First time buyer - golf cart

[CURLYSANDY]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

[Papa_lecki]

Labor costs the same at all the places
The margins are probably close, maybe off by a few basis points.

That leaves the quality of materials as the variable.

[baustgen]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks
The place in Webster will save you thousands.

[BrianL99]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

Sunshine Golf Carts in Ocala. Bill, Strom or Tom. *(352) 355-3254‬

Great service, too. They'll come pick it up & bring it back to you. Usually the same day.

[PoolBrews]

Botero Carts in Ocala ((352) 615-8882) will save you thousands. They have great carts, offer mobile service, and free pickup and delivery while under warranty. Fantastic folks there, both in sales and service!

[villagetinker]

Your other option would be to look at used and tell the seller that you want the golf cart inspected by one of the mobile cart services (at your own cost), there are several for sale on this site. This will give you the time to see if you want other options, etc. I would suggest staying with Yamaha as it appears to be the most popular brand. Also, there have been some problems reported (on this site) with the newer (2023) golf carts regarding the battery being drained.

[asianthree]

Are you full time? Then rent a cart for week at a time. Try a 2 seat gas and electric. Or a four seat front face or rear face. Then after deciding Gas or Electric, narrow down with your budget, service, and get better seats, because nobody drives 15 minutes in a cart anymore.

That said if you are part time, rent a cart when here, then you don’t have to deal with a cart sitting for endless amounts of time.

[snbrafford]

I bought two new Yamaha gas carts from TV in 2018. I wish I had looked outside. I use Willie's golf cart garage that comes to my house for the yearly service and they are more reasonable than TV.

I would recommend adjustable seats - i.e. slide forward and back. Also - seat belts are a must. Many serious injuries occur when occupants get thrown from the cart in an accident. Added LED lights front and side that blink when turning are a good idea (in my opinion) for the added visibility and to be seen when turning. Auto-off turn signals are nice. Remember than you can't trust the turn signals as many carts do not have auto-off and people go down the road with a turn signal on.

I have ridden in 4-seater golf carts where the 2nd seat faces rearward. You can't really engage in conversation with the front seats. The biggest problem is when you go up the steep inclines in the tunnels when the seat faces backward.

I also recommend gas carts as TV is so large now that you can easily spend 30-45 minutes just driving to a golf course. I have friends that have electric and they have declined to go someplace with us because there is not enough charge in their cart - not often but it has happened. No place to charge them out in TV so you have to be at home to charge - can't charge while shopping. We "cart" a lot and get by on less than two tanks a month.

[Packer Fan]

If you want a gas yamaha cart, I would use Carts and Clubs in Ocala. I saved about $3000 over the TV golf Cart store price. I have heard good things about the Store in Webster also. Service is actually easier with places outside TV because they come and do the maintenance in your driveway so you don't need a loaner cart.

[melpetezrinski]

If you want a gas yamaha cart, I would use Carts and Clubs in Ocala. I saved about $3000 over the TV golf Cart store price. I have heard good things about the Store in Webster also. Service is actually easier with places outside TV because they come and do the maintenance in your driveway so you don't need a loaner cart.

Carts and Clubs is no longer in business.

[Packer Fan]

Carts and Clubs is no longer in business.

We call that "fake news". They are still active on Facebook, send out weekly emails, and their website is up to date. I also just made an appointment with them last week for my yearly service in June..... Seems like they are very much there.

[melpetezrinski]

We call that "fake news". They are still active on Facebook, send out weekly emails, and their website is up to date. I also just made an appointment with them last week for my yearly service in June..... Seems like they are very much there.

Thanks for clarifying. I'm at fault for spreading misinformation at not going through the effort to confirm.

[ColtsFan]

Recommend Gas Cart---would not buy a 4 seater. If you have company and need one, just rent it.

[frayedends]

I know most people recommend going outside the Villages to "save thousands". I didn't find that to be the case. I shopped around and by the time I added all the options I wanted at a few other places, they were about the same as Villages Golf Cars. People don't like Villages Golf Cars because they apparently are not helpful unless you bought your cart from them. I've had great service when I thought I had an issue with my cart.

