Unlock 19.6 MPH with Speed Code 4
Want your Club Car Precedent or Tempo golf cart to hit 19.6 MPH? Speed Code 4 is a factory-approved controller tweak that removes speed limits without compromising your cart’s core systems. This isn’t a hack—it’s a precision-engineered option straight from Club Car’s tech playbook.
Tech Spec: Adjusts the Curtis controller’s RPM ceiling, optimizing motor output for a clean 19.6 MPH top speed.
Stock vs. Speed Code 4: See the Difference
Watch a stock Club Car (14.8 MPH) race against a Speed Code 4 cart (19.6 MPH) on a virtual track:
What Is Speed Code 4?
Speed Code 4 is an official Club Car performance setting for Precedent and Tempo models. It reprograms the controller to push the motor beyond stock limits, delivering a top speed of 19.6 MPH on flat terrain. No aftermarket parts, no warranty worries—just pure factory tech.
- Max Speed: 19.6 MPH (tested with 48V system, full charge).
- Compatibility: Precedent (2004+) and Tempo (2018+) with Curtis controllers.
- Install Time: ~10 minutes with a Curtis programmer.
- Battery Impact: Minimal—maintains efficiency at higher RPMs.
How It Works: The Tech Breakdown
Speed Code 4 tweaks the controller’s firmware to increase the motor’s RPM threshold. For a detailed step-by-step guide, check our Speed Code 4 Installation Guide.
- Access the controller (under the rear panel—check your manual).
- Retrieve the controller serial number and cart VIN.
- Connect a Curtis programmer (model 1313 or 1314 recommended).
- Input Speed Code 4 parameters (dealer-provided or factory-sourced).
- Sync and test—hit 19.6 MPH with stock tires and battery.
Pro Tip: Ensure your battery pack is at least 80% charged and your motor is in spec (e.g., 3.3 HP stock) for optimal results.
Boost Speed Further with Larger Tires
Want to push past 19.6 MPH or optimize your setup? Upgrading to larger tires can amplify your Club Car’s speed. For more details, see our Larger Tires Guide.
- How It Works: Larger diameter tires increase the distance covered per wheel rotation, effectively raising top speed without changing motor RPM.
- Example: Stock 18-inch tires vs. 20-inch tires = ~10-15% speed gain (e.g., 19.6 MPH to 21-22 MPH).
- Trade-Off: Slight torque loss on hills—best for flat courses.
- Recommended Sizes: 20" or 22" all-terrain tires (check axle clearance).
Tech Note: Pair larger tires with Speed Code 4 for a hybrid upgrade—controller handles RPM, tires extend ground speed.
High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet vs. Speed Code 4
Some golf cart owners try to increase speed with a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet. Learn more about this method and why Speed Code 4 is better in our Half-Pulse Magnet Guide.
What Is a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet?
The High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet is a small aftermarket magnet that replaces the stock speed sensor magnet on the motor shaft of Club Car IQ systems with ADC motors (serial prefixes AQ, CE, FD, HD, PE, or PQ). It halves the pulse rate sent to the controller, tricking the system into doubling the speed for each setting, potentially increasing top speed from 14.8 MPH to 18-20 MPH, depending on the cart’s condition.
Drawbacks of the Half-Pulse Magnet
- Inconsistent Performance: Some users report surging—where the cart alternates between fast and slow at full speed—requiring a pedal reset to stabilize.
- Warranty Risk: This is an aftermarket mod, not a factory option, so it may void your Club Car warranty, unlike Speed Code 4.
- Regen Braking Issues: The magnet can weaken regenerative braking, making it less effective (sometimes reduced to half power) and potentially unsafe on hills.
- Battery Drain: Some users note faster battery depletion due to the altered speed dynamics, reducing range per charge.
- Variable Results: Speed gains depend on the cart’s condition (e.g., battery age, tire size), and some users report minimal or no improvement (e.g., 14 MPH to 15-16 MPH).
Why Speed Code 4 Is Better
- Factory-Approved: Speed Code 4 is an official Club Car setting, ensuring it won’t void your warranty.
- Reliable Speed: Guarantees 19.6 MPH on flat terrain with stock tires, no surging or inconsistency.
- No Impact on Braking: Maintains full regenerative braking functionality for safety.
- Battery Efficiency: Designed to work within factory parameters, minimizing battery strain.
- Simpler Process: A 10-minute firmware tweak with a Curtis programmer—no need to jack up the cart, remove wheels, or swap parts.
Bottom Line: The High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet is a gamble with inconsistent results and potential downsides. Speed Code 4 offers a safer, more reliable speed boost with factory backing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For more detailed answers, visit our FAQ page.
What golf carts support Speed Code 4?
Speed Code 4 works with Club Car Precedent (2004+) and Tempo (2018+) models equipped with Curtis controllers. Verify your controller model (e.g., 1510, 1515) for compatibility.
Will Speed Code 4 void my warranty?
No—Speed Code 4 is a factory option from Club Car, so it won’t void your warranty. It’s an approved performance tweak, not an aftermarket mod.
How fast will my Club Car go with Speed Code 4?
With Speed Code 4, your cart hits 19.6 MPH on flat ground with stock tires and a 48V system. Add larger tires for even higher speeds.
What tools do I need for Speed Code 4?
You’ll need a Curtis programmer (e.g., 1313 handheld) to flash the controller. Most dealers have one, or you can buy/rent online.
Is it legal to speed up my golf cart to 19.6 MPH?
Speed laws vary—some areas cap golf carts at 15 MPH on public paths. Check local regulations before hitting the throttle.
How do larger tires affect performance?
Larger tires (e.g., 20" or 22") increase top speed by covering more ground per rotation but may reduce torque on inclines. Ideal for flat terrain with Speed Code 4.