charger that is specifically designed for your golf cart battery. Using a charger that matches the battery's voltage and capacity will help avoid damage and extend its lifespan. If you are using the lithium batteries, utilizing the lithium battery charger is crucial.
  • Avoid deep discharging: Try to prevent the battery from fully discharging before recharging. Deep discharging can lead to battery damage and decrease its longevity. Recharge the battery before it reaches a critically low voltage.
  • Regular maintenance: Keep the battery and its terminals clean and free from corrosion. Inspect the battery regularly for any signs of damage or deterioration. Clean the terminals with a brush and a mixture of baking soda and water to remove any built-up residue.
  • Proper storage: If you won't be using your golf cart for an extended period, ensure the battery is stored in a cool and dry location. Before storing, charge the battery around 50%, and periodically recharge it during storage to prevent self-discharge.
  • Drive at moderate speeds: Avoid excessive acceleration, braking, and driving at high speeds as these actions can put a strain on the battery. Drive the golf cart at a moderate speed to reduce wear and tear on the battery.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can impact the performance and lifespan of the battery. Whenever possible, store and operate the golf cart in moderate temperature conditions.

By following these guidelines, you can help prolong the lifespan of your golf cart battery and ensure its optimal performance for a longer period of time.

How Long Does a Golf Cart Battery Last Per Charge

LiTime 36V 100Ah lithium golf cart battery

How Long Does 100ah Battery Last in a Golf Cart

Choosing the right battery for your golf cart can significantly impact performance, longevity, and overall user experience. One common option is the 100Ah (amp-hour) battery, but determining how long it will last in a golf cart depends on several factors.

Understanding Battery Capacity (Ah)

A battery’s capacity is measured in amp-hours (Ah), which indicates how much current it can deliver over a specified period. A 100Ah battery can theoretically deliver 100 amps for 1 hour, or 10 amps for 10 hours, depending on the golf cart’s power demands. 

Suggest reading: How Many Amps Does A Golf Cart Need

However, real-world performance depends on factors such as:

  • The type of terrain you're driving on
  • The weight of the golf cart (including passengers and cargo)
  • The motor power and efficiency
  • Ambient temperature
  • Driving habits (e.g., stop-and-go vs. steady pace)

Factors That Influence 100Ah Battery Running Time

1. Weight Load

A heavier golf cart and more passengers will put more strain on the motor, which increases the current draw, thereby reducing battery life. Lighter carts, or carts carrying fewer people, will use less energy and allow the battery to last longer.

2. Terrain

Driving on flat terrain consumes less energy than navigating hilly or uneven terrain, where the motor needs more power to ascend slopes. The steeper the hills, the shorter the battery life.

3. Driving Speed

Higher speeds demand more power from the motor, which drains the battery faster. If you’re driving at top speeds often, the 100Ah battery will not last as long as when driving at a more moderate pace.

4. Motor Efficiency

The golf cart's motor type also plays a role in determining how long a 100Ah battery will last. Brushless motors tend to be more efficient than their brushed counterparts, meaning they can offer a longer range with the same battery capacity.

5. Battery Type: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium

A lithium battery will generally outperform a lead-acid battery with the same capacity (100Ah). This is because lithium batteries maintain a more consistent power output until they are nearly empty, whereas lead-acid batteries gradually lose efficiency as they discharge.

Estimated Battery Life of a 100Ah Battery in a Golf Cart

The power consumption of most electric golf carts falls between 50 to 70 amps during normal operation. Using this range as a benchmark, we can estimate the runtime of a 100Ah battery as follows:

  • 50 amps draw:
  • At this rate, a 100Ah battery will last about 2 hours (100Ah ÷ 50 amps = 2 hours).
  • 70 amps draw:
  • With a higher current draw, the battery will last closer to 1.4 hours (100Ah ÷ 70 amps = 1.43 hours).

If you're driving your golf cart on moderate terrain with an average load, expect the 100Ah battery to power your cart for 1.5 to 2 hours of continuous use.

Estimated Ranges for LiTime 48V (51.2V) Golf Cart Batteries

Read on 48V VS 51.2V Golf Cart Batteries for more detailed information about golf cart batteries.

LiTime 48V (51.2V) 30Ah GC2 1P 2P 3P 4P 5P
Energy (Wh) 1536 3072 4608 6144 ...
Ranges (km) 22.52 45.05 67.58 90.1 ...
Ranges (miles) 14 28 42 56 ...

LiTime 48V (51.2V) 100Ah 1P
Energy (Wh) 5120
Ranges (km) 75.08
Ranges (miles) 46.65

Conclusion

Investing in lithium golf cart batteries provides much better experience than traditional lead acid ones, visit LiTime Lithium Golf Cart Batteries to pick your ideal battery.

David Lee
David Lee
David Lee is a renewable energy consultant with global experience in off-grid systems and battery applications, especially in golf carts. A graduate of the University of Sydney, he shares insights on sustainability through his writing.

Join LiTime

Life & Discovery
Email Address *

You May Like

LiTime 36V (43.8V) 10A Lithium Golf Cart Waterproof Battery Charger
LiTime 36V 100Ah Lithium Golf Cart Batteries for Club Car
LiTime 48V (51.2V) 30Ah Golf Carts LiFePO4 Battery
LiTime 48V 100Ah Golf Cart Lithium Battery Conversion Kit
LiTime 48V 30Ah GC2 Bluetooth Golf Cart Lithium Battery

Recent Post