Club Car Precedent Review

This is a review for the Club Car Precedent. The Club Car Precedent was released after the successful run of the Club Car DS. It was designed to be a Fleet Golf Cart for Golf Courses. That is why the Golf Cart has been manufactured since 2004. 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 Precedent 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 Precedent line has basic stopping power with rear mechanical brakes. Besides brakes, a standard Precedent would not include headlights, brake lights and 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 Precedent 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, 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 Precedent 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. Click here to get help with determining the battery age and condition of batteries. If buying gas, then please thoroughly check out the condition of the engine.

Pros

• Manufactured since 2004 (Long Track Record)
• Easy to Find Parts
• Lots of Accessories
• Available in Gas (Fuel Injected) or Electric (DC)

Cons

• One Size Fits All
• No Standard Safety Features
• Limited Performance Capabilities
• Designed for Golf Course use and not for the Street