Essential Golf Cart Modifications
There are many, many golf cart modifications to choose from—for fun, personalization, comfort, and more. In fact, there are so many options that It can be difficult to determine which upgrades will enhance your ride the most.
Popular due to their versatility and the ability to fit different needs, golf cart modifications can help anyone who uses their low-speed vehicles for golfing, running errands, and/or leisurely drives.
To help you navigate - no pun intended - the plethora of choices available, we've compiled a list of essential modifications that can significantly improve your golf cart's performance, comfort, and style.
All-Terrain Tires
While golf carts are commonly used for the sport they’re named after, there are other activities you can enjoy with these vehicles. In fact, the right set of tires will allow you to visit a number of different places besides the pitch—like your neighbor’s house for a barbecue, an errand in town, or the sunset while riding along the beach.
All you need is a set of all-terrain tires (and to know where you’re allowed to drive golf carts). These tires give you the deeper tread and larger size needed to handle a wide range of terrains beyond the green.
Lift Kit
Now, in a bit of a “If you give a mouse a cookie” situation, If you decide to invest in all-terrain tires, you’ll also need a lift kit. This golf cart modification can add anywhere from two to six inches of lift to your vehicle, while also improving your driving experience thanks to a smoother ride.
Rear Flip-Seat Kit
What good is a golf cart if you can’t offer a ride to as many people as possible? If you’re in agreement, you’ll benefit from a rear flip-seat kit. And while the extra seating capacity will often come in handy, a rear flip-seat kit also lets you convert the area into a flat surface for those days when you need more storage space than seating. This modification significantly increases the cargo capacity, making it easier to transport groceries, sports equipment, or gardening supplies.
LED Lights
Investing in LED lights is an excellent way to improve visibility, especially for night driving. Sure, these lights may cost more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run given they are designed to last longer, and thus require fewer bulb replacements.
Whether you’re driving through your neighborhood after sunset or navigating a campsite at night, LED lights ensure you can see and be seen clearly, enhancing safety and convenience during such excursions.
Enclosure
Now, believe it or not, a day may come when the weather isn’t so pleasant but you still need to use your golf cart. During such drearies, it will surely be a bummer to not feel the sun while riding, but if you have an enclosure, you’ll be protected from poor conditions and still able to ride.
Specifically, an enclosure wraps around your vehicle to the point of not having to deal with wind and rain on a dreadful weather day. Most enclosures are made from durable, weather-resistant materials and come with clear, zippered windows that can be opened for ventilation on milder days. They are easy to install and can be removed when not needed.
Battery Upgrades
Upgrading to a lithium battery can significantly increase the range and efficiency of your golf cart. High-capacity batteries store more energy, allowing your golf cart to travel greater distances on a single charge.
Lithium batteries, in particular, are lighter, which reduces the overall weight of the cart and improves performance. Lithium batteries also charge faster and have a longer lifespan, which means fewer replacements and less downtime. This upgrade results in longer rides, less frequent charging, and a more reliable power source, making your outings more enjoyable and worry-free.
(Plus, the increased efficiency and reduced weight can enhance the cart's acceleration and overall handling, providing a smoother and more responsive driving experience.)
Sound System
A course favorite! Adding a sound system can greatly enhance the enjoyment of your rides for obvious reasons. Here are a couple of options:
- Bluetooth speakers are a convenient and affordable choice, allowing you to easily stream music from your smartphone or other devices without any complex installation.
- A fully integrated audio system allows for a more immersive audio experience, and often includes weather-resistant speakers, amplifiers, and subwoofers, providing high-quality sound even in outdoor environments.
Plus, some integrated systems come with built-in radio and USB ports, offering multiple ways to play your favorite music or podcasts. Additionally, many modern sound systems are designed to be seamlessly integrated into the golf cart's dashboard or roof, preserving the cart's aesthetics.
Custom Paint and Wraps
When people first hear “modification” it’s paint and wrapping that usually comes to mind. Thus, while most of the modifications suggested so far have been mainly functional in nature, customizing the appearance of your golf cart with unique paint jobs or vinyl wraps is purely cosmetic.
And that’s OK! There are a variety of colors and designs available to match your personal style and make your cart stand out. Whether you want to showcase your favorite sports team, add a sleek metallic finish, or create a fun, eye-catching design, the possibilities are endless.
Safety Features
While some basic safety features may come standard on certain golf cart models, many do not include comprehensive safety enhancements. Adding features like seat belts, mirrors, and turn signals can significantly increase the safety of your golf cart, making it safer for use both on and off the course.
Underbody Lights
Last, adding underbody lights to your golf cart can create a fun and stylish look while also improving visibility at night. Plus, these lights come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your golf cart. From a subtle glow to vibrant, color-changing effects, many systems offer remote control options, so you can easily change the lighting to match your mood or the occasion.
Plus, underbody lights are an excellent addition for special occasions such as parties, parades, or community events. They add a festive touch and can be synchronized with music or other entertainment for a dynamic visual experience.
Elevate Your Ride
Again, customizing your golf cart can enhance its performance, comfort, and style, making every ride more enjoyable.
Ready to upgrade yours? Contact us today for expert advice, quality parts, and professional services. Let us help you create the perfect golf cart to meet your needs and style! Or, maybe it’s a new ride altogether? Check out our Tomberlin golf carts, STAR Electric Vehicles, and more.