More than 2 million mobility scooters are purchased worldwide every year. When it comes to deciding between buying new or used, price becomes a crucial factor, with options ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. So, let’s explore and analyze the significant distinctions to assist you in making a wise decision.
Cost: Used Provide Significant Savings But With Caveats
Purchasing a pre-owned mobility scooter can result in significant cost savings of 50-75% or more compared to buying a new one. For instance, while a new mid-range mobility scooter may cost around $2,000, a 3-year-old used model can be found for as low as $700. These substantial savings allow individuals with limited budgets to access personal mobility.
However, it is paramount to consider that lower upfront costs may come at the expense of reliability, features, warranties, and more. Repair expenses for used scooters can also be unpredictable, potentially resulting in lifetime costs similar to those of new scooters. Nonetheless, for many buyers with budget constraints, purchasing used may be the only viable option available.
Features: New Scooters Have Cutting-Edge Advantages
The latest models of mobility scooters, like the Afikim Afiscooter C3, are equipped with advanced features that prioritize comfort, personalization, battery efficiency, and safety. These include adjustable seats, USB ports, customizable colors, an extended battery range of over 30 miles per charge, and improved suspension, among others. These new safety enhancements also help prevent accidents.
In contrast, used mobility devices, which may lag behind in technological capabilities by 5+ years, lack these features. While used scooters fulfill basic transportation needs, opting for a new scooter offers versatility, convenience, and personalization that cannot be matched.
Reliability: New Scooters Suffer Far Fewer Breakdowns
Due to the natural process of device’s wear and tear, pre-owned mobility scooters experience an average of 2-3 mechanical breakdowns per year, necessitating repairs. Components such as batteries, controllers, motors, and brakes have limited lifespans. Furthermore, some used scooters may have endured heavier usage in the past, compounding reliability issues.
Without warranty coverage, owners are responsible for all repair costs when purchasing used scooters. Conversely, a new mobility scooter comes with warranty coverage, providing free repairs and averaging only about 1 breakdown per year. Therefore, individuals seeking to minimize inconveniences should strongly consider purchasing new scooters.
Aesthetics: Used Scooters Show Their Age
Shoppers who are even partially motivated by aesthetics or style should consider purchasing new mobility scooters. Used scooters often show signs of wear, including fading, chipping paint, and unavoidable scratches. Furthermore, stains or blemishes from previous owners are often difficult to fully remedy. The dated styling of used scooters is easily noticeable. On the other hand, new mobility scooters offer a sleek, modern, and stylish appearance. So, for those looking for an eye-catching accessory, choosing a new mobility scooter is the recommended option.
Warranties & Support: Comprehensive With New Purchases
New mobility scooters are typically accompanied by manufacturer warranties ranging from 1 to 5 years, covering both parts and labor. This ensures comprehensive repair coverage at no additional cost. Moreover, manufacturers offer extensive support through documentation, spare parts supply chains, and service center networks. Used mobility scooters, on the other hand, lack such warranties and support. When breakdowns occur, previous owners are solely responsible for funding repairs and troubleshooting issues. This absence of support is a trade-off associated with purchasing used scooters.
Ethics: Used Promotes Sustainability
The mobility scooter market generates more than 100,000 tons of waste each year, including metal, plastic, and batteries. Opting for used scooters helps prolong their lifespan as well as prevents them from ending up in landfills. Buying used also reduces the environmental impact of raw material extraction and manufacturing. Moreover, it promotes a culture of reduced consumerism.
However, there are arguments in favor of buying new, as it supports technological advancements in energy efficiency and safety. Nevertheless, choosing used options ultimately contributes to environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
When deciding between purchasing a new or used mobility scooter, consider your budget, required features, aesthetic preferences, and ethical concerns. Also, evaluate the overall costs in relation to reliability. While used mobility scooters can offer significant savings, you should be aware of potential limitations in terms of dependability, features, and support. On the other hand, people with a flexible budget, a desire for robust features, and a priority for long-term reliability may find that new mobility scooters better meet their needs, despite the higher initial purchase prices. You should carefully consider your individual circumstances and mobility goals to determine whether buying a new or used mobility scooter is the most suitable option for you.
The post Used vs New Mobility Scooters – Which One to Choose? appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.
