Most people don’t think about servicing their golf cart until something goes wrong.
Maybe it starts with a little squeak. A slower start on the first drive. A flicker in the battery light that disappears after a few minutes. Easy to ignore.
Until one morning, it doesn’t start at all.
The truth is, golf carts are a lot like people. They need a bit of regular care to keep feeling young. You wouldn’t skip a dentist appointment for three years and then act surprised when something cracks, right? Same idea.
Regular servicing doesn’t just keep your cart running smoothly; it saves you money, stress, and a whole lot of walking. Whether you use it daily around the property, or just for the course on weekends, a little maintenance goes a long way.
So, how often should you service your golf cart?
Let’s break it down.
It Depends on How You Use It
Here’s the first rule of thumb: the more you drive it, the more you should service it.
A golf cart that lives at a holiday park and gets rolled out twice a month doesn’t need the same level of attention as one that’s used daily around a resort, property, or business.
For the average owner who uses their cart a few times a week, a major service every 12 months and a quick check every 6 months is the sweet spot.
If your cart is used heavily, for maintenance, deliveries, or regular transport, aim for a minor service every 3 to 4 months. It sounds like a lot, but small tweaks early on prevent the expensive kind later.
Servicing isn’t just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about stopping things from breaking in the first place.
The Honest Truth About Maintenance Schedules
Here’s what most owners get wrong: they assume that golf carts are low-maintenance by nature.
That’s half true. They are low-maintenance, if you maintain them.
Ignore them long enough, and even the best carts wear out faster than they should. Dust, corrosion, loose cables, uneven tyre wear, all of it builds up quietly. By the time you notice performance issues, you’re already in “catch-up” mode.
At GCPRS, we’ve seen it time and time again. People bring in carts that haven’t been serviced in years, and they’re shocked at how sluggish they’ve become. After a proper service, new bearings, fresh cables, cleaned terminals, it’s like night and day.
Servicing isn’t glamorous. It’s not exciting. But it’s what keeps your cart feeling like new.
What You Should Check Every Month
Even if you’re not mechanically inclined, there are a few things every cart owner should look over monthly. Think of these as “basic hygiene checks.”
- Tyre Pressure: Underinflated tyres wear out faster and make the ride bumpier. Keep them at the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Battery Water Levels (for lead-acid): Top up with distilled water only. Never tap water.
- Battery Terminals: Check for corrosion and clean them if needed.
- Brake Pedal and Accelerator: Make sure they move smoothly, without sticking or squeaking.
- General Clean: Wipe down dirt and debris. Golf carts hate sitting dirty for long periods.
None of this requires a workshop. Just a bit of attention once a month keeps small problems from snowballing.
The 6-Month Service
Even if your cart seems fine, a 6-month service is smart preventative care. It’s when a technician gets under the seat, checks every bolt, and makes sure the electrics, drivetrain, and brakes are all working as they should.
Here’s what a 6-month service usually includes:
- Checking and tightening steering and suspension components
- Inspecting brake cables, pads, and drums
- Lubricating all moving parts
- Testing the charger output
- Checking battery voltage under load
- Inspecting the frame and chassis for rust or cracks
- Replacing air filters (for petrol carts)
It’s not about fixing anything major, it’s about keeping your cart honest. If you wait until something feels off, you’ve already missed the window for easy fixes.
The 12-Month Service
Once a year, every cart deserves a full inspection. That means fluids, electricals, tyres, bearings, and everything in between.
A full annual service gives your technician time to catch wear before it turns into a failure. They’ll test your motor output, inspect the drivetrain, and do a full safety check.
It’s the difference between catching a frayed cable in December versus replacing the whole wiring harness in March.
Think of it like a yearly health check-up for your cart. It’s cheaper to prevent than to repair.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you’re the type to wait until something “feels wrong,” keep an eye out for these:
- Slower acceleration or lower top speed
- Cart struggles on inclines
- Battery drains faster than usual
- Jerky movement or hesitation when accelerating
- Squeaking or scraping noises while driving
- Steering feels loose or unresponsive
- Burning smell (especially electrical)
- Uneven braking or squealing sounds
These are all early warning signs that your cart needs a once-over. Most are quick fixes if caught early, but left alone, they can lead to bigger problems fast.
Why Regular Servicing Pays Off
The number one reason people put off servicing is cost. But here’s the thing: skipping maintenance doesn’t save money. It just delays the bill, and makes it bigger.
Replacing a few brake pads and lubricating cables costs far less than rebuilding a brake system. Cleaning corrosion costs less than replacing battery cables. Tightening steering components costs less than a new rack and pinion.
When you maintain your cart regularly, every part lasts longer. You save on fuel, batteries, tyres, and frustration.
Truthfully? It’s About Pride
A clean, well-running cart says something about its owner.
It’s not just a vehicle. It’s a reflection of how you take care of your things. It’s the difference between driving something that rattles and squeaks versus something that glides quietly across the driveway.
You feel it when you drive it. You feel it when you park it. You feel it when you see it clean, ready, and reliable.
It’s not just about getting to the 18th hole, it’s about enjoying the ride there.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been wondering whether your cart’s due for a service, it probably is.
Whether it’s been three months or three years, giving your cart a proper check-up will make it run smoother, last longer, and feel better to drive.
At Golf Car Parts & Repairs, our technicians know what to look for, what to replace, and what to leave alone. From batteries and tyres to lift kits and electrical upgrades, we help keep every part in top shape so you can keep rolling without worry.
Book your next service today and see the difference a little care makes.
Because the truth is simple: the better you treat your golf cart, the better it treats you.
