Can you leave an electric golf cart outside during winter? Generally, it is best to store an electric golf cart indoors, protected from harsh winter elements like freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, to prevent damage to batteries and body components.
Getting your electric golf cart ready for winter storage is crucial. Proper electric golf cart winter preparation protects your investment. Cold weather can hurt batteries and other parts. Following these steps will keep your cart safe until spring. This guide gives you the essential steps for safe storage. It covers everything from the battery to the tires. We will focus on simple, safe methods for long-term keeping.
Image Source: sp-ao.shortpixel.ai
Preparing Your Electric Golf Cart for Cold Storage
When the weather turns cold, your golf cart needs special care. This process is part of good golf cart winter maintenance tips. You need to clean it, check the components, and choose the right spot for storage.
Thorough Cleaning and Inspection
Before putting your cart away, clean it well. Dirt, mud, and salt can cause corrosion over time.
Exterior Care
Wash the entire cart thoroughly. Use mild soap and water. Rinse off all dirt, especially around the wheel wells and under the frame.
- Wipe down the plastic and fiberglass body panels.
- Clean the seats with a vinyl or fabric cleaner safe for your material.
- Dry the cart completely. Water left sitting can cause rust or mold.
Inspecting Mechanical Parts
Look closely at all moving parts. This is key for winterizing E-Z-GO golf cart models or any other brand.
- Check the lights and horn for proper function. Fix anything broken now.
- Inspect the brake lines and cables. If you see any frayed wires or rust, address it before storing.
Focused Attention: Electric Golf Cart Battery Storage
The battery is the most vital part to protect during winter. If you store batteries incorrectly, they can freeze or lose their charge quickly. Proper golf cart battery storage ensures they last longer.
Lead-Acid Battery Procedures
If your cart uses traditional lead-acid batteries, follow these steps carefully:
- Charge Fully: Fully charge all batteries before storage. A fully charged battery is less likely to freeze.
- Disconnect: Disconnect the main negative cable first. This stops any small electrical drain.
- Remove (If Possible): If your batteries are removable, take them out of the cart. Storing them in a temperature-controlled area is best. Aim for temperatures above freezing (around 50°F or 10°C).
- Use a Maintainer: Connect a trickle charger or battery tender (float charger) to each battery. These devices keep the charge topped up without overcharging. This prevents sulfation, which shortens battery life.
- Check Water Levels (Flooded Batteries Only): If you have flooded (wet cell) batteries, check the electrolyte levels. Add distilled water until the plates are covered. Do this after charging. Do not add water if the battery is already full.
Lithium-Ion Battery Care
Lithium batteries are easier to store but still need attention. They handle cold better than lead-acid, but deep discharge is harmful.
- Charge Level: Charge lithium batteries to about 50% to 60% capacity for electric golf cart long-term storage. Storing them at 100% charge for months can degrade them.
- Temperature: Keep them in a cool, dry place. Extreme cold can affect their capacity temporarily. Avoid freezing temperatures if possible.
- Monitoring: Check the charge level every month or two. Top them up to 50% if the voltage drops too low.
Securing the Cart Body and Components
Protecting golf cart in cold weather involves more than just the power source. The body, tires, and mechanical systems also need protection from dampness and pests.
Protecting Golf Cart Tires in Winter
Tires lose air pressure over time, especially when cold. Sitting in one spot for months can cause flat spots.
- Inflate: Inflate the tires to the maximum recommended PSI listed on the sidewall. Higher pressure helps prevent flat spots.
- Elevate (Optional but Recommended): If you are storing the cart for many months, consider using jack stands to lift the tires completely off the ground. This completely removes pressure points.
- Alternative Surface: If you cannot elevate the cart, place boards or thick mats under the tires. Concrete floors can draw moisture out of the rubber.
Protecting Against Pests
Mice and other small animals love to nest in warm, sheltered spots like golf carts during winter. They chew on wiring and upholstery.
- Block Entry Points: Cover the air intake and exhaust ports with screening material or steel wool. Do not seal them completely if any residual moisture could get trapped.
- Keep It Clean: Ensure no food crumbs or wrappers are left inside the cart.
- Use Deterrents: Place mothballs or peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls inside the glove box, under the seats, and around the battery bay.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The location where you keep your cart makes a big difference in its condition come springtime. The goal is dry, secure, and temperate storage.
Indoor Storage Advantages
A garage, shed, or dedicated storage unit is ideal.
- Stable Temperature: Temperatures that stay above freezing are best, especially for lead-acid batteries.
- Security: Indoor storage protects against theft and vandalism.
- Dryness: Keeps rain, snow, and excessive humidity away from metal parts.
Outdoor Storage Considerations (If Necessary)
If indoor space is unavailable, you must take extra precautions for storing electric golf cart for winter.
- Use a High-Quality Cover: Invest in a heavy-duty, weather-resistant, breathable golf cart cover. A cover made of thick vinyl or polyester is better than thin tarps. Breathable material prevents moisture buildup underneath, reducing mildew risk.
- Elevate the Cart: If leaving it outside, place wood blocks or pavers under the frame to keep the undercarriage off the damp ground.
- Snow Removal: If snow falls, remove it promptly from the roof and hood. Heavy snow can stress the frame or crack the roof material.
