How to Make a Golf Cart Faster: Complete Speed Upgrade Guide

Want more speed from your golf cart? You're not alone. Whether you're tired of being passed on neighborhood streets or need more power for hauling on your property, making your golf cart faster is totally doable.

Here's the quick answer: A $10-20 speed chip can add 4-7 mph to your cart. Want more? A controller and motor upgrade ($500-1,500) can push you to 25+ mph. But hold up -before you start modifying, you need to know about costs, legal issues, and safety risks.

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Understanding Your Starting Point

Before upgrading, you need to know what you're working with. Your golf cart's current speed depends on several factors that determine which upgrades will be most effective.

Stock Golf Cart Speeds by Type

Cart Type	Stock Speed	Notes
Electric (36V)	12-14 mph	Older systems, less power
Electric (48V)	14-18 mph	Modern standard, better torque
Gas Powered	15-19 mph	Consistent speed, no battery fade
Commercial Fleet	10-14 mph	Intentionally limited for safety

Electric vs Gas: Which Is Easier to Modify?

Electric golf carts are generally easier and cheaper to modify for speed. Electrical components like controllers and motors can be swapped without mechanical expertise, and upgrades provide predictable speed gains. Most speed chips and plug-and-play upgrades are designed for electric carts.

Gas golf carts require mechanical modifications like governor adjustments, carburetor upgrades, or gear ratio changes. These modifications often require more technical knowledge but can achieve higher sustained speeds, especially on hills.

For a complete comparison of electric and gas golf cart characteristics, see our electric vs gas golf cart comparison guide.

36V vs 48V Systems

Your voltage system significantly impacts both current speed and upgrade potential:

The 10 Best Ways to Make Your Golf Cart Faster

We've ranked these upgrades by overall value, considering cost, speed gains, difficulty, and practicality. Each upgrade includes specific details so you can make informed decisions.

1. Speed Chips and Magnets ($10-50)

Best for: Budget-conscious owners wanting quick gains with minimal effort

Speed chips (also called personality chips or speed codes) are the cheapest and easiest way to increase golf cart speed. These small electronic modules override factory speed limitations programmed into your cart's controller.

How it works: Most golf cart controllers have a speed-limiting chip that restricts top speed. Replacing this chip or adding a magnet to the speed sensor tricks the system into allowing higher speeds.

Compatibility notes:

• Club Car IQ systems: Speed code reprogramming available (may require dealer)
• Club Car with ADC motors: Speed sensor magnets work well
• EZGO TXT/RXV: Speed chips generally don't work; need controller upgrade
• Yamaha: Limited chip options; magnets may work on some models

2. Larger Tires ($200-600)

Best for: Owners who also want improved ground clearance and a more aggressive look

Larger diameter tires effectively change your gear ratio, allowing the cart to cover more ground with each wheel rotation. This is one of the most popular upgrades because it provides speed gains while improving appearance.

Tire size speed gains:

Stock Size	Upgrade Size	Approximate Speed Gain
18"	20"	+1-2 mph
18"	22"	+2-3 mph
18"	23"	+3-4 mph
18"	24"	+4-5 mph

Important considerations:

• Tires over 20" typically require a lift kit ($200-500 additional)
• Larger tires reduce torque and acceleration
• Hill-climbing ability decreases with bigger tires
• Street tires provide ~1 mph more than all-terrain tires due to less rolling resistance
• Pair with a controller upgrade to maintain torque

3. Proper Tire Inflation and Maintenance (Free)

Best for: Everyone -this should be your first step before any paid upgrades

Underinflated tires create rolling resistance that robs speed and drains batteries faster. This free "upgrade" is often overlooked but can reclaim lost performance.

Optimal tire pressure:

• Standard golf tires: 18-22 PSI
• Low-profile/street tires: 22-25 PSI
• Check manufacturer recommendations on tire sidewall

Additional free maintenance for speed:

• Clean battery terminals (improves power delivery)
• Check all cable connections for corrosion
• Lubricate wheel bearings and suspension components
• Ensure brakes aren't dragging

4. Weight Reduction (Free-$200)

Best for: Performance-focused owners willing to sacrifice accessories

Every 100 pounds removed from your golf cart can add 0.5-1 mph to top speed and significantly improves acceleration. This is especially effective for electric carts where battery drain is a concern.

