Buying a Second Hand Mobility Scooter
If you're planning to purchase a second hand mobility scooter, it's important to conduct your research. You can go to local mobility stores and browse classified ads.
A dealer will most likely provide a warranty for the product, which will give you greater assurance. However private sellers can be a great source of information.
Check the vehicle number
Verify the vehicle's number prior to purchasing a second-hand scooter whether you are in a store or browsing classified ads. This will help you locate it if you need to.
You'll also want to ask the seller a few other questions. For instance, why are they selling it? They might have traded it in to get a better model, or they might have no longer the need for it. Asking about maintenance records is also an option. This will give you a more in-depth information about the history of the scooter as well as its use.
Second-hand mobility scooters do not come with warranties, so if anything happens to the scooter, you're on your own. It is recommended to purchase an used scooter from a reputable seller who can offer the warranty.
When you purchase an used scooter, the seller should declare you to be the registered keeper, by changing the details on the V5. If they don't then you must contact DVLA and update the information. If the scooter is stolen, you will be able to easily locate it and retrieve it.
Check the Battery
If you are buying a second-hand mobility scooter, you'll want to find out the age of the battery. This is important because when the device has been in storage for a long period of time, the battery might need to be replaced.
A multimeter is the best tool to use for checking the condition of the cell. This tool is sold at most hardware stores and costs between $15-$20. Connect one lead to the negative terminal and the other to the positive terminal of the battery. The meter should display a reading. If the meter does not show any voltage, then the battery has to be charged.
Ask the seller about the scooter's usage history. This will help you determine whether it's the right one for you. For example, if the scooter was driven on a rough terrain, you may not want to purchase it.
It is also recommended to see it in person before purchasing it. This is especially important if you're buying it from an individual seller. This will ensure that the product is in line with your requirements.
Check the Tyres
It is not uncommon for scooters to have flat tires when they're used, so it's important that you check the tires carefully. If the tires have not been used for a long period of time and they've gotten flat, they'll eventually fall off on one side, leading to an uncomfortable ride.
Another thing to be aware of is if the tires are properly inflated. If the tires are not properly pressure, they won't have the right amount of grip, and could cause the scooter to be in a sloppy way. Generally, the recommended tire pressure can be found in the user manual that came with the scooter or you can determine the tire pressure on your own.
Most mobility scooters use hard tires that need little maintenance, but they do wear down with time and use. Sharp objects, like nails, can harm the tires and puncture the air. It's an excellent idea to ask the seller what the amount of time the scooter has been used. Some dealers keep track of service and repairs on their vehicles. This can give you a better idea of the history of the scooter. They may also provide a warranty for certain components of the scooter which isn't always the case with private sellers.
Check the Seat
You can get a good idea of the quality of a used mobility scooter by examining its service reports. Request these records so that you can see the work that has been done to the scooter and how long the batteries, tyres and charger have lasted.
You can also consult your doctor or occupational therapist as well as relatives and friends to recommend for stores in your area that sell used mobility scooters. You can be assured that you're purchasing from a trusted retailer with good customer service.
If you're purchasing a second hand scooter from a private vendor, you might have to be a little more diligent. It is important to understand why the seller selling their scooter. It could be because they are upgrading to a better model or are having financial issues and want to sell the scooter quickly.
If you can, visit the seller of the scooter in person. This will let you see how it is in person and determine whether it meets your requirements. Pay with a platform that offers buyer protection in case something goes wrong. It's worth the extra effort to avoid getting scammed.
Make sure to check the Handlebars
A used mobility device is an excellent option to save on a costly piece of equipment. However, as with any type of purchase, it is essential to research thoroughly and ask the right questions prior to making a purchase. Before deciding to purchase, consider what you will make use of the scooter and where you will use it. Do you intend to travel on uneven surfaces or over long distances, for example? If so, then a sturdy, large-sized scooter could be more suitable to your requirements.
Request the seller to provide maintenance records if you can. This will provide you with details about the condition of the scooter. Also, make sure you test drive the scooter before making the final decision.
If you buy from a licensed seller they must provide you with a complete service history and a warranty. This will allow you to make an informed choice. Private sellers however, may be unable to offer any assurances. They may not have the knowledge to ensure the quality of their product. Therefore, it's always best to purchase from a reputable licensed supplier. This reduces the chance of a misunderstanding and risk you could face when buying from a private seller.
Check the Wheels
The wheels can have a significant influence on the way that a mobility scooter drives. If buy folding mobility scooter are in poor condition, it may be difficult to operate the scooter, and you may need to have them replaced. You should test the wheels of your scooter by taking it on an easy drive. This will provide you with an idea of how it performs and whether it is suited to your requirements.
It is also advisable to inquire about the history of the scooter. Find out the time span it has been owned by the current owner and if there are any other issues. For instance, if the seller was covered by insurance in the past, this can give you an idea of the maintenance it had received. This will let you know what the insurer deemed to be an appropriate model. This can be helpful if you plan to buy a second-hand mobility scooter from a seller.
It is always best to purchase a second-hand mobility wheelchair from an authorized dealer. They can provide you with all of the information you need about the product and will ensure that it is safe to use. They can also provide maintenance and warranty services.
Check the Frame
If you purchase from an a medical-related store the staff might have inspected and checked the condition of the scooter. They also have the benefit of being able to offer you suggestions about which scooter is the best fit for your requirements and how it should be utilized. They may also inform you about the history of the scooter such as whether it has been through any repairs or maintenance work done on it.
Ask the seller when the battery last was replaced and what the history of service for the scooter. This can help you determine its age and the length of time it can last before it needs to be replaced. Find out if there has been any maintenance carried out to the scooter, like replacing parts or cleaning the wheels.
Another crucial question to ask is if the vehicle has had any cosmetic damage in the past. If there are scratch marks or dents, it could mean that the scooter was not properly maintained. Examine the frame to ensure that all bolts on the scooter are tight. Loose bolts can cause vibrations and friction against wires, which could cause problems down the road.