Essential Golf Cart Winterization & Off-Season Storage Checklist

Freezing temperatures are the #1 killer of golf cart battery packs. A fully charged lead-acid battery will not freeze until -80°F, but a discharged battery can freeze solid and crack its case at 30°F!

Electric Cart Winter Prep:

1. Fully Charge the Pack: Never park your cart for winter in a discharged state.
2. Top Off Distilled Water (Lead-Acid only): Ensure plates are covered by 1/4 inch above the separator.
3. Clean Terminal Posts: Wash away corrosion using baking soda and warm water; apply anti-corrosion dielectric gel.
4. Switch to TOW Mode: Flip the RUN/TOW switch under the seat to TOW to disconnect parasitic controller draw.
5. Use an Automatic Maintenance Float Charger: Connect a microprocessor-controlled float maintainer to cycle charges monthly.

Gasoline with 10% ethanol begins degrading in as little as 30 days, causing gum and varnish in carburetor jets.

Gas Cart Storage Checklist:

1. Add Fuel Stabilizer: Pour marine-grade fuel stabilizer into the fuel tank and run the engine for 5–10 minutes so treated fuel reaches the carburetor bowl.
2. Change Engine Oil & Filter: Old oil contains acidic combustion byproducts that corrode internal bearings during storage.
3. Fog Cylinder or Coat Piston: Remove spark plug, spray a burst of fogging oil into the cylinder, and manually rotate the clutch to lubricate cylinder walls.
4. Disconnect 12V Battery: Keep 12V starting battery on a trickle tender.

1. Inflate Tires to Maximum PSI: Cold concrete causes tire rubber to develop permanent flat spots. Over-inflate tires by 2–3 PSI or place wood blocks / tire cradles beneath each wheel.
2. Release Parking Brake: Leaving mechanical parking brake springs engaged for months can stretch cables and seize rear brake shoes to drums. Chock the wheels instead.
• Use a Breathable Storage Enclosure: Avoid non-breathable plastic tarps that trap condensation. Use a UV-resistant breathable golf cart cover.