Golf Cart Lithium Battery Conversion: Step-by-Step Upgrade Guide (2026)

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A golf cart lithium battery conversion is the single biggest performance upgrade you can make. You will drop 200+ pounds of dead weight, gain 50-100% more range per charge, and never check water levels or clean corroded terminals again. The upfront cost is higher, but the math works out in lithium's favor within 3-5 years.

This guide walks through everything: which lithium battery to buy for your specific cart, how to install it yourself, what the conversion actually costs, and the mistakes that trip up first-timers. Whether you own a Club Car, EZGO, or Yamaha, you will find cart-specific instructions below.

Why Convert to Lithium LiFePO4 Batteries?

If you already know you want lithium and just need to pick a battery, skip to the comparison table. For a deeper breakdown of battery types and chemistries, see our complete golf cart battery guide.

Here is the short version of why lithium wins:

Performance gains:

• Range: 40-60 miles per charge versus 25-35 for lead-acid. See our full range guide for details.
• Weight: Drop 200-300 pounds. Your cart accelerates faster, climbs hills easier, and brakes shorter. Learn more about golf cart weight factors.
• Power consistency: Lead-acid voltage sags as the battery drains, slowing your cart gradually. Lithium delivers full power from 100% to 10% charge.
• Charge time: 3-5 hours for lithium versus 8-10 hours for lead-acid.
• Speed: Many owners report a noticeable speed increase after conversion, simply from the weight reduction. Our speed guide covers how batteries affect top speed.

Financial case:

• Lead-acid batteries last 4-6 years. Over 10 years, you will buy 2-3 sets at $800-$1,500 each, plus spend hours on monthly maintenance.
• One lithium battery lasts 10-20 years. Zero maintenance. Lower electricity costs (95% charge efficiency versus 70-80% for lead-acid).
• Breakeven point: 3-5 years for most owners, faster for high-usage carts.

Zero maintenance:

• No more checking water levels monthly
• No more cleaning corroded terminals
• No more equalization charges
• No more acid spills or sulfur smell

For a complete maintenance comparison, check our golf cart maintenance guide.

What You Need for the Conversion

Before you order a battery, make sure you know your cart's voltage system and have the right supplies on hand.

Step 1: Identify Your Voltage System

Count your existing batteries and check their voltage labels:

Most carts manufactured after 2008 use 48-volt systems. If you are not sure, check the owner's manual or count the batteries.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You likely already own most of what you need:

• Socket wrench set (10mm, 13mm, and 5/16" are most common for battery terminals)
• Wire crimpers and wire strippers
• Torque wrench (for terminal connections)
• Zip ties and electrical tape
• Safety glasses and insulated gloves
• Wire brush for cleaning the battery tray
• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers

Step 3: Shopping List

Every lithium conversion requires these components:

1. Lithium LiFePO4 battery sized for your voltage system (see comparison below)
2. Lithium-compatible charger (included in most kits, otherwise $150-$300 separately)
3. Battery cables (your existing cables may work if they are in good condition and fit the new terminal layout)
4. Mounting hardware (brackets, straps, or spacers to secure the battery in your tray)
5. State-of-charge monitor (included in most kits)

Optional but recommended:

• New battery cables if yours show corrosion or fraying
• DC-DC converter if you tap 12V accessories from the battery pack
• Battery terminal protectant spray

Best 48V Lithium Batteries Compared

The 48V market has the widest selection because most modern golf carts run on 48 volts. Here are the top options at every price point:

*LiTime's 15,000 cycle rating is a manufacturer claim at a shallower depth of discharge. Real-world longevity will be closer to other brands at comparable usage patterns.

Understanding the Specs

BMS (Battery Management System) amperage determines how much current the battery can deliver continuously. A 200A BMS handles most golf carts fine. A 250A BMS gives extra headroom for high-draw situations like steep hills, heavy loads, or carts with aftermarket speed controllers. If you have upgraded your controller for more speed, look for 250A.

Cycle count is how many charge/discharge cycles the battery delivers before dropping to 80% of original capacity. At 4,000 cycles with daily use, that is over 10 years of service.

