10 Things to Look For When Buying a Mobility Scooter
10 Aug 2021
If you’re about to embark on purchasing a Mobility Scooter for the first time, you might be wondering how the process works and how to choose a mobility scooter that’s right for you. We have a range of articles available to help including the How to Get a Mobility Scooter buying guide and how to get a second-hand mobility scooter guide.
If you want to know what to look for when buying a mobility scooter, we’ve put together a handy list of 10 things to consider below:
Storage Options
Do you have a big enough space near a plug socket so it can charge? Is it secure? If you have outdoor space, looking into mobility scooter storage sheds is a fantastic option.
Choose the Scooter Class you Require
For short local journeys on the pavements or the ability to take your scooter in the car or on public transport, a portable Class 2 mobility scooter may be the best option. If you want something larger with the option of driving on the roads then you will need a Class 3 scooter. Visit the UK government website for Mobility Scooter legal requirements.
Take into Account your Personal Needs
Do you need extra legroom or a specific kind of seat? Consider maximum weight restrictions or a mobility scooter with more suspension if you suffer from back problems.
Consider how many Wheels you’d like and what Type of Tyre
Scooters with 3 wheels may be easier to handle, especially in smaller spaces, whilst some people prefer the extra stability of 4 wheels. When purchasing or renting a mobility scooter, you should consider the type of mobility scooter tyre: solid tyres or pneumatic. Pneumatic tyres will offer more suspension, giving a smoother ride but as with any air-filled tyres, are at risk of puncture.
Think about where you’ll be using the Mobility Scooter
If indoors, check the width of your mobility scooter against the size of the doors to ensure it will fit through. When outside, will it mainly be pavements or do you need something for all terrains?
How far will you Travel with your Mobility Scooter?
Check that the range of the scooter covers the distances that you’ll regularly travel. Factors such as hills, your weight and the age of the battery can all have an impact on the scooter’s range so make sure you consider all of these when assessing travel distances.
Try Before You Buy
Shop around and try different styles of mobility scooter so you can compare and find one you are happy with before purchasing. A Mobility Centre or Disabled Living Centre will be able to offer guidance and sometimes training on how to choose and use a mobility scooter.
Another option could be to hire your preferred model or a similar version from your local Shopmobility for a day before you commit to buying a scooter to really put it to the test. Prices can vary hugely from place to place so look around for the best deal.
Preprepare Questions
Once you’ve made your choice have a list of questions ready for your chosen retailer/supplier e.g. How long for delivery? Will it come assembled? Is there a guarantee/warranty? How do I arrange repairs and are spare parts easy to get hold of?
Ensure you Feel Safe
It’s important when test-driving your mobility scooter to ensure you feel safe when operating it, which is also why practising in a safe area is important to make sure you feel confident on your scooter before going out alone. Things to consider include how does it feel to drive, does it feel tiring to steer, and if so do you need something smaller or lighter?
Mobility Scooter Insurance
Although not a legal requirement, Mobility Scooter Insurance is highly recommended in case of loss, damage or breakdowns such as flat batteries or punctures. By choosing to take out mobility scooter insurance, you give yourself peace of mind when you’re out and about. Our policies start from only £59.
10 Tips for Buying a Mobility Scooter
- Storage options at home
- Choose the right scooter class
- Your personal needs
- How many wheels do you want
- Where will you be using the mobility scooter
- What distances will you be using your mobility scooter for
- Test drive the mobility scooter before you buy
- Prepare questions about the mobility scooter
- Practice driving on a mobility scooter in a safe space
- Take out a Mobility scooter insurance policy for peace of mind
Read here for information on mobility scooter tax and insurance.