What’s a used golf cart worth? How much is a golf cart used? A used golf cart can be worth anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $15,000. This wide range means the price changes a lot. Many things affect the cost. This includes the cart’s age, its health, and the type of power it uses. We will look at all these things. This will help you know what to expect when you buy a used golf cart.
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Grasping Used Golf Cart Prices
Used golf cart prices are not fixed. They move up and down based on many things. The average used golf cart cost is often between $3,000 and $7,000. But some can be much cheaper. Others can be much more costly. Think about a simple cart for a small yard. This will cost less. Think about a custom cart with many extras for a big place. This will cost more. It is important to know what affects the price. This way, you can find a good deal. Or you can sell your cart for a fair price.
Key Factors Affecting Used Golf Cart Value
Many things change how much a used golf cart is worth. These are the main factors affecting used golf cart value. They can make the price go up or down a lot. Knowing these things helps you buy or sell wisely.
Age and Condition of the Cart
The age of a golf cart and its overall health are big price setters. Older carts are often cheaper. Carts that look worn out or do not run well cost less.
How Age Plays a Role
Like a car, a golf cart loses value over time. This is golf cart depreciation. A newer used cart will always cost more than an older one. A cart that is only a year or two old might cost close to new. A cart that is ten years old will be much cheaper. But an older cart might need more fixes. It might need new parts.
Why Condition Matters
The physical state of the cart is very important. Look at the body. Are there big dents? Is the paint faded? Look at the seats. Are they torn? Check the tires. Are they worn out? A cart that looks good and runs well will always sell for more. A cart that looks bad or has problems will sell for less. Some damage is easy to fix. Some is very hard. This affects the price. A well-kept cart shows the owner cared for it. This makes it worth more.
Electric vs. Gas: Price Differences
The type of engine greatly changes the price. Electric vs gas used golf cart price can be quite different. Both types have good points and bad points. These points affect their cost.
Electric Carts
- Pros: They are quiet. They do not pollute. They are often cheaper to run per mile.
- Cons: They need a good battery pack. New batteries are costly. They need to be charged often. Their range is limited.
- Price: Electric carts might seem cheaper to buy at first. But a cart with old, bad batteries can be a big problem. This is because new batteries cost a lot. It can be $800 to $2,500. So, look closely at the batteries when buying an electric cart. A cart with new batteries will be worth more.
Gas Carts
- Pros: They have more power. They can go further on one tank. They are easy to refuel. They are better for big hills or rough ground.
- Cons: They make noise. They have exhaust fumes. They need more upkeep. They need oil changes and spark plugs.
- Price: Gas carts often cost a bit more upfront than electric ones of the same age. But they do not have the high cost of battery packs. They tend to hold their value a bit better if well kept. This is because they do not have a big battery cost hanging over them.
Battery Life: A Major Cost for Electric Carts
For electric carts, battery life used golf cart is a huge factor. The batteries are the heart of an electric cart. If they are old or weak, the cart will not go far. It might not even run.
- Good Batteries: If an electric cart has new or nearly new batteries, its value goes up a lot. This means you will not need to spend money on them soon. New batteries can last 4 to 7 years.
- Old Batteries: If the batteries are old, they might need to be replaced soon. This is a big extra cost. Always ask about the age of the batteries. Try to test them fully. Drive the cart for a while. See if it holds a charge well. If a seller does not know the battery age, be careful. Assume they are old.
Table 1: Effect of Battery Age on Electric Golf Cart Price
| Battery Age (Years) | Condition | Price Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-1 | New | +$1,000 to +$2,500 | Very good, no cost soon. |
| 2-3 | Good | +$500 to +$1,000 | Still strong, some life left. |
| 4-5 | Fair | -$500 to -$1,000 | Might need replacing in 1-2 years. |
| 6+ | Poor | -$1,000 to -$2,000 | Needs replacing soon, high extra cost. |
Note: These are rough numbers. They can change.
