Originally Posted by mrf0151 (Post 2298300)

So then comes the big question: What will be the resale value of your lithium cart when it needs batteries, and you want to sell it? Might even be very hard to sell...

Originally Posted by Coop63 (Post 2298167)

Trying to understand whether it makes sense to start out my village journey with a new or used Golf cart, electric or gas? My sense tells me to buy used until I have a better sense of what I will need it for, other than golf and the occasional leisurely rides to the town squares. I am not retired yet so will probably drive to stores if it’s faster. It seems like electric carts would depreciate faster given the steady decline of the battery.

If I go with a gas cart, how many miles do these things run on average before repairs become more frequent? Would like a general idea of when to buy and sell, to minimize depreciation and breakdowns. Looking for the proverbial Goldilocks zone.

Based on my recent visit, Yamaha seems like the most popular gas power cart in the Villages??

I am interested in all opinions. I have no basis for making a decision yet. Thanks in advanced.

Originally Posted by Vermilion Villager (Post 2298350)

So then comes the follow on question: what will be the resale value of a gas cart that needs a new engine?
I'm sure you would agree droping in a new lithium battery in a cart is way easier and cheaper than a new or rebuilt engine.

Originally Posted by merrymini (Post 2298349)

I am on my second electric cart and loved both. I must admit that I would not use a golf car to drive long distances because spending an hour in the cart when I can get there in 20 minutes in an automobile seems like a waste of time to me. I bought an Atomic ion with lithium batteries because the cost of a regular cart has gotten so high, it did not make sense not to go for it. Windshield wipers, air, heat, bluetooth and it does not stink up my garage. Plug it in in the evening and ready to go in the morning. All carts use energy but this cart does not have exhaust, which is what I am looking for.

Originally Posted by Steve (Post 2298362)

I've lived in The Villages for going on 19 ears. The number of people I know who have blown a golf cart engine is...ZERO. Not that it doesn't happen, but I've never heard of one. But I did replace my electric cart's motor three times in seven years...not to mention three sets of batteries in those seven years. And if you don't keep those batteries full of water they are toast. So check that water at least once a week if not more often.

Originally Posted by Steve (Post 2298363)

But lithium batteries have been know to catch fire spontaneously. I wouldn't have a lithium battery powered vehicle--car or cart--in my garage.

Originally Posted by Steve (Post 2298363)

But lithium batteries have been know to catch fire spontaneously. I wouldn't have a lithium battery powered vehicle--car or cart--in my garage.

Originally Posted by Coop63 (Post 2298167)

Trying to understand whether it makes sense to start out my village journey with a new or used Golf cart, electric or gas? My sense tells me to buy used until I have a better sense of what I will need it for, other than golf and the occasional leisurely rides to the town squares. I am not retired yet so will probably drive to stores if it’s faster. It seems like electric carts would depreciate faster given the steady decline of the battery.

If I go with a gas cart, how many miles do these things run on average before repairs become more frequent? Would like a general idea of when to buy and sell, to minimize depreciation and breakdowns. Looking for the proverbial Goldilocks zone.

Based on my recent visit, Yamaha seems like the most popular gas power cart in the Villages??

I am interested in all opinions. I have no basis for making a decision yet. Thanks in advanced.

Originally Posted by Bill14564 (Post 2298367)

Please post two articles about lithium golf carts spontaneously catching fire. I have seen two articles about gas carts catching fire in the Villages in just the last year. It seems like gas carts are more dangerous than lithium.

Originally Posted by Dusty_Star (Post 2298402)

Hiya Bill,

I'll take this one for you Steve.

Canyon Lake July 2023 The Friday Flyer | Fire Department issues golf cart lithium-ion battery warnings

Jacksonville June 2023 Business owner says lithium batteries are safe, despite fires | firstcoastnews.com

I'm not sure what you mean by 'spontaneously', in the Jacksonville article there is speculation about possible causes, & in the Canyon Lake they are pointing at charging overnight, but also throw the word 'retrofit' around & then speculate on other possible causes. ie: only use OEM equipment, carefully follow instructions, inspect battery for damage, don't charge past full, don't keep near flammable items, don't charge while sleeping, keep in an optimal temperature environment, & so on.

Originally Posted by dhdallas (Post 2298235)

I have a 25 year old electric Club Car DS. I replaced the lead acid batteries three years ago with LFP batteries which will still be good for several more years. It will take me wherever I want to go and has never run out of juice. I just plug it in at the end of the day and it is ready to go. No gas or oil to leak in my garage like my neighbors did. No cart fires like a couple of recent gas cart fires. No exhaust fumes or noise. No myriad of filters, injectors, parts to replace. No tune ups or oil changes needed. I have seen a number of gas carts waiting on a tow but never an electric one. It's a no-brainer. Go electric. Those who still prefer gas are just resistant to change even it is good. My dad never wanted a front wheel drive car or a CVT transmission or 4-wheel drive without locking hubs but it has all been good.
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/fo...c-club-car.jpg

Originally Posted by kkingston57 (Post 2298197)

With the lithium batteries, this might not be correct. EZ GO is guaranteeing batteries for 8 years. Personally, do not like gas carts because of the smell/smoke