Buying a Used Folding Mobility Scooter
If you're in the market for a used mobility scooter, it's important that you consider some things. This is particularly true if you are going through an insurance company.
Find the top speed, the overall length, width and height of the unit folded and unfolded. It is also recommended to take the unit for a test drive. Watch out for a thump thump. That's an indication of worn tires.
Reliability
The reliability of mobility scooters is vital for the person who owns it. A mobility device that breaks down can be very frustrating and costly. This is particularly the case for older people or those with a limited income. A reputable dealer will provide a warranty when you buy an old scooter. A good dealer will also be able to help with any repairs or maintenance that are required on the scooter.
When you are looking for a used mobility scooter, it is recommended to select one that has been well maintained. This means that the scooter must have been regularly serviced out and the batteries will have been replaced if needed. The ideal scenario is that the buyer will be able to see a paper trail that proves the work was completed. This may include receipts or an account history.
Another thing to take into consideration is the top speed of the scooter. This is crucial when a person who uses a mobility scooter needs speed to complete tasks. A scooter that is fast will enable them to travel from A to B in a short time, without needing to stop for breaks or get off the road.
mobility fold up scooters is essential to keep track of the battery level and then charge the mobility scooter if the battery is low. It is also recommended to keep the battery fully charged, especially if it is to be stored for a long period of time. It is important to avoid letting the batteries run out of power in order to decrease their life span.
The majority of used folding mobility scooters will not come with any warranty. The reason is that the second-hand market for scooters do not function like the car market where dealers perform multi-point checks and offer warranties. The exception to this rule is if the scooter very new and still has some of the manufacturer's warranty remaining. Some sellers offer a service agreement for their scooters as an additional level of assurance.
Battery Life
Folding mobility scooters come with different battery life capacity based on the model. Some models are equipped with smaller batteries to reduce weight, whereas others use larger batteries for more range. It is important to understand the battery size and capacity of a scooter prior to purchasing one, especially if you have specific travel destinations in your thoughts.
A good guideline is to suppose that a mobility scooter will need batteries replaced after 18 months or two years of continuous use. It will depend on the environment, the frequency of use and the charger type. Some people charge their scooters every time they use them, whereas others charge them only every week. The scooters will last for many years if they are properly maintained and cared for.
It is essential to be aware of how the scooter is stored when it is not in use in order to shorten the battery life. Keep your scooter in an enclosed and cool area with a fully charged battery is the best way to ensure its longevity. Most scooters come with strict instructions on how to keep and store the batteries to extend their life.
Battery performance is also influenced by how you drive the scooter whether on rough terrain or inside. A reputable mobility shop can teach you how to safely drive a scooter and how to maximize the value of your purchase.
In addition to a battery test it is also a good idea to inspect the condition of the tires. Tires that are worn out can be dangerous and will limit your ability to travel long distances. Similarly, tires that are flat could damage the wheels.
The scooter's security when it is not in use is important. If the ignition switch or key are damaged, it could leave the scooter vulnerable to theft. Make sure you secure it. Fortunately, this can usually be fixed with the needle-nose pliers to pull the head of a damaged key out of the ignition switch, leaving it in neutral position.
Stores
Many mobility scooters have ample storage capacity to accommodate bags and other personal items and some even come with locking storage. However, they do not come with enough storage to support longer journeys or shopping excursions, so buyers must look into accessories that satisfy their needs. You can also add front baskets that are mounted on the tiller for a convenient and safe way to carry your personal possessions or rear baskets or saddlebags to expand storage space.
If a buyer wants to take their scooter on the plane, it's important to inquire with their airline about the specific requirements for taking a scooter aboard. Some airlines won't allow the use of a scooter if it's too big, while others have limitations on the size of the battery and other components.
The seller of a scooter could have a maintenance record which can help buyers determine the date and time when work was performed. These records are not as common on used equipment. Buyers should be aware that a warranty typically is not available for used scooters, as the original manufacturer's warranties do not transfer to new owners.
Some scooters feature an innovative folding design that allows them to be separated into two parts that are lightweight for easy transportation and lifting. This is a useful feature, particularly when traveling long distances. Some scooters have been designed to be easy to maneuver and handle with, while others have a four-wheel base for increased stability.
Scooter storage options can vary from almost nothing to more than a person will ever need. Most scooters have small baskets on the tiller that can be used to store bags or other items needed for short trips. Other vehicles have storage underneath the seat or on the tiller and some have hidden storage that keeps belongings out of sight.
Most mobility scooters are able to be transported easily and fit into the trunk of a car however larger models may require a trailer or hitch. Some scooters are able to dismantle into smaller pieces to be taken on a plane.
Security
You can take a number security measures to protect your mobility device from theft. This includes the use of a physical lock, a device that utilizes GPS to track your scooter and alerts you via text message when it's stolen, as well as taking out insurance to cover your new investment should the worst happen.
A top-quality U-lock can stop the majority of would-be burglars in their tracks. It's worth the extra cost for peace of mind. Choose a model with an anti-drilling hole to avoid drilling. Lastly, you should never leave your scooter unattended for longer than a couple of hours at the same time, especially in areas that have high crime rates. And always make sure you bring the key with you if you need to walk away from it for any reason.
Certain mobility scooters come with electronic theft deterrents. They include alarms that sound if someone attempts to roll or ride the vehicle away to applications that allow you to remotely lock the wheels. (As seen on Apollo City 2022 models as well as AnyHill UM-1). These can add an additional layer of protection for your scooter but they're not an alternative to a high-quality physical lock.
You should also consider the overall size, width and length of the scooter when it's folded to ensure that it will fit into your car boot. If you want to to travel long distances with your scooter, you'll also have to consider the maximum speed and the amount the battery can be charged when fully charged.
The most efficient folding mobility wheelchairs are user-friendly and come with clearly identified levers and buttons. You may want to look for a model that can be manually or electronically folded in less than 30 seconds, since this will spare you lots of hassle when it comes to getting it ready for use every day. Other features to keep in mind include a cup holder, oxygen tank holder, headlight and turn signals.