To get the most out of your cart, there’s no room for going for any average one other than the best golf cart batteries. But as most of us pay little attention to a cell’s features, it’s not that easy to be confident over choosing one.
If you thought that the wheels and your golf cart’s machine deserve all the credits for the smooth ride you enjoy, you are dead wrong. The batteries that are less seen and usually taken for granted play significant roles in rolling the wheels, as well.
That’s why we have listed down 10 most powerful cells that can boost your cart’s performance. Whether you get it as a brand-new one or from a resale shop, these batteries will never let you down.
Our Top 5 Picks for Golf Cart Batteries (At A Glance )
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Best Golf Cart Batteries Review-The Ultimate Buying Guide
We took our time to audit most of the celebrated accumulator options out there. Although many big names didn’t seem up to the mark, Several lesser-known ones turned out to be satisfactorily functional. Here’s a detailed review of what we have found.
1. ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automatic BCI Group 51 Battery
Author Rating:
4.5/5
General Motors have been well-known for decades for their excellence in producing exceptional-quality products. ACDelco batteries have quite less chance of not being included in this list.
Apart from the technical titbits, this one is a standout for its amazing durability. According to the manufacturers, upon being maintained properly, ACDB24R can last thrice the time than its counterparts on the market.
This is because of its recombinant mechanism, which is valve-regulated. It works along with the calcium positive and negative accumulator. Together, with the lead-proof valve in work, the whole battery lasts quite long.
Once again, this process produces water itself; hence, it asks for less dependency on added water—another reason for it to last long.
Bumpy roads of the golf ground can be quite harmful to the cart-battery. But thanks to the durable design of this one, it can withstand frequent vibration and jerking while you ride on the cart.
The AGM design is yet another reason for you to choose ACDelco ACDB24R over its competitors. Their Absorbed Glass Mat design makes sure the accumulators don’t spill any water from inside.
Then again, the battery is kind of compact and quite easy to install. It may not be a perfect fit for large carriers, but it will work fine on any regular-sized cart.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Completely Spill-proof
Requires very low maintenance
Positive and negative grid for extra resistance
Comes with AGM design for better management of water
A valve-regulated recombinant mechanism for better lasting performance
[/i2pros][i2cons]Not suitable for large carts[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2. ML1812 12V 18 AH SLA Battery
Author Rating:
4.5/5
Another popular name in the field of quality vehicle batteries is the Mighty Max. For decades, they have been producing some of the most exceptional accumulators in the market.
The ML1812 electric golf cart battery is Sealed Lead Acid ones that come with top-class durability. It is virtually maintenance-free and provides long-lasting support if properly taken care of.
For the newbies out there, setting up the battery in the right position can be as confusing as matching Sudoku riddles.
But with this one on your side, things are going to be a bit more interesting and easier. Because you can put it at any position inside the chamber. Oh, wait! That excludes placing it upside down, obviously!
Tensed about those bumpy grounds you regularly ride on? Let your cart’s wheel roam freely from now on! Own this 12-V battery today to keep the vibration and shock level to the minimum count.
Designed with AGM-design, this battery is another name for ‘sigh of relief.’ That’s because it will prevent the cell from spilling off water from inside, no matter how much jerking it faces.
Having this one on your side, it’s going to support you throughout the year. Be it high or low temperature around you, it will come out as a consistently high performer!
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Sealed Lead Acid for better lasting
Maintenance-free construction
Spill-proof AGM-design
Can be placed inside the chamber at any position
Works equally great under both high and low temperature
[/i2pros][i2cons]Boasts a higher discharge rate than regular counterparts[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3. ExpertPower 12V 7 Amp EXP1270 Rechargeable Lead Acid Battery
Author Rating:
4.5/5
For about three decades, ExpertPower has been manufacturing power solutions for your day-to-day life. Their expertise includes batteries, chargers, and other accessories related to cell use in machinery.
From the house of excellence, comes the 12V 7 Amp EXP1270. This one is a 20-hour sealed lead acid designed cell.
Above that, it comes with an F1 style terminal, as well. Compared to its 6-volt golf cart batteries counterparts, it comes with double the durability.
