If you're in the market for a used golf cart there are several things you should consider before making your purchase. Used golf carts are generally less expensive than new ones, but they also carry more risk for the buyer. So while you may be able to save yourself some cash, you'll also want to do your due diligence to make sure you're really getting your money's worth.
The first thing you should consider is how old the golf cart is. This will help you determine how much it has been driven. You can figure out the year by looking at the serial number. If the serial number is missing then you may want to think twice about your purchase. Aside from the possibility that it's been stolen or in an accident, you could also be dealing with a dishonest seller who is not disclosing all the facts.
The next thing to consider is location. Many golf courses and country clubs update their fleets every few years, which means there are plenty of used golf carts for sale at any given time. While golfers may not always treat rented golf carts with as much care as they would their own, most golf courses have a crew that makes sure that the carts maintain good working order. Consider which region the used golf cart is coming from so you can make an educated guess as to how much it's been driven. For instance, sunny California has a much longer golfing season than the dreary Upper North West.
Another thing to consider is the accessories that come with the cart. If you're buying a custom used golf cart then it may be accessorized with such things as custom golf cart rims, an in-dash radio, or mounted cooling fans. If this is the case, then you'll probably be paying more than if it were a bare-bones golf cart. If you are purchasing the cart from another state then you will want a written statement detailing all the accessories that are included before it is shipped.
Price is probably the biggest issue when it comes to making a big purchase. Generally speaking, you can find a good used golf cart anywhere in the range of $2,000 to $4,000 USD; or more if it's been customized. If it's much less than $2,000 then it may need some significant repairs, and the repairs may cost you more than the money you saved on the purchase. But of course, this is just a general guide-line. If you shop around long enough you may be able to land yourself a nice deal.
It is also a good idea to test drive the golf cart if you are able to do so. Just like test driving a normal vehicle, this will help you get a feel for it. Pay attention to how it handles and the type of power it's got, and consider if it'll be sufficient for your needs. If you'll be driving up steep grades or hauling heavy loads then make sure the cart can handle it.
Determining the type of condition the used cart is in will help give you confidence that you're getting a good deal. Used golf carts are usually advertised as "As Is" or "Reconditioned." If you purchase "As Is" then you are getting the cart as it is, without any type of inspection. This can save you some money but it also means you'll be getting whatever problems the golf cart may already have. But, if you are mechanically inclined, you may be able to do the necessary repairs yourself, and save some money in the process.
If you'd rather play it safe then you'll probably want to buy "Reconditioned." This means that the seller has done a thorough inspection and repaired any problems that the golf cart may have had. While you'll probably pay a little more, reconditioned carts often come with a limited warranty or guarantee. A 30 to 90 day limited warranty from the date of sale is fairly common when buying a reconditioned golf cart. Just be sure to ask the dealer.