Anyhow, they definitely aren't cheap and you could probably save some money but not much if you want the same quality after market stuff.

Mine is a 2023 and has not had any battery drain issues. I'm part time and my cart gets driven only 10 minutes each month. Starts up every time (knock on wood).

[bowlingal]

I would buy used first from a private buyer. Then as you drive around, you will realize certain things you want that may not be on that cart, or things that are on that cart that you realize you don't need or want. THEN, you can make a uniformed decision when it's time to buy new. BTW...don't forget to take the golf cart safety clinic.....it may just save your life.

[JGiles336]

The place in Webster will save you thousands.

Country Villages Power Equipment is THE BEST PLACE TO BUY a golf cart. Great price, Great Service!!!

[KendallW]

JB golf carts Ocala

[JGiles336]

country village power equipment - Google Search (https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=country%20village%20power%20equipment&tbm=&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5)

[Packer Fan]

Thanks for clarifying. I'm at fault for spreading misinformation at not going through the effort to confirm.

There was a lot of scuttlebut when they got bought out last year by new ownership. Glad they are still there, the more dealers the better!
:)

[Robnlaura]

99% of golf carts are made in China. There are plenty on Google for sale at incredible prices, Ali has a buyer guarantee and most have free shipping. (It’s shipped pre assembled.) some are awesome!!

Dachi Forge H4+2 Seaters Electric Car Golf Cart Golf Buggy - China Golf Cart and Electric Vehicle price (https://m.made-in-china.com/product/Dachi-Forge-H4-2-Seaters-Electric-Car-Golf-Cart-Golf-Buggy-2071533575.html)

[Babydogs]

I recommend club car from cart world in lady lake florida

[galisky]

Carts and Clubs is no longer in business.

They are still in business. We just bought a used golf cart there for a great price.

[rsmurano]

Some people will spend more time on something to save a $1. Shop around to get the best price. My gas golf cart has 11,000 miles on it and it’s less than 3 years old. The villages golf cart dealer put a few big budget items that I had issues with under warranty so I paid nothing, not sure all dealers would have done that, maybe everyone would have. I’ve been happy with the service and the costs in relation to the number of miles we put on the cart.
I also have 24 hour cart service which was included the 1st year by the dealer and I’ve paid for it since, never had to use them and I hope never will.

[Flyers999]

I got mine from craigslist when I moved here eight years ago. 2012 Yamaha YRDE. Still have it.

[pendi99]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

Gas cart from clubs and carts in ocala

[mkjelenbaas]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks
WARNING - do not buy in TV and especially the Sumter location - they are way more expensive and when bringing in for service they will be trying to up sell and replace parts that do not need replacement- YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED - I know because it has happened to me to the tune of over $1,000!

[MikeVillages]

We shopped both in TV, nearby stores and used private sales. We didn't like any of them and were not in a hurry. We ended up buying from an estate, were told it had little use because the owners became sick, passed away a year later, and it took some time to settle the estate. That appears to be true.

The cart has features we did not even know about like downspouts draining rain water under the cart instead of over the side. I see now many golf carts do but some don't.

I get satisfaction doing my own maintenance & know many don't. I will soon update an ongoing thread on golf carts. I’m adding installing a runtime meter for better guidance when to do maintenance, such as oil changes. You can click my username to find my posts.

[lawgolfer]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

There is a nice 2017 Yamaha Quiet Tech that was just listed on this site. It has low miles/low hours, and appears to be very clean. It is a metallic brown color, with high-back seats and looks to be one to check out.

