So, you’ve got yourself an electric golf cart on Maui. Smart move…BUT… Maui’s got its own way of wearing things down, especially with that salty air, and even the best electric golf cart needs some love to keep rolling. Here’s 808 Golf Carts’ no-frills, no-BS guide to how to service an electric golf cart for the island grind.
How to Service an Electric Golf Cart: Things to Consider
Battery Maintenance
When talking about how to service an electric golf cart, you’ve gotta consider the battery first and foremost. The battery is the beating heart of your cart. No battery, no ride—simple as that. So, start here. If you’ve got a lead-acid battery, here’s the first lesson: it needs distilled water. Not “whatever’s in the tap” water. Every month, lift the seat, unscrew the caps, and check those water levels. They’re supposed to cover the plates in the battery, so if it’s low, fill it up—but only with distilled water. Maui’s air may be fresh, but your cart’s battery is a different story. Then, keep an eye on corrosion. That salty air does a number on metal.
Tires
You’re not breaking speed records here, but don’t think that tires don’t matter. Electric cart or not, Maui’s roads aren’t gentle. Every month or so, grab a gauge and check the tire pressure. Low pressure? Your ride’s gonna feel like a bumpy wagon ride. Too high? You’re just begging for a blowout. And while you’re at it, look for bald spots, cracks, and signs of wear. Maui’s got rocky, sandy, uneven terrain that can shred tires faster than you’d expect.
A busted tire on an island means you’re in for a longer wait and probably a bigger bill than you’d like. Avoid the hassle: keep an eye on them, keep them inflated, and keep rolling smooth.
Brakes
Think you can skip brake maintenance because you’re not flying down the highway? Think again. The brakes are there to keep you safe, even if you’re just cruising to the corner store. Start with the brake pads. If they’re worn down, swap them out. Don’t overthink it. And if you’re hearing weird grinding or squealing noises, that’s a neon sign flashing “fix me.”
The cables and linkages need a look too. Any rust, stiffness, or fraying? Lubricate them. A little bit of grease can save you a lot of pain later, and it keeps your brakes responsive. You don’t want to be the person with a runaway cart on an incline. That’s the kind of story no one wants to tell.
Electrical Connections
An electric golf cart is basically a rolling battery with a seat, so those connections? They’re everything. Every couple of months, flip up the seat and check the wires and terminals. Loose connections, rusty spots, frayed wires—don’t ignore them. A little corrosion now can turn into a big headache later. Clean any grime with baking soda and water, tighten up loose ends, and make sure every connection is solid. The last thing you want is to get stuck because of one bad wire.
Charging Smart: Don’t Go Overboard
Charging your cart isn’t complicated, but overcharging? That’s a rookie move. Plug it in when the battery’s low, but don’t leave it juicing up 24/7. If your charger has an auto shut-off, you’re golden. If not, set a reminder to unplug it. Constant overcharging just drains the battery over time, leaving you with a weaker charge and a shorter range.
Get an Annual Golf Cart Service: Call in the Pros
Even if you’re a DIY champ, once a year, let a pro take a look. Maui’s tropical climate is no joke for vehicles, electric or not. Give your cart the maintenance it deserves, and it’ll keep you cruising, zero-emissions, Maui style.
808 Golf Carts know how to service an electric golf cart, and they do it with experience and expertise. So, make sure to contact 808 Golf Carts when you’re ready for your next checkup.
