Offering tips for mobility aid maintenance

Mobility scooters provide independence to many and are generally long-lasting, but they can develop faults over time.

In this article, we’ll examine common mobility scooter problems and provide troubleshooting tips and fixes to help keep your scooter in top condition for your safety and comfort.

Battery issues with mobility scooters

One of the most frequent problems with mobility scooters relates to their battery. Over time, batteries degrade, leading to reduced performance, shorter travel distances, failure to recognise the charger, and difficulty holding a charge.

How to fix motor scooter battery problems

First, make sure that your mobility scooter battery is fully charged to rule out any mobility scooter charging problems.
Check the battery connections and clean any corrosion.
If the battery is over five years old, you may need to replace it with a new one.

Proper battery care can help extend the life of your scooter. Make sure you fully charge the battery before and after each use, and use a battery charger that is compatible with the scooter’s batteries.

Mobility scooter motor malfunctions

The motors on mobility scooters are usually highly reliable. However, motors can become damaged by driving over pavement edges or by getting dust or grit in the components. If your mobility scooter makes jerky movements or unusual noises, struggles on inclines, or loses power intermittently, there may be an issue with the motor.

Fixing mobility scooter motor issues

Check for debris or loose connections around the motor.
Avoid overloading the scooter beyond its weight limit.
If problems persist, consult a professional technician for repairs or replacement.
Always replace the motor with a new one from the manufacturer or an authorised dealer.

Damaged tyres on mobility scooters

The tyres on mobility scooters are pretty robust. However, they naturally wear out over time, affecting ride quality and safety. Mobility scooters use either pneumatic (air-filled) or solid tyres. If your ride feels bumpy or uneven or the scooter pulls to one side, you may need to look at your tyres.

Fixing flat tyres on your mobility scooter

To fix a flat tyre on a pneumatic tyre, you’ll need a tyre pump or an air compressor. Make sure you inflate it to the recommended pressure – which you can find on the side of the tyre.
If you notice the tyres are cracked, or the tread pattern is worn, it is wise to get them replaced before you experience a puncture.
If the tyre is punctured, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Consider switching to solid tyres for reduced maintenance needs.

Ignition problems on mobility scooters

Ignition issues can prevent a mobility scooter from starting. Exposure to the elements can cause gradual corrosion, leading to key sticking or complete breakage.

Sorting ignition problems on your mobility scooter

If the key sticks, take the scooter to a professional before it breaks in the ignition. Do not force it!
If the key breaks inside the ignition, gently remove it with tweezers.
If the ignition switch is faulty, consider replacing it to restore function.

Potentiometer problems on your mobility scooter

The potentiometer (or throttle pot) controls the scooter’s forward and backward motion. If the speed of your mobility scooter fluctuates without reason, there could be an fault with the potentiometer.

Fixing potentiometer problems on your mobility scooter

If you have experience using a multimeter, you can check that the potentiometer is showing the correct voltage.
Replace the potentiometer if it shows signs of corrosion.

How to prevent mobility scooter faults

Regular maintenance is key to preventing common problems with mobility scooters. Correctly charging the battery, inflating the tyres to the correct pressure, properly storing your scooter, and ensuring you drive on suitable terrain will help maintain your safety and comfort, and the longevity of your mobility scooter.

If you need a new battery or a replacement mobility scooter, Monarch Mobility is here to help. Contact our experts today!

Wheelchairs are essential for mobility and independence. However, like any piece of equipment, they require regular maintenance to keep them in optimal condition.

A broken wheelchair can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to move around comfortably and safely.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common problems with wheelchairs – and provide practical solutions for electric wheelchair troubleshooting!

Worn or torn electric wheelchair upholstery

One of the most common electric wheelchair problems users encounter is worn or damaged upholstery.

Upholstery worn out from regular use can cause the wheelchair’s padding to flatten and lose its shape, resulting in a hard and uncomfortable surface that can potentially lead to pressure sores.

How to fix worn or torn upholstery on powerchairs:

Speak to a qualified wheelchair service provider who will advise on the best course of action. They may suggest alternative cushioning, padding or a reupholster.

