Do Golf Carts Use Gas in 2023?

Golf carts come in two ways: gas-powered and electric carts. The gas-powered golf carts run on combustion engines with two and four-stroke engine models. While modern versions are purely electric, most golf carts still run on gas and don’t use batteries to power up.

So, do golf carts use gas? Golf carts use gas and run on 87 octanes for their engine. They may not be able to operate on higher octane engines because of the size of the carts and the engine’s low compression. Gas-powered golf carts are generally ethanol-free and have fuel stabilizers since golf carts don’t move as much as cars.

87 octane is an ideal gas for golf carts as it has less than 10% ethanol and most golf cart manufacturers do not recommend gas with higher ethanol content, leading to the wear of rubber components, fuel lines, and pumps. It also leads to frequent breakdowns and the risk of the cart not powering up at all.

Plus, golf carts are only made to operate at maximum speeds of 30mph to 35mph if they are street legal.

That means golf cart engines do not need much power like cars, so fuels that have more octane can potentially damage the engine.

How Much Gas Does A Golf Cart Use?

Just like cars, gas golf carts run on gasoline. Most standard models of golf carts hold around five to six gallons of gas. Assuming the cart runs on 30 miles per gallon, a full tank golf cart should run for about 150 miles.

For instance, the Yamaha gas golf cart can hold up to 6.7 gallons, while the Club Car with 12L holds about 6.8 gallons.

Is 87 Octane the Best Fuel For Golf Carts?

As mentioned before, 87 octane is the preferred gas for golf carts with 10% ethanol content. But what exactly is the 87 Octane gas? It is the regular gas you find in gas stations across the United States, also known as regular unleaded gas.

High ethanol content can damage your golf cart’s engine unless you live in a high-altitude area (such as Denver, Colorado). Those living in areas above sea level rarely have issues when using gasoline with slightly higher ethanol content. 

If your golf cart sits for too long, a fuel stabilizer will do fine. It is especially important when you have to put away the golf cart for winter. The fuel stabilizer contains antioxidants to deter the liquid from evaporating. It also prevents byproducts like resin from forming and sticking in the engine, causing more mechanical problems. 

Also, when the water in the gas chamber experiences sudden temperature changes, it separates from the gas and lowers the octane level by around 3 points. So, your new octane will be 84 Octane. 

How Can I Keep My Golf Cart Fuel System In Good Condition?

Apart from using the recommended fuel, you can use a couple of preventative measures to ensure your golf cart’s engine is optimal. 

Firstly, wash your cap and lid area clean to prevent dust, leaves, grass, or any other debris from getting into your fuel system. Also, ensure your golf cart is well-serviced to prevent future malfunctions caused by neglect. Finally, keep tabs on the service date and do regular checkups from a reliable provider with excellent experience with golf carts. 

Check the oil and gas after every 100 hours to ensure everything is clean and clear. Also, keep tabs on the oil every month or so, and if you see it become mucky, consider changing it immediately. Also, if it has been long since you took your cart for a ride, you may need to change the oil. 

Oil can cause your engine to perform poorly when left to sit for a while due to air intake. That’s why the electric golf cart is a much more popular option in maintenance and risk of mechanical issues. 

Gas Golf Cart Vs. Electric Golf Cart

Anyone who has thought of buying a golf cart has to decide whether to buy a gas or electric golf cart. Each kind of golf cart has unique uses, pros, and cons. Consider these points when choosing between the two:

Strength and Durability

Whenever folks discuss the strength of golf carts, people think gas golf carts pack more power than electric ones. Of course, this was true when the 36v models were around. But with the 48v carts coming through, electric golf carts have almost the same power or even better than the gas alternatives.

Common 48v electric models include EZGO and Yamaha Electric carts. What’s more, they are convenient to ride and may actually last longer than gas golf carts.

Pollution

Gas-powered golf carts run on gasoline known to produce carbon monoxide emissions. Though newer models have lower emissions, it is still a concern to the environment as the American golf cart market is expected to grow by 3.9% by 2026.

On the other hand, electric golf carts run on rechargeable golf cart batteries and produce no emissions or fumes. As a result, they are popular due to their positive environmental effects and eco-friendliness over gas alternatives.

Noise Level 

Electric golf carts are fast and move quietly. They barely make any noise and are an attractive option for golfers who like to move in silence. Gas-powered golf carts are a bit noisy, but recent models are quieter. If the noise level concerns your purchase, consider electric golf carts.

Conclusion: Do Golf Carts Run on Gasoline?

As gas golf cart owners or buyers, it’s crucial to understand the type and grade of fuel in your cart. For example, older models would do fine on 87 octanes, while the newer ones may vary according to the engine’s compressor.

If you’re unsure of the recommendations on fuel level, it is best to communicate with the supplier or manufacturer before you use any type of fuel.

All in all, gas-powered golf carts are steady operators and can sometimes be allowed to operate on roads. On the other hand, street legal carts have more amenities and full functionality and maneuverability options.