Used Mobility Scooters

Second hand mobility scooters are a viable option when considering the products on the market. Most scooters and power wheelchairs are well attended to and have many more years of service available. Yes as with any used product search you may encounter a worn out shell of a scooter. But with knowledge at hand simply pass that one by and move on to a quality power chair. Ask the right questions first before going out to make a visual inspection.

What I mean is do a little homework!

Just as if you were buying a car a mobility scooter has a history. Who used the scooter and for what purpose? A few simple questions can easily weed out the products to avoid. It has been a long time policy of mine that if a product runs and operates effectively the age is not the first concern. I will gladly purchase a vehicle that operates everyday and has a history of maintenance records. Likewise a power wheelchair or mobility scooter can be looked at in the same light. If the seller of a used scooter or power chair has a record or history available it makes the decision process that much smoother.

The biggest area to look into when considering a used product is the batteries. Most batteries lose their life simply from not being used everyday. Once a battery is left unattended it begins to lose its ability to maintain a charge. I suggest when shopping to accept the fact that you will need to purchase new batteries. Then when you are ready to make an offer deduct the price of the new batteries from the asking price and explain to the seller your concern. Most reasonable people will understand this and accept your offer. If not there are many other used mobility scooters or power wheelchairs available.

Another area to consider is the electric motor and brakes. Now this is not a prevailing concern just something to put in your questionnaire when inquiring about a used scooter. Generally electric motors and braking systems will offer a lifetime of use to the owner when properly maintained. (I have 50 year old motors that run perfect in my shop) But by chance you come across a scooter that has been in storage you will want to make sure that it was stored indoors. Why? Moisture can play havoc on the internal electrical parts of a mobility scooter. If a power wheelchair or electric mobility scooter has been sitting in an outdoor location for some time the slight condensation and moisture build up can cause parts to have friction that should not be there. So make sure if this is the case to “test drive” the scooter to make sure there is no jerky motion in its behavior.

In these frugal times getting the most for your money is of concern to everyone. I believe there is a substantial amount of money to be saved from purchasing a used product. There is no better way to contribute to recycling than to continue using a product as it was intended. Good Luck!