How do mobility scooter controls work?

If you’re considering buying a mobility scooter, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is how do mobility scooter controls work?

It’s a question we get asked on a daily basis at Felgains and we’ll explain it in this guide. The good news is it’s pretty simple and you should get the knack very quickly!

What controls does a mobility scooter have?

Mobility scooter controls are made up of three elements:

1. Control Panel with Ignition & Speed Dial

2. Steering Tiller

3. Direction Levers

These three elements will feature on all types and classes of mobility scooters. On Class 3 mobility scooters (road legal), you will have an additional handbrake lever and a speed limiter for pavement use.

How do you operate mobility scooters controls?

So, how do you use the controls of a mobility scooter to drive? Here is the step-by-step process:

	1. Switch the ignition on. Turn the key in the ignition to turn your mobility scooter on. Alternatively, some mobility scooters have a fob instead of a key.
	2. Turn the speed dial to set your speed. The maximum speed will depend on whether you have a Class 2 (4mph) or Class 3 (8mph) mobility scooter. A Class 3 mobility scooter will have an additional speed limiter button, to automatically set the maximum speed to 4mph for pavement use.
	3. Pull the direction lever towards you to go forwards, or push it away from you to go backwards.  These levers are linked so you can operate using either one or both hands.
	4. Turn the tiller using the handlebars to steer. This works in the same way as you’d steer a bike.

Do all mobility scooters have the same style controls?

Now, you may be wondering whether all mobility scooter controls are exactly like those shown above. The fact is there are some variations but, don’t worry, because we’re about to show you exactly what differences you may find between models.

Mobility Scooter Controls: Delta Tiller vs Handlebars Style

Mobility Scooter with Delta Tiller A mobility scooter with a delta tiller will have a wrap-around D-shaped handlebar.	Mobility Scooter with Handlebars This style will have T-shaped handlebars like you find on a bike.

The style of handlebar doesn’t make any difference to the steering, but you may find one or the other more comfortable depending on your needs.

Mobility Scooter Controls: Analogue vs Digital Display

Mobility Scooter Analogue Display A mobility scooter with an analogue display typically has a power on light and a battery indicator dial.	Mobility Scooter Digital Display A mobility scooter with a digital display will feature an LED screen with a speedometer and battery indicator.

Summary

I trust this article has given you a good understanding of how mobility scooter controls work. If you have any questions, or you’d like to book a test drive for yourself, please just get in touch.

Related articles

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Get in touch

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