Buying a Used Folding Mobility Scooter
If you're in the market for a used folding scooter it's important to consider a few factors. This is especially true if you are going through an insurance company.
Check for the top speed, the overall length, width and the height of the unit folded and unfolded. You should also test the vehicle. Watch out for a thump thump. That's an indication of worn tires.
Reliability
Mobility scooters are an investment that is significant for any owner, and so the reliability of the vehicle is important. A mobility device that breaks down can be very frustrating and expensive. This is especially true for elderly people or those who have a low income. The best way to make sure a used mobility scooter is safe is to purchase from a reliable dealer who offers an assurance with the purchase. A good dealer will also be able to assist with any repairs or maintenance that are required on the scooter.
It is crucial to choose an old folding scooter that is well maintained. This means that the scooter will have been regularly serviced out and the batteries will have been replaced when necessary. A buyer should look at the paper trail to prove that the work was done. This could be evidenced by receipts or service history.
The top speed of the scooter is an additional factor to consider. This is crucial if the mobility scooter user requires speed to complete tasks. A scooter that is fast will enable users to move swiftly from A to B without having to stop or remove it from the road.
Depending on how often the mobility scooter is used, it is suggested to monitor the battery's capacity and charge it when it becomes depleted. It is also recommended to store the battery fully charged, especially if it's going to be stored for long periods of time. It is important to ensure that the batteries are not run down to 0% as this can significantly decrease their life span.
In the case of most used mobility scooters that fold it is likely that they will not be covered by a warranty. The reason for this is that the second-hand market for scooters do not work like the car market where dealers conduct multi-point inspections and offer warranties. This rule does not apply to scooters that are new and have some warranty left by the original manufacturer. Additionally, some sellers offer a service plan for their scooters. This is an additional source of assurance.
Battery Life
Folding mobility scooters have different battery life capacity based on the model. Some models are equipped with smaller batteries to help reduce weight, whereas others utilize larger batteries for a longer range. It is essential to know the battery size and capacity of a scooter before purchasing one, especially if you have specific destinations in mind.
A good general rule of thumb is to think that mobility scooters will require replacement batteries after 18 months or two years of regular usage. However, this can vary considerably based on the environment, the frequency of usage and the type of charger employed. Some users recharge their scooters after every use, while others will only recharge them once per week. The scooters will last for many years if they're properly maintained and cared for.
When storing a scooter it is essential to note how the battery is stored. This can dramatically reduce its lifespan. The best method to extend the life of a scooter to keep it in a cool, dry location with a fully charged battery. best folding mobility scooter come with clear instructions on how to keep and store the batteries to prolong their life.
The battery's performance is also impacted by how the scooter is driven on rough terrain or indoors. A reputable mobility store can help you learn how to safely operate the scooter and get the most value from the purchase.
In addition to a battery test, it is also a good idea to examine the condition of the tires. Tires that are worn can be dangerous and 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 also crucial. A broken ignition switch or ignition key could make the scooter vulnerable to theft, so make certain that it is secured. It is fixable with a pair needle-nosed pliers. Simply twist the head of the damaged key from the ignition switch and it will then be in neutral position.
Storage
Many mobility scooters have ample storage capacity to accommodate bags and other personal items, and a few even have locking storage. Most mobility scooters do not provide enough storage for long trips or shopping trips. Buyers should think about accessory options to meet their individual requirements. This could include front baskets mounted to the tiller that provide the security and convenience to transport personal items, or rear-mounted baskets or saddlebags for increased storage space.
If a buyer wants to take their scooter on an airplane, they must check with the airline about the specific requirements. Certain airlines won't permit an scooter if it's too large, while other airlines have size restrictions on the battery and other components.
Individual sellers of a scooter may have maintenance records which can help the buyer identify what work has been done and when. However these records aren't common with used equipment. Buyers should know that there is usually no warranty on used scooters because the warranty of the original manufacturer does not transfer to a new owner.
Some scooters come with a folding design, which allows them to be split into two pieces of lightweight components to make it easy to transport and lift. This is a great feature, particularly when traveling long distances. Some scooters are also designed to provide more maneuverability and ease of use while others are constructed with a more solid four-wheel base to improve stability.
Scooter storage options vary from almost nothing to more than what a person will ever need. Most scooters have an extra small basket on the tiller for storing bags or other items needed for short trips. Some vehicles have storage beneath the seat or along with the tiller. Other models have secure storage hidden behind the seat.
Most mobility scooters are easy to transport and fit into the trunk of a vehicle, however larger devices might require a trailer or hitch to transport. Some scooters can be dismantled into smaller pieces and taken on a flight.
Security
You can take a variety of security measures to protect your mobility device from theft. These include a physical lock, a tracking device that makes use of GPS to track your scooter and alerts you via text message if it's moved, and purchasing insurance to protect your investment should the worst happen.
A high-quality U-lock will keep the majority of potential burglars right in their tracks. It's worth the extra expense for security. You should also select one with an anti-drill lock hole to stop drilling. You should not leave your scooter alone for longer than a few hours, especially in areas with high rates of crime. Always keep the key on you if you have to walk away.
Certain mobility scooters have electronic theft deterrents, from alarms that sound when someone tries to roll or ride the vehicle away and apps that let you remotely lock the wheels (as seen on the Apollo City 2022 and AnyHill UM-1 models). These can help add an extra layer of security to your scooter - but they're not a replacement for a high-quality physical lock.
If you're trying to make sure that your scooter is able to fit in your car boot, you should be aware of the width, length and overall height of the scooter. You'll need to consider the maximum speed of your scooter and the amount of battery it can charge on the event that you intend to travel long distances.
The best folding mobility wheelchairs are easy to use and come with clearly identified buttons and levers. You might want to look for models that can be manually or electronically folded in under 30 seconds. This will help you avoid many frustrations when getting it ready to use each day. Other features you should look for include a cup holder and oxygen tank-holder, a turn signals and a headlight.