Since a golf cart is a motorized vehicle, it requires oil to run.  If you use your cart regularly, oiling at timely intervals is essential. Oiling your cart is critical to the efficiency and protection of the engine. Initially, you should change the engine oil at an interval of 125 hours of running or filter it annually. Changing oil helps remove particles that cause damage, and keeps engines at peak condition.  We will be discussing this topic later on.

Does a Golf Cart Need to Have its Oil Changed?

Yes, a golf cart needs to change its oil depending upon the frequency of use. A golf cart carries both the golf kit along with the golfers.  If you golf or simply use the cart often, change the oil more often for the better working condition of the carts engine. A golf cart should also undergo regular maintenance like any other vehicle.

EZ-GO recommends owners change their oil at 125 hours of operation or at least twice a year. If you don’t use your cart often, you should still change your oil regularly because otherwise, it can rust in your engine. So, yes, your golf cart needs to have its oil changed often. Golf oil needs to change to optimize your machine and operation.

Do Both Electric and Gas Need the Oil Changed?

No, electric carts do not contain oil. The electric motor functions before the internal gas engine. Gas vehicles need oil to lubricate several parts of the car, while electric ones don’t. Electric and gas carts get serviced like any other vehicle. You can take your electric cart for servicing after it has operated for 5,000-10,000 miles. Gasoline engines require an oil change just as regular engine oil, but electric carts need battery maintenance.

How Often Do You Need to Change Golf Cart Oil?

One of the most asked questions is how frequently you should change your golf cart’s oil. According to EZ-GO, the answer is straightforward: you should change your cart oil every 125 hours of operation for smoothest functioning and better optimization of your engine oil. At least change it twice a year for better stimulation of the engine. Lifted or non-lifted stocks both require an oil change and service regularly. Overall, regular oil changing stimulates your engines and optimizes your workflow.

What Type of Oil does a Golf Cart Use?

Different brands suggest certain types of oil, but the most generic choices remain as motor oil, engine oil, or gear oil. EZ-GO suggests or uses 10W-30 grade engine oil. However, Club Car manually calls SAE 30w oil. You may use a heavier weight of gear oil for added protection. In this case, electric vehicles don’t require any oil because it depends upon the battery, not on the oil.

Electric cars have less than fifty moving objects inside the vehicle whereas, and gasoline has more than 1,000. There are funnels that you can use for filling oil. Oil filters are also found in EZ-GO and Club cart oil. Oil grade is a term that relates to oil’s performance at an operating temperature. The higher grade of the oil, higher the thickness.

How Much Oil does a Golf Cart Need?

You can fill your cart with engine or motor oil by placing a funnel on the open oil cap and then pouring around 1 1/4 quarts of oil, then screw the top of the oil cap back on tight and let it be for 1 minute. The quantity of oils depends upon the capacity of the motor. Brands like EZ-GO recommend filling their carts with around 6 cups of motor oil. Golf carts have about 5-6 gallons of power in them. These gallons can last up to 40 miles. In electric carts, fully charged batteries can last up to 35 miles until required to charge again. The universal size of the engine in a golf cart is around 10-12 horsepower.

Safety Precautions Before You Begin

Safety always comes first when working on your golf cart. Follow these precautions before starting an oil change:

1. Cool the Engine
   Warm oil drains more easily, but never work on a hot engine. Run the cart for just a minute to warm up the oil, then turn it off and allow it to cool for 15–20 minutes.

2. Park Comfortably
   Make sure your cart is parked on a level surface to ensure the oil drains completely. Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to prevent rolling.

3. Power Off Completely
   Switch the key to the OFF position and set the gear lever to NEUTRAL. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and, if applicable, place the Run/Tow switch into the TOW position.

4. Safeguard Yourself
   Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from splashes. Use durable gloves to keep oil off your hands. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from flames or smoking materials.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Gather these items before starting your oil change to make the process smooth and mess-free:

• Wrench or Socket (Check whether your model’s oil drain plug needs a 14mm socket or another size)
• Oil Drain Pan (Enough to hold at least 2 quarts of oil)
• Funnel (To help pour in new oil)
• Replacement Engine Oil (Refer to your Club Car’s manual for the correct type and amount)
• Oil Filter (If your engine uses one; many Club Car models do)
• Rags or Paper Towels (For cleaning spills and wiping the dipstick)
• Gloves and Safety Glasses (For protection)
• Wheel Chocks (To keep the cart stable)

Optional items:

• New Drain Plug Gasket (Some models require a replacement gasket to prevent oil leaks)
• Jack and Jack Stands (Helpful if your cart sits low, though not strictly necessary)

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

1. Prepare Your Golf Cart

Ensure the cart is stable on level ground. Remove the spark plug wire and disconnect the battery cables (negative first, then positive).

2. Locate the Oil Components

Open the engine compartment. Locate the oil drain plug on the underside of the engine and the oil fill cap or dipstick near the top. Wipe these areas clean with a rag.

3. Drain the Old Oil

Place the oil drain pan underneath the drain plug. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Oil will begin to flow out, so hold onto the plug and allow the oil to drain completely.

4. Clean and Replace the Drain Plug

Inspect the plug and any accompanying gasket. Replace the gasket if worn. Reinsert the plug by hand and tighten it securely with a wrench without overtightening.

5. Replace the Oil Filter (If Applicable)

If your engine has an oil filter:

• Remove the old filter by unscrewing it carefully.
• Check that the rubber gasket comes off with it.
• Rub a little clean oil onto the gasket of the new filter.
• Screw on the new filter by hand until snug, then tighten an additional quarter turn (do not overtighten).

6. Add New Engine Oil

Remove the oil fill cap or dipstick and insert a clean funnel. Pour the new oil in slowly, adding about 3/4 of the recommended amount at first. Check the dipstick, then add more as needed until the oil reaches the “Full” line. Avoid overfilling.

7. Reconnect and Test

Reattach the spark plug wire and reconnect the battery cables (positive first, then negative). Turn the key to start the engine, letting it run briefly to circulate the new oil. Check for any leaks around the drain plug or filter.

8. Final Oil Check

Turn the engine off and recheck the oil level. Top off if needed by adding a small amount at a time.

9. Clean Up

Dispose of the old oil and filter responsibly. Wipe away spills and ensure everything is neat.

When to Change the Oil

A good rule of thumb is to change the oil every 100–125 hours of operation or at least once a year. For new carts, complete the first oil change after 100 hours, then follow regular intervals.

Contact J’s Golf Carts

Different golf cart brands recommend different oils and batteries for their gas and electric carts.  J’s Golf Carts in Holly Springs, North Carolina offers a variety of different materials to suit the needs of each brand of cart.  We also can service your cart for you, including oil changes!  If you have any questions or concerns regarding the oil or battery of your golf cart, we are happy to help.  Feel free to contact us today using the form below so we can address your questions.  We look forward to hearing from you soon!