Battery issues on your electric wheelchair

Batteries deteriorate over time and, depending on use, can last about 2 years. If it needs replacing, you will begin to notice a reduced range, slower performance, longer charging times, or more frequent charging. It may also swell or leak.

How to fix battery issues on powerchairs:

Double-check that the battery is fully charged.
If you need to replace your battery, you should be able to replace it yourself – or ask a friend or family member to help you.
If your battery has depleted sooner than you think it should, contact an expert who can check for an internal defect.

To ensure you get as much life out of your wheelchair battery as possible, make sure you properly charge, store, and maintain it.

Flat tyres on your electric wheelchair

One of the most common faults with electric wheelchairs is a flat tyre. If you find your wheelchair difficult to manoeuvre, the tyre has likely deflated.

How to fix flat tyres on powerchairs:

To fix a flat tyre, you’ll need a tyre pump or an air compressor. Make sure you inflate it to the recommended pressure – details will be in the wheelchair’s manual.
If the tyre is punctured, it will need to be repaired (similarly to a bicycle puncture repair) – or replaced.

While tyres will lose air over time, you can avoid punctures by ensuring they aren’t over- or under-inflated and that you avoid rough terrain.

Loose or worn-out powerchair brakes

It goes without saying that brakes are a vital safety feature of an electric wheelchair. If you notice that the brakes are slow to respond, it could be because they have become worn or loose. Any issues with brakes should be addressed immediately to ensure safety for the user and the general public.

How to fix powerchair brakes:

If the brakes are loose, you can tighten them using a wrench or pliers.
If they need replacing, contact your local supplier to find the correct parts.
Your wheelchair’s user manual should provide information on how to fix or replace brakes, but if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, ask an expert.

Loose armrests on electric wheelchairs

If your armrest becomes loose, it will result in poor posture and discomfort when using your wheelchair.

How to fix armrests on powerchairs:

If the armrest has become loose, you can tighten it using a wrench or pliers. Make sure the armrests are in the correct position before doing so.
If they need replacing, consult your wheelchair’s user manual for instructions or contact an expert.

Worn or damaged powerchair casters

The casters on the front of a wheelchair allow for easy turning and steering. Over time, they can wear out or become damaged, causing the wheelchair to pull to one side or become difficult to control.

How to fix casters on powerchairs:

Inspect the casters for signs of wear.
To replace castors, remove the bolt, slide the old caster off, position the new one, and securely fasten it with the bolt.

Damaged powerchair freewheel lever

The freewheel levers on the back of your powerchair enable you to switch between motorised and manual operation. Common freewheel problems include the scooter being stuck in freewheel mode or difficulty moving the lever.

How to fix freewheel levers on powerchairs:

If the lever is stuck in freewheel mode, you won’t be able to drive the wheelchair using the controls. To fix this, make sure the lever is fully engaged in the correct mode.
If the lever is jammed or stiff, try some lubrication, such as WD40.
If the problem persists or the lever is damaged, you may need to seek expert advice.

Electrical faults on your electric wheelchair

Electrical defects in wheelchairs can include flashing lights, damaged controllers, or ineffective batteries. These issues can be concerning for the typical wheelchair user and are often not simple fixes.

Electrical faults can represent longer-term wheelchair issues or be a one-off occurrence caused by a hard shock or bump. Either way, they should be investigated to ensure optimal safety.

How to fix powerchair electrical faults:

For electrical issues, it’s best to contact a wheelchair service provider who will examine your wheelchair and advise on the best course of action.
Don’t ignore any electrical issues. Although they may appear to be isolated or temporary faults, they could lead to further problems.

To prevent wiring issues, it’s important to properly maintain your powerchair, ensuring it is stored correctly and not overloading the wheelchair’s weight capacity.

How to prevent electric wheelchair faults

Regular maintenance is key to preventing common electric wheelchair problems. Properly charging your battery, inflating your tyres to the correct pressure, and lubricating moving parts will help maintain your powerchair’s safety, comfort, and longevity.

If you need a new or replacement electric wheelchair, Monarch Mobility is here to help. Contact our experts to find the best model for your needs.

