Five Tips for Maintaining Your Mobility Scooter

1. Look After The Battery

Most mobility scooters have two 12v rechargeable batteries. These batteries should last for several years if they are properly maintained. This means charging them according to the manufacturer's instructions, and also storing the battery properly.

Consider the following:

- Charge the scooter overnight so the battery is always topped up

- Charge your scooter if the battery level drops to less than 80%

Each manufacturer will have different recommendations when it comes to how long to charge the scooter for each day. Some recommend eight hours, while others recommend 12. Read the manual and follow the directions given by the manufacturer.

If you're not going to be using the mobility scooter for a while, be sure to charge it regularly. Some manufacturers recommend a 24 hour charge once every two weeks to keep the battery in good condition. Others say a monthly charge will suffice. Leaving the battery uncharged for longer periods can impair its ability to hold charge once you do start using it.

2. Store your scooter properly

Keep your scooter in a clean, dry space when it's not in use. Don't leave it outside, exposed to the elements. If you must leave it outside, purchase a waterproof cover to protect it. Ideally, though, your scooter would be kept either in your home or in a shed or garage. Somewhere with a relatively stable temperature and an accessible mains socket for charging would be the best option.

3. Keep your scooter clean

Clean your scooter after each use. You don't need to use anything fancy to do this. A soft, damp cloth will suffice. By taking the time to clean dust, dirt and grime off the scooter you'll prevent corrosion and keep all the moving parts working well.

One area to pay particular attention to is the battery terminals on the underside of the scooter. These should be kept clean and corrosion free to maximise performance. If you can't access this area of the scooter yourself, it's worth asking someone to help you.

4. Care for the tyres

While some scooters have solid tyres that are almost indestructible, others have pneumatic tyres which will need some care. Make sure the air pressure in your tyres is sufficient to offer a smooth ride, but not too rigid. Check the tread on the tyres too, because when this wears thin it's a sign the tyres need to be replaced.

5. Scooters need servicing too

Think of a scooter as being like a car or a bike. Get a professional to inspect it once a year, carry out essential maintenance and look for faults you might have missed. A professional can look at the brakes, tyres and other essential parts, and confirm your wiring is safe too. Paying for an inspection will help give you peace of mind that the scooter is in good condition and will last for a long time to come. It will also help you feel safe when using it.