How to Change EZ Go Golf Cart Batteries: A Step-by-Step Guide

What Are the Safety Precautions When Changing EZ Go Golf Cart Batteries?

Always wear gloves and safety goggles to protect against acid spills and electrical shocks. Disconnect the cart’s charger and turn off the ignition. Disconnect the negative (-) terminals first, followed by the positive (+) terminals. Use a battery carrier to lift heavy batteries, and avoid placing tools on battery terminals to prevent short circuits.

LiFePO4 Battery Factory

Which Tools and Materials Are Needed for Battery Replacement?

You’ll need a wrench set, battery terminal cleaner, wire brush, anti-corrosion spray, a battery carrier, and new batteries matching your cart’s voltage (typically 6V, 8V, or 12V). Ensure replacement batteries are compatible with your EZ Go model (e.g., Trojan T-875 for 48V systems). Keep distilled water nearby for flooded lead-acid batteries.

Golf Cart LiFePO4 Battery Factory

How Do You Remove Old Batteries from an EZ Go Golf Cart?

1. Disconnect cables in reverse order: negative first, then positive.
2. Label cables with tape to avoid confusion during reinstallation.
3. Loosen battery hold-downs and carefully lift each battery out using a carrier.
4. Clean the battery tray with a baking soda solution to neutralize acid residue.

Golf Cart LiFePO4 Battery

What Are the Steps to Install New Batteries Correctly?

1. Place new batteries in the tray, ensuring proper orientation (terminals aligned).
2. Reconnect cables in reverse order of removal: positive (+) first, then negative (-).
3. Secure batteries with hold-downs to prevent movement.
4. Apply anti-corrosion spray to terminals and tighten connections to 7-10 ft-lbs torque.

36V 100Ah LiFePO4 Golf Cart Battery

How to Test and Charge New Batteries After Installation?

Use a multimeter to verify voltage (e.g., 8.49V per 8V battery when fully charged). Charge the batteries for 8–12 hours before initial use. Avoid partial charging, as this reduces lead-acid battery lifespan. Test the cart’s operation on a flat surface to ensure smooth acceleration and no warning lights.

36V 80Ah LiFePO4 Golf Cart Battery

For optimal performance, use a smart charger with automatic voltage detection. Lithium batteries require specialized chargers to prevent overcharging. Ambient temperature affects charging efficiency—avoid charging below 32°F (0°C) or above 104°F (40°C). After the first charge, perform a load test: drive the cart uphill at half-speed to assess voltage drop. Healthy batteries should maintain ≥80% voltage under load.

Why Is Proper Battery Disposal Important?

Lead-acid batteries contain toxic materials and must be recycled. Return old batteries to dealerships, auto parts stores, or recycling centers. Many retailers offer core discounts for returning used batteries. Improper disposal can result in environmental fines.

48V 100Ah Golf Cart LiFePO4 Battery (BMS 200A)

Recycling prevents lead leakage into soil and water systems—a single battery contains 18–21 pounds of lead. Retailers like AutoZone and Batteries Plus offer $5–$20 core discounts per battery. Always transport old batteries upright in plastic containers to prevent acid spills. Some states mandate recycling; California imposes $10,000 fines for landfill disposal. EPA-certified recyclers safely extract lead (99% recovery rate) and polypropylene plastic for reuse.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid During Replacement?

1. Mixing old and new batteries, which reduces performance.
2. Over-tightening terminals, risking cracked connectors.
3. Skipping post-installation charging, leading to sulfation.
4. Incorrect cable routing, causing polarity reversal.

48V 160Ah LiFePO4 Golf Cart Battery (BMS 315A)

Expert Views

“Upgrading to lithium batteries can extend range by 30% and reduce maintenance,” says a Redway Battery engineer. “However, ensure your cart’s controller and charger are compatible. For lead-acid users, monthly terminal cleaning and equalizing charges every 60 days maximize lifespan.”

FAQ

How often should EZ Go golf cart batteries be replaced?

Lead-acid batteries last 4–6 years with proper care; lithium batteries can last 8–10 years.

Can I mix battery brands in my EZ Go cart?

No—different brands may have varying capacities, leading to imbalanced charging.

Why does my cart lose power after battery replacement?

Check connections for tightness and corrosion. If issues persist, test the charger or controller.