While plenty of reputable golf cart brands are out there, it’s important to be aware of the ones that may not be worth your investment.
This post lists the top 8 Golf Cart Brands to Avoid in 2024.
These brands may not meet your expectations, from poor-quality materials and construction to subpar customer service.
So, before making your next golf cart purchase, check out our list of the worst cart brands and the most reliable ones.
Golf Cart Brands to Avoid: Top 8 Worst Ones
These are the top 8 golf cart brands to avoid:
1. Crossfire Golf Cart
The Crossfire is one of the few golf carts that have UTV vibes available in the market today. While this is a plus, this golf cart isn’t a high-quality catch.
It comes with an engine displacement of 177cc four stroke single cylinder engine, a speed of 25.48 mph, with a horsepower of 9.65.
It also has a ground clearance of 6.1 inches and various safety features like horns, hydraulic brakes, and seatbelts.
The crossfire golf cart is on our list because with its engine displacement of 177cc offering a speed of 25mph, the engine is bound to wear out very easily, leaving you with the trouble of replacing the engine at a cost only for it to wear out again in little time.
- Great speed level.
- Unique safety accessories.
- Large fuel capacity.
- Enough ground clearance.
- Great on various terrains.
- Strong engine.
- Large fuel capacity.
- You might encounter some battery issues with this cart.
- You might experience issues with the electric starter with time.
- You might not readily find parts and accessories for this golf cart.
2. Epic Golf Cart
The Epic golf cart has 2-seater, 4-seater, and 6-seater models.
It also features an AGM battery, 5kW motor, 4-wheel disc brakes, and 4-wheel independent suspension.
- It works well in various terrains.
- It has a 2-year warranty.
- It has a durable body frame.
- Its speed level is great.
- It comes with safety accessories.
- It has battery problems.
- It is difficult to start.
Due to these problems, using this golf cart could be very difficult and require you always to repair something.
3. Tomberlin Golf Carts
Tomberlin Golf Carts are designed for use on the golf course or the street with a top speed of 19.9 mph and an LSV speed limit of 25 mph.
Features include a full-screen reverse camera, e-brake parking, and a horn. Despite all these features, you need to avoid them when looking for a golf cart to buy.
We have put this on this list because, despite this golf cart’s features, it has many problems with the power and motor.
It also comes with defective parts sometimes.
- It has an electric power steering.
- It is eco-friendly.
- It has a quiet engine.
- Doesn't need too much maintenance.
- It can be used to run on roads and golf courses.
- It has a good top speed.
- It has a nice classic look.
- Comes in varied colors.
- It doesn’t have much power.
- When there is no power, you may not be able to charge or use this golf cart.
4. Royal EV Golf Cart
The Royal EV Golf Cart comprises features such as a 5 kW motor, retractable dual seat belts, a horn, and a reversing camera for safety.
Also, this wagon steers well over rough terrain with a top speed of 20-25 mph, ground clearance of 12 inches, and a wheelbase of 67 inches. We will show you why you need to avoid it.
This golf cart is on the list because of its regular defective direction switch, speed control problems, and motor-related problems.
It will cost a lot to maintain, and you might always have to call in a mechanic. Because it can be so problematic, we advise that you avoid it.
- Amazing speed level.
- Its frame is strong and durable.
- Good weight capacity.
- It comes with retractable seat belts.
- Its ground clearance allows for comfy rides
- through various terrains.
- It has good safety features.
- The direction switch begins to deteriorate over time.
- Can be unnecessarily expensive.
- This cart experiences motor-related issues from time to time.
5. Bintelli Golf Cart
Bintelli golf carts are American-made golf carts that offer all the features at an affordable price.
This cart was tested and found to be comfortable, innovative, and with necessary accessories like a power windshield, two-tone seats, and a rear camera. It has a top speed of 25 MPH.
Even though this golf cart has a few features that make it a good golf cart, the problems that will arise as you use it are enough for you to avoid them.
- It has a good performance.
- It offers sleek style options.
- It is strong enough to carry all your load.
- The engine of these carts is quite small.
- This golf cart is not designed to run on incline roads.
- The serial number plate only states “Electric Vehicle” and not a brand name.
6. Icon Golf Cart
The Icon golf cart has several features. One aspect that sets them apart is that they’re fully loaded, regardless of the model you’re considering.
It has a speed of 25 MPH, 4.5 inches of ground clearance, and is powered by a 48 VAC, 4 kW Toyota motor.
While this golf cart has some advantages, as mentioned above, it also has some disadvantages. These Icon Golf cart problems are why I included this cart in the Golf Cart Brands to Avoid list.
- Ease of maintenance due to electrical nature and few moving parts.
- High speed on flat roads.
- Smooth and quiet performance on road.
- No gas cart option for gas golf cart enthusiasts.
- It weighs more than those offered by other manufacturers.
- Its large size may restrict parking in tight or confined spaces.
7. Evolution Golf Cart
The Evolution golf cart has TPO injection molding, a body-color-matched dashboard, two-tone seats, a Bluetooth car app connection, and aluminum packaging.
Even though this golf cart has gained popularity in Asia and even the United States, it is well known that it should be avoided because of the many problems that come with using it.
Read this article on Evolution Golf Cart Problems for DIY solutions in case you face any problems using your evolution golf cart.
- It has a nice large touchscreen that is easy to read.
- The cart seat is two-tone making it perfect for the body color.
- It has an extended 5-year warranty.
- Less Range of under 50 miles.
