How To Become a Golf Cart Mechanic: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a golf cart mechanic, including education, skills, salary and more.
Golf cart mechanics are responsible for the maintenance and repair of golf carts. This can be a rewarding career for those who enjoy working with their hands and have a passion for golf. In this article, we discuss what golf cart mechanics do, the steps to become one and the average salary for this career.
What Does a Golf Cart Mechanic Do?
Golf cart mechanics are responsible for the maintenance and repair of golf carts. This can include both gas and electric golf carts. As a golf cart mechanic, you will be responsible for diagnosing problems, making repairs and performing regular maintenance on golf carts. You will also be responsible for keeping accurate records of all work that is performed on each golf cart.
The duties of a golf cart mechanic include:
- Diagnosing problems with golf carts
- Making repairs to golf carts
- Performing regular maintenance on golf carts
- Keeping accurate records of all work performed on golf carts
- Ordering parts and supplies as needed
- Maintaining a clean and organized work area
- Adhering to all safety regulations
Golf Cart Mechanic Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a golf cart mechanic is $46,138.85 per year. However, this figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the mechanic.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for golf cart mechanics to increase at an average rate over the next decade. This is due in part to the growing popularity of golf as a leisure activity. As more people take up the sport, there will likely be an increased demand for golf carts and, as a result, more need for qualified mechanics to maintain them.
How to Become a Golf Cart Mechanic
Here are several steps you should take to become a golf cart mechanic.
1. Complete a high school diploma or equivalent
A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum education requirement for this position. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a golf cart mechanic, consider taking automotive classes in high school to develop your skills and knowledge of basic mechanical systems. You may also take courses in physics and math to better understand how these systems work together.
If you decide to pursue further education after high school, consider attending an automotive program at a local community college or vocational school. Golf cart mechanics typically complete training programs that last between six months and two years. These programs teach students about various aspects of automotive repair, including brake systems, suspension systems and electrical components.
2. Consider completing an automotive or golf cart repair program at a trade school
Golf cart mechanics must have a thorough understanding of automotive repair, so it can be helpful to complete an associate’s degree in automotive technology. Many trade schools offer this program. You may also consider completing a certificate program in golf cart repair through the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. This program teaches you how to maintain and repair all types of golf carts.
You can find these programs at community colleges or technical schools. Some even offer online courses that allow you to study from home.
3. Gain experience working with golf carts and other small vehicles
Golf cart mechanics usually start by working with other small vehicles, such as motorcycles or ATVs. This experience can help you develop the mechanical skills and knowledge needed to work on golf carts. You may be able to find an apprenticeship at a local repair shop where you can learn from experienced mechanics. Apprenticeships often include classroom instruction and hands-on training.
You can also gain experience working with cars and trucks by working for a dealership. Dealerships often hire entry-level employees who perform maintenance tasks on company vehicles.
4. Develop strong mechanical skills
Golf cart mechanics must have strong mechanical skills to be able to identify and fix problems with the vehicles. You should learn how to use tools such as wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers to take apart parts of a golf cart and put them back together again. Practice taking apart and putting back together different types of engines so you can familiarize yourself with their components.
You may also want to practice your mechanical skills on other small engines or vehicles before working with golf carts. This will help you develop the necessary skills for this job.
5. Understand basic electrical systems
Golf carts have electrical systems that require maintenance and repair. Golf cart mechanics should understand how to identify problems with the electrical system, including issues with wiring or battery failure. Understanding basic electrical concepts can help you diagnose problems quickly and efficiently. You may also need to connect a golf cart to an external power source to start it if its battery is dead.
6. Be able to lift heavy objects
Golf carts can weigh up to 1,000 pounds depending on the model. Mechanics need to be able to lift and move these heavy objects in order to work on them. Golf cart parts are often located underneath the vehicle or inside a storage compartment. You may also have to move your tools and equipment around while working on a golf course.
7. Have good communication skills
Golf cart mechanics interact with a variety of people, including golf course employees and customers. Therefore, it is important for you to be able to communicate effectively with others. You may need to explain the repairs that are needed or give instructions on how to use a specific feature of the golf carts.
You may also have to interact with other professionals, such as landscapers or groundskeepers, when working on a golf course. Having good communication skills can help you work more efficiently with these individuals.
