The Triggers Broom Paradox
I've been playing golf for many years and have owned multiple sets of clubs, several drivers, woods, wedges, putters, and bags. However, I've only owned two electric trolleys.
In the early to mid-1990s, I purchased a PowaKaddy Classic, which served me extremely well. Aside from two replacement batteries, expected given the hilly nature of my home course and the steep 18th hole (affectionately known as "heart attack hill") the trolley had no mechanical or other electrical issues.
It's now part of my son's inheritance. As an occasional golfer, he still gets around with it, and it gets loaned back to me as and when needed.
The Modern PowaKaddy Experience
As my knee has become increasingly arthritic, I decided in 2021 to invest in a new trolley. Based on the reliability of the PowaKaddy Classic, choosing another PowaKaddy seemed the obvious option, particularly with the EBS braking system to reduce stress on my knee when descending slopes.
However, I need to understand whether:
- I have simply been unlucky
- Modern PowaKaddy models are less reliable
- Component quality has changed with all manufacturers in general
The Replacement List
So far, my FX7 trolley has had the following replacements:
- 3 new axles
- 1 new gearbox
- 1 new motor
- 1 new motherboard
- 1 new 'T' handle and display screen
All repairs were completed by PowaKaddy or authorised repairers under a 3-year extended warranty, which I'm extremely grateful I registered for.
Last month, the on/off switch on my XL lithium battery also started failing. Based on PowaKaddy forums, this appears to be a common issue. Fortunately, this is covered under the 5-year extended battery warranty and was sent back for repair. However, I wasn't expecting to receive back a brand new XL battery retailing at £300.
The Customer Service Silver Lining
Here's where PowaKaddy deserves genuine credit: their aftercare has been exceptional. Every issue has been resolved promptly, professionally, and without quibble. The replacement battery, in particular, demonstrates a company standing behind its products.
But it raises an interesting question about modern manufacturing and brand loyalty.
The Big Question
Does PowaKaddy's excellent aftercare justify staying with them, or should I consider switching to other brands such as Motocaddy, Pro Rider, MGI, or Stewart when my trolley eventually fails and the warranty expires?
I typically play at least three times per week, so reliability is critical. The inconvenience of repeated repairs, even when handled well, is frustrating. My old Classic required virtually no maintenance beyond batteries for decades. My FX7 has needed more repairs in three years than my Classic did in 25.
Is This the New Normal?
This leads to broader questions about the electric trolley market:
- Have modern trolleys become less reliable across all brands due to increased electronics and complexity?
- Are component sourcing and quality control issues affecting the entire industry?
- Is the "Triggers Broom" phenomenon, where everything gets replaced over time simply the reality of owning modern electric trolleys?
What Would You Do?
I'd genuinely welcome input from the Locker Room Golf community:
- Have you experienced similar reliability issues with PowaKaddy or other brands?
- Does exceptional customer service outweigh reliability concerns?
- Should I stick with the brand I know, even if the product seems less reliable than it used to be?
- Or is it time to explore alternatives like Motocaddy, MGI, or Stewart?
As someone who plays regularly and needs dependable equipment, the decision matters. My arthritic knee means an electric trolley isn't a luxury, it's essential for continuing to enjoy the game I love.
The irony isn't lost on me that I might need to borrow back my 30-year-old Classic from my son if the FX7 has another off day.
Mervyn Hayes