Common weight reduction options:

• Remove rear seat when not needed (saves 50-100 lbs)
• Remove unnecessary accessories (coolers, heavy speakers)
• Switch from lead-acid to lithium batteries (saves 150-300 lbs)
• Use lightweight aluminum wheels
• Remove golf bag holders if not used

For more details on golf cart weight and how it affects performance, see our guide on how much a golf cart weighs.

5. Controller Upgrade ($150-800)

Best for: Serious speed seekers wanting reliable, significant gains

Think of the controller as your golf cart's brain. It controls how much power goes from the batteries to the motor. Stock controllers hold back power to protect parts, but an upgraded controller lets your motor do what it's capable of.

Controller amperage guide:

Use Case	Recommended Amps	Typical Cost
Light use, flat terrain	300-350 amps	$150-250
Standard use, some hills	400-450 amps	$250-400
Heavy use, steep hills, large tires	500+ amps	$400-800

Popular controller options:

• Navitas TSX 3.0 (440A): $400-550, plug-and-play for EZGO/Club Car/Yamaha
• Alltrax XCT Series: $300-500, programmable, good mid-range option
• Curtis Controllers: $200-400, reliable OEM-style replacement

6. High-Speed Motor ($300-1,200)

Best for: Owners wanting maximum speed combined with a controller upgrade

Speed motors are built differently than stock motors. They're wound to spin faster instead of pulling harder. Pair a high-speed motor with an upgraded controller and you've got the best combo for serious speed gains.

Motor types explained:

• Stock motors: Balanced for torque and longevity, 12-15 mph
• High-torque motors: Better hill climbing and acceleration, similar top speed
• High-speed motors: Optimized for top speed, reduced low-end torque
• Hybrid performance motors: Balance of speed and torque, most versatile

Real-world example: A customer with a Demon motor upgrade reported: "It gets right up to 20 mph just tapping the pedal and full speed on flat ground is 38.4 mph with two adults."

7. Governor Adjustment or Removal (Free-$50)

Best for: Gas golf cart owners wanting a free speed increase

Gas golf carts use a mechanical governor to limit engine RPM and top speed. Adjusting or removing this governor allows the engine to rev higher, increasing speed.

How to adjust a golf cart governor:

1. Locate the governor (usually near the carburetor/engine)
2. Find the adjustment screw on the governor arm
3. Turn clockwise to increase tension (allows more throttle opening)
4. Test in small increments -too much adjustment causes engine strain

8. High-Speed Gear Set ($150-400)

Best for: Gas golf cart owners wanting sustained high-speed cruising

Changing the gear ratio allows your engine or motor to turn the wheels more times per revolution, increasing top speed at the cost of low-end torque and acceleration.

Gear ratio basics:

• Stock ratio: Typically 12.5:1
• High-speed ratio: 6:1 (fastest available for most carts)
• Lower ratio number = higher top speed, less torque

Trade-offs to consider:

• Slower acceleration from a stop
• Reduced hill-climbing ability
• Harder starts with passengers or cargo
• Best paired with motor/controller upgrades to compensate

9. Voltage System Upgrade ($500-2,000)

Best for: 36V cart owners wanting significant performance improvement

Converting from 36V to 48V provides approximately 33% more power, improving speed, acceleration, and hill-climbing ability. This is one of the most impactful upgrades for older golf carts.

What's involved in a voltage conversion:

• New battery set (6x 8V or 4x 12V batteries)
• New charger rated for 48V
• Possible controller upgrade (some 36V controllers work on 48V)
• Wiring modifications
• Motor verification (most 36V motors run fine on 48V)

10. Lithium Battery Conversion ($2,000-6,000)

Best for: Owners wanting the ultimate combination of speed, range, and reduced maintenance

Lithium batteries are a game-changer. They weigh 50-70% less than lead-acid, give you steady power until they're empty, and last 3-5 times longer. They're pricey, but they do more than just boost speed.

