Tips for Buying a
Secondhand Mobility Scooter

Buying a secondhand mobility scooter can comes with many benefits. Though, like purchasing any other used equipment, you have to do your research before making a purchase. When you buy used, you have an opportunity to get a high quality scooter at an affordable price. 

Like cars, when a mobility scooter is used even once, its resale value begins to drop. This means that you can often get a good price on a mobility scooter, even if the previous owner only used it occasionally

Tips for Buying a Used Mobility Scooter

Ask yourself the following questions to help determine what type of mobility scooter would be right for you. (To learn more, click here for a primer on electric scooter models and options.)

  1. Will you use your mobility scooter inside, outside or both?
  2. Do you see a need to maneuver around tight spaces, across uneven surfaces or go long distances?
  3. Do you need a scooter that is highly portable or one that is heavier and more stable?
  4. What type of controls and features do you require?

Consult with a scooter specialist to ensure you are considering the right kind of scooter for your specific situation. For example, three-wheeled models are designed to be used indoors. They are more agile than models with four wheels and can handle narrow halls and make turns in small spaces.

Four-wheeled models are better suited for outside use and traversing rough surfaces. They offer stability and comfort to the user.

Lightweight travel scooters come with either three or four wheels. They are smaller than standard models and are easily transported. Some models can be folded for travel.

Heavy duty scooter models are designed to handle greater weight capacity and can safely accommodate users who weigh more than 250 pounds.

When you determine the type of secondhand mobility scooter you want, begin your search by visiting area mobility stores, searching online for used mobility retailers, perusing newspaper and online classified ads. In addition, take a look online, including listings on Craigslist and eBay.

Once you find a secondhand mobility scooter that appears to suit your needs and budget, meet with the owner in person and check the following firsthand. You may also want to hire a scooter specialist for an hour or two to look at the scooter with you. Ask how often the scooter was used and when it was last serviced.

  • Check the tires for signs of wear and tear
  • Take the mobility scooter out for a test drive to ensure everything works properly, the steering feels tight and the ride is comfortable
  • Find out if there is any time left on the warranty
  • Examine the battery charger points to ensure that they’re in good condition
  • Check the condition of the wheel axles and brakes
  • Check mechanical components for corrosion
  • If the scooter has a horn and/or lights, check to see if they are functioning properly

The cleanliness of a used scooter is generally a good indication of how well the owner took care of it. Usually, a scooter with a well-maintained appearance also has well-maintained parts.

Avoid buying a secondhand mobility scooter that is in rough shape, no matter how inexpensive it is. Even though it might seem like a great bargain at first glance, you’ll probably end up spending more than you expect on repairs.

Consider purchasing a used scooter from a dealer. Dealers typically ensure that their used scooters they sell are in good working condition. A dealer may even guarantee to cover the cost of repairs and replacement parts for a specified amount of time after purchase.


Mobility Ramps
Types of Mobility Scooters
More About Electric Mobility Scooters

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