Purchasing a golf cart requires some initial research, whether you need it for hitting the course, cruising around the neighborhood, or for traveling on your own property. Here are five questions you should ask before taking the plunge.

#1: Gas or Electric?

If you're only looking at initial cost, gas carts are the least expensive option. The issue with a gas cart comes with maintenance – gas carts require more regular maintenance and are more prone to mechanical failure compared to electric carts. When making a decision, choose gas carts only if your preferred course or driving area has lots of hills or if you will need to run the cart for 100 miles between fueling or charging.

Otherwise, electric carts are the better option. They're quieter, provide a smoother ride and they have fewer maintenance issues. There will be down time when the cart is charging and they do only have a range of 25 miles or so between charges.

#2: New or Used?

When it comes to choosing between new and used, your budget should be your main guide. There are few differences between a new and used cart, especially if the used cart less than three years old. If your budget can only cover a new base model cart with no accessories, it's well worth it to look at the used market to find a cart with all the accessories you want and need.

#3: Dealer or Private Party?

Although you may find lower prices from a private party, it's better to purchase from a dealer – unless you have experience working on and refurbishing golf carts. A visual inspection isn't enough to know if the wires, battery and other components on the cart are in good condition.

When buying used from a dealer, make sure the cart is listed as fully refurbished. A reputable dealer will back up their work and provide a warranty. By buying used with this warranty, it's not much different than buying new.

#4: Stock or Lifted?

Lifted carts sit up higher, making them better suited to rough terrain or street use. If you will need a lifted cart, keep in mind not all carts can be lifted. you will need to either purchase one with a factory lift kit already installed, or verify the model that you are interested in can take a lift kit.

#5: Street or Course only?

If you're planning to use your cart off course and on the street, you will need to buy a street legal cart. These carts are listed as low speed vehicles (LSV), and they are usually legal on roads with speed limits up to 45 miles per hour. A cart cannot be retrofitted as an LSV, so you will need to ensure your make and model already fits the bill.

Working with a reputable dealer like George Stark Golf Cars is the best way to ensure you get the type of cart you need.

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