Buying a Second Hand Mobility Scooter
Do your research prior to purchasing a used mobility scooter. You can visit local mobility shops and browse classified ads.
Buying from a dealer may provide greater peace of mind because they'll likely provide a warranty on the product. Private sellers can be a valuable source of information.
Verify the vehicle's number
If you are shopping in person at a shop or through classified ads make sure to check the vehicle number of any second-hand scooter you're considering. This will help you locate it in the event of need.
You'll also want to ask the seller a few other questions. Why are they selling it, for example? It could be that you exchanged it for an older model, or they may simply not need it in the future. It's also recommended to inquire about maintenance records should you be able to. This will give you more information about the history of the scooter and its usage.
It's important to know that second hand mobility scooters aren't covered with warranties like new ones do, so you will be on your own if something goes wrong. It is best to purchase a used scooter from a reputable dealer that can offer a warranty.
If you buy an used scooter, the seller must declare you to be the registered keeper by changing the information on the V5. If they don't, you must contact the DVLA to update the information. If the scooter is stolen, you'll be able to easily locate it and recover it.
Check the Battery
You will want to be aware of the age of the battery when purchasing a used mobility scooter. This is vital, because if the scooter was stored for a prolonged period of time it may require replacement.
A multimeter is the most reliable tool to check the condition of a cell. This tool can be purchased at the majority of hardware stores for between $15 and $20. Connect one lead to the negative terminal and the other to the positive terminal of the battery. The meter should display an indication. If the meter does not show any voltage, then the battery is not charged.
Ask the seller about the scooter's past use. This will help you decide if it is right for you. You might not want to buy a scooter that was driven on rough terrain.
It is also recommended to make an effort to view the scooter in person prior to buying it. This is especially true when you purchase it from an individual seller. This will ensure that the product meets your needs.
Check the Tyres
It is not uncommon for scooters to have flat tires when they're used, so it is essential to examine the tires carefully. If the tires are not used for a long period of time and they've gotten flat, they'll eventually fall off on one side, resulting in less of a comfortable ride.
Another thing you have to be aware of is if the tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires will not provide the required amount of grip, and may cause the scooter's ride to be unsteady. The recommended tire pressure is typically found in the manual that came with the scooter, or you can easily measure it yourself.
The tires on a majority of mobility scooters are hard and require little maintenance. However they get worn out over time. Sharp objects, like nails, can damage the tires and puncture the air. Asking the seller about the scooter's usage is also a good idea. Some dealers keep records of repairs and maintenance on their vehicles. This can give you a better idea of the history of the scooter. Some dealers might provide a warranty on certain components of the scooter. This isn't always the case when you purchase from private sellers.
Check the Seat
If you're buying a second hand mobility scooter from a store that sells them, they'll usually have service records for the item that will give you an idea of how well it's been taken care of. Ask for these so that you can see the work that has been completed on the device as well as how long the batteries, tyres and charger have lasted.
Alternately, you can consult your doctor or occupational therapist as well as your family and friends for recommendations for stores in your area that offer used mobility scooters. This means you can be sure that the shop is reliable and provides excellent customer service.
mobility scooter to buy may need be extra cautious when purchasing a used scooter from a private seller. It is important to understand why the seller is selling their scooter. They may be looking to upgrade to a better model, or they're having financial difficulties and want to sell it quickly.
If you can, visit the scooter seller in person. This will let you experience the scooter in person and whether it is suitable for your requirements. Pay on a platform that has buyer protection in the event that anything goes wrong. It's worth the effort to avoid being scammed.
Check the Handlebars
A used mobility scooter can be a great way to reduce the cost of a costly piece of equipment. However, as with any type of purchase, it's important to do your research and ask the right questions prior to making a purchase. Before purchasing, consider what you will make use of the scooter and where. For instance, do intend to travel on uneven surfaces or for long distances? If yes, a large sturdy scooter could be better suited to your requirements.
It's also an excellent idea to ask the seller for maintenance records if you can in order to give you information about how well the scooter has been maintained. Make sure you test drive the scooter prior to making the final decision.
If you buy from a licensed seller, they should be able to provide you with a complete history of service as well as a guarantee. This will allow you to make an informed decision. Private sellers might not be able to give you any guarantees. Furthermore, they might not have the expertise to ensure the quality of their products. Therefore, it's always best to buy from a reputable licensed seller. This will reduce the risk and uncertainty that you may face when purchasing from a private seller.
Check the Wheels
The wheels form a major part of mobility scooters and may impact how it operates. If they are in bad condition, it could be difficult to use the scooter and you may need to have them replaced. You should test the wheels of your scooter by taking it on short drives. This will give you an idea of how well it performs and whether or not it is suited to your requirements.
Ask about the history of your scooter. Find out the length of time it was owned by the current seller and if there are any other issues. For instance that if the seller was insured in the past this will provide you with an idea of how much maintenance it received. It will also reveal what the insurer deemed to be an appropriate model. This can be helpful when you are planning to purchase a second-hand mobility scooter from a seller.
When buying a used mobility scooter, it is always recommended to go through an authorized dealer. They will be able to provide you with the necessary information regarding the product and will ensure its safety. They will also be able to offer maintenance and warranty services.
Check the Frame
If you buy from a medical supply store, they may have inspected your scooter and assessed its condition. They also have the advantage of being able offer you suggestions on which scooter is suitable for your requirements and how it should be utilized. They may be able tell you more about the background of your scooter, including whether it's been repaired or maintained.
Ask the seller when the battery last was replaced and what the service history is for the scooter. This can help you determine its age and how long it will be able to run before it has to be replaced. You should also determine if the scooter has had any other maintenance work done on it, like replacing a part or cleaning the wheels.
A scooter that has suffered cosmetic damage is a different aspect to consider. If the scooter has any scratches or dents on it, this could be a sign that it was not well maintained. Also, you should examine the frame of the scooter to make sure that all bolts are in good shape and not loose. Loose bolts can cause vibrations and friction against wires, which could lead to issues down the road.