Lithium battery benefits:

• Weight savings: 150-300 lbs lighter than lead-acid
• Consistent power: No voltage sag as batteries discharge
• Faster charging: 2-3 hours vs 8-10 hours for lead-acid
• Longer lifespan: 10-20 years vs 4-6 years
• Zero maintenance: No watering, no corrosion

Conversion requirements:

• Lithium battery pack (48V typical)
• Lithium-compatible charger ($200-400)
• New battery mounting system (different dimensions)
• Controller verification (some need reprogramming)

For complete details on battery types, costs, and conversion considerations, see our golf cart batteries guide.

Bonus: AC Motor Conversion ($1,500-4,000)

Best for: Enthusiasts wanting maximum performance and regenerative braking

AC motors represent the pinnacle of golf cart performance upgrades. They provide superior speed, torque, efficiency, and features like regenerative braking.

AC motor advantages:

• Speeds exceeding 25 mph easily achievable
• Better hill-climbing than DC motors
• Regenerative braking extends range
• More efficient power use
• Handles 4-6 passengers with ease

Cost-Per-MPH Comparison

This table helps you identify the best value upgrades for your budget:

Brand-Specific Upgrade Guides

Different golf cart brands need different upgrades. What works on a Club Car might not work on an EZGO. Here's what you need to know for the big three: EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha.

EZGO Speed Upgrades

EZGO carts (TXT, RXV, and older models) are among the most popular for modifications, but they have specific requirements.

Club Car Speed Upgrades

Club Car offers the most flexibility for speed modifications, especially models with the IQ system.

Yamaha Speed Upgrades

Yamaha golf carts are known for reliability but have fewer plug-and-play speed options than competitors.

Complete Upgrade Packages by Budget

Not sure where to start? Here are recommended upgrade combinations for different budgets and goals.

The Legal Reality: What Happens When Your Cart Gets Faster

Here's something most people don't think about: once your cart goes over 20 mph, the law sees it differently. It's not just a golf cart anymore -it becomes a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV).

The 20 MPH Threshold

This is the magic number. Cross it, and your golf cart legally transforms into something more like a car.

State-by-State Variations

Golf cart and LSV laws vary a lot by state. Here are some examples:

• Florida: Carts over 20 mph are LSVs and need full safety equipment (FL DMV)
• California: Anything over 15 mph isn't legally a "golf cart" anymore
• South Carolina: Golf carts can only use roads with 35 mph or lower speed limits
• Arizona: LSVs are allowed on roads up to 35 mph with proper equipment

For complete details on your state's requirements, see our golf cart laws by state guide.

Registration and Insurance Changes

If your modified cart qualifies as an LSV:

1. Registration: You'll need to register it with your state DMV, which may require a VIN inspection
2. Insurance: Liability insurance is typically required; standard auto policies may cover LSVs
3. Safety inspection: Some states require periodic safety inspections
4. Title: You may need to obtain a title for the vehicle

For insurance considerations after modifications, see our golf cart insurance guide.

Safety: What the Statistics Say

Golf cart speed modifications have real safety implications. Understanding the risks helps you make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions.

Golf Cart Accident Statistics

The numbers are sobering. According to Consumer Product Safety Commission data and hospital injury reports:

Why Speed Modifications Increase Risk

Golf carts were designed for 12-15 mph operation. At higher speeds, several factors become dangerous:

Structural limitations:

• Lightweight frames not designed for high-speed impacts
• High center of gravity increases rollover risk in turns
• No crumple zones or impact protection
• Open design offers no occupant protection

Braking limitations:

• Stock brakes designed for low-speed stopping
• Stopping distance increases exponentially with speed
• Brake fade can occur with repeated high-speed stops
• Most carts lack anti-lock braking systems

Handling limitations:

• Suspension not tuned for high-speed stability
• Steering can become unpredictable at speed
• Small wheelbase reduces stability
• Wind and road irregularities have greater effect

Required Safety Upgrades for High-Speed Carts

If you're increasing speed significantly (over 20 mph), consider these safety additions:

Warranty and Insurance Implications

Speed modifications have financial consequences beyond the upgrade costs themselves.

