TGA’s Guide to Buying a Used Mobility Scooter
So you’ve decided to invest in a mobility scooter but are worried they might be too expensive?
While brand new models do offer great value for money, buying a used mobility scooter can be the smart, budget-friendly solution.
Many of the ‘new’ scooters you may have seen around town, including that gleaming model delivered to your neighbour last week, are in fact high quality refurbished models that have been extensively serviced by expert engineers.
At TGA, we can help you buy a mobility scooter if you’re worried about the cost. That’s why we offer a wide range of approved used models that give you increased independence for less.
Let’s explore your options to ensure you make an informed decision when purchasing a quality used mobility scooter, so you can regain your freedom without breaking the bank.
Why Consider a Used Mobility Scooter
Promising the same stylish design, top spec and functionality as new models but at a fraction of the price, a used mobility scooter is the perfect choice if you can’t quite afford a brand new model.
Reasons you should consider buying used from TGA:
- More Freedom, Less Cost – Restore your independence with a quality used scooter that’s significantly more affordable than buying new.
- Tried and Tested Options – Browse our variety of pre-loved models to find the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs.
- Ready When You Are – Order today and take delivery of your scooter at home in just a few days, instead of waiting longer for a new model to arrive.
Our Approved Used Scooters Promise
Every second hand TGA Mobility scooter is officially approved by our knowledgeable team, based on our 30 years’ experience in the mobility industry.
You can expect:
- Expert Refurbishment – Every used mobility scooter undergoes a comprehensive inspection and refurbishment by our trained engineers before it reaches you.
- Personalised Guidance – Our friendly mobility consultants will demonstrate your scooter’s features and ensure it’s the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
- Peace of Mind Guarantee – Enjoy reliable performance with our parts and labour warranty on all approved used models.
Warranties & Reliability: Our Three Tier Condition Ratings
Buying a second-hand mobility scooter from another supplier may not include a warranty, but some sellers or dealers do offer limited guarantees.
It’s essential to buy a refurbished model that has been fully serviced and tested and comes with an approved warranty so you can be confident your machine is reliable and won’t let you down.
At TGA Mobility, so you know the exact condition of each refurbished mobility scooter we have on sale, we’ve devised a simple three-tier rating system for every used model we test and service:
- Condition Rating 1 – Almost as new, in very good condition. May have small or inconspicuous scratches or marks.
- Comes with a 1 year warranty and 6 month battery guarantee.
- Condition Rating 2 – In good condition. May have multiple small scratches or marks. Again, it features a 1 year warranty and 6 month battery guarantee.
- Condition Rating 3 – Obviously used. Will have noticeable scratches or marks. Comes with a 6 month warranty and 3 month battery guarantee.
We have dozens of approved used mobility scooters to buy ‘off the shelf’ right now. Visit this page to take your pick of the current models available.
Features to Check Before Buying a Second-Hand Mobility Scooter
Whether you’re shopping for a used mobility scooter online or in person, here’s a checklist of key features to look out for:
Battery Power & Charging
- Battery Health – A tired battery could set you back £200-£500 for a replacement, so always ask about its age and how well it holds a charge.
- Charger Included? – Make sure your scooter comes with a properly working charger so you’re ready to power up as soon as you get home.
Scooter Condition
- Appearance Check – Look for those tell-tale signs of a well-loved scooter – are there scratches that might affect more than just looks?
- Tyre Test – Give those tyres a good once-over for decent tread and watch out for any cracks that could affect your comfort on those weekend outings. If your scooter needs new tyres, check the cost of these before committing to buy.
Safety Features
- Braking Confidence – Test the brakes thoroughly – they should engage smoothly without any concerning noises or delays.
- Responsive Steering – The steering should feel natural and responsive, making it easy to navigate around your local shops or pathways in the park.
Road-Legal Essentials
- Visibility Features – If you’re eyeing a Class 3 road-legal model, check that all lights, indicators and mirrors work perfectly for those trips along the back road into town.