Weight matters because the whole point of lithium is dropping weight. Lighter batteries mean better performance, but some of the lightest options (like Eco Battery) come at a premium price.

Our Top 48V Battery Picks

Best Overall Value: EXEFCH 48V 105Ah Kit

The EXEFCH kit stands out because of its 250A BMS (most competitors cap at 200A), 6,000+ cycle rating, and the fact that it ships as a complete kit with charger and LCD monitor included. The higher BMS amperage means your cart handles hills and heavy loads without the BMS cutting power. At $1,300-$1,600 for the complete kit, it undercuts most competitors by $500 or more.

Best Budget Option: LOSSIGY 48V 105Ah Kit

LOSSIGY offers a solid conversion kit with Bluetooth BMS monitoring, an 18A charger, and an LCD display. The 200A BMS and 4,000+ cycle rating are standard for the price range. Build quality is reliable for the money, and the 10-year lifespan claim is backed by automotive-grade LiFePO4 cells.

Most Established Brand: Vatrer 48V 105Ah

Vatrer is one of the most reviewed lithium golf cart battery brands on Amazon, with years of real-world owner feedback. The 200A BMS, IP67 waterproof housing, and included touchscreen monitor with smartphone app make it a reliable choice. Slightly pricier than EXEFCH and LOSSIGY but backed by a longer track record.

Highest Cycle Life: LiTime 48V 100Ah

LiTime (formerly Ampere Time) is the top-selling lithium battery brand on Amazon across all categories. Their golf cart battery features Bluetooth 5.0 BMS monitoring and low-temperature cut-off protection that prevents charging below freezing, which is a nice safety feature for owners in northern states. The 100Ah capacity is slightly lower than the 105Ah competitors, but performance difference is negligible.

Premium Picks (Not on Amazon)

If budget is less of a concern and you want the absolute best, these brands sell through authorized dealers and their own websites:

• Allied Lithium ($2,500-$3,000): The lightest batteries in the market at about 70 lbs for a full 48V kit. Drop-in design requires almost zero modification. 8-year warranty. Popular with golf course fleets.
• Eco Battery ($2,200-$2,700): Known for their thru-hole mounting design that makes installation extremely simple. Strongest community endorsement on golf cart forums. 8-year warranty.
• Dakota Lithium ($2,500-$2,800): Longest warranty in the industry at 11 years. Built in the USA. 77 pounds for their 48V 96Ah single battery.

Find a local golf cart dealer who carries these brands if you want hands-on support and professional installation.

Best 36V Lithium Batteries for Older Carts

If your cart runs on 36 volts (common in older EZGO TXT models and vintage Club Car DS carts), you have fewer options but still solid choices:

For 36V carts, the Vatrer 36V 105Ah kit is the best all-around value. It ships with a 25A fast charger, touchscreen monitor, and all mounting hardware.

Step-by-Step Lithium Conversion Process

This process applies to most drop-in lithium kits on 48V and 36V carts. Total time: 1-3 hours for a DIY install.

Preparation and Safety

Before touching anything:

1. Park on level ground and engage the parking brake
2. Turn the key switch to OFF and remove the key
3. Disconnect the charger if plugged in
4. Wear safety glasses and insulated gloves. Lead-acid batteries contain sulfuric acid
5. Take a photo of your current battery wiring layout for reference. Note which cables connect where, positive to negative, and the routing of the main positive and negative leads to the cart

Removing Old Lead-Acid Batteries

6. Disconnect the main negative cable first (the cable running from the battery pack to the cart's frame or controller). This de-energizes the system.
7. Disconnect the main positive cable next
8. Remove the inter-battery cables connecting batteries in series. Work from one end to the other.
9. Unbolt each battery from the tray. Lead-acid batteries weigh 60-70 pounds each, so lift with your legs or use a battery carrier. A full set of six weighs 360+ pounds.
10. Clean the battery tray thoroughly. Remove corrosion with a baking soda and water solution. Rinse and dry completely. Inspect the tray for rust or damage.

