4 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Golf Cart Batteries

When you head out for a day on the green, the last thing you want is for your golf cart to run out of battery power. If you’re a regular golfer who wants to make the most of this time, updating your ride is never a bad idea. Here are four common signs that it’s time to replace your golf cart batteries.

Reduced Range

The most obvious change to most drivers over the life of a battery is the reduction in capacity that occurs and you realize that you are having to charge more and more frequently. As batteries age, their internal components deteriorate and the chemical reactions don't occur as efficiently, leading to a gradual loss of power and/or capacity. This means that the you may notice the reduction of power and speed of the cart or it may be noticed more as reduced distance you can travel on a full charge. Both are good indications that the batteries are degrading and will need to be replaced in the near future.

Abnormal Charge Time

If you are noticing that it's requiring significantly less or more time to charge your batteries than normal, they are likely internally degrading. The most common scenario is how lead-acid and AGM batteries lose capacity with age and you will notice that the charge cycle takes much less time to complete than it used to. Makes sense when the battery holds less energy that it would refill in less time as well. However, if charging times are abnormally long, the internals of the battery may be breaking down and the chemical reactions of storing energy are not occurring as efficiently as they used to. These are common problems associated with aging of both lead-acid and AGM battery types.

Leaks or Odors

If you notice leaks near your golf cart batteries or smell an unusual odor coming from them, this is a good indication that you need to replace them. Depending on their type and composition, batteries house several potentially harmful chemicals and materials. Over time, external battery components weaken from exposure to the elements, allowing the chemicals to leak outside of the battery casing. It’s best not to take risks with leaks or odors, as the health risks associated with battery toxin exposure are quite serious—simply replace the battery for your safety and possibly prevent damage to your cart as well.

Visible Corrosion

As mentioned above, external battery parts are vulnerable to atmospheric factors and weaken gradually. The metal components of your golf cart batteries can start to corrode due to exposure to moisture, forming rust and other visible signs of damage on the outside of the battery. Corrosion increases the chances of your battery leaking, underperforming, or outright failing. If you notice any visible signs of deterioration on your golf cart batteries, it is likely time to replace them. This may also be a great time to upgrade to lithium batteries that don't contain liquids to leak and don't create corrosive gases. Not only do lithium golf cart batteries last longer, but they won't damage the surrounding areas of your cart as lead-acid batteries can do when they age.

For safety reasons and to ensure optimal golf cart performance, pay attention to these four common signs that it’s time to replace your golf cart batteries. Investing in a high-quality battery can give you many years of reliable service so you can get the most out of your vehicle. Shop with GMI Energy to find the perfect golf cart battery upgrade and feel free to Contact Us with any questions you may.