Important Things to Look For in Second Hand Mobility Scooters for Sale Mobility scooters can be utilized by people with difficulty walking long distances, but do not require a power chair. They are also cheaper and easier to use on a variety of surfaces. When buying a second hand scooter, it's best to purchase it from a health supply store rather than an individual seller. Medical supply stores have better reputation than individual sellers. What to look out for in a second-hand scooter It is essential to know the potential pitfalls when purchasing a used mobility scooter. This is especially true if buying one from a private seller on Ebay or Gumtree. This type of purchase is usually not covered by a warranty. Therefore, you are buying 'as-is'. You need to make sure the battery is in good condition and ask what time it has been in use regularly. Request the seller to plug the car in and check if the battery indicator indicates a full or near-full charge. Other things to look at are the tyres, as well as the seat. If the tyres have a flat surface and do not have tread, you might have to replace them. Check that the seat fits well and is comfortable. Another thing to be on the lookout for is the age of the scooter. The manufacturer is not likely to repair a scooter older than 10 years. It is not always true however it is worth checking with the dealer to make sure. Ask the seller to provide maintenance records. Find out if there have been repairs or replacements made to the scooter in the past. It can also be helpful in determining the amount of wear and tear it's experienced, since some models are rated for a specific load capacity that you can determine that the previous owner didn't exceed the maximum limit. Check the battery The battery is the primary component of a mobility device. It is essential to make sure that the battery is in good working order and that it can handle your needs. If it's brand new ask the seller to charge it, and then test it. New batteries usually need to be broken in and should be charged at night and after each use. It is also a good idea to ask the seller if they have any documentation of repairs or maintenance that were carried out on the device. This will give you an idea of the age the device is and how well it was cared for. Private sellers aren't required to keep these types of records however medical supply stores and even scooter dealers will have a history of the products they sell and be in a position to provide you with the information. Asking the seller why they're selling the item can be helpful. Warranties are not typically offered on second hand scooters. So if something does break then you'll need to pay the cost of replacing it or make necessary repairs yourself. This is among the main reasons why it might be beneficial to purchase a used scooter from a dealer who will perform an inspection of multiple points on it prior to putting it on and who can provide a warranty. A reputable dealer will have a parts section and spare parts for the model. Having spare parts for the scooter is a good way to keep it running in top shape and will prolong the life of the scooter. Make sure you check your tyres The wheels of mobility scooters are one of the most important elements. They determine the performance of the scooter and can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel on your travels. It is important to check the tyres for scratches and other obvious damage. If you're unsure of how to proceed then ask your seller or go to a local dealer to speak to an expert. There are two kinds of scooter tires, pneumatic and solid. Pneumatic tires are filled with air and are more durable than solid tires. However, they must be inflated regularly to avoid them from becoming flat. It is recommended to use solid tires for use on your scooter over rough terrains, where you might encounter broken glass or other obstacles. If you're thinking of buying a used scooter, it's better to purchase from a retailer instead of an individual seller on websites such as Craigs List or eBay. Retailers can provide a warranty with the scooter and give you peace of mind that the equipment is in good condition and was properly looked after by its previous owner. Be aware of the battery's performance on the scooter. Batteries can become degraded if the scooter is not used for a prolonged period of time. If this happens, it's going to require an upgrade in the battery which can be costly. It's best to buy a new scooter if you have the money for it since it will provide the most performance and comfort. New models will also come with a full warranty and will be protected by a guarantee should anything occur. If you're working on a tight budget, however an old scooter could be a good option as it's cheaper than a brand new one. Check the seat It's crucial to test the second-hand mobility device prior to purchasing it. It is important to make sure you can easily maneuver the scooter to turn, stop and turn without difficulty, and ensuring it feels comfortable. You can take a test-drive with someone from your family or with a acquaintance to get a greater impression of the car. It's also important to make sure that the seat is comfortable and large enough for you. Also, you should ensure that the seat's height can be adjusted if needed. Another thing to consider is the material that the seat is constructed of. Vinyl seats are more durable and easier to clean than cloth. It is also advisable to ask the seller when it was bought and how often it's been used since the time it was purchased. This will give you a good indicator of its condition, and whether or not it's been properly taken care for. This is more likely when you buy an approved scooter supplier, as they will have inspected and maintained the scooter prior to selling it. It is also important to be aware of the batteries and tyres. It is always recommended to purchase a scooter equipped with a functional battery that has not been left uncharged for too long. It is possible to change the batteries in the future, but it's best to start out with a set that functions. Check the wheels Like cars, mobility scooters are able to vary in price. It is tempting to purchase a secondhand model for yourself or someone you love. But, it's important that you do your research prior to making a decision. Be aware of your requirements including the location you intend to use the scooter and its dimensions. A good scooter can make the difference between a fun and enjoyable experience, or an expensive nightmare. For instance, if you plan to make use of your scooter for shopping and for navigating between buildings within your residential community A smaller scooter which can be easily dismantled may be the best option. Alternatively, if you want to travel long distances on paths in the outdoors, you'll require a bigger scooter that can withstand rough terrain. If you purchase a second hand scooter, you must be sure to check the condition of the wheels and axles. It is also recommended to know the background of the scooter. If possible inquire with the seller as to why they are selling it and if they've got any maintenance records. These will provide you with a better understanding of the history behind the scooter and can help you determine whether it's suitable for your needs. A licensed seller will usually offer a warranty if the scooter is purchased from them. These can cover repairs or issues for a specific period of time. Most of the time, a small monthly fee or a single payment at the point purchase is required. It could give you assurance when purchasing a second-hand scooter. If you're not sure what type of scooter is best for you, visit a showroom and speak with an expert. You could also try different models. Many of these stores offer used mobility scooters that are available to purchase online.