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What You Should Consider When Buying a Used Mobility Scooter or Powerchair

Purchasing a used mobility scooter or used powerchair is a fantastic, budget friendly way to regain your mobility and independence. However, before you make a purchase, it’s important to ensure you choose the right product for your needs. One that suits your lifestyle and meets your individual requirements. In this handy guide, we outline the key factors you should consider before making your investment.

A person in a pink shirt uses a joystick to operate a used mobility scooter converted into a powered wheelchair indoors.

What are your needs? 

The main factor to consider before starting your search is your individual needs. Some key points to think about include: 

  • Usage: How often will you use it, daily or occasionally? 
  • Environment: Will you be using it indoors, outdoors or a combination of both? 
  • Weight Capacity: Can the mobility scooter or powerchair comfortably support your body weight? 
  • Portability: Do you need to transport it easily, such as lifting it into a car boot? 

Once you have identified each of these points, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and make the search for the right product much easier. 

Close-up of the wheels and base of a black and blue Quickie powered wheelchair, similar to a used mobility scooter, on a tiled kitchen floor. The wheelchair is positioned near wooden cupboards.

What is the condition? 

Assessing the overall condition of the used product will help you anticipate any future costs and determine whether the used mobility scooter or powerchair aligns with your requirements. It also ensures you’re getting good value for money and a reliable product. Key points to consider are: 

  • Battery Life: How well does the battery hold a charge and how far can you travel on a full charge? You should also consider the estimated remaining battery lifespan. 
  • Physical Condition: Look at the frame, seating and controls for any signs of rust, damage or wear.  
  • Maintenance History: When was it last serviced? What repairs have been carried out previously, and are there any recurring issues or concerns? 
  • Product Age: Generally, newer models may offer greater longevity and improved features. 

All of our used mobility scooters and used powerchairs undergo our robust 15-point check and are fully serviced, cleaned and tested. At Mobility Solutions we can confidently guarantee you are getting a reliable mobility product you can count on, giving you peace of mind.  

Two older men stand outdoors next to a used mobility scooter. One man is adjusting the scooter’s wing mirror while the other watches closely. There is a wooden fence and greenery in the background.

Test Drive 

Once you’ve identified a product you like, it’s crucial to take it for a test drive. This allows you to see first-hand whether it meets your needs and expectations. Key factors to consider during your test drive include:  

  • Controls: Are the controls easy to understand and operate? 
  • Comfort: Comfort is especially important if you plan to use the mobility scooter or powerchair for long periods of time. Does it provide the support you need and as your mobility needs change, is the seating easy to adjust to maintain comfort? 
  • Manoeuvrability: Pay attention to how smoothly it handles on different surfaces. Does the speed, range, and turning radius meet your expectations? 

Registration Requirements 

Class 3 mobility scooters can be driven on the road, so if you are purchasing this type of scooter, you must register it with the DVLA. For used mobility scooters, you will need to complete a V55/5 form, which can be found here. 

Warranties 

Check whether warranties or additional guarantees are included. At Mobility Solutions, we provide a free 12-month warranty and one month of free insurance. On our used powerchairs and used mobility scooters. Giving you that extra reassurance and confidence when making your purchase.month warranty and one month of free insurance 

Final Thoughts: 

By considering all these points you can confidently find a second-hand mobility scooter or used powerchair that meets your budget, lifestyle and needs. If you have any questions or require further assistance our friendly team are always on hand to help and offer advice.