As for this champ’s operation capacity, it won’t let you down no matter what season you are using it in. Even if you’re in a situation where it’s freezing cold at –40 degrees Fahrenheit or scorching hot around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, this one performs equally flawlessly.
It uses the ABS Plastic to construct the outer shell of the cell. This makes the EXP1270 more durable and functionally non-conductive. That means it won’t allow unwanted electrifying accidents.
Utilizing the Absorbent Glass Mat technology, this cell can produce current output at a higher rate than the regular ones you find on the market. Plus, it allows the battery to last longer, too.
As for the overall quality, you can get the idea from CE and UL’s dual certification. It’s evident from these certifications that the producers are all but negligent of quality.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with a 20-hour sealed lead-acid design
The outer shell is made from strong ABS plastic
Non-conductive outer construction
AGM technique allows higher current flow
Pretty simple to set up and install
[/i2pros][i2cons]Clips are not made from durable materials[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4. Odyssey PC680
Author Rating:
4.5/5
Another truly functional battery on our list is the Odyssey PC680. This one is one hardcore accumulator that is graded as a military-grade one. That’s because it has a unique capacity to cope with every adverse situation.
The top-most impressive feature of the PC680 is its higher cycle capacity. With a 400-cycle lifetime, you can expect it to last for years.
According to experts, this one is expected to last from 3 to 10 years max, depending on how you maintain it.
This automatically makes it more durable than most of its counterparts in the market. To pinpoint the figure, you can expect it to last about 70% longer than the usual batteries we use.
It doesn’t provide great cycle support only. With a fast-charging capacity, this one can be recharged from 0 to 100 percent within just 4 to 6 hours! This fast-charging capacity will come in handy when you are really in a rush, but the accumulator is down.
During cold seasons, the last thing you want is a dead battery. But not in this case! Thanks to its 170 Cold Cranking Amps rate, it can smoothly deliver 170 Amps at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. –18 °C).
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with a non-spillable design
Complete vibration and shock-resistant
170 CCA rate for a smooth start during winter
Fast-charging support
Longer durability than other regular batteries
[/i2pros][i2cons]It comes with a Proposition 65 warning[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5. Optima 8014-045 D34/78 Yellow Top Battery
Author Rating:
4.5/5
Being in a lead role in producing superior quality power-solutions for more than 40 years, Optima is known for its quest for quality. Be it lithium golf cart battery or electric; Optima is proven to be one of the best.
The legacy is upheld with the 8014-045 D34/78 yellow top cell. This is a 12-volt durable one that can keep you going no matter what road you are riding on.
So, even if the golf ground is bumpy and uneven, let this champ take care of it.
Like every other Optima battery, this one also comes with a series of single spiral-wound cells which has a couple of lead plates. These pure (almost 99.99%) lead plates are carefully coated with lead oxide to ensure smooth electric flow.
With its 750 CCA, you can tell it that this one is a winter-friendly cell. 750 CCA is a huge number for you to live carelessly, even if it is freezing cold. You won’t be facing the power-start issue on cold mornings like everybody else.
It comes with more than 300 cycle life that keeps it going for three times more than any other batteries of the same specs. Plus, you get a fast-recharging facility, as well.
As for resistance to vibration and shock, it outperforms most of its competitors by being 15 times more resistant! This is enough of a reason to hit the ‘add to cart’ button right away!
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Boasts 3 times the service life of its counterparts
Requires less maintenance than any other products
Spill-proof and durable design
Fast-charging facility and 300+ cycle life
750 CCA rate for excellent performance in winter
[/i2pros][i2cons]Unfortunately, it’s a bit heavier than regular ones[/i2cons][/i2pc]
6. Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah
Author Rating:
4.5/5
If you are looking for a durable and shock-proof battery at a seemingly affordable price-tag, say hello to Universal 12V 100Ah.
It comes with an Absorbent Glass Mat technology that allows it to keep the water inside sealed tight. That means it won’t spill the water even if it is going through a lot of vibration.
Speaking of vibration, it’s impressively vibration resistant. If you are riding your cart on bumpy and rough ground on the golf yard, this one should be your supporting shoulder!
Installing the device is not something you need to worry about. Forget about calling your repair-guy; put your DIY knowledge into action! It’s pretty easy to install and set up within a short period.