If you want a new cart, go to Country Power in Webster (as you will see from the many postings on this site). They will deliver your cart and service it at your house. One responder to your question said that the prices are the same all over. This is not correct. You are likely to save $3K or so for making the short drive to Webster. Make sure to buy, and use, seat belts. Also Country Power makes its own canvas enclosures and uses the "easy on/off" attachments instead of ordinary "snaps". Wherever you buy your cart, make sure the enclosure does not use old-fashioned "snaps" as they are a royal pain in the a . . to both install and take off. Also, over time, they are more likely to cause a tear in the fabric. Enjoy your cart--it's one of the pleasures of living in The Villages. You can sell your second car the moment your cart arrives at your house. When you drive it to a town square and see 100+ carts parked in all the spaces, it will put a smile on your face. Put a decal of your favorite football, baseball, or college on the front end (just so long as it isn't Ohio State or Michigan)

[ehonour]

Thanks for clarifying. I'm at fault for spreading misinformation at not going through the effort to confirm.

Applause and plaudits for the apology and act of responsibility. In today's world, I'm impressed by it. Congratulations.

[Martyc]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks
We went outside of the Villages. We worked with Jamie Grisales +1 (352) 572-8926. He was great to work with. Let him know I sent you.
Marty Croissant

[Laker14]

Country Villages Power Equipment is THE BEST PLACE TO BUY a golf cart. Great price, Great Service!!!

I don't know if they are the best, but I bought mine there and saved a couple of thousand dollars, and I've been very happy with their service. I have a 5 year history with them and would highly recommend them to anyone.

At least check out their prices before you drop an extra grand or two inside the bubble.

[JMintzer]

Just make sure, if you're buying "outside the bubble" to compare "apples to apples"...

Are you comparing a cart with slightly upgraded seats to one with El Tigre seats (much more $$$)?

Does it have the same other "bells and whistles" that are pretty much standard when buying from TV or Cars & Clubs"?

Some don't care about those things. To others they are very important.

My first cart was a used 2013 Yamaha cart (originally purchased from Carts and clubs). It had upgraded seats with arm rests, but the were only "so-so" comfortable.

I kept it about 16 months.

Then, I bought a used 2017 QuieTech Yamaha with high back El Tigre seats, LED running lights, overhead tray, locking dash (originally sold by TV).

MUCH more comfortable, better suspension, quieter. I'm very happy with the upgrade

[lwmilo]

Carts and Clubs is no longer in business.

Not sure on ur opinion on Carts and Clubs business is no longer in operation ? I observed a C&C repair truck in the Villages last week.. Although could be stolen?

[rherb55]

If you want a gas yamaha cart, I would use Carts and Clubs in Ocala. I saved about $3000 over the TV golf Cart store price. I have heard good things about the Store in Webster also. Service is actually easier with places outside TV because they come and do the maintenance in your driveway so you don't need a loaner cart.

Carts and Clubs is now owned by The Villages….

[Normal]

Country Village Power Equipment - Home (https://www.cvpeyamaha.com/)

Use Country Village Power, identical carts to the Villages but thousands cheaper. It’s in Webster about 20 minutes outside of the Villages and offers all services along with free delivery. Great staff and service! You will see their ad on Goldwingnut videos.

[daca55]

I bought a 2022 new gas golf cart at Carts and Clubs in Ocala. It was cheaper than the Villagers golf cart. Good service and no issues.

[jrandall]

Carts and Clubs is no longer in business.

Carts and Clibs was in business two months ago when they serviced my cart. The Villages has bought them but they are still operating under the Carts and Vlib name.

[PoolBrews]

Just make sure, if you're buying "outside the bubble" to compare "apples to apples"...

Are you comparing a cart with slightly upgraded seats to one with El Tigre seats (much more $$$)?

Does it have the same other "bells and whistles" that are pretty much standard when buying from TV or Cars & Clubs"?

Some don't care about those things. To others they are very important.

My first cart was a used 2013 Yamaha cart (originally purchased from Carts and clubs). It had upgraded seats with arm rests, but the were only "so-so" comfortable.

I kept it about 16 months.

Then, I bought a used 2017 QuieTech Yamaha with high back El Tigre seats, LED running lights, overhead tray, locking dash (originally sold by TV).

