Choosing or upgrading your powered wheelchair or scooter can make a real difference to your daily independence and mobility. At the Motability Scheme, we want to help you find exactly the right product.
Signing up for a three-year lease is a long-term responsibility, so it’s important you choose carefully. To help you with this, we’ve created a practical guide full of key questions to think about and ask your dealer.
- Before your assessment
- Questions about daily usage
- Meeting your dealer
- Maintaining your product
- Insurance and continuous mobility
- End of lease and renewals
- Practical considerations
- Staying in touch
Before your assessment: understanding your needs
Before visiting a dealer, it’s crucial to reflect on your current and future requirements:
- How does your disability impact your everyday activities?
- What are your current challenges, and how could the right equipment help?
- Have there been recent changes in your condition or mobility needs?
- Are any future changes anticipated, such as medical developments or lifestyle shifts like moving home?
Clear, honest answers will help you find a solution that meets your needs now and throughout your three-year lease.
Consider how and where you’ll be using your scooter or wheelchair:
- Will you be primarily travelling on pavements or roads, by car, or using public transport?
- How far and frequently do you need to travel?
- Do you need your scooter or wheelchair to be easy to transport or store?
- What kind of terrain will you encounter most often?
- Do you have a secure place to store and charge your scooter or wheelchair, either inside your home, in a locked shed or using a bracket? You’ll also need a rain cover if it’s stored outside
Meeting your dealer: essential discussions
Your dealer plays a key role in helping you find the ideal product. Be prepared with these crucial points:
- Can I test multiple scooters or wheelchairs to see what suits me best?
- Which product best accommodates my anticipated mobility needs over the next three years?
- What specific features or adjustments are available to meet my unique needs?
Remember, take your time. If a product does not feel quite right, inform your dealer. You have a wide range of options available within the Scheme.
Maintaining your product: essential questions
Regular maintenance is essential to avoid breakdowns:
Dealers can provide care and maintenance tips, like charging your battery fully after each use so it does not run completely flat.
Insurance and continuous mobility
Understand your insurance coverage and what to do in case of incidents:
- What exactly is covered by my insurance policy?
- What should I do if I have an accident or breakdown?
- How quickly can repairs be carried out, and what mobility alternatives are available?
- Can I take my scooter or wheelchair abroad, and what does my insurance cover internationally?
End of lease and renewals
Prepare in advance for the end of your lease:
- What happens at the end of my lease?
- How do I renew my product or choose a new one?
Planning ahead ensures seamless continuity of your mobility solutions.
Practical considerations: lease and responsibilities
Understanding the terms of your lease ensures no unexpected surprises. Your Motability Scheme lease typically includes:
- A new scooter or powered wheelchair every three years
- Comprehensive insurance coverage through Direct Line Motability
- Full breakdown recovery from Motability Assist
- Servicing, maintenance, and routine repairs
However, there are costs you should be aware of:
- Insurance excess in case of claims
- Repairs for cosmetic damage that do not affect functionality
- Costs arising from repairs or excessive wear
Regular communication with your dealer and the Motability Scheme helps you stay updated. Inform your dealer about any changes, and manage personal details through your online account.
Your online account is a great way to manage your lease and keep your details up to date, but it’s not the only option. You can also speak to your dealer or contact us directly if you have any questions.
By asking these key questions, you’ll be in a strong position to choose the powered wheelchair or scooter that suits you best.
Log in to your online account
The Motability Scheme is here to support you every step of the way, helping you move confidently and independently every day.
Sign in or create an account. It’s an easy way to stay in control of your lease, at a time that suits you.
Related articles
Everything you can do in your Motability Scheme online account
New powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters available on the Motability Scheme
Lifestyle magazine is going digital
