How to Replace a Golf Cart Battery – A Step-by-Step Guide

If your golf cart is running slower than usual or struggling to hold a charge, it might be time to replace the batteries. The good news? You don’t have to hire a technician and pay for labor—this guide will walk you through the entire process of changing a golf cart battery safely and efficiently, even if you’re a beginner.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow guide that covers everything from the tools you need to pro tips for extending battery life.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following tools:

• Safety gloves
  
• Protective eyewear
  
• A squirt bottle with baking soda and water mix
  
• Battery strap or lifter
  
• Zip ties
  
• Terminal protectant spray
  
• 9/16” or ½” socket wrench (with extension)
  
• Battery post cleaner
  
• Distilled water
  
• Towel and cardboard (for workspace protection)
  

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change a Golf Cart Battery

1. Turn Off and Disconnect the Cart

Ensure your cart is completely off and the charger is unplugged. For newer models, flip the run/tow switch to tow mode.

2. Document the Battery Setup

Remove the seat to access the battery compartment. Use your phone to take clear pictures of the battery layout or sketch a diagram, labeling all wires, terminals, and connections. This will help when reconnecting everything later.

3. Disconnect the Cables

Start by removing the negative cable first, followed by the positive. Detach any accessory wires and group them using zip ties for easy reconnection later.

4. Remove Old Batteries

Carefully lift the batteries using a strap. Be cautious—they’re heavy and may have residual acid on the surface. Avoid skin contact and place them on a safe, non-absorbent surface.

Tip: Never let your wrench come into contact with any metal part during disconnection. It could cause electric shock.

5. Clean the Battery Tray

Place a towel over a piece of cardboard under the battery area to protect your work surface. Use your baking soda solution to neutralize any acid residue and scrub with a scraper if needed. Dry everything with a clean towel.

6. Install the New Batteries

Referring to your earlier sketch or photo, carefully position the new batteries, ensuring the polarities match the original layout. Use the battery strap to lower them into place.

7. Reconnect the Cables

Reattach all cables in the proper order. Start by connecting the batteries to each other, followed by the accessories, and finally the main positive and negative terminals. Secure everything with lock washers and ensure the hold-down rods are in place.

8. Perform a Function Test

Switch the cart from tow to run mode and test all functions—lights, forward and reverse movement, and electronics. If everything runs smoothly, you’ve done it right!

9. Apply Terminal Protectant

Spray all terminals with a battery protectant to prevent corrosion. Reapply every 2–3 months to extend battery life.

10. Fully Charge the New Batteries

Before hitting the golf course, charge the new battery pack to full capacity. A complete charge ensures peak performance and battery longevity.

Safety Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do:

• Wear gloves and safety goggles.
  
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
  

❌ Don’t:

• Smoke or use open flames nearby.
  
• Use household cleaners or solvents on batteries.
  

When Should You Replace Golf Cart Batteries?

Here are a few common signs that your golf cart battery may need replacing:

⚡ Long Charging Time

If the battery takes significantly longer to charge than before, it may be deteriorating internally.

🔋 Quick Discharge

Fully charged but drains quickly? It’s likely time to replace your battery.

🧪 Acid Leaks

Leaks or buildup around terminals indicate electrolyte imbalance or aging. While cleaning may help, replacement is usually the best fix.

Tips to Extend Battery Life

Want to get the most life out of your new batteries? Follow these maintenance tips:

1. Keep Them Clean and Dry

Wipe down battery tops and ensure the terminals are tight and clean. Use a baking soda solution to neutralize acid residue.

2. Charge Properly

Charge batteries for at least 8–10 hours to reach 80% capacity. Avoid short, incomplete charges. Charging overnight is ideal.

3. Monitor Water Levels

Check battery water regularly. Top off only with distilled water, never tap water. Don’t overfill.

4. Use the Cart Frequently

Leaving your golf cart idle for too long can shorten battery life. Even a short daily ride helps maintain battery health.

5. Avoid Overcharging

If your charger isn’t automatic, be sure to unplug it when the batteries are fully charged to prevent overheating and damage.

Changing a golf cart battery might seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, it’s actually pretty straightforward. By following this guide and taking good care of your new batteries, you can keep your golf cart running smoothly for years to come.