Golf trolley battery not lasting 18 holes: causes and fixes

How long should a trolley battery last?

Makers rate lithium batteries by holes, commonly 18 or 36 holes, under typical conditions. That figure assumes moderate temperatures, an average course and a normal bag. A hilly course, a heavy tour bag or cold weather can take a lot off it.

Over its life, a lithium battery slowly loses capacity with each charge cycle and with age. Makers usually quote a number of cycles or years of typical use, and warranties often run for several years. A battery several seasons old that once lasted 36 holes might only manage 18 now, and that is normal wear. Our golf trolley lithium batteries explainer covers battery types.

Common causes and quick checks

Work through these before blaming the battery. Most can be checked at home in a few minutes, and several cost nothing to fix.

Check the trolley is not working too hard

With the battery removed, push the trolley across a smooth floor. It should roll freely and in a straight line. If a wheel drags, check the axle and hub for mud and grass, and check that any brake is fully released. Winter wheels are wider and can use a little more power on firm ground, as covered in golf trolley winter wheels.

Look at the bag too. A heavy cart bag with spare balls, waterproofs, drinks and a range finder adds load on every hill. Clearing out the bag is a free fix.

1. 1

   Remove the battery and push the trolley by hand.

2. 2

   Spin each wheel and listen for rubbing.

3. 3

   Clean mud and grass from axles and hubs.

4. 4

   Check the brake or downhill control is not binding.

5. 5

   Lighten the bag and try another round.

Check charging and connections

A battery that is not fully charged will run short, however healthy it is. Make sure the charger shows a full charge before you unplug it, and use only the charger supplied for that battery. If the charger shows a fault or does not light, see Motocaddy charger not working.

Connections matter too. A loose or corroded battery connector can cause power to drop on bumps, which feels like a dying battery. Inspect the connector for bent pins, dirt or green deposits, and check the cable for damage.

Note:Do not attempt to open or repair a lithium battery. If a battery is swollen, damaged, very hot or smells, stop using it and contact the maker or retailer.

Is it time for a new battery?

If the trolley rolls freely, the battery is fully charged, the connector is clean and the range is still short on a mild day, the battery has probably lost capacity. Check its age and warranty first, because many makers will test or replace a faulty battery within the warranty period. Use the maker's replacement or an approved compatible battery, because the connector, voltage and charger all need to match.

When replacing, consider a larger capacity battery if your course is hilly or you often play 27 or 36 holes.

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Habits that help batteries last

Charge after every round rather than leaving the battery flat. Store it indoors at room temperature, not in a cold garage or a hot car boot. Over winter, follow the storage advice in how to store a golf trolley over winter. Avoid running the battery right down regularly, and do not leave it on charge for weeks unless the maker says that is fine.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a Motocaddy battery last? Motocaddy rates its lithium batteries by holes and quotes a warranty period. Real range depends on hills, weather and bag weight; check the rating for your battery.

Why does my trolley battery die faster in winter? Lithium batteries deliver less energy in the cold. Store and charge indoors and expect some loss.

Can I use a cheaper third party battery? Only if it is stated as compatible with your trolley and charger. A mismatch can damage the trolley or cause safety issues.