Even if the surrounding of the cell is heated up, this one won’t be discharging much of its current. This is possible because of its low self-discharge technology.
Mounting it on your cart is nothing more than a piece of cake. Due to its even design, the cell can be placed at any position possible. Except for the upside-down position, of course.
Despite all these amazing features, it may be a bit of tough luck to set it up on smaller compartments. But that’s not something to worry about as most of the carts have a decent amount of space for cells.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Can work for a long time in a single charge
Shock and vibration-resistant
Comes with a low self-discharge capacity
Spill-proof AGM design
Easy to install and set up
[/i2pros][i2cons]A bit on the bulkier side to be placed in narrow compartments[/i2cons][/i2pc]
7. Trojan T-105 Plus
Author Rating:
4.5/5
Having a glorious footmark on the path to create some of the best power solution products since the 1920s, Trojan is a successful brand name in the industry.
Trojan golf cart battery has been giving tough competition to its rival products for decades with its exceptional quality products in existence. Plus, it has successfully set the bar of quality to a higher level for others to reach.
Trojan is popularly known for making some signature deep cycle lead-acid cells that come with a great lifespan. That’s why it is safe to say the T-105 from Trojan’s house is one of the most powerful ones straight out of their factory.
The T-105 is a premium flood-leaded 6-volt battery that can surely cut your cost and provide you flawless longevity. As for the performance, in the long run, it is equally promising for that, too.
A crazy feature of this one is its 750-life cycle. You can charge and discharge this champ up to 750 times, which means it can support you for a lot of golf sessions, for sure!
Again, it is implanted with deep cells inside it. It will work actively to prevent any early corrosion and degradation due to regular recharging. Plus, it enables the battery to be used to support carts that require higher power than usual.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Has a 750 cycle of charging and discharging capacity
Durable and longer lifespan than usual
Deep cells allow safe charging
Uses the latest technology to craft the powerhouse
Multipurpose battery
[/i2pros][i2cons]It requires a bit of higher maintenance[/i2cons][/i2pc]
8. Universal Power Group (35Ah)
Author Rating:
4.5/5
We zip up our reviews with another show-stopper battery from Universal Power Group. This time, it’s the 35 Ah power cell that can keep your cart rolling on the ground effortlessly for years.
If you are not really into maintaining the cart batteries much, don’t feel guilty and alienated. There are thousands of users who are as comfort-loving as you are.
Keeping those users in mind, Universal Power Group has crafted this one to be virtually maintenance-free. Just install it in your system, keep using it with a minimum level of care, and you are good to go.
Another interesting feature from this one is the spill-proof making of it. It may go through a lot of ups and downs here and there but still can keep the water inside the cell as confined as possible.
Being a deep cycle battery, this one is going to be a fun ride. You can recharge it to the fullest capacity and subsequently discharge every bit out of it. This is how you use the cells to the highest potential.
Even though the size and weight may suggest otherwise, the cell is pretty much shock and vibration-resistant. The outer shell is durable and strong to cope up with any given situation.
Mounting it on the compartment is as easy as humanly possible. Avoiding the upside-down position, you can easily set it up at any position inside.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]A lightweight and pretty compact battery
Can be used in different machines
Easy to handle and install
Durable and spill-proof construction
Resists vibration and potential shock
[/i2pros][i2cons]Although it recharges quickly, it drains fast, as well[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9. ExpertPower 12v 33ah
Author Rating:
4.5/5
To keep going with your cart to reach the par, you need a battery that lasts pretty long. Very few cells in the market can survive if you set the bar to a long-lasting one.
Being kind of an underdog in the field of golf-cart accumulators, ExpertPower comes with one powerhouse that looks promising. Its 12V 33Ah battery is probably one of the most affordable, yet top-class ones in the market.
The 10-hour deep cycle 12V golf cart battery is going to keep the cartwheels moving for a whole day, for sure. Thanks to its standout features that are surprising to have within this price range.
Going head to head with some of the big names in the stores, this one also adopts an Absorbed glass-mat system. This means if somehow the acid spills off from its place, it will be absorbed by the surface and freeze then and there.
However, you don’t need to worry about spilling as this one comes with a spill-proof construction. This is an essential feature a top-class battery should come with.