Comfort & Extras
- Comfort Is Key – Try out the seat, tiller and handlebar adjustments – after all, you’ll be spending plenty of time enjoying your newfound freedom, so you must be comfortable.
- Bonus Features – Does your chosen scooter come with practical extras like shopping baskets or storage space? How about all-terrain suspension and tyres, or higher clearance for kerbs? These types of features can make your daily adventures even more enjoyable, depending on your exact lifestyle requirements.
As mentioned, if you invest in a used mobility scooter with TGA, we’ll do all these time-saving tests before you buy, so you’ll have complete peace of mind when making your purchase.
Where to Buy a Used Mobility Scooter
You’re obviously on the TGA Mobility website right now, so naturally, we’d love you to consider buying one of our approved used mobility scooters.
Where else can you look though to consider all your options?
Trusted Mobility Specialists
Choosing a reputable local mobility firm comes with several key benefits, including:
- Professionally Refurbished Scooters – Specialist dealers don’t just sell used scooters, they refurbish and service them so you can shop with confidence. Ensure you do your due diligence on the standing of the company itself, however, as many firms don’t have the pedigree of three decades making their own cutting-edge mobility products like TGA.
- After-Sales Support – Enjoy the reassurance of warranties and ongoing service from people who understand your mobility needs and can keep you moving for years to come.
Online Options
Why not scroll through your options online with a nice cup of tea and some biscuits?
- Browse from Home – Marketplaces like Facebook, eBay and Gumtree offer plenty of choice when you’re looking for the perfect model locally.
- Try Before You Buy – A word of caution, though – always arrange to meet the seller and take the scooter you’re considering for a spin. Feel how it handles, do those checks mentioned before, and ensure it fits your lifestyle before parting with your money.
Charity Shops
- Community Finds – You’ll occasionally see used mobility scooters for sale in your local charity shop. However, you need to be extra cautious with this type of purchase, as although it’s great to support good causes, there may be no evidence these sorts of scooters have been regularly serviced or well looked after.
Consider Maintenance and Additional Costs
The other point to consider when buying a second hand mobility scooter are the ongoing maintenance and insurance costs.
Even though all our approved refurbished scooters are quality checked and serviced before sale, it’s fair to say that older used models may require more frequent maintenance than brand new ones.
Other costs you should budget for can include optional rain covers, new tyres and any other extras that can be discussed, such as larger storage baskets for your shopping.
Also highly recommended is a mobility scooter insurance package to protect against theft and accidental damage (amongst other things).
TGA Mobility offers a comprehensive maintenance and insurance plan to cover all our new and used scooters.
Top Tips for Buying Used Mobility Scooters
- Match Your Lifestyle: Choose between pavement-only (Class 2) or road-legal (Class 3) models.
- Research Options: Compare models to find your perfect fit.
- Shop Around: Check both local mobility centres and online for the best deals.
- Choose Trusted Sellers: Buy from reputable dealers with positive customer feedback.
- Ask Key Questions: Get details on battery condition, maintenance history, and why they’re selling.
- Verify Service Records: Ensure regular maintenance has been done.
- Consider Expert Inspection: Have a professional check before buying for peace of mind.
- Buy from TGA Mobility: Consider purchasing your scooter from TGA Mobility as we do all the servicing and quality checks for you, and also provide excellent warranties on both scooters and batteries.
Buying a Used Mobility Scooter: The Importance of a Test Drive
Wherever you decide to buy your used mobility scooter, arranging a test drive first is crucial to help identify any potential faults as outlined above.
What to look for during your test drive:
- Smooth acceleration and braking.
- Quiet motor operation with no unusual noises or grinding.
- Tight turning capability for manoeuvring in confined spaces.
- Comfort of the seat, controls and overall ease of use.
Our friendly team at TGA Mobility is standing by to help arrange a demo of any model you like the look of.
Simply call us today on 0800 107 5349 and we’ll be happy to book you a convenient time at one of our welcoming showrooms in Suffolk or Surrey.