A mobility scooter is a lifeline for many, offering freedom and independence for those with limited mobility.

To ensure your scooter is always ready to roll when you are, it’s important to ensure the battery is fully charged and well maintained.

In this article, we’ll explore how to maximise your mobility scooter’s battery life, how to charge it correctly and troubleshoot common battery-related issues.

Mobility scooter battery types

Modern mobility scooters are usually equipped with either lithium-ion batteries or sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, both of which are designed for efficient charging.

Lithium-ion batteries are generally lighter, have a longer lifespan, and charge faster than sealed lead-acid batteries, which are heavier but more affordable. The choice of battery type depends on the scooter model and user preference, but both require proper care to operate efficiently.

How to charge a mobility scooter battery

Charging a mobility scooter correctly is key to maintaining battery health, ensuring it is ready when needed, and ensuring it lasts for your entire trip. Charge your battery using the following steps:

Since different scooter models have different charging methods, it’s important to consult the user manual before you begin charging. If you can’t find your original copy, you should be able to find a PDF version online.
Always use the correct charger for the battery.
Before charging, make sure you turn off the scooter.
Once the scooter is turned off, connect the charger to the scooter before plugging it into the power socket.
Fully charging a mobility scooter can take between eight to ten hours. Most scooter batteries will have an indicator light that signals when the process is complete.
Once the charge is complete, unplug the charger from the socket before removing it from the scooter.

Modern charging systems mean you cannot overcharge a mobility scooter battery; however, it is still advisable not to leave the battery charging for excessively long periods. Charging should take place in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.

If an extension cord is needed, it should be a heavy-duty cord capable of handling the charger’s power requirements.

How long does it take to charge a mobility scooter battery?

The time required to fully charge a mobility scooter battery varies depending on the battery size and scooter model, but it typically takes eight to ten hours. Many users choose to charge their mobility scooters overnight.

While it can be tempting to just ‘top up’ a battery, repeatedly undercharging a mobility scooter battery can reduce its capacity, shorten run times, and cause it to fail prematurely. To ensure optimal battery performance, fully charge the battery after each use.

How long does a mobility scooter charge last?

A fully charged mobility scooter can typically travel between 15 and 20 miles, although this varies depending on battery age, model, terrain, and load weight. Regular maintenance and proper charging habits play a significant role in maximising battery range.

If you are having trouble charging your battery, it could be for various reasons. Firstly, double-check that it is plugged in properly at both ends and that the power is on. If the problem persists, you might need to contact a professional to take a look.

If a scooter’s battery drains faster than expected, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.

How often should I charge my mobility scooter battery?

How often you charge your mobility scooter battery will vary according to its age, the terrain being travelled on, outside temperature, and the weight the scooter is carrying.

It is recommended that you charge your mobility scooter after every outing. Regular charging ensures the battery remains in good condition and avoids unnecessary power depletion.

If you do not use your scooter frequently, you are advised to charge the battery every one to two weeks to prevent it from discharging too much, which can ultimately damage the battery. We also recommend that you always store your mobility scooter with a fully charged battery. Allowing the battery to drain completely can significantly reduce its lifespan.

How much does it cost to charge a mobility scooter battery?

Charging a mobility scooter is relatively inexpensive. The exact cost depends on the battery size and electricity rates.

Regular charging and battery maintenance can help reduce unexpected replacement costs and ensure your scooter remains in good working condition.

How long do mobility scooter batteries last?

Mobility scooter batteries typically last anywhere between one and three years, depending on how they are used and maintained. Regular maintenance and proper charging can extend this lifespan, but eventually, your batteries will need replacing.

If your battery drains quickly, struggles to hold a charge, shows reduced performance, or has visible damage or leaks, it may be time for a replacement battery for your mobility scooter.

How to care for mobility scooter batteries

Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of a mobility scooter battery.

It is essential to use the correct charger and store the scooter in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures.

Winter conditions can impact battery performance, so additional precautions should be taken during colder and wetter months. Keeping the scooter and battery dry is crucial in preventing damage.

