We're asked this every week, and the honest answer is that it's about 50-50. It depends on how much you'll use your scooter or electric wheelchair and how you prefer to pay. We supply both ways, so we have no reason to push you either way.
How Motability works
If you get the higher rate mobility component of DLA or the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP, you can lease through Motability. Instead of the money going into your bank account, it goes straight to Motability.
A car usually takes the whole allowance. A mobility scooter or electric wheelchair only takes part of it, and you still receive the rest. More on how your allowance pays for it.
Side by side
| Motability | Buying your own | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | None, paid from your allowance | The full price |
| Insurance | Included | Your own, e.g. Mark Bates, which can include breakdown cover |
| Servicing and repairs | Included | You pay |
| Batteries and tyres | Included | You pay |
| Breakdown recovery | Included | Only if your insurance covers it |
| Warranty | Covered for the whole lease | At least 1 year on new scooters |
| After 3 years | Hand it back and choose a new one, or buy it | It's yours to keep or sell |
When Motability makes sense
Motability is worry-free. You get a new scooter every three years with no repair bills.
It's most worthwhile if you use your scooter or wheelchair a lot. Someone out all day, every day, especially in an electric wheelchair for work, wears parts out faster. By the third year a transaxle, motor, motor brake or controller can fail. On a bigger scooter those parts get expensive, and Motability pays.
It also suits anyone who'd rather have a fixed monthly cost than find a lump sum.
When buying makes sense
About 80% of the time, nothing major goes wrong with a scooter. If you use yours a few times a week, buying can work out cheaper. You'll want insurance, and you'll need to cover any repairs once the warranty ends.
Buying also makes sense if you don't get a qualifying allowance, or you want to keep the scooter longer than three years. A quality pre-owned scooter is a good way to start if you're not sure how much you'll use one.
Talk to us
We're a Motability dealer for customers within 30 miles of our Stratford-upon-Avon showroom. Call 01789 339 738 and we'll help you weigh it up. See also how much a mobility scooter costs on Motability.
Frequently asked questions
What if my allowance stops?
Motability looks after its customers. Check the latest rules on the Motability website.
What if I move house?
Tell Motability and us. You'll still be covered, and they can move you to a dealer near your new home.
What happens if it breaks down?
Use the Motability app or phone number. They arrange a call-out and can take you and your scooter home. Like a car breakdown, it can take a while, which is why a yearly service matters.
Will Motability ever refuse to pay for a repair?
They can if a scooter has been abused. We've never known it happen to one of our customers.