It’s a great matter of relief for most golf players that the accumulator can survive different temperatures. As golf is an outdoor play, it is evident that the temperature will swing unexpectedly at times. Nothing to worry about if such situations occur!
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Very lightweight and easy to carry and handle
Spill-proof battery and safe to use
Made from durable ABS plastic material
Comes with an absorbed glass mat technique
Easy to install and user-friendly handling
[/i2pros][i2cons]Recharging takes a lot of time[/i2cons][/i2pc]
10. DieHard 38217
Author Rating:
4.5/5
Keeping the internal machinery safe from any cell-malfunction is something we often don’t bat an eye on. But that’s pretty crucial for the well-being of your cart.
Luckily enough, DieHard didn’t scroll through this issue. Its 38217 Group 49 battery comes with a calcium-lead alloy grid frame that can prevent electrical shorts in between the terminals.
This is possible because the entire set up is covered by the full-frame negative and positive electroplates. These plates keep the cell safe from any type of short circuits.
Apart from that, the DieHard 38217 is built with an amazing vibration protection system. If you measure it by the regular batteries of the market, it can promise 20 times more protection, as claimed by the manufacturers.
It uses the latest genuine AGM technology that works with demineralized acid. Then again, it is combined with thru-partition connectors, along with the polypropylene case that is heat-sealed.
Together, it provides the cart a smooth and effortless start for a long-time to come. Forget about those cold mornings that gave you a tough time making the cart move.
The best part of this one is that it supports a quick-charge facility. Once you have connected it to the charger, it gets recharged just within 170 minutes. With a 25 Amps discharge rate, it lasts long enough with a full-charge!
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comes with a spill-proof design for added protection
A versatile battery that can be used in a range of cars
Virtually maintenance-free, so no extra effort to take care of it
Works fine in both hot and cold weather
Supports a quick-charge facility
[/i2pros][i2cons]A 60-pound battery will surely seem quite heavy to handle[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best 8 Volt Golf Cart Battery
Author Rating:
4.5/5
If you are specifically looking for the best 8 volt golf cart batteries for your golf cart, you have a lot of options in your hand.
But to make it a shorter journey for you, let us help you out with a suggestion. You can try the Trojan T-875 8V golf cart battery with ease.
Trojan is a well-celebrated name in the field of cell and power-solution products for a long time. The 8V-100W from this house promises great durability and power.
This deep cycle battery can provide you the maximum power you need to keep your cart running up and strong.
12 Volt Golf Cart Batteries
Author Rating:
4.5/5
As for a 12V battery, there are very few competitors on the market. Out of all the options you have, EXP1270 from ExpertPower should be a wise pick.
Being a user-friendly cell, this one is made from rugged construction and utilizes AGM technologies. This seal lead-acid accumulator is one of the highest-rated products online.
So, if you are looking for the best 12 volt golf cart batteries cell, try your luck with the EXP1270!
Things to Consider while Buying Your Golf Cart Battery
Before you plan to replace your old battery with a new one, you first need to make sure that you actually do need one.
Often, we tend to change an accumulator just because it looks old. But this shouldn’t be the case. The following are some of the signs that the battery may show that would indicate a need for immediate replacement.
Lengthy Charging Time
The battery will take a lot of time to recharge if it’s worn out. You may notice it if you have kept track of the charging time before. So, when you can see that it is taking more time to be recharged than the previous sessions, maybe it’s time for a new one.
Decrease in Mileage
A healthy battery usually supports a cart to move around 7 miles with a full charge. But as it gets damaged day by day, the distance covered will be gradually lowered.
Struggle to Accelerate
When you have a brand-new battery inside the machine, your ignition and acceleration will be as fast as an eagle flying behind its prey. But once it enters a decline period of its life, it seems like struggling to accelerate. So, that’s a sign of changing cells, as well.
Physical Look
This is a simple technique. Open up the compartment to check on the accumulators regularly. If anything goes wrong with the cells, you can see some bumps on the battery’s surface.
Using a Voltmeter
Finally, using a voltmeter can give you the exact information about if something is wrong with the cell. It will provide you with exact numerical data of the battery’s health for you to decide if any replacement is needed.
What to Look Out for When Purchasing a Battery?