MUCH more comfortable, better suspension, quieter. I'm very happy with the upgrade

My previous cart was a 2017 QuieTech Yamaha with high back El Tigre seats. Very good ride. My new cart was bought outside of The Villages at Botero Carts in Ocala. I really wanted a forward facing 4 seater, but the Yamaha version is way too long. The Evolution D5 Ranger is only 11" longer than my old Yamaha.

Even with the upgrade to the larger lithium battery (205ah), it was still $10K less than a comparable Yamaha, Star Ev, Atlas, or Club Car.

I find the ride to be better than my previous Yamaha Drive 2, and I have WAY more features: Self cancelling turn signals, adjustable steering column, regenerative braking, built in soundbar, automotive style steering wheel and dashboard display, 3 point automotive seat belts, rear cup holders and grab bars... the list goes on.

I'm at 1,500 miles now and will never go back to a Yamaha.

[SHIBUMI]

Electric can go 40 miles to 90 miles, no noise, less breakdowns????????


Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

[jimjamuser]

Are you full time? Then rent a cart for week at a time. Try a 2 seat gas and electric. Or a four seat front face or rear face. Then after deciding Gas or Electric, narrow down with your budget, service, and get better seats, because nobody drives 15 minutes in a cart anymore.

That said if you are part time, rent a cart when here, then you don’t have to deal with a cart sitting for endless amounts of time.
Very informative post. Personally, I would point the new Villager in the direction of Electric - carts. They have many advantages. Too many for me to list. I would suggest reading and Googling about E-golf carts. After that pick a dealer - probably outside The Village area if you want the best deal.

[jimjamuser]

I would buy used first from a private buyer. Then as you drive around, you will realize certain things you want that may not be on that cart, or things that are on that cart that you realize you don't need or want. THEN, you can make a uniformed decision when it's time to buy new. BTW...don't forget to take the golf cart safety clinic.....it may just save your life.
Here is a seldom mentioned DOWNSIDE of buying a USED golf cart. Many people "jury rig" the accelerator to attain top speeds of 20 to 30 or more MPH. You can hear the engines straining to go those speeds and it is just like "beating up a horse or a car". Probably 40 % of the owners of gas Golf Cart in The Villages DO this. They MAY undo this before selling so BUYER BEWARE.
.......I am NOT sure whether or not an ELECTRIC cart can be "jacked-up" the same way and whether or not it would hurt an ELECTRICAL MOTOR. I will GUESS that electrical can stand abuses better than gas.

[UpNorth]

Here is a seldom mentioned DOWNSIDE of buying a USED golf cart. Many people "jury rig" the accelerator to attain top speeds of 20 to 30 or more MPH. You can hear the engines straining to go those speeds and it is just like "beating up a horse or a car". Probably 40 % of the owners of gas Golf Cart in The Villages DO this. They MAY undo this before selling so BUYER BEWARE.
.......I am NOT sure whether or not an ELECTRIC cart can be "jacked-up" the same way and whether or not it would hurt an ELECTRICAL MOTOR. I will GUESS that electrical can stand abuses better than gas.

Pretty easy to defeat the mechanical governor on a gas cart and let the engine spin to the max. Likely puts added stress and wear on the engine. Electric carts are harder to do. You need to hook it up to a computer and re-program the speed controller. Pretty sure you could abuse the drive system at the extreme either way.

[melpetezrinski]

Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks

This is to everyone buying a used golf cart. Be careful! There are many unscrupulous sellers trying to take advantage of inexperienced buyers. Look at the serial number for starters. If it's not pictured in the ad, there might be a reason. If it's a Quietech Yamaha, you want it to start with JOD-xxxxxx. Quietech started in 2017, so the serial number will be JOD-0xxxxx, 2018 will be JOD-1xxxxx, 2019 will be JOD-2xxxxx and so on.If it starts with JOB, it is the fleet version, meaning it most likely came off a lease from a golf course and has been reconditioned to look and feel like a PTV. The miles/hours will be unknown, so don't trust the sellers number.

