Golf Cart Winter Storage

Some people don’t seem to mind the cold. But for others, the winter months are a time to pack in the golf cart. As eager as you may be to just stick your cart in storage and forget about it for a couple of months, there are some important steps to take first. Luckily, Van Wert Carts is here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Pre-Storage Maintenance

Even if left entirely alone, a golf cart can be damaged if not properly stored for the winter. Before you put your cart away, take the time to do some basic maintenance tasks. 

A Good Clean

While it might seem nonsensical to clean a vehicle before putting it where no one will be looking at it, caked-on dirt and grime can cause damage over time. Prevent this potential damage with a good washing before you put your cart into storage.   

Tires

Even when the cart sits motionless for an extended period, its tires still bear the brunt of the cart’s weight. To prevent damage, make sure your tires are inflated according to manufacturer recommendations. Don’t forget that cold weather can cause tire pressure to go down. As always, chock your wheels to prevent the cart from rolling away. 

Battery

Inspect your electrical system. Remove the negative battery cable, then the positive cable in that order. Inspect the battery itself to make sure that it is clean. Use an acid neutralizer to wash off the tops and terminals. You can make some at home with a mixture of one cup of baking soda per one gallon of water. Allow the battery to fully dry, then add a battery terminal protector spray to the terminal connections. 

If it is possible, connect your battery to a battery tender. If you do not have one on hand, it will be necessary to recharge your cart’s battery every 60 to 90 days. Though this may seem bothersome, keeping your battery charged is the best way to prevent damage and extend its lifespan, so recharge regularly!

Gas Golf Cart Storage

If yours is a gas-powered model, you should put fresh fuel treated with a fuel stabilizer in the tank before storage. Also, remember to engage your shutoff valve. This is also a good opportunity to perform two maintenance tasks you should be doing every year anyway, namely replacing the air filter and spark plugs, so do that now if you wish. 

Electric Golf Cart Storage

If your cart is an electric model, put the tow switch into the "tow" position. This will disable the regenerative braking system, reducing the pressure put on the battery pack. If you do not follow this step, there is a greater chance of your cart suffering a full battery discharge. Your battery will freeze and crack, greatly damaging it. Make sure your battery is fully charged before storing your cart. 

A Storage Location

The best possible storage location for a golf cart is somewhere cool and dry, as warm locations will cause the battery to become drained more quickly. Built-in protection from rain, sunlight, and high winds is ideal as well. If possible, find a location that offers as much protection as possible. 

For more information or to view our selection of golf carts, visit Van Wert Carts. We have two dealerships, one in Van Wert, Ohio, and another in Decatur, Indiana. We welcome guests from Fort Wayne and Findlay.