Buying a used mobility scooter: the checklist

A used folding or boot scooter can cost half the price of a new one. Here's how to pick a good one, check it properly and avoid the common traps. Right now we're tracking 1,813 scooters for sale on eBay UK.

1. Choose the right kind

• Fold-up scooters fold by hand in one piece in a few seconds, then wheel along like a trolley. Most weigh 15–25kg. See fold-up scooters.
• Auto-folding scooters fold themselves at the press of a button or with a remote: ideal if bending is hard. They cost more. See auto-folding scooters.
• Boot scooters split into a few lighter pieces (seat, battery, front and rear) to lift into a car one at a time. Usually sturdier and cheaper used. See boot scooters.

Not sure? Our six-question quiz suggests a type and shows matching deals.

2. Batteries: the hidden cost

The batteries are the part most likely to need replacing, and they decide how far you can go. A pair of sealed lead-acid batteries costs from about £60; a lithium pack can be £200–£350 or more.

• Ask when the batteries were last replaced and how far it goes on a full charge now.
• "New batteries" in a listing is worth paying a little more for. "Needs batteries" or "no charger" means budget for them. We filter those into "spares, repair or no battery".
• Make sure the charger comes with it, and that it's the right one for the battery.

3. Check it in person

• Fold it, or take it apart, yourself. Then lift the heaviest piece into your boot. Weights in listings are often without the battery.
• Test drive it forwards, backwards, up a slope and round a tight turn. Listen for grinding, and check the brake holds it on a slope when you let go of the lever.
• Look at the tyres, the seat and the frame. Check for cracks or bends, especially around the fold hinge and the steering column.
• Check the controls: speed dial, horn, lights (if fitted) and the battery gauge.
• Keys, manual and service history are good signs the scooter's been looked after.

687 of the UK scooters we track are collection only. Find scooters near you so you can see and test drive one before you buy.

4. Avoid scams and bad buys

• Pay through eBay, even when you collect. eBay's Money Back Guarantee covers items that aren't as described, but only when you pay through eBay. Never pay by bank transfer to a seller you haven't met.
• Be wary of prices far below typical, especially from new sellers. We show the typical price for each model and warn when a listing is 45% or more below it.
• Dealer or private seller? We show which on every listing (824 UK listings today are from private sellers). Dealers usually service the scooter and give a warranty; private sellers are cheaper but sell as seen.

5. Flying and holidays

Most airlines carry mobility scooters free, but the battery must be the right kind. Lithium batteries are usually allowed if they're no more than 300Wh (or two batteries of up to 160Wh each), and sealed lead-acid batteries often aren't. Every airline sets its own rules, so contact yours before you book, tell them the battery's watt-hours (Wh) from its label, and carry its paperwork. See airline-friendly scooters.

6. Money: VAT relief, Motability and insurance

• VAT relief: if you have a long-term illness or disability, you may be able to buy a new scooter without VAT for your own use. Ask the seller and sign their declaration. It doesn't apply to most used scooters, as private sellers don't charge VAT.
• Motability: if you get a qualifying mobility allowance, you can lease a scooter through the Motability Scheme.
• Insurance isn't required for a class 2 scooter, but cover for theft, damage and third-party claims is cheap and worth having.

7. What should you pay?

Every model page shows today's typical used and new price, the cheapest listings and a price history. Use our valuation tool to check a price, or the deal finder to see the biggest savings today.

This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. If you're not sure which scooter is right for you, ask your GP, an occupational therapist or a mobility shop.