Hi everyone, I was hoping to pick your brains on mobility scooters… My neighbour is looking for one and a bit put off as they all seem to say you can’t take them out in the rain.
Is that right? Or a super cautious manufacturer warning? What are your mobility scooter recommendations?
I reckon that manufacturers probably do not want to be taken to court. They can not claim to be weather proof without extensive testing or special materials and expensive designs. I think we are all aware that exposed electrics or electronics are vulnerable to water damage.
I saw this quote from one supplier " Mobility scooters/wheelchairs are not made to be waterproof , they are electric machines made to transport mobility impaired personnel. These machines are not designed for the rain, and if left out could result in electrical issues…"
A look at Google showed a number of weather proofing ideas for mobility scooters.
I have used my lightweight scooter in light rain and so far had no problems.
Sorry if this is not much help
Mick
I think some are more vulnerable than others. If they advertise waterproof covers for the electronics I would think that indicates avoid. I suspect a Tramper would shrug off a shower or two but some are definitely vulnerable. Suggest going with the advice of a shop that has a repair department.
I would avoid going out in the rain as it is a very miserable experience!
It’s super helpful thanks Mick and totally what I suspected. What make’s your scooter if you don’t mind me asking?
Also - just realised my user name is ‘Babs Admin’ - I do work for MS Society UK. But I’m posting in a personal capacity here!
My little scooter is a SupaScoota sprint
I also have a Tramper which does a lot of work in the rain and after 10 years of paddling in the sea (whenever possible)
bits finally rotted enough for me to need a replacement. Pretty robust
Mick
I only have a SupaScoota Sport XL, but was on a Tramper on Sutton Bank today. They are in a completely different class. Strangely I always think of Davros the founding Dalek in Doctor Who when I sit in one.
Have a look on Living Made Easy > Access and Mobility > Wheelchairs, Scooters and Buggies.
The Living Made Easy site is run by a charity, is impartial and with multiple sourcing options. Massive selection including all-terrain. I always start with “Do you want a scooter or a chair?” - look at both. Folding wheelchairs generally more compact for transporting by car, bus, train, plane etc.
My 9 years experience with mobility scooters is that if it is suitable for the public highway (8mph, lights, mirrors, DVLA licensed) it will be suitable to use in the rain. I wouldn’t, however, leave it outside on charge without a cover. One of the better ones is indeed the Tramper.
This is all fab thank you everyone! 
Hi Babs,
my grandmother had the same thoughts. I’ve been told that the manufacturers have put a lot of work into testing the mobility scooters, to make sure it is waterproof in some way. to much water isn’t good for it ofcourse, but I think your neighbour isn’t going to use it to take a swim. I’ve bought (removed by moderator)at an online store for seniors for my grandmother and it has shown to be able to take some rain.
I’ve now got a beast of a mobility scooter (similar to the other one mentioned here) but now no good to me as I no longer have the strength and mobility to get on it. I use a powered wheelchair and have taken it out occasionally in the rain without any noticable deterioration or damage.
I’m about to buy a new mobility scooter. I’ve always used, for over 10 years now, a DiBlasi R30. I’m on my second as I love them, but as my MS has changed I need a different scooter, more stabile more powerful. I’m thinking of getting a Supescoota Spartan. Has anyone used one of these, or has used them in the past ?
Hi there, you can take the mobility scooter out in the rain if you buy a cover for the controls which is cheap enough, most battery’s are under cover within the framework and hidden under the seat.