Lithium vs. lead-acid golf cart batteries

The short answer

If you’ll keep the cart a few more years, lithium is usually worth it. It goes farther, charges faster, weighs less and needs no maintenance. Lead-acid still makes sense when you’re selling soon or barely drive the cart.

How they compare

• RangeLithium holds its range as it ages. Lead-acid fades as the pack wears.
• ChargingLithium charges faster and doesn’t mind a partial charge.
• WeightA lithium pack weighs far less than a set of lead-acid batteries, so the cart feels quicker.
• MaintenanceLithium needs none. Lead-acid needs distilled water and clean terminals.
• LifespanLead-acid packs usually last about four to six years. Lithium typically lasts much longer.
• Up-front costLead-acid costs less to buy. Lithium usually costs less over the life of the cart.

Watch out for the charger

Lithium packs need a charger made for lithium. Most lead-acid chargers aren’t, so plan on a new charger when you switch. We check yours and include one in the quote if you need it.

When lead-acid still makes sense

If you’re selling the cart within a year, a fresh lead-acid pack costs less and still helps the sale. If the cart sits most of the year, lead-acid works fine as long as you keep it charged and watered.

How to switch

Most 48-volt carts take our popular 105Ah lithium pack. Send us your make, model and year and we’ll quote the right pack and install it in our shop. See lithium conversions.