What is the actual cost of repairing a mobility scooter? As a user myself, I know it’s hard to decide the repair service and if it’s better to buy a new one.
That’s why I’m offering you a comprehensive guide on the overall cost of the scooter repairs. Continue reading to learn more!
Understanding the Costs When Repairing a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are great medical equipment for people with disability and even those without because of the innovative designs involved in their building, which makes them fun to use.
Steve Hughes, commercial director of Roma Medical, says, “We want people to feel that they are going to have some fun with it.” [1]
The scooter is designed to be long-lasting. However, if you sit on wheels daily like I do and put several miles on it, it will need frequent repairs by a licensed mobility scooter technician.
Regular repairs by a reliable mobility repair service are crucial to keeping your machine running efficiently. A well-maintained electric scooter can last for over seven years.
You need to consider the overall electric scooter maintenance cost so that you can decide whether to repair or buy a new one. If the repair costs are high or your machine is over seven years old, it is advisable to buy a new one.
The cost of repairs varies from one company to the other. Here are the average costs for the repair work.
Check: Review of Red Elephant Heavy-Duty Mobility Scooter
Labor Costs
Your mobility device service repair company charges labor fees. The labor cost involves removing and installing the necessary parts to complete the job.
The cost is usually integrated into the estimated repair costs, but it is separate from the parts’ costs. You need to ask if the labor fee is included in the estimates before the repair work.
Electric wheelchair repair services usually charge labor costs on an hourly basis. The average cost is between $135 to 200 an hour.
Replacements Parts
The price of the different parts also determines the cost. The parts’ cost is highly determined by the model. Older scooter parts are less expensive than more advanced and newer models.
Commonly repaired or replaced parts include motor, wheels, armrest, seat, joystick, and scooter battery. Here are the average costs of the parts, according to market research.
- Battery – $90
- Armrest – $80
- Expensive seat – $100
- Joystick – $175
- Wheels up to four tires – $150
Warranty
Most scooter manufacturing companies offer complimentary warranties. However, you buy most warranties and they are added to the repair costs.
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Buying or Repairing: Which one to Decide and When
How Old is Your Mobility Scooter?
If your scooter is older than seven years, you need to buy a new one. This is more especially if you use the scooter daily like I usually do.
Battery Problems
If the mobility scooter batteries don’t charge fully or experience other frequent issues, the batteries require immediate replacement.
If you face issues with a new battery from time to time, the problem is with your scooter. In this case, you should buy another scooter.
Frequent Repairs and Troubleshooting
An electric wheelchair that requires frequent repairs and other troubleshooting issues requires replacement.
This is necessary since you spend a lot of money doing repairs without getting the right solutions.
Read our guide if you also want to learn about knee walker rental.
ALSO READ: Mobility Scooter Batteries Replacement Guide
Availability of the Replacement Parts
Consider if the replacements parts are available, especially if your electric scooter is older than seven years.
If they are no longer in the market, the best thing is to buy another scooter instead of trying alternative parts on your machine.
Other Signs You Need to Buy a New Scooter
- Frequent problems with the motor for a motorized scooter.
- Failure to move in all directions.
- Burning smell.
- Hard to use.
For more details to troubleshoot your scooter, watch this video [2].
FAQs
What determines the cost of the repair?
The overall cost is determined by factors such as model, cost of the replacements parts, such as the mobility scooter motor, the expertise of the technician, or actual repair time needed.
Should I perform DIY mobility scooter repair?
No. You should only perform a DIY repair if you are a licensed mobility scooter technician.
Why are replacement parts of my scooter unavailable?
Your mobility scooter model is probably out of the market, especially if it is older than seven years.
Should I use alternative parts from other models on my scooter?
No. Using alternative parts from other models makes your scooter malfunction or causes other severe damages.
How often should I service my travel mobility scooter?
You should service the scooter every six months. However, if you use it daily, service it more frequently.
Conclusion
Mobility scooter repair cost varies, but the above information provides you an average of what to expect. Make sure you have the machine repaired immediately once you notice an issue.
The repair should only be done by a highly qualified mobility scooter repair technician or the manufacturer. It’s better that you pay a higher cost, but get a high-quality repair.
References
- 1. Amelia Gentleman. The trouble with mobility scooters: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/may/02/trouble-with-mobility-scooters [1]
- 2. CareCo. Troubleshooting your mobility scooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2gB3FGU
