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Buying used equipment can save a lot of money, and plenty of used equipment is in good shape. The trick is to slow down, look closely, and ask questions. Bring this guide with you, and print the checklists if you can.

1. Before you shop

Settle these questions first. They make every later choice easier. Write your answers on the lines.

• Where will it be used most: indoors, outdoors, or both?
• Who will carry or drive it? Will it go in a car trunk, a van, or stay at home?
• Which doorways, halls, and rooms must it fit through? (Measure them in the next section.)
• What weight capacity do you need? Ask the user's care team if you are unsure. The capacity printed on the equipment should be comfortably above the user's weight.
• Who will set it up and learn how it works? Is someone available to show the user?
• What is your top price, including any delivery, a new battery, or repairs?
• Will a therapist or equipment specialist look at the fit? Many people find this very helpful, especially for a first chair or scooter.

2. Fit and measurements worksheet

Measure with a tape. Measure the opening itself, not the door. A common habit is to take off about one inch from each measurement for hands and knuckles. Take a photo of the worksheet with your phone to bring to the seller.

Every listing on Mobility Database has an overall width and a heaviest-piece weight when the seller knows them. The Fit Finder page can filter for them.

3. Inspection checklist: scooters and power chairs

Do this in person, in good light, with the seller present. Ask the seller to show everything working. It is fine to take your time. If a seller rushes you, that tells you something.

Look first

• Frame: no cracks, bends, rust holes, or fresh paint over a repair. Look at the welds.
• Tires: tread is even, no flat spots, no cracks. Check whether they are air-filled or solid.
• Seat and armrests: firm, no rips or sagging, swivel locks and holds. Armrests move and lock as they should.
• Wiring and plugs: no cut, taped, or frayed wires. Plugs fit snugly.
• Serial number plate is present and readable. Take a photo of it.
• Lights, horn, and reflectors work, if the model has them.

Then test

• Turn it on. Do all the display lights and gauges come on? Any warning lights or beeping codes?
• Controls: speed dial, tiller or joystick, and forward and reverse all respond smoothly, with no jerking.
• Brakes: it stops smoothly when you let go of the control. Test on level ground with the seller's help. Check the manual freewheel lever, and check that it clicks back into drive.
• Battery: ask when it was bought. Ask how far the seller usually goes on one charge. Look for swelling or leaks.
• Charger: has the right plug, powers on, and the charging light works. Ask to see it charge.
• Drive it a short distance, forward, backward, and through a turn. Listen for grinding, clicking, or squeaks.
• Try the features: seat swivel, tilt, recline, leg rests, or lifts, if it has them.
• Accessories: baskets, cup holders, canopies, armrest pads, and the original manual and key are included, if listed.

If the buyer will use it for real mobility, many people choose to have a dealer or technician look it over before first use. A battery that is old may need replacing soon, so plan for that cost.

4. Shorter checklists

Manual wheelchairs

• Frame is straight and folds and unfolds easily and locks open.
• Brakes (wheel locks) grip both wheels evenly.
• Tires hold air or are in good shape if solid. Wheels spin freely without wobble.
• Seat and back upholstery are not torn, and the cushion is firm.
• Footrests and armrests attach and lock securely. Anti-tippers are present, if the model has them.
• Weight limit is on the frame or in the manual.

Walkers and rollators

• Frame is straight. Folding lock engages with a clear click.
• Legs adjust and the height pins or buttons lock fully in place.
• Rubber tips or wheel tires are not worn smooth. Wheels turn and roll straight.
• Brakes squeeze firmly and hold when parked. Handle grips are not loose.
• Seat, basket, and back strap are not torn, if it has them.

Lifts and ramps

• Ask for the installation date, the maker, and any inspection or service records.
• For stair lifts and vehicle lifts: ask whether a professional will remove and reinstall it. These are heavy and are usually installed and set up by trained people, so many buyers hire a dealer.
• For ramps: check for cracks, loose bolts, bent rails, slick surfaces, and the maximum weight. Measure the length, and check whether the slope is gentle enough for your doorway rise.
• Ask how it is moved and how many people are needed.

5. Questions to ask the seller

• How old is it, and when did you buy it? Did you buy it new?
• How old is the battery? When was it last replaced?
• Has it been serviced or repaired? Do you have receipts?
• Why are you selling it?
• Has it ever been in an accident, tipped over, or been flooded or left outside?
• Was it kept in a home with smoking or pets? (This can matter for allergies and smell.)
• What is the serial number? Do you have the original manual, charger, and keys?
• What is included in the price, and is the price firm?
• Will you let me test it, and will you allow my own technician to look at it?

6. How to check for recalls

Recalls are rare, but they are worth a few minutes. Have the make, model, and serial number ready.

1. Call or visit the maker's website. Ask whether any safety notices or recalls apply to that model and serial number.
2. Search the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at cpsc.gov/Recalls.
3. For medical devices, search the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recall and safety pages at fda.gov.

On Mobility Database, the Equipment Passport lets you look up a serial number to see if the same item has been listed here before.

7. Red flags and scam warnings

Most sellers are honest. These are signs to stop and think:

• The seller asks you to pay by wire transfer, gift card, cryptocurrency, or a payment app before you see the item.
• Someone sends a check for more than the price and asks you to send back the difference. This is a well-known scam.
• The seller will not let you test it, will not meet in person, or says a "shipping agent" will deliver it after you pay.
• The price is far lower than similar items.
• You are pushed to decide right now.
• The serial number is missing, scratched off, or does not match the photos.
• The seller wants to move quickly to a private chat app and will not use the site's messages.

If something feels wrong, walk away. You can report listings and messages on the site.

8. Safe meeting and pickup

• Meet in a public place in daylight, such as a store parking lot. Some police stations have safe exchange areas.
• Bring someone with you, and tell another person where you are going.
• Bring a measuring tape, a flashlight, and this checklist. Bring a vehicle that can safely carry the item.
• Pay only when you have the item and have tested it. Cash in person is common. Count it out in front of the seller.
• Do not go into a stranger's house alone. If the item is in a home or garage, bring a second person.
• If the seller offers delivery through a delivery partner, check the quote and the terms before you agree.

9. Cleaning before first use

• Wipe the seat, armrests, handles, and controls with a disinfecting wipe or a cleaner that is safe for the material. Check the manual first.
• Wash or replace removable cushions and covers, following the care label.
• Clean the wheels and tires, and the areas where hands and feet rest.
• Let everything dry fully, and keep electrical parts dry.
• Check the manual for cleaning rules. Harsh cleaners can damage vinyl and cables.

10. Final go or no-go checklist

Check each line. If you cannot check all of them, wait, ask more questions, or walk away.

• It fits my measurements and the weight limit is above the user's weight.
• I tested it myself and everything worked, or I know exactly what needs fixing and what it will cost.
• The serial number matches the photos and the recall check came back clear.
• The price is fair compared with similar items, and I know what else I may need to buy, such as a battery or a cushion.
• I got the manual, charger, and every accessory that was promised.
• The meeting was safe, and I am paying in a safe way.
• I will clean it before first use, and I know who to call for service.

Thank you for taking the time to buy carefully. When you are ready, you can browse equipment by type, grade, price, and distance at Mobility Database.

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