Regular inspections and servicing of the scooter and its battery can help identify potential issues, such as corrosion before they become major problems.

Charging the battery regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, avoiding complete discharge before recharging, and storing the scooter in a temperature-controlled environment all contribute to longer battery life and reliable performance.

A well-maintained battery will ensure your mobility scooter remains reliable and functional for longer.

Can I get a replacement battery for a mobility scooter?

If you need to change a mobility scooter battery, you can get a suitable replacement from any trusted manufacturer or retailer, such as Monarch Mobility.

Instructions for installation will typically come with the new battery. It’s worth noting that batteries can be heavy, so assistance may be required when replacing them. Old batteries should be disposed of responsibly at a recycling centre.

Many scooter users opt for an extra battery pack. A spare battery allows for extended use without waiting for a single battery to charge.

New batteries must always be charged for at least 12 hours before first use.

Battery care and maintenance with Monarch

Proper care and maintenance of your mobility scooter battery will keep your scooter in peak condition for longer. Regular charging, correct storage, and timely replacements are key to maximising battery life.

If you need a new battery for your mobility scooter, Monarch Mobility offers a range of high-quality batteries and expert support to keep you moving smoothly.

If you need to store your mobility scooter while you’re away or the weather takes a turn for the worse, adequate storage is key to protecting it. Mobility scooters must be stored properly to ensure they continue to perform well. One of the most common sources of damage to mobility scooters is gradual weathering over time when stored incorrectly.

At Monarch Mobility, we understand our customers want to protect their mobility investment, and we’re here to advise on the best storage solutions for your mobility scooter. If you’re looking for various storage options to protect your scooter, discover our list of the top 5 mobility scooter storage solutions to ensure your scooter lasts and stays in mint condition.

Our top 5 best storage methods for scooters

Finding the right storage method for your mobility scooter and lifestyle is crucial. From small spaces to larger areas, there’s sure to be a solution for every type of mobility scooter owner.

Our top 5 recommendations for storing your mobility scooter will keep it safe, secure, and ready to roll whenever you need it.

Outdoor storage: carports, driveways and porches

While storing your mobility scooter outside isn’t one of the most effective storage options for security and weather protection, it is the cheapest and most space-friendly!

You can easily store your mobility scooter under a carport or in an open space in your porch or driveway, where it will be somewhat protected from the weather while remaining outside. We’d recommend combining this with the next option below.

Portable storage covers

Waterproof covers designed for mobility scooters are the most cost-efficient and high-quality way of protecting your scooter from the weather when stored outside. Their ease of use and basic protection from the weather make them an excellent solution for on-the-go protection and storing outdoors at home.

Lockable storage units

Lockable, weather-resistant cabinets or storage boxes provide a great alternative to traditional outdoor storage without requiring much set-up.

Custom-built storage solutions for your mobility scooter help maximise the space you have available and will fit the specific needs of your mobility scooter model. Not only do lockable storage units save on garden space, but they are also high-security options that offer great protection from the elements.

Storage sheds

Using garden sheds or specially designed storage sheds for mobility scooters is a practical option for those looking to create a dedicated outdoor storage space for their scooters.

By providing a designated mobility scooter outdoor storage space, you can protect it from the rain and save on space while keeping your garden neat and tidy.

Indoor storage

Storing your mobility scooter inside your home, garage, or a dedicated indoor area is, without a doubt, the best option if you have the space for it. With this option, you can benefit from 24/7 protection from the weather and enhanced security in your own home.

If you have the luxury of a secure indoor space, this is the best way to keep your scooter secure and safe from weathering and thieves.

Understanding mobility scooter storage requirements

Some of the critical requirements for storing a mobility scooter include space and easy access.

In addition, it’s essential to protect your scooter from extreme weather conditions and other environmental factors, such as keeping it away from dirt or dust.

Also crucial for protecting your mobility scooter is choosing the right storage location. The storage space you keep your scooter can dictate its longevity, condition and the quality it stays in.

Additional security measures for your mobility scooter

Whether your mobility scooter is stored indoors or outdoors, security should also be a consideration in your storage choice. Using locks, chains, or secure storage units when your mobility scooter is outside is one way to protect it from physical damage and prevent it from being stolen in public places.

