UK Mobility Scooter Guide to Buying a Second Hand Mobility Scooter

Feb. 22, 2013 - PRLog -- As the number of Mobility Scooter users in Britain increases, so does the market for second-hand Scooters. This growing market is price driven; a second-hand Mobility Scooter could cost considerably less than a new one. There are however those that only want a Scooter for a short period and a used Mobility Scooter may be a perfect solution.

There are Mobility Scooters advertised which seem to be in excellent condition having been loved and cared for, or hardly used at all for various reasons, which could save you hundreds of pounds off the cost of buying a new one.

Like all second-hand goods buying a used Mobility Scooter needs careful consideration, and advance planning and knowledge to prevent a costly mistake. This article is designed to help you decided whether buying second-hand is for you, and if it is how to try to ensure you’re getting a bargain.

Second-hand Mobility Scooters are available privately, through adverts in shop windows, e-bay, Amazon, Gumtree etc, and commercially through local dealers, and national companies offering a selection of used vehicles.

Buying a Second-hand Mobility Scooter privately.
Buying a second-hand Mobility Scooter is likely to make you the largest saving in monetary terms, however this also potentially the biggest risk, as you have little or no recourse if the Mobility Scooter is not what you expected. You can however mitigate the risk by following the guidelines below.

Before you go to look at the Mobility Scooter ask the following;

Check that the Make and Model are suitable for your needs, height, and weight. There is no point buying a Scooter that cannot carry you, is not designed for the area where you live or want to use the Scooter, or will be uncomfortable for you to use. Also look at the new price of the same Scooter so that you know how much less this Scooter is.

Try to establish why the Scooter is for sale, how long has the current owner owned it, and how much has it been used in that time?

A genuine seller will explain why they are selling, and give you a full history of the Scooter happily.

Make sure original documents like the original bill of sale etc are available as this should prove the Scooter is not stolen and clearly tell you when and where the Scooter was purchased.

Does the Scooter have any warranty still valid on it, and if yes is it transferable?

If you do decide to buy check that the warranty can be transferred by calling the dealer, or manufacturer directly before you part with your cash. Some manufacturers offer specific warranties on bodywork etc so it is worth checking.

Does the Scooter have any service history or receipts etc for maintenance work carried out?

This will tell you how well the Scooter has been maintained, unless of course it is still under warranty and not yet needed an annual service etc.

If you are happy with the answers to the questions above arrange to view the Scooter. Always do it in daylight, make sure you take someone with you (preferably with knowledge of Mobility Scooters, or general vehicle maintenance etc) and view it at the sellers home – do not arrange to meet elsewhere.

When viewing the Mobility Scooter make sure you check the following:

General condition
Is the Scooter clean, are there any knocks or scratches, does it look like it has been well maintained?

Battery
Probably the most expensive item on a Scooter, and one which could be costly if you need to replace it as soon as you buy the Scooter. Ask how old the battery is – batteries generally need to replaced every 1-2 years so factor this into consideration. Look to see if the battery indicator is showing fully charged, as this will indicate the battery is still charging correctly.

Tryes
Check the tyre tread, to make sure there is still plenty of grip. Check for the wheels and rims for signs of damage. If the Scooter has pneumatic tyres ask when the tyres were last inflated, check they are still pumped up and there is no sign of a slow puncture.

Portability
If you are buying a portable Mobility Scooter make sure it comes apart and rebuilds with ease, and that each component is in good condition.

Underneath
Check the underside of the Scooter as these can be damaged due to low ground clearance.  Make sure there is no rust to the underneath, or holes etc. Sit on the Scooter and check the ground clearance with you on it, make sure it will be ok for your local terrain.

Test drive
Take the Scooter out and put it to the test. Find a hill or incline and make sure the Scooter travels up it with ease. Listen for squeaks or groans as these could indicate problems. Make sure you feel confident and in control and that the Scooter feels good to use. Make sure that the motor does not surge, or hesitate when you apply the throttle as this could indicate a failing battery or batteries.

Accessories, manuals etc
Make sure you get the battery charger for the Scooter and any accessories original to the Scooter. The original used manual would also be helpful if available.

Haggle
The price advertised is only a guideline, most sellers expect to receive less, so don’t offer the full price, instead ask what price they will accept, and negotiate from there.

Finally if you decide to buy ask the seller to give you a written receipt stating the condition of the Mobility Scooter and their details etc. Whilst you have little recourse, this may cause them to disclose anything they haven’t already mentioned before you hand over your cash.

Buying a second-hand Mobility Scooter from a dealer.
Whilst this may not save you as much money as buying privately it is by far a less risky option and should come with a warranty from the dealer. If your dealer is local then you will be able to try out several models they have for sale.

Check that the Scooter has been well maintained – the dealer should have paperwork, and service history etc to accompany the Scooter. They may even have sold the Scooter new and have taken it back as a trade in on an upgrade.

Do not buy on your first visit though, go home and do your research before you part with your money. Check the following below before you agree the sale:

Does the make/Model do what you need it to do? Is it built for the mileage, terrain and use you want?
Will it carry you comfortably?
What is the price new, are you saving enough to forego the warranties you get on a new Scooter?

If having done your research you are sure it’s the one for you then make sure the dealer gives you a written receipt clearly outlining what is covered by their warranty, how long it is for, and the purchase price etc on headed stationery.

To see our full Mobility Scooter Reviews go to http://www.ukmobilityscooter.co.uk/mobility-scooter-reviews/  

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