Club Car DS Golf Cart Review

The Club Car DS was released back in 1984 and discontinued production in 2011. It was designed to be a Fleet Golf Cart for Golf Courses. The intention of manufacturing the Golf Cart for such a long extended period of time is to cut down on costs and limit overall variety. This is perfect for the low cost needs required for lease plans for Golf Courses. It is also good to note that the DS uses an aluminum frame which makes it good for coastal regions and high humidity areas in terms of being rust proof.

Now, how does this affect a consumer’s decision to purchase it for their own personal uses? Well, on the plus side, the Golf Cart has been around for so long that it makes it easy to buy parts and accessories for it. In addition, they make both a gas and electric version of the vehicle. On the downside, it was designed as a one size fits all platform. For the average individual, the vehicle will fit fine with basic seats. However, if you are a taller or smaller individual, then you will find yourself in a seat that does not adjust with pedals that are in a basic position. Remember, this vehicle was not designed to be ergonomic.

In terms of safety, the DS line has basic stopping power with rear mechanical brakes. Besides brakes, a standard DS would not include headlights, brake lights and a horn. All of those would be add ons since golf courses typically do not need safety features. This also means the vehicle would not have seat belts either. So, it is good to recognize if it does have seat belts that they are properly installed to keep you safe while driving. Since the frame is made out of aluminum, it has very little to keep you protected in the event of an accident. Not only that, but the struts that attach to the roof structure are minimal in their safety. Feel free to shake the vehicle to get a feel for what we mean. These are important notes to consider if you intend to drive with your family in the vehicle.

The performance of the Club Car DS is basic. It utilizes a DC drive system which has been around forever. It is a 250 AMP controller which is good for basic golf course use, however if you are looking for faster acceleration, the ability to carry four people, or drive up and down a lot of hills, then look elsewhere or consider the gas version at least. All in all though, the manufacturer only intended for this vehicle to go 19 MPH. If it goes faster, then make sure you understand the wear and tear a faster Golf Cart can have on your routine maintenance and repairs.

Overall, the Club Car DS line is a great vehicle for those getting used to Golf Carts. They are easy to find and readily available at a variety of price points. If buying electric, then we recommend purchasing with brand new batteries or at least with batteries that are less than a year old.

Find the Age of Golf Cart Batteries

If buying gas, then please thoroughly check out the condition of the engine.

*These specifications are based on the 2011 Model Year. Older DS models may not have these specifications.