Make and Model
The brand of the golf cart also affects its worth. Some brands are known for quality. They tend to hold their value better. Used golf cart models from top brands are often more desired.
Top Brands
- Club Car: These carts are known for being strong. They last a long time. They are popular for golf courses and personal use. They often have good resale value.
- EZ-GO: These carts are also very popular. They are often simple and reliable. They are good for a wide range of uses. Their parts are easy to find.
- Yamaha: Yamaha carts are known for smooth rides. Their gas engines are very good. They are often a top choice for resorts. They hold their value well.
Other Brands
Some other brands like Cushman or Tomberlin are also out there. They might be specific for certain tasks. Or they might be luxury carts. Their value can vary. It often depends on how many people want them in your area. Parts might be harder to find for some less common brands. This can lower their value a bit.
Features and Accessories
A plain golf cart is one thing. A cart with many extras is another. Added features and accessories can make a cart worth more. Or they can make it worth less if they are not wanted.
Things That Add Value
- Lift Kits: These make the cart sit higher. They let it go on rough ground. They make it look tough.
- Custom Wheels and Tires: Big, fancy wheels or all-terrain tires. These can make the cart look better. They can make it more useful.
- Rear Seats (Flip Kits): A back seat that can flip down into a cargo bed. This adds a lot of usefulness.
- Light Kits: Headlights, tail lights, turn signals. These are needed for street use in some places. They make the cart safer.
- Enclosures/Covers: These protect riders from rain or sun. They make the cart usable in more types of weather.
- Sound Systems: Radios, speakers. Some people love these.
- Storage: Extra baskets or cargo boxes.
Things That Might Not Add Value (or Even Lower It)
- Personalization: Very unique paint jobs or features. These might not appeal to everyone. They can make the cart harder to sell.
- Over-Customization: Too many changes can make a cart less reliable. Or they can make it too specific for most buyers.
- Non-Working Add-ons: Broken lights or speakers. These just add to the cost of fixing things for the new owner.
Location and Market Demand
Where you live and how much people want golf carts there plays a big role. This is about the pre-owned golf cart market in your area.
- Warm Climates: States like Florida, Arizona, or California have high demand. Many people use golf carts every day. Prices tend to be higher there.
- Golf Communities: Towns built around golf courses will have many buyers. Prices will be strong.
- Seasonal Demand: In colder places, demand might be low in winter. Prices might drop then. They go up in spring and summer.
- Supply: If many used carts are for sale, prices might go down. If few carts are for sale, prices go up.
Maintenance and Service History
A golf cart that has been well cared for is worth more. Think of it like a car. A cart with a clear service history shows the owner took good care.
- Records: Keep papers of oil changes, tire rotations, battery checks, or any repairs. This proves the cart was loved.
- Appearance: A clean cart, inside and out, suggests care. It shows the owner thought about its health.
- Working Parts: Check all functions. Do the lights work? Do the brakes feel good? Does the steering work right?
A cart with a poor history or clear signs of neglect will sell for less. It might even be hard to sell. Buyers worry about hidden problems. They know neglect can lead to big repair bills.
Average Used Golf Cart Cost: What to Expect
The average used golf cart cost can change greatly. It depends on all the things we just talked about. But we can give you a rough idea. This is what’s a used golf cart worth in different ranges.
Price Ranges for Different Cart Types
Here is a general guide to prices for different kinds of used golf carts.
Table 2: Estimated Average Used Golf Cart Prices
| Cart Type | Typical Price Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (5-10+ years old) | $2,000 – $4,000 | Older model, might need some work. Basic features. Batteries might be nearing end of life for electric. |
| Mid-Range (3-5 years old) | $4,000 – $7,000 | Newer model, good condition. Might have some added features. Batteries likely still good for electric. |
| Newer/Premium (1-2 years old) | $7,000 – $12,000+ | Almost new. Excellent condition. Many features. Top brands. Electric models likely have new batteries. |
| Customized/Luxury | $8,000 – $15,000+ | Highly modified. Lift kits, custom paint, advanced audio, unique bodies. Price depends on extras. |
| Utility/Industrial | $3,000 – $10,000+ | Designed for work. Cargo beds, often heavier duty. Price varies by size and age. |
Note: These are just estimates. Actual prices change with location, seller, and specific cart details.