Please read our full article on ways to keep your mobility scooter secure against theft and what you need to stay safe.

Mobility scooter storage tips and charging considerations

Storage tips

Clean your mobility scooter and check its tyres before you put it away in storage.
Additionally, make sure to check for any water damage to the electronics from rain before putting your scooter into storage.
A water-resistant cover will provide double protection when storing your scooter outside or during trips outdoors that need extra protection.

Charging considerations

Charge your scooter battery regularly. Like a car battery, it may degrade if not used for a prolonged period of time.
Ensure the battery never runs out of charge entirely and is only sometimes at 100%. Otherwise, this could cause irreversible damage to your battery. It’s essential to maintain a healthy balance between the two.
Replace batteries and charge when needed. Regular scooter battery maintenance is essential, particularly if a battery needs replacing.

Protect your mobility scooter with Monarch Mobility

We recommend assessing your storage needs and choosing the most suitable solution for your mobility scooter type. The proper storage and the right accessories can prolong the life of your mobility scooter and effortlessly enhance your overall riding experience.

If you’re looking to invest in a mobility scooter, shop our range of mobility scooters online, visit our Halifax showroom to see our stock or contact us at 0800 002 9633 for expert mobility advice today.

We also offer FREE home demonstrations, where we can bring our recommended mobility scooters or powerchairs to your home for you to try before you buy.

You can also explore Monarch Mobility’s high-quality range of mobility scooters, chargers and accessories to ensure your scooter is always ready to go, regardless of your chosen storage method.

A mobility scooter is not only a big investment, but also key to your independence, so in order for it to continue to work as expected, it needs to be properly looked after and maintained. This includes cleaning your mobility scooter, charging the battery the right way, spot checks and regular servicing, which are carried out by professionals.

Get the best out of your scooter by following our tips on how to look after, clean and maintain your mobility scooter.

Cleaning your mobility scooter

If you’re using your mobility scooter to its full potential, you’re undoubtedly taking it out and about, where it will naturally start to get dirty and dusty over time. To prevent this dust and dirt from affecting the performance of your mobility scooter, give it a quick clean and wipe down after every journey.

You can clean your mobility scooter with just a damp cloth and some soap or washing-up liquid—no specialist products are required. A simple wipe down is all that’s needed, and be sure to get into any nooks and harder-to-reach places too. It is not recommended to hose down or pressure wash your mobility scooter, as this will expose it to excess moisture that could cause your scooter and parts to deteriorate.

Avoid excess moisture

As well as avoiding hosing down or pressure washing your scooter, you should try to avoid your mobility scooter attracting excess moisture where possible.

It may be tempting to drive through puddles, but this can cause metal parts of your scooter to rust, particularly on the underside, and possibly cause damage to electrical parts such as the battery.

A cover for your mobility scooter is a great way to keep it dry if you need to leave it outside in the rain. Our mobility scooter rain cover comes in 3 different sizes for scooters of all types, can be easily carried onboard, and features sealed seams to keep out any water around the bottom of the scooter.

Check your mobility scooter’s tyres

Over time, your mobility scooter tyres may start to show signs of wear and tear, which can make your mobility scooter and the battery have to work harder to get you from A to B. Luckily, there are a couple of quick and easy checks you can do to keep them in good health.

First of all, check the tyre tread regularly, in line with the recommended tread in your scooter’s manual. If your scooter has pneumatic (air-filled) tyres, as opposed to solid tyres, you’ll also need to regularly check the tyre pressures and for any signs of a puncture. When your tyres need reinflating, you can use a bike pump or a hand pump to pump up the tyres to the recommended PSI, which can be found on the side of the tyre.

Maximising mobility scooter battery life

Looking after your mobility scooter’s battery is essential for extending your mobility scooter’s lifespan and ensuring it remains reliable. By charging your mobility scooter battery correctly, you can get the maximum mileage from a single charge and reduce how often you may need to replace it.

