Can You Use a Car Battery Charger to Charge a Golf Cart?

Golf cart batteries like many marine batteries are deep cycle batteries. Deep cycle batteries hold a charge for a much longer period of time than do other types of batteries, according to BatteryStuff. Deep cycle batteries can be used longer before they need to be recharged, making them ideal for boats and golf carts. When your golf cart battery needs to be recharged, you can use a car battery charger as long as a few precautions are taken.

Use the Proper Voltage

Most car battery chargers are rated for either 12-volt or 6-volt applications, with a button to switch back and forth between the two types. Check your golf cart batteries to determine what voltage they are before you begin. Adjust the car battery charger to the correct voltage.

Hook Up the Battery

Use a wrench to disconnect the battery cables from the battery and then lift the battery out of the golf car. Place the battery on a clear work bench and connect the positive (red) wire to the positive battery terminal and the ground (black) wire to the negative battery terminal.

Watch the Charge

Plug the battery charger into an outlet and then turn it on to begin charging the battery. Make sure to periodically check the charge meter on the charger to assure that the battery does not get over charged. In general, the battery should not sit on the charger for longer than six hours.