Summer brings longer days, more sunshine, and more opportunities to enjoy your electric golf cart. But with increased use and rising temperatures come unique maintenance challenges. Whether you’re cruising through your gated community, towing gear to the tennis courts, or exploring resort grounds, proper summer golf cart maintenance ensures your golf cart performs at its peak.

As a leader in custom high-end electric golf carts, LUXE knows that summer care is about more than charging your battery. It’s about protecting your investment, enhancing performance, and extending lifespan.

Read more: How Often Should I Add Water to Golf Cart Batteries?

Why Summer Golf Cart Maintenance Matters

Extreme temperatures can shorten battery life, reduce tire integrity, and damage internal electronics. According to data from Battery University, lead-acid batteries lose capacity significantly faster when stored at high temperatures—up to 50% faster at 95°F compared to 77°F.

Desert environments, coastal humidity, or high-traffic summer use can all accelerate wear and tear. That’s why a proactive maintenance plan is critical.

Read more: How Much Does It Cost to Replace My Golf Cart Batteries

Battery Maintenance: The Heart of Summer Care

Keep It Cool—Literally

Heat is the #1 battery killer. Store your cart in a shaded, well-ventilated garage or carport to protect the battery from heat exposure.

Monitor Water Levels in Lead-Acid Batteries

If you have lead-acid batteries, check fluid levels weekly. Only refill with distilled water, and never let plates go dry. Low water can lead to irreversible damage.

Read more: How Long Should My Charge Last on My Golf Cart Batteries?

Check Charging Cycles

Use a high-quality charger with an auto shut-off to prevent overcharging, which can heat and degrade the battery. Don’t wait for the battery to fully drain before recharging—frequent partial charges are ideal for lithium and lead-acid alike.

Expert Insight from LUXE Tech Team:
“We recommend installing a smart battery monitor so you can track charging trends and catch irregularities early. It’s a small investment that prevents big problems.”

Read more: Should You Keep Your Electric Golf Cart Plugged in When Not in Use

Tire Care: Grip, Pressure, and Performance

Check Tire Pressure Weekly

Summer heat expands air, meaning tire pressure can fluctuate. Under-inflated tires increase wear and reduce performance. Check PSI weekly and adjust according to your manufacturer’s specs.

Rotate Tires Mid-Summer

If you use your cart daily, consider rotating tires once mid-season to prevent uneven tread wear. This extends tire life and improves ride quality.

Read more: Golf Cart Registration in California: Costs, Requirements, and Tips 

Cleaning and Surface Protection

Wash Off Dust, Salt, and Debris

Dirt and dust can build up in brakes, suspension, and motor components—especially in dry, sandy climates like Palm Springs or Arizona. If you’re near the ocean, salt exposure can corrode wiring and frame materials.

Use UV-Protectant Wax or Covers

Sunlight can fade paint and crack vinyl seats. Clean your cart weekly and apply UV protectant to seats and plastics. When not in use, cover your cart with a breathable, UV-resistant cover.

Real-World Example:
A LUXE customer in Naples, Florida, saw seat fading in just one summer. After switching to our fitted covers and weekly conditioning routine, their seats stayed pristine all season long.

Read more: How Long Should My Charge Last on My Golf Cart Batteries?

Electrical and Mechanical Checkpoints

Inspect Wires and Connectors

Heat expands materials and can loosen connections. Check all wiring and terminals for corrosion or fraying, especially around the battery.

Test Brakes and Lights

Longer summer drives mean more brake usage. Make sure your brake pads are in good shape and that all lights are fully functional for evening rides.

Pro Tip: Schedule a Summer Service Check

Just like your car needs seasonal tune-ups, so does your golf cart. At LUXE, we offer comprehensive summer service packages that include:

• Full battery diagnostics
• Brake and tire inspection
• Electrical system testing
• Software updates (for carts with GPS or smart systems)

This ensures your cart doesn’t just survive summer—it thrives.

Read more: Remanufactured vs. Refurbished Golf Carts: What You Need to Know Before Buying

FAQs About Summer Golf Cart Maintenance

How hot is too hot for golf cart batteries?

Batteries start to degrade more rapidly above 85°F. Storage areas over 100°F can significantly reduce battery life.

Should I leave my golf cart plugged in during summer?

If you use it daily, plug it in after each use. For seasonal storage, use a smart trickle charger and unplug once fully charged.

What’s the best tire pressure for summer?

Follow the PSI recommended in your owner’s manual. It typically ranges between 18–22 PSI, but adjust based on ambient heat and usage load.

Do lithium batteries handle heat better than lead-acid?

Yes. Lithium-ion batteries are more heat-tolerant and require less maintenance, but they still benefit from shade and cool storage.

Read more: How to Make Your Golf Cart Street Legal: A Complete Guide

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Ride Starts Now

Summer should be a time to enjoy the open paths, not worry about breakdowns. With proactive care and expert service, your electric golf cart will deliver performance, safety, and luxury all season long.

Ready for a Summer Check-Up?

LUXE offers premium maintenance, battery replacements, and custom upgrades to keep your cart looking and running like new. Visit us in La Quinta or Palm Desert, or schedule your summer service online now.