Installing the Lithium Battery

11. Position the new lithium battery in the battery tray. Most single-unit 48V lithium batteries are significantly smaller than the six lead-acid batteries they replace. Use the mounting brackets, straps, or spacers included in your kit to secure the battery firmly. It should not shift during driving.
12. Connect the main positive cable from the battery's positive terminal to the cart's main positive lead
13. Connect the main negative cable from the battery's negative terminal to the cart's main negative lead
14. Torque all terminal connections to the manufacturer's specification (typically 8-12 ft-lbs). Loose connections cause resistance, heat, and can melt cables.
15. Install the state-of-charge monitor if included in your kit. Most mount on the dash or near the battery compartment. Connect according to the kit instructions.

Charger Setup

16. Remove or disconnect your old lead-acid charger. Do not use it.
17. Install the lithium-compatible charger that came with your kit. Mount it in a dry, ventilated location. Most chargers connect to the same charging port your old charger used, but verify the plug type matches.
18. Plug in and charge to 100% before your first ride. The initial charge may take 5-8 hours.

Post-Installation Checks

19. Turn the key to ON and check your dash gauges. The voltage reading should show 51-54V for a 48V system (or 38-40V for 36V).
20. Test drive at low speed in a safe area. Check for normal acceleration, braking, and steering.
21. Verify the charger cycles correctly. Plug in after your test drive and confirm the charger starts, charges, and auto-shuts off at full charge.
22. Check all connections again after 24 hours and again after one week. Vibration from driving can loosen new connections.

Cart-Specific Conversion Notes

Every golf cart brand has quirks. Here is what to watch for on the three most popular brands.

Club Car Precedent and Onward (48V)

Club Car Precedent and Onward models are the easiest carts to convert. The battery compartment is accessible, the wiring is straightforward, and most aftermarket lithium kits are designed with Club Car fitment in mind.

Key details:

• Stock system: 48V (six 8-volt lead-acid batteries)
• Charger plug: 3-pin round connector (verify your new charger matches)
• The OBC (Onboard Computer) on some Precedent models may need bypassing if it does not recognize the lithium charger. This involves a simple relay bypass that most kit instructions cover.
• No controller modifications needed for standard use

Check Club Car models and specs for more details on specific model years.

EZGO TXT and RXV (36V and 48V)

EZGO carts come in both 36V (older TXT models) and 48V (newer TXT and all RXV models). The conversion process differs slightly depending on voltage and model.

EZGO TXT (36V):

• Stock system: 36V (six 6-volt batteries)
• Straightforward drop-in conversion
• Use a 36V lithium battery (not 48V unless you are upgrading the entire electrical system)

EZGO TXT (48V):

• Stock system: 48V (six 8-volt batteries)
• Similar to Club Car conversion, very straightforward

EZGO RXV (48V): Regenerative Braking Warning

• The RXV uses regenerative braking, which sends current back into the battery pack when you let off the accelerator or press the brake
• Regen current can exceed what the lithium battery's BMS allows for charging, causing the BMS to disconnect and your cart to lose power suddenly while braking
• Solution: Disable regenerative braking through the controller, or use a lithium battery with a BMS rated for regen current. Ask your local EZGO dealer about this before converting an RXV.

See all EZGO models for specifications.

Yamaha Drive and Drive2 (48V)

Yamaha Drive and Drive2 carts use a 48V system with four 12-volt batteries in a slightly different compartment layout than Club Car or EZGO.

Key details:

• Stock system: 48V (four 12-volt batteries)
• The battery compartment sits under the front seat
• Yamaha's wiring harness and terminal positions differ from Club Car and EZGO, so double-check cable lengths
• No controller modifications needed for standard conversions
• The stock charger plug is unique to Yamaha. Verify your lithium charger kit includes the correct Yamaha adapter.

Browse Yamaha models for details on your specific cart.

Other Brands

Newer brands like Star EV, ICON, Evolution, and Advanced EV often ship with lithium batteries from the factory. If you own one of these with lead-acid, the conversion process follows the same general steps above. Check our brand comparison pages for model-specific details, or browse the best golf cart brands to compare options.

10 Common Lithium Conversion Mistakes

These are the problems that trip up first-timers. Avoid them and your conversion will go smoothly.

