How to Test Golf Cart Batteries: A Quick Guide
- Instructions Read Time: 1 minute
Got a golf cart that’s running out of juice faster than you'd like? Want to keep your golf cart running smoothly, and prevent getting stranded while on a ride? It might be time to check those batteries! And knowing how to check golf cart batteries is a valuable skill that's easy to learn! Here’s a quick guide to help your test your cart's batteries using a golf cart battery tester or multimeter.
Tools You Need
- Golf Cart Battery Tester
- Multimeter
Steps for Testing Golf Cart Batteries
1. Gather Your Tools (Safety First)
- Get a golf cart battery tester. A multimeter will work if you don’t have a specific tester.
- Wear protective gloves and goggles.
- Ensure your golf cart is turned off, and is in TOW mode.
2. Physically Inspect the Batteries
- Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks.
- Check for any visible cracks, leaks, bulging, corrosion or damage. Damaged batteries need immediate replacement.
- Ensure that all cable connections are tight and clean.
- This is a good time to check your battery electrolyte levels, and perform routine golf cart battery maintenance
3. Use a Multimeter to Check Battery Voltage
- Set your tester or multimeter to DC volts.
- Connect the positive (red) probe to the positive battery terminal and the black probe to the negative terminal.
- A fully charged 6-volt battery should read around 6.3 volts.
- A fully charged 8-volt battery should read around 8.4 volts.
- A healthy 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts.
- Repeat this process for each of your cart's batteries.
4. Perform Load Testing
- Ensure batteries are FULLY CHARGED first.
- Connect the golf cart battery tester or Multimeter to your batteries.
- Apply the load for about 10 seconds.
- Healthy batteries should maintain a voltage close to their rated capacity.
Interpretation
- Good/Healthy Battery: Voltage stays close to the nominal rating under load. For instance, a 12-volt battery might read 9.6-volts under load.
- Bad/Failing Battery: Significant voltage drop indicates a failing battery.
Conclusion
Regularly testing golf cart batteries ensures reliability and extends their lifespan. And it will for sure save you money and prevent silly and unnecessary breakdowns! Remember to always use a proper golf cart battery tester for accurate results. Testing your golf cart batteries isn't complicated! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll keep your ride smooth and dependable.
If you have any questions regarding golf cart batteries or golf cart accessories, call us any time at 1-844-422-7884. We are always happy to help!
Published: 7/22/2024