Aim to charge your battery for at least 8-10 hours at a time – we recommend charging it overnight so that the battery can reach its full charge. Mobility scooter batteries contain a regulator so that they cannot overcharge, so there is no harm in leaving them plugged in for longer.

Your battery should be charged regularly – if possible, charge it each day you make a journey on your mobility scooter, and as soon after using it as possible. If you end up not using your mobility scooter for a prolonged period of time, you should charge the battery fully once every two weeks as a minimum.

Essentially, you should aim for your battery to never run flat, and to be fully charged before you head out on a journey wherever possible. By taking these steps, you’ll prolong the battery life of your mobility scooter and reduce the chance of it running out of charge while out and about. Battery life also decreases in colder weather, so try to keep your mobility scooter battery at room temperature if you can.

Should your battery ever start to deteriorate and lose battery life, you can buy mobility scooter batteries separately to replace them. Always check against the manual that you’re buying the correct battery for your model of mobility scooter, and that it works with your existing charger. If not, you can also buy a replacement mobility scooter charger too.

Servicing your mobility scooter

As well as carrying out your own checks and maintenance using our guidance above, we also recommend a yearly or twice-yearly service for your mobility scooter.

With a mobility scooter service, a trained professional will carry out full checks on your mobility scooter’s performance using diagnostic machines. They will check all of the electrical and mechanical parts, along with your scooter’s battery, to ensure everything is in good working order.

Enjoy mobility and freedom with Monarch Mobility

If you’re just at the start of your mobility journey, look no further than Monarch Mobility for all of your mobility scooter needs.

As well as advising on how to care for your mobility scooter, and troubleshooting any issues, we’re also on hand to offer guidance on the right mobility scooter for your needs from our wide range of mobility scooters available to buy. We go the extra mile to match you with your perfect mobility scooter and offer a free home demo so you can put our scooters to the test before you buy.

Browse the full range of mobility scooters online or get in touch with our friendly team, who can advise on our range and discuss your options.

Table of Contents

Battery issues with mobility scooters

How to fix motor scooter battery problems

Mobility scooter motor malfunctions

Fixing mobility scooter motor issues

Damaged tyres on mobility scooters

Fixing flat tyres on your mobility scooter

Ignition problems on mobility scooters

Sorting ignition problems on your mobility scooter

Potentiometer problems on your mobility scooter

Fixing potentiometer problems on your mobility scooter

How to prevent mobility scooter faults

Table of Contents

Worn or torn electric wheelchair upholstery

How to fix worn or torn upholstery on powerchairs:

Battery issues on your electric wheelchair

How to fix battery issues on powerchairs:

Flat tyres on your electric wheelchair

How to fix flat tyres on powerchairs:

Loose or worn-out powerchair brakes

How to fix powerchair brakes:

Loose armrests on electric wheelchairs

How to fix armrests on powerchairs:

Worn or damaged powerchair casters

How to fix casters on powerchairs:

Damaged powerchair freewheel lever

How to fix freewheel levers on powerchairs:

Electrical faults on your electric wheelchair

How to fix powerchair electrical faults:

How to prevent electric wheelchair faults

Table of Contents

Mobility scooter battery types

How to charge a mobility scooter battery

How long does it take to charge a mobility scooter battery?

How long does a mobility scooter charge last?

How often should I charge my mobility scooter battery?

How much does it cost to charge a mobility scooter battery?

How long do mobility scooter batteries last?

How to care for mobility scooter batteries

Can I get a replacement battery for a mobility scooter?

Battery care and maintenance with Monarch

Table of Contents

Our top 5 best storage methods for scooters

Outdoor storage: carports, driveways and porches

Portable storage covers

Lockable storage units

Storage sheds

Indoor storage

Understanding mobility scooter storage requirements

Additional security measures for your mobility scooter

Mobility scooter storage tips and charging considerations

Storage tips

Charging considerations

Protect your mobility scooter with Monarch Mobility

Table of Contents

Cleaning your mobility scooter

Avoid excess moisture

Check your mobility scooter’s tyres

Maximising mobility scooter battery life

Servicing your mobility scooter

Enjoy mobility and freedom with Monarch Mobility

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