Mobility Scooters Used For Sale
Mobility scooters allow people to get back some independence, especially those who were dependent on others for help prior to. It helps to promote comfort and a more relaxed life style.
Scooters aren't typically covered by warranties as they are only used by the original owners. However, some sellers might keep maintenance records of the scooter.
Check the Battery
Mobility scooters provide a range of benefits to seniors including the ability to travel independently. They also lower the chance of falling. However, the price of a new mobility device can be prohibitive for some. However, there are numerous cheaper used mobility scooters available on sites like eBay and Craigslist and also at medical supply stores and power wheelchair dealerships.
When purchasing a used mobility scooter, be sure to inspect the battery and other components that could require attention. Ask about maintenance records and ask the seller about how often the scooter was charged. This information will help you determine the condition of the battery, which shouldn't be rusted or corrosion-prone.
Most mobility scooters utilize two sealed lead acid batteries (also called SLA batteries) that work together to run the scooter at 24 voltages. You can measure the voltage using a digital multi-meter. Make sure the multi-meter has been set to volts and that the leads are connected to the positive and negative terminals of the battery pack. When the battery is being utilized, it will lose a few volts. However, it is important to ensure that the voltage stays at or above 23 volts.
The battery should be replaced if it is not maintaining its charge or dropping quickly. Depending on the scooter's dimensions it may require SLA, gel-cell or AGM batteries. These are more expensive but provide better structure and resistance to jostling.
The scooter should have a light for the battery to show the status of the battery. A fully charged battery will display an amber light. It will turn amber as battery is discharged, and red when it's completely dead. If the light is constantly changing from green to amber and back it could be an indication of a malfunctioning potentiometer. A replacement potentiometer can be purchased at a reasonable price and is easy to put in.
Check your Tires
A used mobility scooter could be a great way to cut costs on this expensive medical equipment. But, it is important to make sure that the machine is safe for use prior to making the purchase. You can determine if a used scooter is in good working order by checking the wheels and tires.
In general, a mobility vehicle is equipped with either solid or pneumatic tires. Solid tires are a mixture of urethane foam and rubber and don't have tubes inside. They are less prone to puncture than pneumatic tires but still require regular checks of air pressure and tire replacements.
Pneumatic tires are typically used on older scooters as they provide an easier ride. Pneumatic tires can be susceptible to flats or low pressure that can cause discomfort or unsafe driving conditions. If you intend to ride your mobility scooter over rough terrain or a lot of debris, choose a model that has solid or foam-filled tires.
A damaged or unbalanced set of tires or casters can be extremely hazardous particularly at high speeds. It is best to purchase mobility scooters with brand new or nearly-new tires or casters.
You should also take into consideration the weight of the scooter while assessing the condition of the casters or wheels. If the biggest piece of the scooter is too heavy to lift, it may be difficult to maneuver the scooter or to load it into a vehicle to transport it.
Another aspect to consider is the grade climbable ability of the scooter. It is crucial that the scooter is able to over steep slopes on the road. If used mobility scooters for sale near me intend to use the scooter for long distances, then you'll need to make sure the battery is able to cover the distances.
Check the Frame
The frame is the primary element of the scooter and should be strong and free from corrosion and other damages. It should be strong enough to hold the weight of the rider without bending or twisting. If you spot any signs of damage, it might be wise to find another used mobility scooter.
A reputable mobility scooter dealer is likely to be able help you choose the best model to meet your requirements. They can give you professional advice based upon the answers to your questions such as the location where you'll use the scooter or your personal requirements. They will tell you which scooters work best for traveling and which ones are able to be disassembled easily for transportation.
There are a variety of models of mobility scooters that you can choose from. They differ in terms of speed, size and comfort level. They are typically powered by electricity and are controlled with an electric tiller that has controls for forward/reverse direction and speed control. Some scooters fold and can be carried around, while others are built with a sturdy frame and are intended for outdoor use.
You'll also have to decide if you'd like to buy a 2-wheel or 4-wheel scooter, as well as which type of tires you prefer. used mobility scooters near me come with pneumatic, foam-filled or solid tires. Foam tires require minimal maintenance, but they're not comfortable on rough terrain or for long distances. Pneumatic tires provide the most comfortable ride but they require regular maintenance and inspection. Solid tires are best suited for indoor use and don't have the best grip on rough surfaces.
The classification of a mobility scooter as class two or class three is also crucial. Class two scooters can reach the maximum speed of 6.44 km/h (4 mph) and are only driven on pavements or sidewalks. Class three scooters can be driven on the road. They have the highest top speed but they must be equipped with mirrors, lights, and an bell.
It's worth looking up the reputation of the seller as well as whether they provide a warranty or a return policy when you're looking for an scooter. The ideal scenario is to be stuck with a damaged scooter that's impossible to fix or an expensive error that you could have avoided. There are many online retailers which offer a variety of products and accessories for affordable prices, if you cannot find an electric scooter at the local dealer. Some online retailers offer customers free accessories and other specials with every purchase.
Check the Seat
If you are shopping for a used mobility scooter, ensure that the seat is at the right height for your. Ideally your feet should lie at a level on the footrests and you should be in a position to reach the tiller without straining or bending your back. Look for a sturdy and well-padded seat that is comfortable sitting in it.
The clearance on the ground of the scooter is also crucial. To avoid getting stuck on obstacles or rough terrain, a decent amount of clearance is needed. Mobility scooters for travel and portable use have less clearance than full-sized scooters. Specialized scooters might have less clearance.
If you're considering buying a mobility scooter, it's an excellent idea to take into consideration your lifestyle and home environment when selecting the right model. For instance, if reside in a big house you'll need to make sure the scooter is able to move through doorways and other narrow spaces. You'll want to decide whether a four-wheel or three-wheel scooter is suitable for your needs. Three-wheeled mobility scooters tend be lighter and have front-wheel drive, which makes them ideal for indoor use. On the other hand, four-wheel mobility scooters are more durable and heavy than three-wheel models, which means they're better suited to outdoor use.
Although the cost of mobility scooters may be a hindrance for some seniors, you'll find numerous options that are affordable on eBay, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. used mobility scooters near me can also buy an old scooter at an area medical supply store or at a dealership for scooters.
If you don't get your doctor to state that you need an electric scooter for medical necessity, you'll likely be required to finance the purchase. You'll need to budget for accessories such as a headlight or a basket when shopping for the best scooter.
Look for a scooter that is in good condition and is well maintained. It should include all the required parts and accessories to function effectively including a charger as well as a battery. If you discover that the scooter you are considering has a problem you can utilize online resources to help you determine the issue and fix it.