How long do batteries last on mobility scooters is a common question in the community spaces. The answer to this question, however, is not straightforward because it relies on many things. The first thing to note is that batteries don’t last forever. Hence over time all batteries will eventually stop working. But one of the major causes of battery failure is human error, which includes incorrect charging. Such human errors can affect the lifespan of a mobility scooter’s battery.

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There are three main types of mobility scooter batteries: Sealed Lead-Acid (AGM), Gel Cell, and Li-Ion. While the Sealed-Lead acid battery is best for occasional users as it produces fewer cycles hence cheaper. Gel cell is common with regular users as it lasts much longer with more cycles. Li-Ion is an expensive brand because it produces many cycles before it needs replacing.

The average duration for mobility scooters batteries

Most mobility scooters’ batteries will provide a 12-month warranty. However, it should last longer than that and produce more time in use. Typically, a mobility scooter battery should have a lifespan of 18 months. Although this should be dependent on how often you use it. It means that a person who uses their mobility scooters multiple times a day will expect it to last a shorter time than someone who uses theirs once in a while.

Some other factors that will affect your mobility scooter’s battery life are the range of use, terrain traveled over. Both the weight of the rider and the scooter, charging regime, and charger used.

Charging your mobility scooter

One of the most asked questions about the maintenance of a mobility scooter is the charging regime. Although there are varying opinions about how and when to charge your scooter to maximize the performance and lifespan of the battery, the standard recommendation is to charge it after every trip.

Also never allow the battery to be fully discharged, and you should stop using it whenever the battery shows red LEDs. Using your scooter up to a point where the battery discharges completely will dramatically decrease the lifespan and capacity.

However, in case the scooter is rarely used, charging can happen once a month on the minimum. The common worry among many is whether the battery can be damaged when left on charge all the time. The answer is no because a battery left connected all the time will not overcharge as long as you’re using the original and dedicated charger which comes with your mobility scooter.

But this does not mean that overcharging cannot entirely occur. Your scooter battery can overcharge if the charger broken or severely worn out, which causes the charger not to switch itself off when it reaches maximum capacity. It can also overcharge if the charger is too big, which can make your battery receive too much charge. Lastly, it can overcharge when using a low-quality charger that is not delivering the correct charge.