Mobility Scooter Batteries: How to Choose, Test and Replace Yours

Independence, Together.

Owning a mobility scooter means relying on its battery to keep you moving comfortably, safely and independently. When your scooter’s battery starts to lose power, doesn’t hold its charge or fails altogether, it’s a clear sign that a replacement is needed. But how do you know which battery is right for your scooter and your lifestyle?

At Millercare, with 15 branches across the North West and a trusted online store, we’re here to make choosing a new mobility scooter battery as simple and stress-free as possible.

1. How to Identify Which Mobility Scooter Battery You Need

Before you order a replacement, it’s important to match the battery to your scooter’s specification. Here are the key steps:

1. Check your scooter’s manual or battery label
The simplest way to identify the correct battery is to consult your mobility scooter’s user manual or inspect the existing battery. Most batteries have a label showing:

• Voltage – usually 12V (often used in pairs) or 24V
• Amp-hour (Ah) rating – capacity, e.g. 12Ah, 34Ah, 50Ah, 75Ah
• Physical dimensions – length, width and height

These details are essential to ensure the replacement battery is compatible and fits correctly in the battery compartment.

2. Note the battery type
Most mobility scooters use either sealed lead-acid (SLA) or gel batteries. Some newer scooters may use lithium-ion, which are lighter and often last longer but can be more expensive and require specific chargers.

Always match the battery type recommended by your scooter manufacturer to maintain performance and safety.

3. Match the voltage and choose a suitable capacity
You should always replace your battery with one of the same voltage. When it comes to capacity, you can usually select an equal or higher Ah rating. A higher Ah battery often delivers a longer range per charge, but it may also be heavier or slightly larger, so always check the physical size and weight.

4. Measure the battery size
Even if the numbers match, physical dimensions matter. Carefully compare your existing battery with the replacement to ensure it fits the compartment and straps or fittings correctly.

5. Ask an expert if you’re unsure
If any of this feels confusing, you’re not alone. You can bring your existing battery — or even your scooter — to one of our Millercare branches, and our team will help you identify the correct replacement. Our specialists in Manchester, Preston, Oldham, Warrington and other locations across the North West are always happy to help.

2. Are Mobility Scooter Batteries VAT Exempt?

In many cases, mobility scooter batteries can qualify for VAT exemption in the UK. This usually applies when the batteries are purchased for personal use by someone with a qualifying disability or long-term medical condition and are used with an eligible mobility product.

At Millercare, a large number of our customers benefit from VAT relief on mobility scooter batteries and other mobility aids. However, eligibility is not automatic — you’ll need to confirm that you meet the criteria and complete a simple VAT exemption declaration. Our team can guide you through this process in-store or online so you don’t pay more than you need to.

3. How Long Do Mobility Scooter Batteries Last?

As a general guide, mobility scooter batteries tend to last between 12 and 24 months. However, this varies depending on:

• How often you use your scooter
• The distance you travel on each journey
• Charging habits (regular top-ups vs deep discharges)
• Battery type (SLA, gel or lithium)
• Storage conditions (temperature, moisture, etc.)

Good charging habits can significantly extend battery life. Try to:

• Charge your scooter after use, rather than letting the battery run completely flat
• Avoid leaving the scooter unused for long periods without charging
• Use the correct charger supplied or recommended for your battery type

Lithium batteries, where used, can last longer than traditional SLA batteries, but they are not suitable for all scooter models. Always follow manufacturer guidance before upgrading battery type.

4. How to Test Mobility Scooter Batteries

If your scooter feels sluggish, cuts out unexpectedly or doesn’t travel as far as it used to, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. A few simple checks can help:

• Visual inspection: Look for signs of damage such as swelling, cracks, leaks or corrosion around the terminals.
• Voltage test: Using a multimeter, a fully charged 12V battery should typically read around 12.7V or slightly higher. A much lower reading, even after charging, could indicate a failing battery.
• Performance check: If your scooter struggles on slopes, slows down sooner than usual or shows a low battery indicator after a short distance, this may suggest reduced capacity.
• Professional load test: The most accurate way to test a battery is under load using specialist equipment. This is best done by a trained technician.

If you’re unsure, we recommend bringing your scooter or batteries into your nearest Millercare branch. Our team can arrange appropriate testing and help you decide whether it’s time for a replacement.

5. Where to Buy Mobility Scooter Batteries Near Me (and Why Millercare?)

Millercare offers a wide range of mobility scooter batteries both online and in-store. With 15 branches across the North West — including Manchester, Preston, Oldham, Leyland, Blackpool, Stockport, Southport and more — you can choose home delivery or convenient local collection.

Why choose Millercare for your scooter battery?

• Local expertise: Our teams understand mobility scooters and can advise on the right battery for your model and usage.
• Wide stock: We supply quality batteries compatible with many leading scooter brands.
• VAT exemption support: We’ll help eligible customers with VAT-relieved purchases, in store or online.
• Flexible delivery & collection: Order online for quick delivery or collect from your nearest Millercare branch.
• Trusted service: As a long-established North West mobility specialist, we focus on reliability, safety and customer care.

If you’re not sure which replacement battery you need — or you simply want reassurance before you buy — our friendly team are always happy to help.