Do you use your mobility scooter daily? Well, you can do so without worrying, since manufacturers design them to be strong and durable.
However, there might come a time when it could need a new motor. This article will help identify when you should replace your mobility scooter motor.
Signs The Motor In Your Mobility Scooter May Need Replacing
Have you experienced any of the following when your scooter is turned on: 1) an unusual burning smell, 2) heard strange noises, or 3) the scooter is hesitant, stalls, or shuts off for no apparent reason.
If so, do not use the mobility scooter until the issue has been resolved and follow the steps below to accurately diagnose the issue.
How To Troubleshoot Motor Issues
First, read the owner’s manual for the model of your mobility scooter as this will help you troubleshoot any small issues. Be sure to follow the instructions exactly, in order to prevent any further damage to your mobility scooter motor.
If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, you should then contact the manufacturer’s tech support for assistance. They should be able to assess the situation and provide solutions over the phone.
If not, they may recommend you bring the scooter to their facility for evaluation if you live nearby, or they may send a technician out or recommend a technician in your area if you do not live close to their facility.
Note that there may be a cost associated with the repair, especially if your unit is no longer under warranty or the warranty does not apply.
Risk You Take When Postponing Motor Replacement
As soon as you see signs that the motor is problematic, you should immediately act. Waiting longer may lead to the following unwanted outcomes:
- Interruption of your daily schedule;
- Damaging other components of your mobility scooter, which can lead to more costly repairs; and
- Breaking down when you are far from home.
Schedule Routine Maintenance
Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance on your mobility scooter will ensure that all its components are running at optimum level and will detect any required repairs or replacements before it becomes a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if the motor on my mobility scooter needs replacing?
Several warning signs may indicate your mobility scooter's motor needs replacement. Be alert if you notice:
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A burning smell when the scooter is turned on.
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Strange noises coming from the motor.
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The scooter hesitating, stalling, or shutting off unexpectedly.
If you encounter any of these issues, stop using the scooter and troubleshoot using the steps in your owner's manual or contact technical support.
2. What steps should I take to troubleshoot a faulty motor?
Start by consulting the owner's manual for your mobility scooter. It contains specific troubleshooting instructions to help diagnose simple issues. If problems persist:
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Reach out to the manufacturer’s tech support for guidance.
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They may recommend bringing the scooter to a service facility, dispatching a technician to you, or directing you to an authorized repair professional in your area.
3. What are the risks of delaying a motor replacement?
Ignoring motor issues can lead to:
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Interruptions to your daily schedule from sudden breakdowns.
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Damage to other scooter components, which can result in expensive repairs.
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Getting stranded far from home if the motor fails completely.
Acting promptly when motor issues arise will help avoid these problems.
4. What can I do to prevent motor issues in the future?
Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your mobility scooter in excellent working condition. Follow these tips:
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Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
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Regularly inspect your scooter for unusual smells, sounds, or performance issues.
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Address minor concerns as soon as they arise to prevent more significant problems.
5. Will motor replacement costs be covered under warranty?
This depends on your mobility scooter’s warranty terms. Contact the manufacturer to verify if your motor repair or replacement is covered. Note that costs may apply if the warranty has expired or doesn't cover the specific issue.
Conclusion
We hope that you liked this article on best tips to stay safe on your mobility scooter and that it was beneficial to you. Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions or if you would like to see more articles like this on our site.
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If you are more interested and looking for other related articles, our staff compiled a great list of the 7 Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Electric Wheelchair Running Smoothly and have had some great feedback on that article as well.
Feel free to write me anytime at kellon@electricwheelchairsusa.com if you have any questions or comments. At Electric Wheelchairs USA, we truly love helping our customers make the best choice for their needs whether it is a power chair, mobility scooter, or lift chair.
