5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Mobility Scooter in the UK

March 20, 2023

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Mobility Scooter in the UK

Mobility scooters can be an excellent investment for those who struggle with mobility. They allow you to maintain your independence and enjoy greater freedom, whether for a trip to the shops or a visit to a friend’s house. However, people make some common mistakes when buying a mobility scooter in the UK. This article will discuss the top 5 mistakes to avoid when purchasing a mobility scooter.

Not considering your specific needs.

The first mistake many people make is not to consider their specific needs when choosing a mobility scooter. A wide variety of scooters are available on the market, each with its own features and benefits. It's important to consider what you'll be using the scooter for, how often you'll be using it, and what terrain you'll be navigating.

For example, if you plan on using your mobility scooter primarily indoors, you'll want a compact and manoeuvrable model. On the other hand, if you are using your scooter outdoors on rough terrain, you'll want a model with larger wheels and a more robust suspension system.

Not testing the scooter before purchasing.

Not testing the scooter before purchasing. Another common mistake is not testing the scooter before making a purchase. Taking the scooter for a test drive is important to ensure it meets your needs and is comfortable to use. This will allow you to check the steering, brakes, and suspension and how easy it is to get on and off the scooter. The weight of the Mobility Scooter is also a factor to consider if you're looking for a portable travel mobility scooter as well as its ease of assembly and disassembly.

It’s also a good idea to test the scooter on the terrain you’ll use it. This will give you a better idea of how it handles and whether it’s suitable for you.

Not considering the weight limit.

Make sure the mobility scooter can accommodate your weight as well as the extra bags and luggage you may need to transport. Consider the effect extra weight would have on the range of the scooter and bear in mind that the maximum range quoted on a scooter is usually calculated with 10 Stone user.

Not considering maintenance and repairs.

Finally, it's important to consider maintenance and repairs when purchasing a mobility scooter. Like any vehicle, mobility scooters require regular maintenance to run smoothly. This can include battery replacement, tire replacement, and regular servicing.

It’s important to factor in these costs when budgeting for your purchase and choose a model with a good guarantee and after-sales support. This will ensure you can keep your scooter in good condition and avoid expensive repairs.

Avoid return-to-base warranties if you're unable to return the scooter for repairs. Many online retails expect you to return the mobility scooter to them if a repair is needed. If the seller doesn't have their own workshop or engineers, check who they use and investigate the service levels of the company they are using. You wouldn't want a 20/40 day lead time to get your mobility back!

Conclusion

Buying a mobility scooter can be an excellent investment for those with mobility issues. Still, it’s important to avoid common mistakes when making your purchase. By considering your specific needs, testing the scooter before purchasing, and considering the weight limit, storage and transport options as well as maintenance considerations, you can ensure that you choose the suitable model for your needs and enjoy greater independence and freedom.