Buying a Second Hand Mobility Scooter
Do your research prior to purchasing a used mobility scooter. You can browse classifieds and visit local mobility shops.
A dealer will usually provide a warranty for the product, which will give you greater peace of mind. However private sellers can be an excellent source of information.
Check the vehicle number
Whether it is in the shop in person or through classified ads, ensure you know the vehicle number of the second-hand scooter you're thinking of buying. This will enable you to find it if you need.
You should also ask the seller other questions. What is buying a mobility scooter are selling it, for example? You might have traded it in on a newer model, or they might have decided that they don't need it any more. It's also an excellent idea to inquire for maintenance records, if possible. This will provide you with more details on the scooter's usage and history.
Second hand mobility scooters don't come with a warranty, so if anything happens to the scooter, you're on your own. It is recommended to purchase a used scooter from a reputable dealer who will provide the warranty.
The seller must update the details of the V5 if you purchase a used scooter. If they don't, you need to contact the DVLA to correct the information. This will ensure that if the scooter is stolen, you can easily locate it and get it back.
Check the Battery
You will want to be aware of the age of the battery before purchasing an old mobility scooter. This is important because if the device has been in storage for a prolonged period of time, it may need to be replaced.
A multimeter is the ideal tool to use when checking the condition of the cell. This tool can be purchased at most hardware stores for between $15 and $20. Simply connect one lead to the positive terminal and one to the negative terminal of the battery and it should show an indication. If the meter does not display any voltage, then the battery is not charged.
It's also recommended to ask the seller questions about how the scooter was used in the past. This will help you determine whether it's the right one for you. You might not want to buy a scooter that was driven on rough terrain.
It is also advisable to see it in person before buying it. This is especially important when you purchase it from a private seller. This will ensure that the product is in line with your requirements.
Check your tires
It's not unusual for scooters to have flat tires when they're second hand, so it is important to check them carefully. Tires that have been left in a tiniest of places will flatten on one side. This can make the scooter less comfortable to ride.
You should also check if your tires are properly inflated. Tires that aren't properly inflated won't provide enough grip, and may cause the scooter's performance to be unsteady. The recommended tire pressure is typically found in the manual that came with the scooter, or you can test it yourself.
The tires on the majority of mobility scooters are tough and require little maintenance. However, they do get worn out over time. They can also be damaged by sharp objects like nails, which may cut the tires or puncture the air. It is recommended to ask the seller how much the scooter has been used for. Some dealers keep service and repair records on their vehicles, which will help you get a better picture of the scooter's history. Some dealers may provide a warranty on certain components of the scooter. This isn't always the case when buying from private sellers.
Check the Seat
If you're buying a second hand mobility scooter from a shop, they will often have service records for the product which can give you an idea of how it's been taken care of. Request these records so that you can observe the work that has been completed on the scooter and how long the batteries, tyres, and charger have last.
Alternatively, you can ask your physician, occupational therapist, or friends and family for recommendations for stores in your area that offer used mobility scooters. This means that you can be sure that the shop is reliable and offers excellent customer service.
If you're buying an used scooter from a private vendor, you may need to be more vigilant. It is important to understand why the seller selling their scooter. It could be that they are upgrading to a different model or are facing financial difficulties and need to sell the scooter fast.
If possible, try to visit the scooter seller in person. This will allow you understand what the scooter really like and if it's suitable for your needs. Pay on a platform that has buyer protection, in case anything goes wrong. It's worth the effort to avoid being scammed.
Check the Handlebars
Buying a used mobility scooter can be an excellent option to save money on a costly piece of equipment. Like any purchase it is essential to do research and ask the correct questions prior to making a final decision. Before you purchase it, think about what you plan to make use of the scooter and where you will use it. For example, do you plan to travel over uneven surfaces or long distances? If so, a big, robust scooter may be the best choice for your requirements.
It's also recommended to ask the seller for maintenance records if possible and this will give you information about how well the scooter has been maintained. Finally, be sure to try the scooter out before making the final decision.
If you purchase from a licensed supplier they are likely to be able provide you a complete history of service and a warranty to help in making a decision. Private sellers may not be able offer you any guarantees. They may not have the experience to warrant the quality of their products. It is best to purchase from a licensed, reliable supplier. This reduces the risk and uncertainty you may face when purchasing from private sellers.
Check the Wheels
The wheels are a big component of a mobility scooter and can influence the way it drives. It can be difficult to operate the scooter if the wheels are damaged. You may need to replace them. You should test the scooter's wheels by taking it on short drives. This will provide you with an idea of how well it performs and whether it is suited to your needs.
Find out the history of the scooter. Find out if the scooter has been owned for a long period of time by the seller, and if it has any other problems. If the scooter was insured in the past, you can determine how well it was maintained. It will also provide you with the information that the insurer considered to be an appropriate model. This is helpful in the event that you decide to purchase an old mobility scooter from a seller.
It is recommended to purchase a used mobility wheelchair from a licensed dealer. They can provide you with all the information you need regarding the product and will ensure the safety of the product. They will be able to offer maintenance and warranty services.
Check the Frame
If you buy from a medical supply store they may have inspected the scooter and inspected its condition. They also have the benefit of being able offer you advice about what scooter is suitable for your requirements and how it can be utilized. They may be able tell you more about the background of your scooter, including whether it's been repaired or maintained.
It is advisable to inquire with the seller about the history of the scooter's service and the date it was last replaced. This will help you determine the age of the scooter and how much longer it will last before it is time to be replaced. Find out if there's been any maintenance done to the scooter, such as replacing parts or cleaning the wheels.
A scooter that has sustained cosmetic damage is a different question. If the scooter has had any scratches or dents on it, this can be a sign that it was not well maintained. Examine the frame to ensure that all bolts on the scooter are in good condition. The loose screws can cause wires or vibrations to rub against each other which could cause problems.