Keep in mind that these prices are for carts in fair to good running order. A broken cart might sell for much less. A cart that needs a full engine rebuild or new battery pack will be very cheap. But it will cost a lot to fix. Always add repair costs into your budget.
Golf Cart Resale Value: What Buyers Look For
If you are selling, you want the best golf cart resale value. Knowing what buyers want helps you get a good price. Buyers look for carts that are reliable, safe, and ready to use.
Tips for Sellers to Maximize Resale Value
- Clean It Well: A clean cart makes a good first feel. Wash the body. Clean the seats. Clean the floor.
- Fix Small Things: Tighten loose parts. Replace broken lights. Fix small rips in seats. These cheap fixes make the cart look better.
- Charge Batteries (Electric): Make sure the batteries are fully charged. This lets buyers test the cart properly. It shows the batteries are healthy.
- Perform Basic Upkeep: Change oil for gas carts. Check tire pressure. Make sure the brakes work well. A cart that runs smoothly is a strong sell.
- Have Records Ready: Show any service papers you have. This builds trust with buyers.
- Take Good Photos: Use clear, bright photos. Show all sides of the cart. Show the inside. Point out any good features.
- Be Honest: Tell buyers about any known issues. This builds trust. They will feel better buying from you.
By doing these things, you make your cart look more appealing. You also show that you took good care of it. This helps buyers trust your cart. It helps them pay a fair price.
Navigating the Pre-Owned Golf Cart Market
Buying a used golf cart means looking around. The pre-owned golf cart market has many options. You can find carts in different places. Each place has its own good and bad points.
Where to Find Used Golf Carts
- Authorized Dealerships:
- Pros: Carts are often checked. They might come with a small warranty. Staff can help with questions. You might get financing.
- Cons: Prices are often higher. They need to cover their own costs.
- Private Sellers:
- Pros: Prices can be lower. You can often talk them down. You can learn the cart’s history from the owner.
- Cons: No warranty. “As is” sale means you buy it with all its problems. You must check the cart very well yourself.
- Online Marketplaces (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace):
- Pros: Wide choice. Easy to search many carts. Prices can be good.
- Cons: Many scams. Hard to know who you are dealing with. You must be very careful. Check sellers out.
- Specialty Used Golf Cart Stores:
- Pros: They only sell golf carts. They know a lot. They often have many choices.
- Cons: Prices can be higher than private sales.
- Auctions:
- Pros: Very low prices sometimes. Can find good deals.
- Cons: Risky. You cannot test drive. You buy it as it is. No returns.
- Golf Courses:
- Pros: They sell off old carts. Carts are often well-maintained.
- Cons: High mileage. Might be older.
What to Inspect Before Buying
No matter where you buy, always inspect the cart very well. This is key to knowing what’s a used golf cart worth. It helps you avoid problems later.
- Test Drive: Always drive the cart. How does it feel? Does it go straight? Do the brakes work well? Does it make strange noises?
- Frame: Look for rust or cracks. This is the main support of the cart. Any damage here is bad.
- Tires: Check for wear. Are they old and cracked? Are they all the same? New tires can cost a lot.
- Brakes: Test them at different speeds. Do they stop the cart quickly? Do they squeal?
- Steering: Turn the wheel from side to side. Is it loose? Does it make noise?
- Engine/Motor (Gas Carts): Look for oil leaks. Does it start easily? Does it smoke? Listen for strange sounds.
- Batteries (Electric Carts): Look at the date codes on the batteries. This tells you their age. Check for corrosion on the terminals. Make sure the battery water level is good. Do a full charge test.
