Mobility Scooter Running Costs: How Much Do They Cost to Charge and Maintain?

Investing in a mobility scooter promises more independence and autonomy, but the outlay doesn’t stop at the upfront price tag.

You also need to factor in the ongoing running costs of your scooter, such as servicing, repairs, replacement tyres and batteries. Then there’s the cost of charging the battery itself.

The good news is, charging a mobility scooter is much cheaper than fueling a car, and after-sales care plans from reputable dealers can help lower the cost of your annual service too.

There are also some extra things you can do at home to save money on maintenance and keep your machine in excellent condition.

So join us for this scooter running costs breakdown (so you never do).

How Much Does It Cost to Charge a Mobility Scooter?

The cost of charging your mobility scooter depends on:

• The size of your scooter battery (larger Class 3 models need more power)
• How often you charge it
• The electricity tariff from your energy provider

In the UK, most mobility scooter batteries cost between 5p and 15p per full charge, depending on battery capacity and electricity costs in your area.

For example:

• A smaller Class 2 travel scooter with a 10-25 Ah battery might cost around 5p per full charge
• A Class 3 mobility scooter with a larger 50-75 Ah battery could cost up to 15p to fully charge

If you’re regularly riding into town and charging your scooter twice a week, that’s roughly just £5–£15 per year in electricity, so the charging costs are really nothing to worry about.

Factors That Affect Charging Costs

Just remember though, your charging costs may go up or down depending on:

• Battery health – poor battery health means your scooter may take longer to charge
• Usage – frequent charging adds up over time
• Battery type – some older mobility scooters are less energy-efficient
• Tariff changes – your energy provider may adjust their rates

TGA Top Tip: Use a battery charger recommended by your manufacturer, and avoid leaving your scooter plugged in for long periods unless needed. This helps extend your battery life expectancy and lowers your running costs.

Battery Life & Replacement Costs

Most mobility scooter batteries last between 18 months and 3 years, depending on their usage and care. However, this life expectancy can drop if:

• The battery is overcharged or left discharged for long periods of time
• You frequently run it until empty before recharging
• You store the scooter in very hot or cold conditions

It’s worth looking after your battery as a new one can cost anywhere between £60 for smaller Class 2 scooters and up to £200+ for larger Class 3 models.

You can extend your battery life by:

• Charging it after each use (but don’t overcharge)
• Keeping your scooter indoors or in a dry, sheltered space
• Disconnecting the charger once the battery is fully charged

Servicing & Maintenance Costs

Just like a car, your mobility scooter benefits from regular servicing.

A basic scooter service often costs £50–£100, and checks:

• Tyres and tread depth
• Brakes and control systems
• Battery health
• Lights, horn and indicators (especially on road legal Class 3 models)

Repairs and parts vary in price. For example, replacing a tyre might cost £30–£50, while fixing electrical issues can cost more.

Some scooter suppliers offer yearly service plans for complete peace of mind, which is a cost-effective option if you rely on your scooter every day.

In this context, the dedicated team at TGA provides complete annual service plans and after-sales care packages for all our customers – plus comprehensive cover through our recommended insurance partner.

Charging Habits That Save Money

You’ll find that small changes in how you charge your scooter can make a big difference over the year:

• Don’t overcharge it – use the LED battery meter or analogue needle meter to track when it’s full.
• Avoid frequent charging if the battery is still nearly full – wait until it’s at 70–80% before topping up.
• If you love dog walking, shopping, or meeting friends in town – and need daily charging – switch to a more cost-efficient new scooter that uses less power.
• Unplug your scooter once fully charged to prevent wasting electricity.

Comparing Running Costs: Class 2 vs Class 3 Scooters

Here’s how Class 2 and 3 scooters stack up in terms of running costs:

• Class 2 mobility scooters tend to have smaller batteries, so they cost less to charge and are cheaper to maintain.
• Class 3 mobility scooters have bigger batteries, longer range, and more features, so their running costs are slightly higher. However, they’re better for longer trips and can be more cost-effective to use instead of a car.

Electric Wheelchairs vs Mobility Scooters

Electric wheelchairs have similar running costs to smaller scooters – but often give you a shorter distance per charge.

The cost to fully charge one of these models is usually under 10p, and although servicing them tends to be less frequent, they do require some regular TLC as outlined above.

To get a feel for the spec of these machines, take a look at our innovative and stylish range of Powerchairs and accessories.

Annual Running Cost Summary

So let’s break down the annual running costs for most mobility scooter users in the UK:

• Charging: £5–£15 per year
• Servicing: £50–£100 per year
• Battery replacement: Every 2–3 years (£60–£200)
• Repairs and parts: Varies, but budgeting £50–£100 a year is sensible

This means even if you currently have an older and less energy-efficient scooter, it’s still one of the most cost-effective ways to potter around at home, walk the dog or enjoy shopping in town.

Mobility Scooter Running Costs FAQs

Exactly how much does it cost to charge your mobility scooter?

Between 5p–15p per full charge in the UK, depending on battery size and electricity rate.

Can I save money by charging at night?

Yes, if your energy tariff offers cheaper off-peak rates.

How long does a mobility scooter battery last?

On average, 18 months to 3 years, depending on usage and battery care.

Final Words on Scooter Running Costs

If you already own a Class 2 or Class 3 mobility scooter, you know their running costs are low compared to other ways of getting around.

By looking after your scooter battery, sticking to a regular service schedule, and charging smartly, you’ll continue to get the best life expectancy from your scooter and keep costs to a minimum.

If you want to save even more money in the long run, why not consider upgrading your existing machine to one of TGA’s cutting-edge, energy-efficient models?

Not yet a scooter owner, but in the market for your first one? Our experts can help you with that investment, too.

With over 30 years’ experience in the UK mobility industry, whether you’re upgrading or making your first purchase, our specialists can’t wait to show you our latest models in person.

To book your free demo today at either our Suffolk or Surrey showroom, call now on 0800 107 5349. Our friendly team is standing by to answer all your questions on our innovative range.