1. Using your old lead-acid charger. This is the most common and most damaging mistake. Lead-acid chargers output the wrong voltage profile and will overcharge lithium cells, reducing lifespan and creating a fire risk. Always use a charger designed for LiFePO4 batteries.

2. Connecting four 12V batteries in series instead of using a single 48V unit. Four separate batteries means four separate BMS systems. If one BMS trips from a temperature spike or current surge, the circuit breaks and your cart stops instantly. A single 48V battery with one unified BMS is safer and more reliable.

3. Skipping the torque wrench on terminal connections. Loose battery terminals cause electrical resistance. Resistance creates heat. Heat melts cable insulation, damages terminals, and in extreme cases starts fires. Torque every connection to spec.

4. Not securing the battery in the tray. A single lithium battery is much smaller and lighter than six lead-acid batteries. Without proper mounting brackets or straps, the battery slides around during driving, stressing cable connections and potentially short-circuiting against the metal tray.

5. Forgetting the voltage reducer for 12V accessories. If your cart has headlights, a stereo, a USB charger, or other 12V accessories, they were probably tapped from one battery in the lead-acid pack. With a single lithium battery, you need a DC-DC converter (48V to 12V) to power these accessories. Tapping directly from the battery pack gives you 48V, which will fry 12V components. If you have street-legal accessories like lights and turn signals, this step is especially important.

6. Ignoring regenerative braking compatibility. On carts with regen braking (notably EZGO RXV), the regen current can exceed the lithium BMS charge limit and cause sudden power cutoff while braking. Disable regen or verify your battery's BMS can handle it.

7. Not updating the state-of-charge meter. Your old fuel gauge was calibrated for lead-acid voltage curves. Lithium has a flatter discharge curve, so the gauge will read inaccurately (often showing "full" until the battery is nearly empty, then dropping fast). Install the lithium-compatible monitor that comes with your kit.

8. Charging below freezing. Lithium LiFePO4 cells suffer permanent damage if charged below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. They discharge fine in cold weather, but charging must happen above freezing. If you live in a cold climate, always charge in a garage or heated space. Read our winterization guide for cold-weather battery care.

9. Buying the cheapest battery you can find. Forum veterans consistently report that bargain-bin lithium batteries cause more headaches than they are worth. Low-quality BMS systems trip randomly, customer support is nonexistent, and warranties are not honored. Spend at least $1,300 for a 48V kit from a brand with verified reviews and responsive support.

10. Not testing the system before driving at full speed. After installation, do a slow test drive first. Check for unusual sounds, smells, or behavior. Verify the charger works correctly. Re-torque connections after 24 hours.

Golf Cart Lithium Battery Conversion Cost Breakdown

Here is what a complete lithium conversion actually costs, broken down by component:

48V System Cost Breakdown

10-Year Cost Comparison: Lithium vs Lead-Acid

This is where lithium's value becomes clear. Factor in battery replacements, maintenance, and electricity costs over a decade:

Even at the high end, lithium saves $1,350 to $3,850 over a decade while delivering better performance every single day. For a full analysis of golf cart ownership costs, see our pricing and buyer's guide.

After the Conversion: Lithium Maintenance

One of the best things about lithium is how little maintenance it requires. Here is your entire maintenance routine:

Monthly

• Check connections: Make sure battery terminals are tight and free of debris. Unlike lead-acid, lithium terminals do not corrode, but vibration can loosen bolts over time.
• Monitor state of charge: Glance at your battery monitor. Most lithium batteries with Bluetooth let you check charge level, voltage, and cell balance from your phone.

Seasonally

• Clean the battery tray: Wipe down the area. Keep it dry and free of debris.
• Inspect cables: Look for chafing, cracking, or wear on cable insulation.
• Verify charger operation: Plug in and confirm the charger starts and stops automatically.

Winter Storage

If you store your cart for winter:

• Charge the battery to 50-70% (not 100%, not empty)
• Disconnect the negative terminal
• Store in a location above 32 degrees Fahrenheit
• Check the charge level every 4-6 weeks. Lithium self-discharges very slowly (2-3% per month) but it is good to top off if it drops below 30%.
• Never charge below freezing. Move the cart to a heated space first.

