Whether you’re outfitting a resort, running a small property, or just want a quiet way to get around the neighborhood, a used golf cart covers a lot of ground for a fraction of the cost of a new model. eBay Motors auctions feature both dealership trade-ins and private seller listings — Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha carts in electric and gas configurations, from bare-bones community cart to fully loaded street-legal builds with headlights, turn signals, and rear seats. Prices range from $2,000 for an older unit in fair condition up to $10,000 for a lifted, lithium-powered custom. Filter by your preferred range, battery type, and whether you need street-legal compliance before bidding.
What is the difference between electric and gas golf carts?
Electric carts are quieter, cheaper to operate, and require no fuel, but battery replacement every 5–8 years costs $800–$1,500 for a full six 8V battery set. Gas carts (Briggs & Stratton or EFI engines on newer Club Car and Yamaha) have longer range and faster refueling but require oil changes and periodic carburetor maintenance. For residential use with less than two hours of daily driving, electric is typically the better choice.
Can I make a used golf cart street-legal?
Yes, in most states a golf cart can be converted to a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) by adding DOT-rated mirrors, headlights, brake lights, turn signals, a seatbelt, and a speed governor capped at 20–25 mph. Approximately 40 states allow LSVs on public roads posted at 35 mph or less. A street-legal conversion kit runs $300–$800 installed. Check your local municipality — HOA rules and city ordinances on golf cart road access vary widely.
Which golf cart brands hold their value at resale?
Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha are the three major brands and all hold value well. Club Car aluminum frames resist rust better than steel, and PRECEDENT/ONWARD models are most sought-after on the secondary market. Yamaha gas carts are known for reliability and parts availability. Off-brand carts (ICON, Star EV, Advanced EV) have improved but lack the parts network and resale value of the big three.
What is a fair price for a used golf cart at auction?
Expect to pay $2,500–$5,000 for a 5–10 year old electric cart in good condition, $3,500–$7,000 for a comparable gas model, and $6,000–$10,000 for a lifted or street-legal build with lithium batteries. Carts described as “needs new batteries” or “cosmetic issues” frequently sell for $1,500–$3,000 — viable if you plan to do the work yourself.