Warranty Considerations

What voids your warranty:

• Any speed governor modification or removal
• Controller or motor replacements
• Voltage system changes
• Even some tire upgrades (if they affect drivetrain)

Manufacturer positions:

• Most manufacturers void entire drivetrain warranty with any speed modification
• Some void the complete vehicle warranty
• Dealer modifications may or may not be covered (ask before purchasing)

Protecting yourself:

• Document all stock parts removed (save them for potential restoration)
• Keep receipts for all modifications
• Consider aftermarket warranties for upgraded components
• Some upgrade suppliers offer their own warranties

Insurance Implications

Coverage changes after modification:

• Standard golf cart policies may not cover modified carts
• You may need to disclose modifications to your insurer
• LSV-classified carts typically need auto-type insurance
• Liability coverage becomes more important at higher speeds

Questions to ask your insurer:

1. Does my current policy cover my golf cart after modifications?
2. Do I need to report speed capability changes?
3. What additional coverage do you recommend for a modified cart?
4. Are there exclusions for accidents related to modifications?

DIY vs Professional Installation

Knowing when to tackle a project yourself versus hiring a professional can save money and prevent costly mistakes.

DIY-Friendly Upgrades

These modifications can be safely completed with basic tools and moderate mechanical ability:

Professional Installation Recommended

These modifications involve high-voltage systems, precise calibration, or safety-critical components:

• Motor replacement: Requires proper alignment, connection, and testing
• Voltage system conversion: High-voltage electrical work, multiple system changes
• Lift kit installation: Affects handling, braking, and steering geometry
• Brake upgrades: Safety-critical system requiring proper bleeding and adjustment
• AC motor conversion: Complex installation requiring programming and calibration
• Custom wiring: Fire risk if done incorrectly

Finding Qualified Installers

For professional installation, look for:

• Golf cart dealers with service departments
• Electric vehicle specialists familiar with golf cart systems
• Custom golf cart shops that specialize in performance upgrades
• Reviews and references from other golf cart owners

Find golf cart dealers near you who can perform professional speed upgrades and ensure your cart is safe and properly configured.

Maintaining a High-Speed Golf Cart

Modified carts require more attention than stock vehicles. Plan for increased maintenance to ensure reliability and safety.

Maintenance Schedule for Modified Carts

Signs of Stress from Speed Modifications

Watch for these warning signs that your cart is struggling with the added performance demands:

• Unusual heat: Motor, controller, or cables getting excessively hot
• Reduced performance: Speed dropping, sluggish acceleration
• Strange sounds: Whining, grinding, or clicking from drivetrain
• Electrical issues: Flickering lights, inconsistent power delivery
• Brake changes: Longer stopping distances, spongy pedal feel
• Handling changes: Vibration, pulling, or instability

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So, can you make your golf cart faster? Absolutely. Whether you've got $10 or $5,000 to spend, there's an upgrade path for you.

But here's what really matters: be honest about what you actually need. Most people don't need a 35 mph golf cart. A modest bump from 14 to 20 mph makes neighborhood driving way more enjoyable without the legal headaches or safety risks.

The bottom line:

1. Start simple: Tire pressure, weight reduction, and speed chips offer the best value
2. Know your cart: EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha each have specific upgrade paths
3. Budget appropriately: $500-1,500 gets most carts to 22-28 mph reliably
4. Consider the legal implications: Over 20 mph changes your cart's classification in most states
5. Prioritize safety: Upgrade brakes, add seat belts, and install proper lighting for high-speed operation
6. Plan for maintenance: Faster carts need more frequent inspections and upkeep

Whether you're looking for a modest speed bump for neighborhood cruising or building a high-performance machine, approach the project with realistic expectations about costs, capabilities, and responsibilities.

Next Steps