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Frequently asked questions

Mobility scooter prices: how much should I pay?

To add a new question go to app seMobility scooter prices depend on the type you buy and whether you want to buy a new or reconditioned model. You can pay as little as £600 for a new portable mobility scooter, or as much as £4,000 for a top-of-the-range Class 3 scooter for the road.



What's the difference between new and second-hand mobility scooters?

Many people trade in their old models to part-exchange or upgrade to a different one, so you'll see lots of second-hand and reconditioned models for sale in mobility shops. Expect to see a reduced warranty on them – around three months, say, as opposed to a full year.



How often should I charge my mobility scooter battery?

It depends on how often you use your scooter but, as a general rule, if you use your scooter during the day you’ll need to recharge its battery at night. There is no need to run the battery down before you recharge – it won’t damage or affect the battery’s capacity if you charge it when it’s not empty. With some scooters you're not supposed to charge the batteries if they have more than 80% power left, or charge them for more than 12 hours at a time. The instructions should make it clear whether it's possible to overcharge the batteries; this is something we look out for when we test scooters.



How long should mobility scooter batteries last before needing to be replaced?

This depends on how often you use your scooter, but you could be looking at around 18 months to two years. When your battery is fading, you’ll notice its capacity will reduce and you won't be able to travel the distances you once did on a single charge. For this reason, it’s a good idea to book an annual service and consider replacing your batteries then.



Can you buy a mobility scooter battery that will cover longer distances?

If your model will allow you to change battery sizes, you can replace your standard battery with a high-capacity pack that will take you further, typically doubling your range. However, they will cost more and be heavier to lift.



How much do mobility scooter batteries cost?

A pair of batteries usually costs around £100. Mobility scooters operate on a 24v system, comprised of two 12v batteries that are charged together on the scooter.



Do I need to service my mobility scooter?

Yes, it’s recommended that you do this once a year or at any point when you notice a change in performance, such as unusual noises or squeaks or if the tyre tread is becoming shallow. Expect to pay around £40 to £70 for a service.



Can I take a mobility scooter into shops or shopping centres?

You may be able to take your scooter into shopping areas but don't always assume it's allowed – it will depend on the regulations of the business. Reasonable concerns will be that the scooter could get stuck in a tight space and block a pathway, or that the scooter owner will travel too fast in a crowded environment or use the scooter without consideration to other shoppers.



Which mobility scooter is best for travel?

There are two types of boot or travel scooters: foldable scooters allow you to remove the battery and unlock the tiller at its base before you fold it down so that it's ready for transporting. They reduce down to a compact shape and you can usually freewheel them, just like a wheelie suitcase. Dismantling scooters divide into five or six parts (seat, battery, tiller, chassis, basket and sometimes also the rear driving unit).



Can you take a mobility scooter on a plane?

The only general rule with boot scooters is to contact the airline in advance and provide details about your scooter to obtain prior permission. They're likely to ask you for the make, model, weight, size and whether it folds or dismantles. You’ll also need to know what type of battery your scooter has, and its weight. Take the operating manual with you when you fly. You won’t be able to take it on as hand luggage, so it will have to travel in the hold.



Will I be able to lift a boot scooter on my own?

There is no guarantee that you’ll be able to handle a scooter on your own, particularly foldable versions as they are heavy and can be awkward to lift. With dismantling scooters, the tiller is usually the heaviest part so it's best to try lifting it before you buy. You can buy hoists to lift them in and out of cars.



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