How to Purchase a Used Golf Cart

If you play a lot of golf, you might want to join the many golfers who have bought their own golf carts, figuring it's less costly than paying $15 to 20 each time they play. If you play several times each week, your golf cart will be paid for in less than one year, particularly if the one you buy is used.

Step 1: Start your search by going to the golf course on which you ordinarily play. Find out if they routinely trade in their used carts. Inquire into the condition of those carts and what they might be worth.

Step 2: Find a trustworthy golf-cart dealer if you are unsuccessful in buying a cart at your course. Start by asking people who own carts, or research golf-cart dealers in your area online.

Step 3: Determine how dependable the dealer is in terms of repairs. A golf cart is similar to a car, so from time to time, it will need to be fixed. Find out if the dealer does his own work or if he sends out carts for repairs.

Step 4: Don't buy a golf cart that is being sold "as is." It's likely the cart has not been serviced, and that the dealer did nothing to find and fix the problems it may have. However, you might consider one that has been reconditioned for sale. The dealer likely checked the cart for problems, which he fixed prior to it being sold. Often, dealers will offer some kind of warranty for golf carts that have been reconditioned.

Step 5: Test-drive your golf cart before you buy it. Many used carts look terrific, but they don't operate as well as others.

Step 6: Know how much used golf carts cost before you shop. At this writing, used golf carts in decent condition will cost between $2,000 and $4,000. Furthermore, you should ask cart owners you know what features are most important to them and what they paid for their carts, as well as where they have them serviced.

Decide whether your golf cart should be powered by electricity or gasoline, as each type has its advantages. Carts powered by gasoline tend to go at higher speeds, while electric-powered carts are much less expensive to operate.

• http://www.nextag.com/used-golf-cart/search-html — Example of available used carts .