Our winterization guide covers the full seasonal storage checklist.

When to Hire a Professional

DIY installation works great for most drop-in kits, but some situations call for professional help. Find a golf cart repair shop near you or browse dealers in your state if any of these apply:

• Your cart has regenerative braking (EZGO RXV) and you are not comfortable disabling it
• You want to change voltage (36V to 48V) and need controller and wiring upgrades
• Your cart is pre-2005 and may need controller reprogramming
• You are adding a high-speed controller at the same time as the lithium conversion
• You want warranty assurance. Some battery manufacturers require professional installation for full warranty coverage. Check your battery's warranty terms.

Professional installation typically runs $200-$500 in labor and takes 2-4 hours. Many dealers also offer lithium conversion packages that bundle the battery, charger, and installation at a discount.

Check golf cart repair services for tips on finding a qualified technician, or search our best repair shops by state directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a lithium conversion worth it for an older golf cart?

If your cart is in good mechanical condition (solid frame, working motor, functional controller), then yes. A $1,500 lithium kit on a 15-year-old Club Car that runs fine gives you another decade of improved performance. If the cart needs significant mechanical work too, compare the total investment against buying a used cart that already has lithium.

How much range will I gain after converting to lithium?

Most owners see a 50-100% range increase. A cart that got 25 miles on lead-acid typically gets 40-55 miles on a 105Ah lithium battery. The exact gain depends on terrain, speed, passenger weight, and tire condition. Check our complete range guide for range estimates by cart type.

Can I mix lithium and lead-acid batteries?

Never. Lithium and lead-acid have completely different voltage profiles, charge characteristics, and discharge behaviors. Mixing them will damage both battery types, void your warranty, and create a safety hazard. Replace the entire pack with one chemistry.

Do lithium batteries void my golf cart warranty?

If your cart is still under manufacturer warranty, a lithium conversion may void the battery-related portions of that warranty. It should not affect warranty coverage on unrelated components (frame, body, suspension). Check with your dealer. Most golf carts that are candidates for lithium conversion are already out of warranty.

What size lithium battery do I need?

For daily neighborhood driving, golf course use, or community cruising, a 100-105Ah battery provides more than enough range (40-60 miles). If you drive extensively or use your cart for work, consider a higher capacity battery. For more on choosing the right battery size, see our battery guide.

Are lithium golf cart batteries safe?

LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) batteries are the safest lithium chemistry available. Unlike the lithium-ion batteries in phones and laptops, LiFePO4 does not experience thermal runaway. They are stable at high temperatures, resistant to overcharging, and will not catch fire even if punctured. The built-in BMS adds another layer of protection by monitoring voltage, current, and temperature continuously.

How do I know which voltage system my cart uses?

Count your batteries and check their labels. Six 6-volt batteries equals 36V. Six 8-volt batteries or four 12-volt batteries equals 48V. You can also check the data plate on your cart (usually under the seat or on the frame) which lists the system voltage. When in doubt, search your cart model on our brand pages for specifications.

Should I convert to lithium before selling my golf cart?

A lithium conversion can increase your cart's resale value, but you probably will not recoup the full cost. Buyers pay a premium for lithium carts, but usually less than what the conversion cost you. If you plan to keep the cart for 3+ more years, the conversion pays for itself in savings and performance. If you are selling soon, you may get a better return selling the cart as-is and letting the buyer decide.

Do golf cart dealers install lithium batteries from Amazon?

Some dealers will install customer-supplied batteries, but many prefer to sell and install their own inventory (Allied, Eco Battery, or Trojan). Call ahead and ask. If your dealer charges a higher labor rate for customer-supplied parts, factor that into your cost comparison. Search our dealer directory to find shops in your area.

Is there a fire risk with lithium golf cart batteries?

LiFePO4 batteries have an excellent safety record with extremely low fire risk. The LiFePO4 chemistry is inherently stable and does not undergo thermal runaway like other lithium chemistries. The BMS provides continuous monitoring and will disconnect the battery if it detects unsafe conditions. Use a quality battery from a reputable brand, install it correctly, and use the correct charger. Follow those three rules and the fire risk is negligible.