- The stock seats could have been made better.
- Unlike other brands, it doesn't offer a smooth ride on the golf course.
- Lack of vertical adjustment on the side mirrors.
8. GEM Golf Cart
Gem golf carts offer a top speed of about 25 MPH, LED headlights, front or rear bumper, rear carrier options, tilt steering, beacon light, a rear window, and electronic power steering.
- Some of the carts are street-legal.
- It is ideal for large operations.
- The vehicle has a sturdy frame and an improved suspension.
- It doesn’t turn very well in tight areas.
It is not the most economical choice for small locations.
Golf Cart Brands to Avoid: Video Overview
This is my video overview of the top Golf Cart Brands to Avoid:
If you are looking for a high end model, check out this article on the top Luxury Golf Cart Brands.
10 Reasons to Avoid the Worst Golf Cart Brands
These are the reasons to avoid the worst golf cart brands:
- Electric starter problems.
- Some don’t offer a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Difficulty in finding parts and accessories.
- Cart battery problems.
- Difficulty in maneuvering tight areas.
- Inadequate battery power.
- Some golf carts don’t have a gas cart option for gas golf cart enthusiasts.
- Uncomfortable seats.
- Problems with the lights.
- Battery charger problems.
How to Identify Golf Cart Brands to Avoid
Follow these steps to identify Golf Cart Brands to Avoid:
- Research Customer Reviews:
- Search online for customer reviews of the brand.
- Look for patterns in complaints. If multiple customers report similar issues, that’s a red flag.
- Pay attention to reviews about the cart’s performance, battery life, and overall durability.
- Inquire About Warranty:
- A reputable brand will offer a good warranty that covers major components.
- A short warranty or numerous exclusions might indicate a lack of confidence in the product’s quality.
- Assess Parts Availability:
- Check if replacement parts for the brand are readily available.
- Brands with scarce parts can make repairs expensive and time-consuming.
- Check Recall History:
- Look up the brand’s recall history online.
- Frequent recalls can indicate quality control issues.
- Investigate Resale Value:
- Brands with a poor resale value may indicate that they don’t hold up well over time or are not in demand.
- Visit Dealerships:
- Talk to dealers who sell various brands.
- Ask them about the return and repair rates for the brand in question.
- Consider Brand Longevity:
- Brands in the market for a long time generally have a track record to consider.
- Newer brands might not have established their reputation yet, so exercise caution.
- Look into Customer Service:
- How easy is it to contact the brand’s customer service?
- A brand with poor customer service can be a nightmare to deal with if problems arise.
- Evaluate Price vs. Features:
- A suspiciously low price might mean the brand has cut corners on quality.
- Ensure you’re getting value for your money. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Ask for Recommendations:
- Talk to fellow golfers, course managers, or mechanics who service golf carts.
- They can offer insights into which brands have the most issues.
- Test Drive:
- If possible, test drive a cart from the brand you’re considering.
- Pay attention to its handling, braking, acceleration, and overall feel.
Top 4 Most Reliable Golf Cart Brand
These are the top 4 Most Reliable Golf Cart Brand:
1. Club Car:
Overview: Club Car has been manufacturing golf carts since 1958. They are known for their durability and long-lasting build quality.
Noteworthy Features: Aluminum frames that resist rust and corrosion, high-quality engineering, and a wide range of customization options.
Popular Models: Precedent, Tempo, Onward.
2. EZGO
Overview: A subsidiary of Textron, EZGO has been in the golf cart industry since 1954 and is recognized for its innovative designs and dependable performance.
Noteworthy Features: Energy-efficient electric drivetrains, comfortable seating, and an ergonomic design.
Popular Models: RXV, TXT, Freedom, Liberty.
3. Yamaha
Overview: While Yamaha is perhaps more famous for its motorcycles and musical instruments, it’s also a major player in the golf cart industry, known for its reliability and innovative features.
Noteworthy Features: QuietTech EFI technology, independent rear suspension, and spacious interiors.
Popular Models: Drive2, Adventurer.
4. Star EV
Overview: Star EV focuses on electric vehicles and is known for building high-quality, eco-friendly golf carts.
Noteworthy Features: AC drive motor, long battery life, and numerous customization options.
Popular Models: Sirius, Classic, Sport.
FAQs on Golf Cart Brands to Avoid
These are the most frequently asked questions on Golf Cart Brands to Avoid:
Why is it essential to choose a reputable golf cart brand?
Choosing a reputable brand ensures you’re investing in a product that has been tested for quality, safety, and durability. A reliable golf cart will give you fewer problems, require less maintenance, and generally offer a better return on investment.
Are newer golf cart brands always riskier than established ones?
Not necessarily. While established brands have a track record you can refer to, newer brands can still produce high-quality carts.
What are the common issues with unreliable golf cart brands?
Frequent breakdowns, shorter battery life, subpar performance, expensive replacement parts, poor customer service, and a lack of availability for parts and service.
How can I check the reliability of a golf cart brand?
Research online reviews, speak with current owners, check the brand’s recall history, inquire about the warranty offered, and consult with mechanics who service golf carts.
Do golf cart brands to avoid always have lower prices?
While a suspiciously low price might be a red flag, it’s not the sole indicator of quality. Some unreliable brands might still be pricey.
Conclusion
The carts above are listed as golf cart brands to avoid because they have many problems. Despite their characteristics, they are expensive to maintain and repair, so I would not recommend them. I only recommend you buy one from our most reliable golf cart brand list.