Now that you have determined the need for a replacement, here are some quick tips for you. Follow this process before you get a new battery.
Check the Voltage Requirement
Vehicle batteries are available in 6, 8, and 12 volts. It is measured as the force used to initiate an electrical current. If you are not sure what your cart’s required voltage is, there are several ways you can find it.
First, the manufacturer may attach a manual that has the exact number on it. If there isn’t any, count the number of acid holes on the top of the batteries. Now, multiply the numbers by two, and you have got the voltage requirement.
Amperage Requirement
Amperage relates to the power capacity that the cell will put out when the cart is moving. Find out the ampere requirement from the manufacturer’s manual and get one accordingly.
Select Your Battery Type
Golf cart accumulators are usually three types. FLA or Flooded Lead Acid, GLA or Gel Lead Acid, and AGM Lead Acid one. While FLA may not be able to hold on to bumpy roads, GLA or AGM can be a great choice for this.
So, depending on the ground you are planning to ride, you should choose the relevant battery accordingly.
Battery Life Cycle
The higher the life cycle of a battery, the longer you can use it in your cart. A life cycle refers to the number of times you can fully recharge and discharge an accumulator over its lifetime.
So, before being stable on one choice, make sure that the cell has a higher life cycle than any usual counterpart.
When to Replace Golf Cart Batteries?
As discussed earlier, you can use a number of ways to get to know if the accumulator you are using needs any replacement. The methods include checking the battery physically and identifying problems through its behavior.
But without using such methods, you can still tell if you need to replace the batteries. Usually, such cells tend to get weakened in about a couple of years. So, if your cart has been utilizing the batteries for such a period, you may want to go for a new replacement.
Otherwise, if you don’t want to spend every two years on these cells, it’s better if you resort to the methods we have mentioned in the ‘Things to consider before while buying a golf cart battery’ section.
How to Charge Dead Golf Cart Batteries?
Mostly during winter, golfers face the age-old issue of a dead battery. Although it may happen anytime around the year, winter is the prime time for this mishap.
But coping with this problem is easier than you think. Follow these two steps for a quick solution.
First, use the cart unit of the accumulator recovery unit to apply the required voltage inside the dead battery.
Then, when the cell is equipped with the necessary voltage, you can connect it with a charger. Now, it’s just a matter of time to make the cell alive from the dead. Upon being charged for a good amount of time, the cell will be fully functioning once again.
How to Clean the Cart Batteries?
There are a lot of ways you can adopt to clean a battery.
You can try pouring a small amount of distilled water over the plates. It should actually be a very little amount. Otherwise, it will be prone to corrosion.
Then, using a brush for cleaning wires, you can clean the cell’s terminal and connections to get rid of dust.
As for charging, follow the necessary instructions that the manufacturers have provided. Don’t over or undercharge it in any way.
Lastly, if it’s winter, you need to keep the battery off the cart; place it somewhere warmer.
Read also – Basic Golf Cart Etiquette
How to Load Test the Cart Batteries?
In order to keep the batteries working in a tip-top condition, you need to check the load of the cells regularly. Here’s how to do it.
- Apply a functional voltmeter to check the voltage
- Use a load tester to measure the amperage
- Utilize a hydrometer to check the charge status
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the best 12V golf cart battery?
As per our reviews, we can opine that the EXP1270 from ExpertPower can be a great contender for this title.
-
How long should golf cart battery last?
Typically, if you are taking good care of it, it should last from 5 years to 10 years, at best.
-
How much does it cost to replace the batteries in a golf cart?
If you are replacing the batteries only, it solely depends on how many cells you are changing. It usually can cost from USD 800 to USD 1500.
-
What are the best 8-volt golf cart battery?
Even though there are many choices out there, choosing the Trojan T-875 8V Golf cart battery should be wise.
Final Words
Even if you are a veteran golfer riding on golf carts for ages, finding the best golf cart batteries can be challenging. As it is not directly related to the game, many golfers remain in a fix which one to go for.
Though, hopefully, the comprehensive guide that we have compiled here will save you a lot of time and energy. Keep our guidelines handy the next time you are going to purchase cells for your cart!
Happy Golfing!
Related article – How to test the golf cart battery charger?