We have all lost keys at some point, and while it is annoying, there is always an easy solution. For example, we get a locksmith to size up the lock and cut us a new set. But, what happens when the keys you lose are for your golf cart? Are golf cart keys universal?
In this post, we will look to answer that question. It will help you to understand what your choices are if you ever need a backup option.
Are Golf Cart Keys Universal?
A key will not work on all golf carts. Instead, they are limited to the vehicles manufactured by that company. For example, if you lost the keys to your E-Z-Go TXT Elite, you would not be able to use a Clubcar cart key. Therefore, in most cases, golf cart keys are universal relative to the manufacturer.
Golf Cart Keys By Manufacturer
1. E-Z-Go
Keys numbered 17063G1 are designed to function on any TXT E-Z-Go golf cart constructed from 1976 onwards. However, these keys are not compatible with the company’s RXV or gas cart products.
Any E-Z-Go gas carts constructed after 2008 and RXV vehicles require key number 606993.
2. Club Car
Club Car’s vehicles enjoy the luxury of taking one key that fits all their carts manufactured post-1982. If your cart is older than that, it belongs in a museum. But, jokes aside, you will need to change the ignition switch to cater to a newer key model.
On a Buggies Gone Wild forum, one post illustrated the versatility of Club Car keys. They mentioned that their walking group used to carry a club car key in case they got tired. They would then find the nearest cart to them, drive it home, and call the owner to let them know where their vehicle was.
Naturally, this irked many golf cart owners who needed to journey to collect their carts from all the area.
3. Yamaha
There are two types of keys for Yamaha. The first one is compatible with the G1, G2, G8, G9, G9, and G11 models. The part number of this key is J17-82511-yy.
The last two digits will always represent the year that the key was manufactured. As a result, those two digits will always differ. Typically these keys function with carts that Yamaha produced between 1985 and 1995.
The second Yamaha golf cart key option is part number 1012505, 1920, ELI80-0194. This functions with the gas and electric G14, G16, G19, G22, and G29 Yamaha golf carts.
What If I Can’t Find A Replacement Key?
If none of the options that we mentioned work for your cart. There are a couple of last resort options, which we will cover below.
Changing Your Ignition Switch
If you are riding in an older cart, you may have trouble finding a universal key. Therefore the best solution is to switch out your ignition switch for a new one. To be able to fit a new universal key. This will delay your ability to use the cart but, it is a simple, and affordable process.
Alternative Starting Methods
When you are in a rush and cannot wait for a replacement key. Or fit a new ignition switch. There is the option of using a flat screwdriver to settle the pins into the ignition lock tumbler. This action prompts the cylinders to rotate, thus turning on the cart.
If that does not work for you, there is always the option of hotwiring. If you do not know what you are doing, then don’t attempt it. But if you are up for a challenge, you can learn how to pull this off by watching the tutorial on Golf Cart Tips, YouTube channel.
Where Can I Buy Replacement Golf Cart Keys?
The quickest option is to call up your local course and see if they are willing to sell you a spare key for a few dollars. Of course, that is only possible if their carts are from the same manufacturer. Alternatively, you can get them on Amazon. Use the information in this guide to help you identify the correct key for you, and the delivery will be on its way.
If you cannot find what you are looking for through these channels, take a trip to your local golf cart retailer or battery center and see if they have the key you seek.
Final Thoughts
We started by asking the question, are golf cart keys universal and have found this not to be the case when interpreting the true sense of the word.
While some manufacturers may have one key that fits the ignition switches of all their carts. That is not always the case, as some are only compatible with select cart models. It is for this reason that you must always know the serial number of the key you need.
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Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.
