Used electric wheelchairs are the best choice for many seniors and others with debilitating injuries or illnesses. Fixed incomes and other financial considerations often dictate how much one can afford to pay for a motorized mobility device. The purchase of an electric wheelchair can be a major expense, and as such you should approach it as carefully as you would any other major purchase.

Used motorized wheelchairs can be found in the classified ads section of the newspaper, in your local penny saver and on eBay and Craigslist and other online sources. Check with your local senior center to see if they have a bulletin board. Medical equipment dealers often take trade-ins and sell the used equipment. They are often an excellent source since they should have the service records of the unit and be able to accurately gauge the remaining life of the wheelchair. Sometimes the dealer will refurbish the previously owned equipment and offer a warranty or guarantee.

Beware of chairs that are more than five years old or have torn upholstery and scratched frame and forks. Older model chairs may be difficult to get replacement parts for and, generally speaking, a motorized wheelchair that has major signs of wear on the outside probably has major wear on the inside. Some chairs look new but have many, many miles.

The wear and tear on the joystick, the joystick housing and bracket can be a giveaway on how much use and abuse a motorized wheelchair has endured. It is always best to have your wheelchair inspected by a competent professional.

When considering a previously owned electric wheelchair there are some things to keep in mind that will help you get the chair most suited to your needs.

1. Evaluate your needs.
Motorized wheelchairs come designed suitable for different uses. Are you going to be using your chair indoors exclusively, outdoors exclusively or will you be taking it outdoors. Rear wheel drive models tend to be faster but have a longer turning radius. Front wheel models turn faster but are generally slower. Mid-wheel drive wheelchairs have the tightest turning radius but tend to be more unstable so they often have extra wheels in front or back (or both) of the drive wheels.

Outdoor motorized wheelchairs generally have more size and are more sturdy. They are built with larger motors for more torque. Speeds range around six miles per hour and range up to twenty miles. they have tires and wheels designed for outdoor use and are generally more rugged and have more heavy duty suspension.

Indoor chairs do not need to be as big, as rugged or have as much speed as the outdoor models. They do need a tighter turning ratio. Some models offer a lift seat to allow their occupants to reach up higher. If you are going to use your chair indoors you need to measure the most narrow doorway your chair will need go through and make sure that the chair you buy is narrow enough to fit.

2. How often will you need to transport your chair?
If you will be transporting your chair often you will want to consider a transportable model. Most of them weigh under 100 pounds and either disassemble or fold up for transportation in the automobile trunk eliminating the need for lifts or ramps.. Transportable chairs are also more compact and will fit through most narrow doorways and maneuver more confined spaces.

3. What is the weight limit of the chair?
All motorized wheelchairs have weight limits. Besides being a safety issue, overloading a motorized chair can cause frame damage and shorten motor and battery life.

4. What type of batteries does the chair use? How many are included?
Wheelchair batteries are either dry cell or wet cell. Dry cell batteries are the preferred choice. Automobile batteries are not designed for prolonged drainage and should not be used. Having more than one battery will allow you to keep one on the charger while using your chair.

5. What type of guarantee comes with the chair?
A reputable dealer will provide a guarantee with your used motorized wheel chair.

6. What are the shipping costs associated with your purchase?
Shipping costs vary and can greatly effect the final price of your chair. Free or reduced delivery or shipping could be the difference in getting a good deal or a mediocre deal. Will the seller provide insurance or will that be your responsibility? If the unit is damaged in shipping who will have to deal with the insurance company?

A motorized wheelchair is an expense like an automobile or major appliance. They are not investments since they do not go up in value. They are a significant expenditure and you will want to take your time, learn as much as you can about the type of chair and the options you want. Set your budget and look at a lot of chairs. Ask for referrals from healthcare providers, family and friends and don't be afraid to negotiate to get the best price you can.