Essential Checklists for Storage
Having a clear process helps ensure you don’t miss anything important. Here is a sample golf cart winterization checklist.
| Step Category | Action Item | Status (Complete/N/A) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Wash exterior thoroughly | Use mild soap. | |
| Clean seats and interior | Remove all trash. | ||
| Dry completely | Prevent moisture issues. | ||
| Battery | Fully charge all batteries | Essential before storage. | |
| Apply battery tender (Lead-Acid) | Maintain charge level. | ||
| Store batteries at 50% (Lithium) | Optimal storage charge. | ||
| Disconnect main cables | Prevent parasitic drain. | ||
| Tires & Frame | Inflate tires to max PSI | Avoid flat spots. | |
| Elevate cart or place on wood blocks | Protect rubber and frame. | ||
| Grease fittings (if applicable) | Depends on cart model. | ||
| Protection | Cover air intakes/exhausts | Deter pests. | |
| Place pest deterrents inside | Mothballs or peppermint. | ||
| Apply high-quality cover | If stored outdoors. |
Preparing for Cold Weather Operation (If Needed)
Sometimes, you might need to use your cart occasionally during the winter, even if it’s stored nearby. Cold weather golf cart operation requires different considerations than summer use.
Battery Performance in Cold
Cold significantly reduces battery efficiency. A battery that shows 100% charge on a warm day might only show 60% capacity when it’s freezing outside.
- Warm Before Use: If the cart is stored in a cold area, let the batteries warm up before attempting to charge them or use the cart heavily. Charging a frozen or near-freezing lead-acid battery can cause serious damage.
- Limited Range: Expect significantly shorter driving ranges on cold days.
Driving Cautiously
If you drive your cart in freezing conditions:
- Slow Down: Lower speeds reduce stress on the tires and suspension.
- Avoid Ice: Even carts with good tires can struggle on ice. Do not drive on slick surfaces.
- Short Trips Only: Use the cart only for necessary short trips, like moving it in the garage.
Spring Wake-Up: Reversing the Winterization Process
When spring arrives, you must reverse the steps taken for storage safely. This is just as important as the preparation phase.
Battery Reconnection and Check
This is the most crucial part of bringing the cart back to life.
- Inspect Batteries: Check lead-acid batteries for corrosion or damage. Clean terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution if necessary.
- Connect: Reconnect the main cables, connecting the positive (+) cable first, then the negative (-) cable last.
- Charge Cycle: If the batteries ran down slightly, run a full charge cycle using the cart’s charger. Allow the charger to complete its cycle fully.
- Lithium Check: For lithium batteries, check the voltage. If it dropped below the minimum safe level, consult your manual or a technician before charging.
Final Systems Check
Before driving off for your first spring ride:
- Tire Pressure: Deflate tires from their high storage pressure down to the normal operating PSI (check the sticker usually found on the driver’s side door jamb or frame).
- Brakes: Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area.
- Suspension: Bounce the cart gently to check the suspension components.
- Cover Removal: Remove all pest deterrents and cleaning rags.
Advanced Tips for Extended Storage
If you plan on electric golf cart long-term storage—say, six months or more—consider these extra steps for maximum component preservation.
Protecting the Body Finish
If your cart has a painted finish instead of standard plastic, treat it like a car.
- Apply a coat of quality wax after cleaning. This protective layer shields the paint from minor fluctuations in humidity during storage.
Fuel System Check (For Gas Carts Only – Skip if Purely Electric)
While this guide focuses on electric carts, if you have a gas cart being stored alongside an electric one, remember to stabilize the fuel. For electric carts, skip this step entirely.
Suspension Lubrication
If your cart has grease fittings (zerks) on the suspension, tie a small tag to them during winterization, reminding you to grease them when the cart comes out of storage. Fresh grease protects metal parts from moisture intrusion during the off-season.
Comparing Storage Environments
The cost and effort of winterizing often depend on where you live. Here is a quick comparison of storage environments.
| Environment | Pros | Cons | Battery Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Climate Controlled (Indoor) | Best protection; stable temperature | Highest cost | Minimal drain/damage |
| Unheated Garage/Shed | Good protection from elements | Temperatures can drop near freezing | Requires battery tender for lead-acid |
| Outdoor (Covered) | Low cost | Exposure to moisture, pests | Needs robust cover; higher risk of corrosion |
| Outdoor (Uncovered) | Not recommended | Total exposure to weather | Very high risk of damage |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to remove my electric golf cart batteries for winter?
A: If you have lead-acid batteries and are storing the cart in an area that might dip below 32°F (0°C), it is safer to remove them and store them indoors on a maintainer. Lithium batteries can often stay in the cart if kept above freezing and charged to 50%.
Q: How often should I check the batteries during storage?
A: For lead-acid batteries connected to a maintainer, weekly checks are sufficient to ensure the tender is working. If you store them unplugged, check the voltage every 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: Can I use a standard tarp to cover my golf cart outside?
A: No. Standard tarps trap moisture underneath, leading to mold, mildew, and accelerated rust. Always use a breathable, fitted, waterproof cover designed specifically for golf carts when storing outdoors.
Q: What happens if I don’t charge my electric golf cart batteries fully before winter?
A: If lead-acid batteries discharge too much in the cold, the water inside can freeze, cracking the battery case and ruining the battery permanently. For lithium batteries, deep discharge can cause permanent capacity loss.
Q: Is it okay to run my electric golf cart briefly during the winter?
A: Yes, short, slow runs are fine, provided you are not driving on ice or snow. If you do run it, ensure the batteries warm up naturally afterward before attempting a recharge cycle.