Choosing a Golf Cart Dealer: What to Look For and What to Avoid
June 23, 2023.
Written by: Amber Ripley
Did you know?: Toto never sang about missing the rains down in Africa, they sang about BLESSING the rains?!?! I know. It blew my mind too.
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When it comes to purchasing a golf cart, no matter what your end goal is, finding the right seller is key. But it can be tricky.
We've all seen the unbelievable deals on outlets like Facebook Marketplace, but these sales are final and accompanied by no post-purchase support or protection, leaving you with a lot of risk.
A reputable and reliable golf cart dealer, however, can provide you with a quality golf cart that both meets your needs and offers post-purchase service and assistance.
In today's article, we will discuss what to consider when choosing a golf cart dealer and provide insights on what to look for and what to avoid.
Whether you're in the market for one of the classics: EZGO, Club Car, or Yamaha, or something a little more modern such as ICON EV, GEM Car, Advanced EV, or anything else... the following advice will apply to anyone in the Golf Cart or LSV (low-speed vehicle) market.
Once you've made your selection, come right back here to our store for all the parts and accessories to customize your new favorite vehicle!
First up... focus on the good stuff
What to Look for in a Golf Cart Dealer
1. Reputation and Experience
One of the first aspects to consider is the reputation and experience of the golf cart dealer. Look for dealers with a solid track record and positive customer reviews. Seek out dealerships that have been in the industry for several years, as their experience demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction.
2. Authorized Dealer Status
When considering a golf cart dealer, it's essential to check if they are an authorized dealer for the brands you are interested in, such as EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha. Authorized dealers have direct access to the manufacturers, ensuring genuine parts, warranties, and expert product knowledge. They are more likely to offer reliable customer support and assistance.
3. Product Range and Customization Options
A quality golf cart dealer should have a diverse range of golf carts available that cater to different budgets, preferences, and specifications. They should offer models from reputable brands like EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha. Additionally, the dealer should provide customization options, allowing you to personalize your golf cart to meet your specific requirements.
4. Service and Maintenance
Consider the service and maintenance facilities offered by the dealer. Do they have an on-site service department? Are they equipped to handle repairs and regular maintenance tasks? A reputable dealer will have a dedicated service team with certified technicians who can provide professional care for your golf cart. Inquire about their after-sales service policies, including warranty coverage and routine maintenance packages.
5. Pricing and Financing Options
Compare prices among different dealers to ensure you're getting a fair deal. Beware of unusually low prices, as they may indicate inferior quality or unauthorized reselling. Reputable dealerships often offer competitive pricing while maintaining the value and reliability of the golf carts they sell. Additionally, inquire about financing options if you need assistance with payment plans.
6. Test Drives and Demonstrations
To assess the quality and performance of a golf cart, take advantage of test drive opportunities provided by the dealer. Test driving allows you to evaluate the comfort, handling, acceleration, and braking of the golf cart. Furthermore, dealers should be willing to demonstrate the features and functionalities of different models, ensuring you make an informed decision.
7. Customer Support and Reviews
Research customer reviews and testimonials about the dealer you're considering. Positive reviews indicate satisfied customers and a dealer's commitment to quality and service. Check if the dealer is responsive to customer queries and concerns. Prompt and effective communication is essential, especially when it comes to addressing any issues that may arise after your purchase.
Don't turn a blind eye to these red flags...
What to Avoid in a Golf Cart Dealer:
1. Unlicensed or Unauthorized Dealers
Avoid working with dealers who are unlicensed or unauthorized to sell specific brands. These dealers may not have access to genuine parts, and their products may lack proper warranty coverage.
2. Lack of Transparent Pricing
Beware of dealers who are not transparent about pricing or add hidden charges. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the total cost, including any additional fees or taxes.
3. Limited After-Sales Support
Steer clear of dealerships that do not prioritize customer support or have limited service capabilities. A lack of after-sales support can lead to difficulties in getting repairs, maintenance, and parts replacements when needed.
4. Poor Reviews and Customer Feedback
Negative reviews and poor customer feedback are clear indicators of a subpar dealer. If previous customers consistently report negative experiences, it's best to avoid these dealerships to prevent potential disappointments.
The Purchasing Power is Yours
Choosing the right golf cart dealer is absolutely crucial to ensure a smooth and satisfactory buying experience. Prioritize reputation, authorized dealer status, product range, service and maintenance capabilities, pricing transparency, and customer support when making your decision.
By considering these factors and avoiding unlicensed dealers or those with poor reviews, you can find a reputable dealer that offers high-quality golf carts from brands like EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha.
Invest your time in research, ask questions, and take test drives to make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences, during and after the sale.
Happy Golf Cart Shopping!
What would you get if you crossed a scientist and a golf cart? It would be our Senior Content Writer, Amber Ripley! If you have a question, she knows how to research to bring you the information you need. Before joining the ranks at Golf Cart Stuff™, Amber was in sales and marketing for industrial tool and die products, so digging into all the nitty gritty, technical details about Golf Carts is par for the course…In the words of a famous songwriter: “If you got a problem, Yo! She’ll solve it!”
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