Just like any other vehicle, your golf cart requires regular maintenance and other measures to winterize it. Failing to properly

store your golf cart in cold weather can cause both battery or engine damage. When the cold temperatures set in, it’s time to start the process of storing your cart for the winter season.

Learn about how to keep your golf cart in top notch condition during storage. If you are unfamiliar with the action to take, use the steps outlined below for guidance.

Check Your Owner’s Manual

Before you take any steps to winterize your golf cart, check your owner’s manual for procedures which are custom to your cart. Each golf cart is different, and the maintenance prior to any storage for your model should be followed.

Clean the Cart

The first step is to thoroughly clean your cart before storing it. Use soap, water, and degreaser to remove any grime, dirt, and mud from the cart. Cleaning the cart presents an opportunity to inspect it for necessary repairs before winterizing it.

Proper Switch Placement

Make sure to turn your key to the off position. Remove the key completely and ensure the forward/reverse switch is placed into the neutral position for storage. Also, confirm the two/run switch is in the tow position. This will help to prevent any turning on of the car or fire hazards.

Electric and Battery Powered Carts

Battery care is important to maximizing the life of your battery and the performance of your cart. Your battery should always be fully charged before you store your cart. Verify your cart’s electrolyte (water) level is just right. Remember to only check your electrolyte level when your battery is fully charged. If it is below the top of the plate, check your battery maintenance section in your manual for the next step. Confirm the electrical wiring is connected tightly throughout the cart and tighten any loose screws or bolts.

Carts Connected to the Charger

If your cart is connected to your charger check your electrolyte level and the power each month. The charger should not be plugged in; this way, the batteries have the opportunity to be automatically maintained by your onboard computer system. The onboard computer system will keep track of how long your cart is in storage mode.

If it detects that any electrolyte levels are depleted, it will stop your charger from operating further. You can rectify this situation by disconnecting and reconnecting your power cord to indicate to the onboard computer system that your cart’s electrolyte levels are maintained. This will signal to the onboard system to resume proper operation.

Carts NOT Connected

If your cart is not connected to the charger, you should place your cart into the tow position and disconnect your batteries after they are fully charged. Inflate your tires to the proper levels of 18 to 20 psi. Check periodically to ensure the proper lubrication. This schedule, custom to your cart, can be found in your owner’s manual. Properly secure your cart from rolling, but do not engage your parking brake.

Gas Powered Carts

Turn your key to the off position and remove it. Place the forward and reverse switch into the neutral position. Make sure to review your owner’s manual for the proper preventative steps for storage. Your tires should be inflated to their proper level of 12 to 14 psi. Confirm your fuel shut off valve is placed into the off position. Run your remaining engine fuel into the carburetor to guarantee the fuel lines are depleted.

To drain the fuel, loosen your carburetor drain screw but do not remove it. Any remaining fuel should be drained into a bowl or fuel container. Use baking soda and water mixture to wash off your terminals on the battery, as well as the top of it. Rinse off the solution before coating it with a terminal protectant. Secure your cart from rolling but do not put the parking brake in place.

TIP: If you must store your cart outdoors, purchase a storage cover to protect it from the elements.

Wrap-Up

The winter weather can be hard on your golf cart. Therefore, it is vital to take the proper steps to make certain it is stored and winterized. Failing to take care of your cart for the winter season may cause engine damage to occur. Take the proper steps now to safeguard your investment. Properly storing and winterizing your golf cart will ensure it is ready for the golf course come the spring. Enjoy the off season!