All Coast Batteries in Newcastle is here to go over the common symptoms of golf cart battery problems, how to know if a golf cart battery needs replacing or repairing and how you can extend the life of a new battery. Contact us today!
Low Charge Retention
If your cart experiences drops in speed or a reduced driving range, your batteries may have low charge retention. This occurs because of aging batteries or insufficient maintenance.
Long Charging Times
The charging speed of your golf cart is determined mostly by its type of batteries. Typically, carts with lead-acid batteries will take 8-12 hours to charge, whereas lithium-ion batteries will take 2-4. If your cart takes longer than this, you should consider repairs or replacements.
Reduced Carrying and Climbing Capabilities
Sometimes your golf cart may struggle climbing hills or with a large load. This is usually a result of a voltage sag, where the battery is unable to supply enough power as quickly as necessary.
Damage and Leakage
Damaged batteries can be hazardous, so make sure that you perform routine safety checks.
● Check for corrosion.
● Inspect cables for damage.
● Look for cracks or swelling in cases.
● Watch for any leaking fluid.
If you notice any of these, you should look for golf cart battery replacement options.
A Rotten Egg Smell
This could indicate battery overcharging or sulphation, which can result in your golf cart slowing down as battery efficiency decreases.
Charging Doesn’t Hold
If your cart doesn’t hold once it’s fully charged, the batteries may be weakened or sulphated. To test this, use a multimeter. If the reading is lower than the battery’s stated charge, it may need repairs or replacements.
Old Batteries
In Australia, the typical golf cart battery lifespan is 4-6 years. If your battery is older, or has experienced significant heat, deep discharges or insufficient maintenance, you may find your golf cart slowing down as battery productivity deteriorates.
Tests to Determine If Your Battery Is Failing
If you’re having golf cart battery problems, try these tests:
● Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to check if the battery reads close to its rated voltage after charging.
● Specific Gravity Test: Use a hydrometer to measure electrolyte strength in each cell.
● Load Test: Check how well the battery holds voltage while powering the cart.
If results are inconsistent or confusing, get a professional diagnosis. They’ll know
Replace or Repair?
Use this guide to determine whether you need golf cart battery replacement or repair services.
Replace if your battery:
● Won’t hold a charge.
● Has low voltage after charging.
● Is leaking or has a swollen case.
● It’s past its typical lifespan.
Repair if your battery has:
● Loose cables.
● Corroded terminals.
● Low electrolyte levels.
● Minor charging issues.
Australian Replacement Costs
In Australia, lead-acid golf cart battery replacements are cheaper, around $400, but don’t last as long, while lithium options are generally around a few thousand dollars, but last significantly longer.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your New Battery?
To extend your battery’s life, make sure to:
● Charge fully after each use and avoid overcharging.
● Keep batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
● Inspect regularly on a consistent schedule.
Get your battery tested, repaired or replaced by our experts. Contact us online, or call us on (02) 4049 5345 today.
