Golf carts are a way of life here in Manatee County. Whether you are cruising the neighborhood or heading to the course, they offer a fantastic way to get around. However, the hot and humid Florida climate can be tough on your vehicle. Like any car, golf carts need regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
As Ellenton’s trusted golf cart experts, we have compiled our top recommendations to keep your cart in top-notch condition and help you avoid costly repairs.
1. Check and Maintain the Battery (Critical in Florida Heat)
The battery is the heart of your golf cart, and our local heat is its biggest enemy. High temperatures can cause water to evaporate from lead-acid batteries much faster than in cooler climates.
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What to do: regularly check the water level and add distilled water as needed (never use tap water!).
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Fight Corrosion: The salty air near the coast can cause corrosion buildup. Keep battery terminals clean by using a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
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Voltage Check: Using a voltmeter, ensure the voltage falls within the proper range to prevent leaving you stranded.
2. Keep the Tires Inflated Correctly
Proper tire pressure is essential for both performance and safety, especially when driving on hot pavement in Bradenton or Parrish.
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Why it matters: Under-inflated tires lead to poor handling and “drag,” which drains your battery faster. Overinflated tires can result in a rough ride.
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The Fix: Regularly check your pressure and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level (usually found on the sidewall).
3. Lubricate Moving Parts to Prevent Rust
Living near the Gulf Coast means we battle rust constantly. Your golf cart has various moving parts—including the steering column, suspension, and brake cables—that are vulnerable to salt and humidity.
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Pro Tip: Regularly lubricate these parts using a high-quality silicone spray or grease to prevent rust and squeaking. This simple step helps your cart run smoothly and minimizes expensive suspension repairs down the road.
4. Check the Brakes
Brakes are your most critical safety feature, especially if you drive your cart in busy areas like St. Petersburg or Sarasota.
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Inspection: Check brake pads and shoes for signs of thinning or wear.
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Adjustment: If you notice you have to press the pedal harder than usual to stop, your brake cables likely need adjustment. Need help? Schedule a brake service with our team in Ellenton.
5. Inspect the Electrical System
Florida’s frequent rainstorms and humidity can wreak havoc on electrical connections. The electrical system powers your lights, horn, and indicators—all required for street-legal carts.
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What to look for: Inspect wiring for signs of fraying or corrosion. If you find damaged wires, replace them promptly to avoid a short circuit.
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Test Components: Ensure your turn signals and brake lights are functioning properly before every ride.
6. Clean and Detail (Fight the Mildew)
Regular cleaning does more than make your cart look good; it protects your investment.
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Exterior: Use a mild detergent to wash off road grime and salt dust that can eat away at the paint.
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Interior: In our humid climate, vinyl seats can develop mildew quickly. Use a high-quality cleaner and UV protectant to keep your seats from cracking in the sun.
Need Professional Help?
Preventative maintenance is the key to years of reliable service. However, if you don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself, let the pros handle it!
Leisure Products offers full-service maintenance and repairs for customers across Ellenton, Bradenton, and Sarasota. From battery replacements to annual tune-ups, we keep you rolling.
Give us a call today to schedule your next service appointment!