Many people are interested in buying mobility scooters as a way to stay independent. Because of their hefty price, some consider used options. But, how do you know they work or if the investment is worth it? This post will explore more about the pros and cons of buying pre-owned mobility scooters.
3 Pros and Cons of Buying Used Mobility Scooters
Pros
1. They’re Affordable
One of the best benefits of used mobility scooters is their price. Unlike new scooters that can cost a few thousand dollars, old ones tend to be less than $1,000. This makes them great for those who desperately need a scooter but can't afford a new one.
Suppliers understand that people have strict budgets. To make a sale, you might be able to get unique discounts by negotiating with them.
2. They Come With Extra Accessories
You’ll find that most secondhand mobility scooters are equipped with extra accessories. These could include a basket, oxygen tank holder, and trays.
Sometimes, suppliers might even create a scooter bundle. This can incentivize you to buy a certain model and get additional features in return.
3. There Are Many Types
You’ll discover countless choices you can buy.
Three-Wheel
Three-wheel scooters have one wheel at the front and two in the back. They are very small and are easy to maneuver. This makes them ideal to use indoors. Because there are only three wheels, it’s not as stable as others.
Four-Wheel
These scootershave four wheels around their base. This provides better stability. You can use them both indoors and outdoors.
Travel
Also known as a portable scooter, a travel scooter is the most compact. As its name implies, it’s meant for travel. It can easily move down sidewalks and fit into vehicles.
Rough Terrain
Rough terrain scootersare one of the most durable options. Featuring four wheels, this scooter is constructed with heavy-duty materials. This allows it to safely roll across bumpy landscapes.
Cons
1. They’re Prone to Issues
Because they’re not new, used scooters aren’t always in perfect condition. Some of the most frequent used mobility scooter concerns are:
A worn battery
Strained tires
A faulty ignition switch
A mobility scooter freewheel lever problem
These devices are pre-checked, but you still need to be aware of these complications. Make sure to ask the supplier questions about it and if you could do a quick inspection.
Besides this, sometimes mobility scooters are susceptible to theft. If you buy an older appliance, they might not always have safety features. This could make it easier to steal.
So, how do you secure a mobility scooter? Here are a few ways you can do so.
Add a scooter alarm
Apply a tracker
Register your device
Use a wheel lock
These can safeguard your device from potential damage and robbery.
2. They Don’t Always Have a Warranty
Another common problem of these mobility scooters is that they don’t come with a warranty. If your scooter doesn’t, you’ll have to pay for any damage or maintenance out-of-pocket.
While a few used scooter sellers will have at least a one-year warranty, not all will. If you prefer to have a warranty, see if it comes with one. You can do this by asking a scooter supplier for it. If they don’t provide one, ask if one can be added. If they decline, you’ll want to find a different supplier.
3. A Reputable Seller Can Be Hard to Find
There are a plethora of secondhand mobility scooters available. But, finding a good seller can be a challenge.
The Internet is a popular spot to sell scooters, but it has drawbacks. You’ll find hundreds of items for sale, but sellers don’t always provide adequate information. This includes not correctly describing the scooter’s condition and age. Some might also be dishonest and try to sell a scooter they don’t have. This can make the search daunting. Still, there are a few ways to tell if a supplier is credible.
Look at Reviews
A great way to tell if the scooter supplier is legitimate is to scan their reviews. This can give you a good idea of how previous customers felt about their experience.
Ask Questions
Another thing to do is make inquiries. Reliable suppliers will be happy to talk with you. If you find that they seem irritated about your concerns, watch out. This usually indicates they don’t have your best interest in mind.
Some questions you might consider asking are:
How old is the scooter?
What problems has it had?
Does it come with a warranty?
What are its features?
See If They Have a Site
You’ll also want to see if the seller has a website. If they don’t, it’s vital to be cautious. Many times, if you invest in a scooter from a third-party site, you don’t always get accurate details. Sometimes, the person selling the scooter might not even own the gadget or know anything about it.
It’s crucial to research the seller and see if they have their own platform. If they do, you can check out their inventory and learn more about their operations. This will give you a better idea of how they operate and the quality of their merchandise.
Testing Your Mobility Scooter Motor
Once you’ve received your mobility scooter, do a quick inspection. This will help point out any hidden trouble. One part to focus on is its motor. This component not only helps the scooter run but often connects to the brake. If something’s wrong, you risk hurting yourself.
To test the motor, attach a tachometer to the small terminals at top of it. Double-check that this tool is at its lowest setting. Turn the tachometer on and let it run for a few seconds. This should ideally read at 50-80 Ohm. If it’s lower than this or not showing a reading, you have a defective motor.
If this is the case, you’ll need to return the scooter or ask for it to be repaired.
Wrap-Up
Buying pre-owned mobility scooters is a useful way to save money. While you’ll need to be diligent when searching for one, you’ll find plenty of great models to use.
If you’re on the search for mobility scooters, Everlasting Mobility can help. We offer many new and used ones that cater to all needs, like theVive Health Travel Scooter.
