When an electric golf cart breaks down or runs out of battery on the course, knowing the correct towing method is critical. Improper towing can cause the motor to generate electricity, leading to controller damage, system failure, or costly repairs.
In this guide, Green Motor Tech explain how to tow an electric golf cart safely, while protecting the motor and controller.
⚠️ Why Improper Towing Can Damage Your Golf Cart
Electric golf carts use a drive motor and controller system. When the wheels rotate during towing, the motor can act as a generator.
This can result in:
- Backflow current into the controller
- Burned electronic components
- Permanent controller failure
👉 This is why safe towing procedures for electric golf carts are essential.
✅ Best Method: Use a Flatbed Trailer
The safest way to tow an electric golf cart is by using a flatbed truck or trailer.
Benefits:
- Keeps all wheels off the ground
- Prevents motor rotation
- Eliminates risk of electrical damage
✔ Recommended for all situations
✔ Ideal for both short and long-distance transport
⚙️ How to Tow an Electric Golf Cart (Step-by-Step)
If a flatbed is not available, follow these steps carefully for emergency towing:
1. Turn Off the Power System
- Switch off ignition
- Remove the key
2. Disconnect the Battery cable
- Disconnect the main battery pack or power cables
- Prevents electricity from flowing into the controller
disconnect lead acid battery discharge cable to controller
disconnect discharge cable of lithium battery
3. Activate Tow Mode / Neutral
- Set the cart to neutral (N)
- Or switch to tow/maintenance mode (if available). For golf carts produced by Green Motor Tech, we have two types of features. One is with tow switch. One is without tow switch. This is how it looks like for the tow switch(under the seat, easy to access)
TOW SWITCH
4. Disconnect Motor Phase Wires (Critical Step)
- Locate the motor controller
- Disconnect U/V/W phase wires
- Insulate each cable properly
👉 This step prevents motor back-generation damage
5. Place the rear wheels on the tow truck, allowing the front wheels to remain on the ground while moving.
The rear wheels must NOT touch the ground—they must be kept completely lifted at all times.
🚗 Safe Towing Speed and Distance
To avoid damage:
- Speed: below 10–15 km/h
- Distance: keep as short as possible
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
🔒 Additional Safety Tips
- Use proper towing hooks
- Ensure steering is unlocked
- Avoid steep slopes
- Monitor for overheating
❌ What NOT to Do When Towing an Electric Golf Cart
- Do NOT tow with power ON
- Do NOT tow at high speed
- Do NOT skip disconnecting the motor
- Do NOT tow long distances on the ground
- Do NOT leave rear wheels on the ground (if the golf cart has no tow switch)
🔑 Key Takeaways
- The safest method is always flatbed towing
- Preventing motor-generated electricity is critical
- Proper disconnection protects the motor and controller
GREEN MOTOR TECH is a professional golf cart manufacturer in China. If you have any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, or repair of electric golf carts, please feel free to contact us anytime.
Contact Maggie:
Email: maggie@greenmotortech.com
WeChat / WhatsApp: +86 181 2358 9096
