Golf carts are a prized possession here in Southwest Florida, but sometimes life calls for extended breaks. Whether you are a “Snowbird” heading north for the summer or simply leaving Ellenton for a long vacation, proper storage is essential.
The Florida heat and humidity can be brutal on idle vehicles. Without the right prep, you might return to a dead battery, flat tires, or a moldy seat.
Here is what our team at Leisure Products recommends to keep your Vcart, Evolution, or Club Car in tip-top shape for your return!
1. Clean It Thoroughly (Fight the Florida Mold)
Before you lock up the house in Bradenton or Sarasota, give your cart a deep clean.
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Why: In our humid climate, even a tiny crumb left in a cup holder can attract ants, and dust turns into mildew quickly.
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How: Wash the exterior with mild detergent. Scrub the tires. Most importantly, wipe down the interior vinyl with a protectant to prevent mold growth during the humid summer months.
2. Battery Care (Lead-Acid vs. Lithium)
This is the most critical step. A dead battery is the #1 problem returning seasonal residents face.
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For Standard Batteries: Fully charge them. If you are gone for more than a month, you must use a “battery tender” or maintainer to keep them from dying. Check your water levels before you go!
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For Vcart & Zebra (Lithium): If you own one of our new Lithium-powered Vcarts or Zebras, storage is much easier! They lose charge much slower. However, refer to your owner’s manual—many manufacturers recommend storing them at around 50-80% charge (not 100%) and turning off the main disconnect switch.
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The “Tow” Switch: Don’t forget to flip the “Tow/Run” switch to TOW to prevent the computer from draining the battery.
3. Store in a Dry, Covered Area
To shield your cart from the brutal Florida sun, indoor storage is non-negotiable.
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Ideal: A garage or carport in Parrish or Lakewood Ranch provides the best protection against tropical storms.
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Warning: If you must store it outside, ensure it is not parked under trees (sap and falling branches) or in a low spot that might flood during heavy rains.
4. Elevate the Tires (Avoid Flat Spots)
Sitting on hot concrete for 6 months can ruin tires.
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The Fix: Inflate your tires to the proper pressure. If possible, place the cart on jack stands or wooden blocks to take the weight off the tires. This prevents “flat spotting,” ensuring a smooth ride when you get back to Ellenton.
5. Fuel Stabilizer (For Gas Carts)
If you are still driving a gas cart:
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Gasoline breaks down over time, especially in the heat. Add a marine-grade fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it. This prevents the carburetor from gumming up while you are gone.
6. Lubricate to Prevent Rust
Salt air + high humidity = rust.
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Action: Spray a light lubricant on the steering column, suspension springs, and brake cables. This barrier protects the metal while it sits in the damp summer air.
7. Use a “Breathable” Cover
If you cover your cart inside a garage, do not use a plastic tarp!
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Pro Tip: Use a high-quality, breathable golf cart cover. Plastic traps moisture against the cart, which acts like a greenhouse for mold. You want air to circulate.
8. The “Neighbor Check”
Even with the best prep, things happen.
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If you have a home watch service or a friendly neighbor in Manatee County, ask them to peek at the cart once a month. Just checking that the charger light is still green (or the breaker didn’t trip) can save you hundreds of dollars in battery replacements.
Get Your Cart “Storage Ready” in Ellenton
Don’t stress about leaving your cart behind. Following these best practices ensures your vehicle will be ready for action when you return to enjoy the beautiful Southwest Florida landscape.
Need a battery check-up before you leave? Leisure Products is a family-owned business serving Ellenton, Bradenton, and Sarasota.
Contact us today to schedule a pre-storage service or to learn more about upgrading to a maintenance-free Lithium Zebra or Vcart! Happy storing!