Tips for Keeping Mobility Scooter Batteries in Top Condition

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/08/16 - Updated: 2025/01/26
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Electric Mobility Scooters - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: This informative article provides essential guidance on maintaining mobility scooter batteries to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Key recommendations include regularly charging the battery, even during periods of infrequent use, to prevent full discharge; storing the battery in a cool, dry place to enhance performance; and cleaning the battery terminals to prevent corrosion. Additionally, the article advises maintaining steady driving speeds, avoiding excessive weight on the scooter, and ensuring proper tire pressure to extend battery life. It also notes that battery lifespan varies with usage patterns, typically lasting up to 18 months, with light use potentially extending this to three years - Disabled World (DW).

Introduction

Taking care of a mobility scooter battery is essential to maintain its performance in terms of speed and distance per charge. Listed below are a number of hints and tips for taking care of an electric scooter battery(s).

Main Content

Keep it Charged

Never allow the battery to be fully discharged, where the scooter is not regularly used it must be charged once per month as a minimum. Alternatively, the battery can be left connected. It will not overcharge if you are using the correct charger.

• Charging of the battery, according to the manufacturers recommendation, is an essential part of keeping the batteries performing at their best.
• After any type of use it is advisable to plug in the battery charger so the mobility scooter will be ready for the next outing.
• Use the charger that came with your battery for the safest and most efficient charging. Chargers are matched to the type and size of batteries.
• If you plan on not using your scooter for an extended period, disconnect the battery from the mobility scooter and make sure it is fully charged.

Keep it Cool

• A mobility scooter battery will not get damaged in extreme heat or cold but, to improve performance, store them in a cool and dry place.
• When the scooter is not going to be used often, such as during the winter months, take the batteries off the scooter and store them inside.
• Make sure you charge them periodically so they do not completely lose their charge.

Care for the Battery

• Greasing the terminals, of the battery is part of keeping the mobility scooter maintained.
• Keep the battery clean by using a damp cloth and avoid wet conditions when using the mobility scooter.
• If the batteries do get wet wipe them off and let them dry completely before using the mobility scooter.

Extending Battery Life

• Avoid stop and start driving.
• Maintain steady speeds on your scooter.
• Limit the baggage weight on your mobility scooter.
• Be sure the battery is fully charged before you drive for the day.
• Maintaining the correct tire pressures on your mobility scooter is very important and will help extend the range of your scooter significantly.

Battery Life and Warranty

Most manufacturers generally offer a 12 month warranty on batteries, mobility scooter batteries should deliver an average lifespan of up to 18 months depending on usage.

• In light mobility applications - using your scooter once or twice a week - the battery can deliver up to 3 years lifespan.
• In heavier usage - such as using your scooter daily on long journeys - the lifespan could be between 12 to 18 months.

If charged and stored correctly mobility scooter batteries, depending on type, can provide from 20 to 45km of travel per charge. Though, it is essential to check this with the scooter manufacturer as this can vary according to the specific mobility scooter make and model.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.