Why won't my golf cart battery hold a charge?

If your golf cart battery won’t hold a charge, here are some common reasons and troubleshooting steps:

Possible Causes:

1. Old or Worn-Out Battery – Golf cart batteries typically last 4-6 years. If yours are older, they may not hold a charge anymore.
2. Corroded Battery Terminals – Corrosion can create resistance, preventing proper charging.
3. Low Water Levels (For Lead-Acid Batteries) – If the electrolyte levels are low, the battery may not charge correctly.
4. Sulfation Build-Up – Lead sulfate crystals can form on the plates over time, reducing the battery’s capacity.
5. Faulty Charger – The issue may be with the charger, not the battery. Test with another charger if possible.
6. Loose or Damaged Connections – Check for loose or frayed wires that could prevent the battery from charging properly.
7. Parasitic Drain – Accessories like lights, radios, or GPS units can slowly drain the battery if left connected.
8. Bad Cell in the Battery – If one or more cells in the battery are bad, it won’t hold a charge properly.

Troubleshooting Steps:

✅ Check the Water Levels – If you have lead-acid batteries, make sure the water level is covering the plates. Use distilled water if needed.
✅ Clean Battery Terminals – Scrub off any corrosion with a baking soda and water mixture, then rinse and dry.
✅ Test the Charger – Plug in the charger and check if it’s outputting the correct voltage.
✅ Load Test the Battery – Use a battery load tester to check if it holds a charge under load.
✅ Inspect for Loose Wires – Tighten and clean all cable connections.
✅ Check for Parasitic Drain – Disconnect the battery after charging and see if it holds power longer.