Hey community, I’m scratching my head here with my golf cart. It runs just fine, then all of a sudden, it’s like someone hit the brakes for me. I’ve been flipping the tow/run switch to get it moving again, but this can’t be right. Have any of you worked out why this happens?
Response
I did have a similar issue to your with my G22 golf cart, and after a bit of investigation, I found that the water levels in the batteries were low. It’s a simple thing but can cause big problems. Once I topped them off, my cart was back to its reliable self.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Level in Batteries | 1 | 0 – 5 | 20 – 30 |
| Battery Voltage Under Load | 1 | 0 (if self-tested) | 10 – 20 |
| Burnt Out Motor | 1 | 200 – 700 | 120 – 240 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart starts and runs for a while before stopping abruptly.
- The issue is temporarily resolved by toggling the tow/run switch.
- The problem may recur multiple times, especially under continuous use.
Possible Causes
- Inadequate battery maintenance leading to power issues.
- Electrical faults in the motor controller or solenoid.
- Incompatibility issues with upgraded battery systems, such as lithium conversions.
Expanded Solutions with Detailed Steps
1. Water Level in Batteries
What I Did:
- Conducted a thorough check of the battery water levels.
Outcome:
- The cart’s performance improved significantly, and the stopping issue was resolved.
Personal Experience:
- I was close to taking the cart to a professional, but then I remembered the importance of battery care. It was a relief to find such a straightforward solution.
Estimated Cost: $0 – $5 (for distilled water) Time Needed: 20 – 30 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- Ensure the golf cart is on a level surface and switch off all power.
- Open the battery compartment, wearing safety gloves and goggles.
- Carefully remove the caps from each battery cell.
- Shine a flashlight into the cells to check the water level. It should cover the battery plates but not be too high.
- If levels are low, slowly add distilled water to each cell, avoiding overfilling.
- After filling, dab a paper towel on the cells to check for any excess water.
- Replace the battery caps securely and clean any spills around the compartment.
- Allow the batteries to charge fully before using the cart again.
Handy Tips:
- Always use distilled water to avoid introducing impurities into the battery cells.
- Consider using a battery watering system to make the process quicker and more accurate.
- Perform this maintenance every month, or more frequently if you use your cart often.
Expert Tip:
- Regular battery maintenance isn’t just about water levels. It’s also wise to check the terminals for corrosion and ensure they’re tight. A mix of baking soda and water can clean off any corrosion. Just make sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before reconnecting.
2. Battery Voltage Under Load
What I Did:
- Tested the battery voltage while the cart was under load to identify any significant drops.
Outcome:
- Found that the batteries were not maintaining voltage under load, indicating they needed to be charged or replaced.
Estimated Cost: $0 (if self-tested with a multimeter)
Time Needed: 10 – 20 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- Secure the golf cart in a safe position and ensure it’s turned off.
- Connect a multimeter to the battery terminals.
- Have someone assist by driving the cart to apply a load.
- Observe the voltage reading; it should not drop below the manufacturer’s specified voltage under load.
- If the voltage drops significantly, consider charging the batteries or having them tested for replacement.
Handy Tips:
- Always ensure the multimeter is set to the correct setting to avoid damage to the tool or the cart.
- Perform this test regularly to monitor battery health.
3. Burnt Out Motor
What I Did:
- Had the motor inspected by a professional, which led to its replacement.
Outcome:
- The cart no longer stopped unexpectedly, and performance was restored.
Estimated Cost: $200 – $700 (depending on the motor and labor costs)
Time Needed: 120 – 240 minutes (professional service)
Detailed Steps:
- If you suspect a motor issue, inspect it for any signs of burning or damage.
- Consult with a professional to test the motor’s functionality.
- If a replacement is needed, it’s recommended to have the work done by a qualified technician.
Handy Tips:
- Regularly clean and inspect the motor area to prevent dust and debris buildup, which can lead to overheating.
Extra tips
- Battery Age: Older batteries tend to lose water more quickly and may need more frequent topping off.
- Temperature Effects: Extreme temperatures can cause water to evaporate faster from the batteries, so adjust your maintenance schedule accordingly.
- Voltage Check: Use a multimeter to check the voltage of each battery. A significant difference between cells can indicate a failing battery.
Golf cart Models Where This Worked
- 2008 Yamaha YDRE