INSIGHTS FROM OUR WORKSHOP:

NAVIGATING THE LITHIUM BATTERY UPGRADE WAVE

Date: January 9, 2026

At Intermountain Golf Cars, we’ve been at the forefront of the lithium battery revolution, converting dozens of golf carts each month for both individual owners and fleet operators in Utah and beyond. As demand surges for these efficient, long-lasting upgrades, our technicians have gained invaluable hands-on experience—spotting common pitfalls and best practices that ensure smooth transitions. The lithium wave is transforming how we power golf carts, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are the top four lessons we’ve learned from the shop floor, plus some fresh insights to help you make the switch confidently.

1. True “Drop-In” Requires More Than Just Swapping Batteries While many lithium kits market themselves as simple replacements for lead-acid systems, reality often demands extra steps for seamless integration. We’ve seen issues arise from mismatched wiring harnesses, inadequate cable sizing for higher amp draws, and overlooked voltage regulators in older models. Skipping these can result in erratic performance, such as sudden power loss or overheated components. Our Tip: Always perform a full system audit before installation.  Upgrade to heavier-gauge cables if needed, and calibrate the speed controller for lithium’s consistent voltage output. At Intermountain Golf Cars, we include this as standard practice in our conversions to avoid callbacks and keep your cart running like new.
2. Don’t Overlook the Charger.  A surprising number of post-conversion complaints trace back to using outdated lead-acid chargers, which overcharge or fail to properly taper off, triggering the lithium pack’s built-in protections and leaving carts stranded. We’ve encountered this especially in high-usage scenarios, like community fleets where carts are charged daily. Our Fix: Pair every lithium upgrade with a dedicated smart charger optimized for your battery’s chemistry. We’ve started offering bundled packages at Intermountain Golf Cars that include new chargers.
3. Wiring and Layout: The Foundation of Reliability Lithium batteries deliver power more efficiently, but they amplify any flaws in your cart’s existing setup. Coiled or uneven cables create hotspots, voltage imbalances, and potential fire hazards, which we’ve mitigated in conversions for rugged terrains like Utah’s golf courses. Pro Advice:  Inspect all wiring and terminal ends to insure the integrity of the power delivery system, and also be sure torque connections are to spec.

Bonus Lesson: Prioritize Customer Education and Aftercare Lithium isn’t “set it and forget it”—owners need to know about optimal storage (above freezing, partial charge), avoiding deep discharges, and regular BMS checks. We’ve turned this into an opportunity by hosting free workshops at our Sandy location, covering everything from basic maintenance to troubleshooting error codes. This builds loyalty and prevents minor issues from becoming major headaches, while highlighting long-term savings: lithium can last 5-8 years versus 3-4 for lead-acid, reducing costs significantly over time.

Final Thought The lithium upgrade wave is accelerating the golf cart industry toward greener, more reliable mobility, but success hinges on expertise and attention to detail. At Intermountain Golf Cars, we’re committed to doing conversions right the first time, drawing from our real-world experience to deliver upgrades that enhance performance and peace of mind. Whether you’re a weekend golfer or managing a resort fleet, reach out—we’re here to power your next adventure.

About Intermountain Golf Cars:  Intermountain Golf Cars in Sandy, Utah, with over 40 years in golf cart sales, maintenance, and rentals and sustainable tech integrations, helping clients maximize their investments in an evolving market. Contact us at 801-255-8828 or visit intermountaingolfcars.com for more.

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