When buying a used gas golf cart
 

what should I investigate. Do you get a Title (like a car) a Bill of Sale?

Just looking for ideas... so I don't kick myself after buying one.

Thank you

There is no title, just a bill of sale; unless its a LSV

Great question! I never thought of that.

Has there been any problems with someone buying a stolen cart? I wouldn't think so but but who knows these days! Does the cart have something like a VIN number?

Carts that can be configured as ‘STREET LEGAL’ will have a vin number whether they are street legal or not. Carts that cannot become street legal may or may not have vin numbers, depends on age and the manufacturer.

Don

Not true, I received a title when I purchased my new Yamaha Golf Cart, not that you need it for anything after, but, you do get a title.

I would consider buying used from the Villages Golf Carts, or Carts & Clubs in Ocala. Some of the used carts may have a limited warranty. Were I to buy from a private owner, I would look for a villager owned cart. One that is being sold because they are buying a newer one, they're moving, or in an estate.
I think paying by bank check or money order (with a copy for yourself) is safer when dealing with anyone other than a licensed dealer. And it wouldn't be a bad idea to have one of the mentioned dealers service and inspect the cart, and point out any current or future problems. Good luck!

Something contradictory with what is being stated in some of these replies. I purchased one 2010 Yamaha from The Villages, and also a 2010 from a private party here. Neither one came with a title but I did receive receipts for both.

I've purchased two used carts from owners living in The Villages.
No titles, each time I've received a Bill of Sale signed by the owner.

We have purchased 2 used golf carts and you just need a bill of sale with the serial number.

I also got a title a title (actually, a certificate of origin) from The Villages which doesnt prove ownership. I think a title is issued by the state of Florida?.

I would also be concerned of the condition of the cart? Just like buying used car. Just like car some carts are built/engineered better than others. Basically you have to be able to look over the cart see if it's still road worthy. Inspect the front end for loosness, tires for wear that could indicate alignment problem and brakes. Now on to the lights and drive train.

Some people claim to put 3 or 4 thousand miles or more year on there carts. So a five year old cart could be totally worn out depending on brand/maintenance IMO. Most newer carts have speedometer with mileage indicator. Which may or may not give clue on the condition?

I would have said you make up a bill of sale. For those that have titles is it registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles like a car or with the County clerk like a home title? If not registered with a governmental entity I would think it is a bill of sale.

Correct, a Certificate of origin is not a title. A title is issued by the state dept of motor vehicles.