Mobility scooter guide
Welcome to our Mobility Scooter Guide, an essential resource designed to cover frequently asked questions and things you need to know when buying or upgrading your mobility scooter.
What are the different types of powered mobility options available?
Car boot scooters
If you’re looking for a mobility scooter that’s easy to transport, a car boot scooter is a good option. Car boot scooters are designed to be dismantled and stored in the boot of your car, making them easy to take with you when you travel. Most car boot scooters have three or four wheels and can reach speeds of up to 4 mph. Lightweight options are made from aluminium and have lithium batteries.
Folding Mobility Scooters
Folding mobility scooters have many advantages. One of the most important advantages is that they are much easier to transport and store. If you simply don't have a lot of storage or transport space (such as a small boot), a folding mobility scooter can be a great option.
Pavement Mobility Scooters
A pavement Mobility Scooter is the perfect choice for those who need a little help getting around but don't need to transport the scooter. Ideal for use on the pavement, these scooters offer a comfortable and easy way to get from A to B. Usually with a bigger range, more suspension and a more comfortable seat than a smaller car boot scooter of folding scooter.
6-8MPH Mobility Scooters
These mobility scooters are designed for those who need a little more speed and range than a 4mph scooter can provide. With speeds up to 8mph, these scooters can get you where you need to go quickly and efficiently.
Whether you're running errands around town or need to get around a larger space, these scooters can help you get the job done. Plus, with a range of up to 40 miles on a single charge, you can be sure you won't run out of juice when you're out and about.
Powerchairs
Powerchairs are a great option for use indoors and outdoors. They have a better turning circle than a mobility scooter so are ideal for use on public transport or in more crowded areas. There are a huge range of options from lightweight folding powerchairs to lifting and tilting prescription chairs. Most are 4mph but faster 8mph options are also available.
Power Assist
There are many power assist options on the market. From powerpacks to add power to a manual wheelchair to single front wheels for wheelchair users.
What is the life expectancy of my batteries?
This depends on how often you use your scooter or powerchair, but based on the average use, you should be looking at around 18 months to two years.
When your battery is fading, its capacity will reduce, and you won't be able to travel the distances you once did on a single charge. To ensure a longer battery life, recharge your scooter or powerchair after every use and ensure that it is fully charged every time. If you don't use the scooter or powerchair for a while, charge it once every 1-2 weeks.
It's also recommended to book an annual service where the batteries will be tested and if required you can replace them then.
Do I need to register with the DVLA, or pay for tax and insurance?
Class 3 mobility scooters must be registered with the DVLA (we will provide the forms with delivery). There is no legal requirement to display a number plate, and you do not need to pay road tax or get insurance. Class 2 scooters and powerchairs do not need to be registered with the DVLA, as they are not legally allowed to be used on the road (unless crossing it).
We strongly recommend that you do take out insurance on your mobility equipment as you never know what will happen! When purchasing through us you get 1 month of free insurance with our partners Mark Bates Ltd, we will send the documentation with the delivery.
How should I store my scooter?
Mobility scooters and powerchairs are not made to be weatherproof, so it is always recommended where possible to store them indoors where the temperature is regulated. Where this is not possible, a shed is best as this will prevent moisture damage. If it will be stored in a shed, then a cover is also recommended. Storing a scooter or powerchair outside is never recommended, even with a cover. Damage to the electrics due to water is not covered under any warranty and you will be charged to fix the damage.
What is the difference between new and pre-loved mobility equipment?
Many people trade in their older models to part-exchange or upgrade to a newer one, so there are lots of second-hand and reconditioned (or pre-loved as we like to call them!) models for sale. New scooters and powerchairs are purchased directly from the manufacturer which ensures an extended warranty (usually a year).
All Pre-loved equipment from us receives a full health check, valet and service as well as new batteries and chargers (where applicable).
We offer an in-house 3-month breakdown warranty on all scooters we sell, and all batteries and chargers have a 12-month manufacturer's warranty.
So either way, when purchasing equipment from us, you have peace of mind that you are in safe hands!
Do you offer a warranty?
All of our new mobility equipment comes with a 12 month manufacturers warranty for your peace of mind. Pre-loved equipment is fully serviced and checked and all batteries and chargers are replaced for brand new. The warranty we offer on the scooter is usually 3 months, and the batteries and charger have 12 months from the manufacturer.
