used power chair
Home > Blogs > How to Buy a Used Wheelchair Safely: Complete Guide & Checklist

How to Buy a Used Wheelchair Safely: Complete Guide & Checklist

Have you ever thought to yourself why some people regret buying their wheelchairs after just a few months of use? This happens oftentimes when the person chooses the wrong one. When buying a wheelchair, comfort is not the only thing to consider — it's also about independence and mobility quality. 

Even while turning to used wheelchairs which is a smart and very much affordable option for people with a tight budget, it's important to choose the best unit as not all secondhand chairs are reliable. That said, this guide will expose you to how and where to buy a used wheelchair safely.

What to Consider Before Buying a Used Wheelchair

 Your Mobility Needs and Comfort Level

Consider your day to day use of the wheelchair before buying one. For example, if you are mostly indoors, then a lightweight manual wheelchair like the Drive Medical Blue Streak will be a good option. However, if you travel often or go outdoors, a power wheelchair with great suspension will be your best choice in terms of comfort.

 Wheel Size, Control Type, and Battery Range

Another factor that should be considered is the wheel size. Not only does it determine the level of comfort but it also affects mobility. The type of control is also of significance for example, a joystick-controlled model is perfect if you have limited upper-body strength.

Additionally, think of the battery range. Some chairs can go for up to 15 miles on a single charge which can be perfect for daily commute. This way, you don't end up being stuck halfway to your home owing to a low battery. 

 Medical or Physical Condition

Your health status should influence your decision. For example, a person with spinal cord injuries may want a power wheelchair having complete back support and a joystick control that is easy. On the other hand, someone who has undergone surgery will require a basic manual wheelchair likely for a short period.

Understanding What Makes a Second Hand Power Wheelchair Reliable

Reliability in a second hand power wheelchair simply means the wheelchair works every time as it should without frequent break downs. Reliability is not only about getting to your destination but also being able to control the device with your commands, feel the brakes working, and use the wheelchair to carry out day to day activities with little to no bother about its components.

The reliability of a wheelchair is important to avoid risks, discomfort, and also mobility limitations. For instance, a wheelchair with weak batteries, or bad brakes can leave the user stuck or result in injury. For maximum comfort, a reliable wheelchair needs to have a stable seating, smooth suspension, and responsive controls which can either cause or prevent strain during movement.

Core Components of Reliable Used Power Wheelchair & How to Inspect Them

1. Battery and Motor Health

The performance of a wheelchair is heavily reliant on the battery and motor health. A strong battery can last throughout the day without sudden drops, while a healthy motor moves the chair smoothly with no noticeable troubling sound. With both in a good state, you don't have to panic over your battery running down quickly when you visit friends or run errands.

How to inspect: Test the joystick by moving it in all possible ways to check if the movement is smooth. Subsequently, pay attention to the motor noise and listen if there is any grinding or hesitation. Then, check the battery for charge retention and consistency during use. Plug the charger to confirm if it charges properly. Bad or weak motors and batteries can seriously affect the performance and safety of the chair, but testing them helps you avoid unplanned expenses.

2. Joystick and Controller Sensitivity

A joystick and controller that is either loose or lagging can cause frustrating and unsafe situations when turning, reversing or trying to move through tight spaces. The same as a car steering wheel, these components need to respond instantly and precisely.

How to inspect: Move the joystick through its full range of motion to ensure smooth, consistent responsiveness with no lag or looseness.

3. Frame Strength and Stability

The frame is the wheelchair's skeleton supporting your weight and every move. To know a wheelchair that might fall under stress check for indications of rust, cracks, or bending. Say you recline or go over a tiny bump—if the frame is not strong, there is a chance that the chair could collapse or wobble.

How to inspect: Check the frame for cracks, rust or loose joints ideally when buying a used power wheelchair to make sure you are safe.

4. Wheels and Suspension

For a wheelchair to have good movement especially on coarse surfaces, the wheels and suspension need to have proper traction. If the wheels are worn or uneven, rides can be tiring, unsafe, and bumpy. These components when in a good state prevent slipping on wet or uneven ground.

How to inspect: Check tires for wear or unevenness. Test the suspension by moving over small bumps to ensure smooth absorption of impact.

5. Seat Condition

Check the seat to note if there is sagging, if the cushions are flat or if there is any tearing.

6. Braking System

Test both electronic and manual brakes to ensure the chair stops smoothly and holds on inclines. This reduces major safety risks and saves you from spending on repairs caused by faulty brakes.

7. Manufacturing Date and Serial Number

Look for the manufacturer's label,which usually under the seat or on the frame. With it you can know the manufacturing date which helps you estimate the age of the chair’s component, especially batteries and electronics. Then, put down the serial number for verification and future part replacements.

8. Maintenance Records

Request service records or receipts for any repair or replacement of the parts done. These documents reveal the extent to which the chair has been maintained and point out the recurring issues. A properly documented maintenance record boosts the reliability of the wheelchair, whereas absence of documentation may suggest uncertain use or concealed problems.

9. Short Warranty or Return Policy

Ask the seller or dealer for a short warranty or return period to evaluate the chair in real conditions. Limited warranties or trial periods give you the protection against unforeseen breakdowns and indicate that the seller is behind the product’s quality.

Where Can I Buy a Used Power Wheelchair Safely?

Buying a reliable wheelchair, especially a used one, begins with knowing where to look. While there are many sources both online and physical, only a few are genuine. 

Alternatively, check hospital equipment resale programs or better still, verified Facebook Marketplace sellers — those with solid reviews. A reputable dealer will offer proof of inspection, battery test results and a short warranty. However, if the deal seems too good to be true, especially from random online listings it's likely a scam. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a reliable wheelchair is far more than just having the right budget — it's more about finding the one that suits your lifestyle. Always make sure to invest in a sturdy, comfortable model that can withstand wear and tear in the long run irrespective of whether you need the chair for a temporary period or for several months/years. 

If you ever need something slightly above the usual used wheelchair, you might want to consider our XSTO M4 which offers advanced features like smart controls. This wheelchair option aligns well with mobility specialists' recommendation of buying only wheelchairs that support your health, comfort, and long-term mobility needs as the case can be.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.