Club Car golf carts: built on a frame that will not rust
If durability and resale value are what you care about most, Club Car is usually the answer. Every Club Car is built on a rustproof aluminum frame that lasts up to three times longer than steel, which is why these carts hold up and hold their value the way they do. This guide covers the current Club Car lineup, the electric and gas options, the used models worth knowing, and how Club Car compares to E-Z-GO and Yamaha.
At Southern Tide Golf Carts, we carry Club Car and ship nationwide. See what is in stock on the shop page, and read on to find the right model.
The short version
- Every Club Car uses a rustproof aluminum frame, standard, not an upgrade.
- The Onward is the current personal cart, in 2, 4, and 6 passenger versions.
- Choose gas, 48V electric, or maintenance free lithium power.
- The used Precedent and DS are strong value buys.
- Club Car is the pick when durability and resale matter most.
Why the aluminum frame matters
Most golf carts are built on steel frames that can rust over time, especially in coastal, humid, or wet climates. Club Car uses an aircraft quality aluminum frame across its entire lineup, which does not rust or corrode and lasts up to three times longer than steel. It also flexes slightly for a smoother ride. This single design choice is the main reason Club Car carts tend to hold their value better than the competition, and why they are a favorite near the beach. If you live somewhere damp or salty, this matters more than almost anything else. Compare Club Car against other brands in our inventory.
The Club Car 2026 lineup explained
Club Car’s current range is straightforward once you know the models.
Onward (the personal cart)
The Onward is Club Car’s flagship for personal use and the one most private buyers choose. It comes in 2 passenger, 4 passenger, 4 Forward (all seats facing forward), and 6 passenger versions. You can order it in gas, 48V electric, or lithium, and it offers a build your own configurator for colors, seats, wheels, tops, and accessories. Lithium models add three drive modes, regenerative braking, and a 7 inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can also be ordered as a full factory street legal package.
Tempo (the course and fleet cart)
The Tempo is Club Car’s golf course and fleet model, sold mainly to courses and operators. It shares Club Car’s quality but is built for fleet duty rather than personal customization.
Carryall and CRU (utility)
For work rather than leisure, the Carryall utility line and the CRU handle hauling and commercial tasks on properties, turf operations, and job sites.
Club Car prices in 2026
Here is what to expect so you can plan your budget.
| Model | Approx. 2026 price | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Used DS or Precedent | $2,000 – $7,500 | Budget buyers who want the aluminum frame |
| New Onward 2 passenger | from about $9,500 | Couples and short trips |
| New Onward 4 passenger | $13,000+ | Families, the most popular pick |
| Tempo (fleet) | near $12,900 | Courses and operators |
Prices move with powertrain, seating, and options, and lithium adds to the total. Check live pricing in our shop or contact our team for a quote.
Club Car gas versus electric
The Onward comes in both. The gas version suits longer drives, hills, and hauling with quick refueling. The 48V electric uses an AC motor with regenerative braking, and the lithium upgrade drops battery maintenance to zero while adding range and faster charging. Annual service tends to run about $200 to $400 for an electric Club Car and $300 to $600 for a gas one, which is predictable and in line with the industry. Not sure which fits? Contact our team with how you plan to drive.
Used Club Cars: the Precedent and DS
Shopping used, you will mostly see two older platforms, both on the same rustproof aluminum frame. The Precedent, built from 2004 to 2018, is the modern favorite, with clean examples typically running $3,500 to $7,500. The DS, built from 1981 to 2003, is the older workhorse and can be found cheaper. Because of the aluminum frame, both are especially strong buys in coastal and humid areas where steel framed carts rust. The main risk is not the frame but the battery and charger, so confirm the battery age, get a load test, and on older 48V models check that the onboard computer and charger are healthy. Our guide to used golf carts for sale covers the full checklist.
Club Car versus E-Z-GO and Yamaha
Each brand has a clear strength. Club Car wins on its aluminum frame and resale value, which often make it the best long term pick, especially near the coast. E-Z-GO usually costs less and has a huge custom parts market. Yamaha is known for the quietest gas engine on the market. All three are dependable, so Club Car is the choice when durability and resale matter most to you. You can compare all of them in our shop.
Buying a used Club Car: what to check
Confirm the model and year from the serial plate, then focus on the battery, since the aluminum frame takes care of the rust worry. Ask the battery age and insist on a load test. On older 48V Precedents, check the onboard computer and charger compatibility. Test the brakes, steering, and tires, and ask for service records. Every Club Car we sell is inspected, and electric models are battery tested, before listing.
Buying and shipping your Club Car
We ship nationwide, so you are not limited to local stock. Review our shipping policy and refund and returns policy before you order, and learn more about how we inspect every cart on our about us page. Common questions are answered on our FAQ page.
Ready to buy a Club Car golf cart?
Browse our Club Car golf carts for sale and we will deliver to your door. Not sure which model or powertrain fits you? Contact our team and we will help you decide.
Frequently asked questions
Are Club Car golf carts good?
Yes. Club Car is one of the most reliable brands, largely thanks to its rustproof aluminum frame, and it holds its resale value well. It is the top pick when durability matters, especially in coastal or humid climates.
What is the difference between the Onward, Tempo, and Precedent?
The Onward is the current personal use cart, the Tempo is the fleet and golf course model, and the Precedent is the older 2004 to 2018 platform popular on the used market. All three share the aluminum frame.
Why are Club Cars more expensive?
The aluminum frame and strong resale value are the main reasons buyers pay the premium. Over the long term, better durability and higher resale often offset the higher upfront price.
Can I convert a Club Car to lithium?
Yes. Lithium conversion kits for Club Car models typically cost $2,000 to $4,000 depending on capacity, and they add range, faster charging, and zero battery maintenance.
Do you ship Club Car carts?
We ship nationwide. Browse the shop, place your order, and we handle delivery to your door.