On a full charge, there’s nothing better than taking an E-Z-GO, Club Car or Yamaha out for a spin. When the power starts to drop and the charge is dying faster than before, it can get in the way of your fun. To make sure you're getting every mile out of a charge, you want the right batteries in your cart.
There are many different systems and batteries out there. Picking the wrong kind can be a real dilemma. With a little expert help, you’ll be sure to find the right batteries for your Club Car, Yamaha, E-Z-GO or any other make of golf cart — gas or electric.
What type of battery does a golf cart use?
There are two types of golf carts: gas and electric. They both need batteries, but for different reasons. Gas golf carts use their battery to turn over the engine and run electronics. Electric carts use their batteries for everything.
Gas carts need a much smaller battery, and often only one. Electric carts run on a battery system of 4+ batteries to achieve necessary voltage. Understanding how these electric carts lay out their battery systems is important if you plan on replacing them.
An electric cart’s battery system can be six 6v batteries in a 36v arrangement, four 12v batteries in a 48v arrangement or 6 8v batteries in a 48v arrangement. The different configurations vary almost just as much as the types of batteries themselves. The big three — Yamaha, Club Car, and E-Z-GO — are typically equipped with lead-acid batteries.
What types of batteries do electric golf carts use?
Golf carts use a type of battery called a deep discharge battery. Unlike a car’s battery, golf cart batteries are designed to power the entire vehicle, whereas a car’s battery is solely used to start the vehicle and power electronics.
This means that swapping a golf cart battery for a car battery of the same voltage is risky. It might run — but not very well. It’s more likely to adversely affect other batteries in the chain and is not recommended.
Luckily, finding the right golf cart battery is easy when you know what you’re looking for.
Types of golf cart batteries
Lead-Acid batteries
These are the most cost-effective batteries around, and are well-suited for regular recreational use. Considered a “wet” battery, they contain a mixture of electrolytes and water that act as a conductor. The main drawback, other than how long these batteries last (2 years on the short end) is that you have to “water” them by regularly adding about ¼ inch of water above lead plates.
AGM batteries
The Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery is an update to the lead-acid battery which utilizes fiberglass mats between the lead plates. This eliminates the need to “water” the batteries, and keeps them leak-free and sealed. A little more expensive than regular lead-acid, these are a popular choice for those who prefer paying more to maintain less. You can expect 3-5 years of life out of an AGM golf cart battery.
Gel batteries
Like the AGM, these batteries don’t use water or fiberglass to conduct electricity. The gel inside is a silica base that transports energy well and makes for a maintenance-free experience. Although AGM batteries hold charge better, gel batteries work better in extreme temperatures, and are suited to a longer, slower draw.
Lithium-Ion batteries
In recent years, these batteries are starting to pop up in carts across the country. They have amazing longevity (10-20 years) and outstanding energy density, which is great for start-stop driving situations like at the club or running errands. Li-ion batteries for golf carts are going to be more expensive, but lead in almost every category that counts.
What size battery do you need for a Club Car gas golf cart?
The most standard size of battery for a gas Club Car is a group 70 side post 12v battery. This is what comes stock, and there is a little variation between 6, 8, and 12v options.
Choosing what brand to go with can be tough. In the Buggies garage, we always prioritize American-made, locally bought products, but the number one qualifier for a good battery is finding a trusted brand with positive customer reviews.
Having trouble finding what type of battery you need? Use our serial number lookup to get your exact year and model so you can find the right fit.
What size battery do you need for an E-Z-GO gas golf cart?
A single group 26UT 12v battery is the most common for this make. Although not every E-Z-GO cart is the same, a 12v battery — much like the one in your car — will usually do the trick. With the lighter load that a gas battery takes, lead-acid batteries are a good fit for this cart.
Be sure you’re getting the right battery setup by checking the model and year of your E-Z-GO gas golf cart with this simple lookup:
What size battery do you need for a Yamaha gas golf cart?
If you’re sensing a trend — you’re right. Most of the “big 3” gas golf cart models operate on group 24F 12v batteries. Of course, it’s always important to check before purchasing and installing a battery. Choosing the wrong size can lead to serious electrical issues, affecting how well the vehicle turns over and operates.
Unlike electric golf carts, boosting performance isn’t tied to a better, stronger battery — it starts in the engine, drivetrain and suspension. If you’re looking to add speed, longevity and performance, check out upgrades for gas Club Cars, E-Z-GOs, and Yamahas here.
Powering performance in every cart
Gas or electric — it doesn’t matter. Your cart’s battery is an essential part of a functioning vehicle. From the time you turn the key to the time you park, your battery is working hard. Understanding which batteries work best for your cart comes down to preference and performance. Once you’ve secured your new battery, be sure to stop by Buggies Unlimited for the largest selections of cart upgrades and accessories available on the web! Shop what’s new today.
