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Lead-Acid vs. Lithium: Which Battery Is Best for Your E-Z-GO Golf Cart?

May. 27 2025 Battery Maintenance By Joseph Powell

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When it comes to powering your E-Z-GO golf cart, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is which type of battery to choose: traditional lead-acid or modern lithium. While both options will get you moving, they offer very different benefits—and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re cruising the campground, hitting the links, or exploring your neighborhood, choosing the right battery can make all the difference.

Here’s a breakdown of how lead-acid and lithium batteries stack up in real-world golf cart performance.

⚡ Power & Performance

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Reliable and time-tested

  • Provide adequate power for standard golf cart use

  • Can suffer from "voltage sag," especially under heavy load or up hills

Lithium Batteries:

  • Deliver consistent power across the entire charge cycle

  • Better acceleration and torque

  • Handle hills and heavy loads with ease

✅ Winner: Lithium – If you want stronger, more consistent performance.

🔋 Charging Time

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Take 6–8 hours for a full charge

  • Need to be charged after every use

  • Prone to damage if not fully recharged

Lithium Batteries:

  • Charge in 2–4 hours

  • Can be opportunity charged (top off anytime)

  • No "memory effect"

✅ Winner: Lithium – Save time and enjoy more flexibility.

🛠️ Maintenance

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Require regular maintenance (watering, cleaning terminals)

  • Susceptible to corrosion and sulfation

  • Heavy and messy to replace

Lithium Batteries:

  • Virtually maintenance-free

  • No watering or corrosion issues

  • Lightweight and long-lasting

✅ Winner: Lithium – Less hassle, fewer headaches.

💰 Cost

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Lower upfront cost

  • Last 3–5 years with proper care

Lithium Batteries:

  • Higher initial investment

  • Last 8–10 years on average

  • Longer lifespan = better long-term value

✅ Winner: Tie – Go with lead-acid if you're budget-conscious, but lithium if you want better lifetime value.

🌱 Environmental Impact

Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Heavier footprint

  • More prone to leakage and hazardous waste

  • Must be disposed of properly

Lithium Batteries:

  • More energy efficient

  • Longer lifespan = fewer replacements

  • Safer and cleaner tech

✅ Winner: Lithium – A greener option over time.

🏁 Final Verdict: Which Battery Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, reliable solution and don’t mind a little upkeep, lead-acid batteries still do the job.

But if you want:

  • Faster charging,

  • Less maintenance,

  • Longer life, and

  • Stronger performance,

then lithium batteries are the clear upgrade—especially for newer E-Z-GO models designed to take full advantage of lithium power.

👀 Thinking About Upgrading Your E-Z-GO?

Whether you’re buying a new cart or retrofitting your old one, our team at Lake Erie Golf Cars can help you choose the right battery setup for your needs. We carry both lead-acid and lithium battery options for E-Z-GO carts, and we’re happy to talk you through your decision.