[ptcev711]

[QUOTE=CURLYSANDY;2331373]Hello all - this will be our 1st time buying a gas golf cart, so I guess need advice from the Retailer. Am I correct in assuming that we will get a better deal going outside TV? If so any recommendations please for a trustworthy dealer who would see us "Greenhorns" coming a mile off.... Thanks[/QUOTE

Consider Country Village Power Equipment in Webster. We bought a golf cart there and although further away, got more for our money. they also have some different options, not available in the villages.

[ragtag22]

Go to Carts and Clubs they do some upgrades that others don't and its part of their standard package.

[UpNorth]

This is to everyone buying a used golf cart. Be careful! There are many unscrupulous sellers trying to take advantage of inexperienced buyers. Look at the serial number for starters. If it's not pictured in the ad, there might be a reason. If it's a Quietech Yamaha, you want it to start with JOD-xxxxxx. Quietech started in 2017, so the serial number will be JOD-0xxxxx, 2018 will be JOD-1xxxxx, 2019 will be JOD-2xxxxx and so on.If it starts with JOB, it is the fleet version, meaning it most likely came off a lease from a golf course and has been reconditioned to look and feel like a PTV. The miles/hours will be unknown, so don't trust the sellers number.

Good info. Those fleet carts that get beat up and abused on public golf courses are not the ones you want. I would not be surprised to find out those "reconditioned" Yamahas fall into this category.

[eviej]

The place in Webster will save you thousands.

I too am a first time buyer. What is the name of the place in Webster? Thanks

[mrf0151]

Originally Posted by melpetezrinski View Post
This is to everyone buying a used golf cart. Be careful! There are many unscrupulous sellers trying to take advantage of inexperienced buyers. Look at the serial number for starters. If it's not pictured in the ad, there might be a reason. If it's a Quietech Yamaha, you want it to start with JOD-xxxxxx. Quietech started in 2017, so the serial number will be JOD-0xxxxx, 2018 will be JOD-1xxxxx, 2019 will be JOD-2xxxxx and so on.If it starts with JOB, it is the fleet version, meaning it most likely came off a lease from a golf course and has been reconditioned to look and feel like a PTV. The miles/hours will be unknown, so don't trust the sellers number.

Good info. Also, if your Yamaha Quietech does not have an hour meter built into the fuel gauge then the cart is a "fleet cart" that was used on a golf course. These fleet carts are sold in bulk to dealers. You have no idea how much run time is on these carts. Thes fleet carts are sold by many of the dealers outside the TV bubble. You might think you are getting a great deal but are you really?

[Rango]

No matter what golf cart you buy, regardless of where you buy it, someone has bought the same cart for $1000’s less. :)

[Packer Fan]

Carts and Clubs is now owned by The Villages….

No, it was bought by two people who work for the villages land development group, it is most definitely not owned by The Villages.

[Rocksnap]

Some people will spend more time on something to save a $1. Shop around to get the best price. My gas golf cart has 11,000 miles on it and it’s less than 3 years old. The villages golf cart dealer put a few big budget items that I had issues with under warranty so I paid nothing, not sure all dealers would have done that, maybe everyone would have. I’ve been happy with the service and the costs in relation to the number of miles we put on the cart.
I also have 24 hour cart service which was included the 1st year by the dealer and I’ve paid for it since, never had to use them and I hope never will.

Warranty observation. Don’t know your brand gc, but Yamaha has a very detailed list of parts and warranty time period for the different items on their carts. This warranty can be “resold” to a second owner, by visiting any Yamaha dealer to do this, for a small fee. Can’t go wrong with a Yamaha, as they are designed to be used for 36 holes of golf every day for 25 years. I would love to see all these newer e-carts attempt that feat!
I’m in the market for a new cart, for long term use. A Yamaha gas would be a no brainer. But these 205ah LiPO carts do look enticing.

[Kelevision]

When I bought mine 3 years ago, I checked prices all around and decided on The Villages golf cart. The price was good for what I was looking for. I wanted the EZ-GO lithium and they had a deal for the previous year model. It took about 5 months to get the cart but they gave me a loaner cart for the entire time. Pricing the same cart elsewhere, I got a good price.