- Charger (Electric Carts): Make sure the charger comes with the cart. Test that it works. Chargers can be costly to replace.
- Lights, Horn, Wipers: Test all electric parts.
- Seats and Body: Check for tears, cracks, or big dents. These can be costly to fix.
- Suspension: Push down on each corner of the cart. Does it bounce a lot? This might mean bad shocks.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. If the seller seems upset by your checks, that is a red flag. A good seller wants you to feel sure about your buy.
Golf Cart Depreciation Over Time
Like cars, golf carts lose value as they age. This is golf cart depreciation. But how fast they lose value can differ.
- First Few Years: A golf cart loses the most value in its first few years. A new cart drops in price once it becomes “used.”
- Steady Decline: After the first few years, the price drop slows down. It loses value at a more steady rate.
- Factors Affecting Depreciation Rate:
- Condition: A well-cared-for cart holds value better. A neglected cart loses value fast.
- Usage: A cart used every day will lose value faster than one used once a week. High hours or mileage mean more wear.
- Brand: Top brands like Club Car and Yamaha often hold their value better than lesser-known brands.
- Technology: For electric carts, new battery tech can make older carts less desirable. This speeds up their depreciation.
- Market: In a strong golf cart market, depreciation might be slower. In a weak market, it can speed up.
Table 3: General Golf Cart Depreciation Example (Approximate)
| Age of Cart | Remaining Value (as % of New Price) | Example Price (New $10,000) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New | 100% | $10,000 | Just bought. |
| 1-2 years | 70-80% | $7,000 – $8,000 | Biggest drop happens here. |
| 3-5 years | 50-65% | $5,000 – $6,500 | Steady drop continues. |
| 6-10 years | 30-45% | $3,000 – $4,500 | Value slows its drop. |
| 10+ years | 15-25% | $1,500 – $2,500 | Very old, price is low. Often needs repairs. |
Note: This is a general guide. Many factors can change these numbers.
Remember, a cheap price on an old cart might mean big repair costs soon. It is often better to pay a bit more for a cart that has been cared for. It will save you money and headaches later.
Conclusion
Figuring out how much a golf cart is used involves many parts. There is no single answer to “what’s a used golf cart worth.” The price depends on the cart’s age, its physical health, and if it runs on gas or electric power. Battery health is key for electric carts. The brand, features, and where you live also play a part.
Doing your homework is very important. Always look at the cart closely. Ask questions. Test drive it. Know the average used golf cart cost in your area. This will help you find a golf cart that fits your needs and your wallet. Whether you are buying or selling, knowing these factors helps you make smart choices in the pre-owned golf cart market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the best time to buy a used golf cart?
A1: The best time is often in the fall or winter. Demand is lower in colder months. Sellers may be more willing to lower prices. Prices often go up in spring and summer. That is when more people want carts.
Q2: How long do golf cart batteries last?
A2: Golf cart batteries usually last 4 to 7 years. This depends on how well they are cared for. Good care means charging them often. It also means checking their water levels. Hot weather and deep draining make them die faster.
Q3: Can I test drive a used golf cart?
A3: Yes, you should always test drive a used golf cart. This is very important. It lets you feel how the cart runs. It helps you spot problems. If a seller does not let you test drive, that is a red flag. Do not buy that cart.
Q4: Are used golf carts reliable?
A4: Yes, many used golf carts are very reliable. This is true if they have been well cared for. Brands like Club Car, EZ-GO, and Yamaha are known for lasting a long time. Always check the cart’s condition and history. This helps ensure it will be reliable for you.
Q5: What is the main difference in upkeep costs for electric vs. gas used golf carts?
A5: Gas carts need regular engine care. This means oil changes, spark plugs, and air filters. Electric carts do not need this. But electric carts will need new batteries every few years. This is a big cost. Gas carts use gas. Electric carts use electricity. Think about the costs for both power and upkeep.