How To Test A Mobility Scooter’s Battery With A Multimeter

A mobility scooter can last up to five years on average.

But, you must make sure the scooter is well-maintained if you want it to last the whole lifespan. The battery’s condition must be checked as part of the maintenance checklist. For more on top folding mobility scooters visit Electric Wheelchairs USA.

To read the battery voltage range, you will thus require a digital multimeter. A set of screwdrivers or a hex wrench are additional tools required for the activity. Also, take note that the size of the necessary hex wrench or screwdriver depends on the screws that are there. To check the health of your battery pack, follow these instructions for testing a mobility scooter battery with a multimeter.

Make sure the wheelchair is completely charged. Ideally, leave the mobility scooter battery charger plugged in for seven to eight hours before letting it rest. This rest enables the device to function under typical usage conditions and aids in wearing off any remaining charging charge.

To access the device, unscrew the battery container while the mobility scooter is still.

If possible, set the function choice on the multimeter to VDC, or DC Volts V, and aim for a reading that averages 20 or higher. Record the meter reading after clamping the colored probes (red and black) to the appropriate battery connections.

The voltage of the battery pack should be higher than what the scooter can handle. Hence, if a device has two 12 volt batteries inside of it, the total voltage is 24 volts. The optimal result is between 26 and 27, indicating that the battery unit is in good condition. But, you need to change the 12v batteries if the reading is less than 24 volts.

Alternate Battery Testing for Mobility Scooters

Test of Active Method

For this test, you’ll follow the directions above, but the gadget will be turned on. So, while the multimeter is still plugged in, start the mobility scooter and press the throttle.

To precisely observe the voltage reading trend, you might require assistance. Keep in mind that throttling adds a load that enables the battery’s voltage to function.

Your battery is in excellent condition if the reading decreases by a little amount. But, if the reading dramatically declines, it means the batteries need to be replaced since they are having problems.

Take a scooter ride

Another option for testing the battery is to use your mobility scooter. Also, this battery test does not require technological expertise.

Simply use the device after completely charging it on a level surface, especially one with even terrain. Your scooter’s batteries are in good condition if they last this long on average.

On the other hand, if the item only lasts 30 minutes or less on average, it’s time to hunt for scooter replacement batteries.

Additional Battery Inspections for Scooters

You can perform further examinations in addition to testing the battery’s voltage to make sure the device is in good condition. However, as a mobility scooter owner, you must solve a variety of underlying battery issues.

Some things to look for are as follows:

Physical Injury

Look for cracks in the battery’s unit and the terminals when assessing the battery’s physical damage. To make sure there is no chance of a short circuit, you may also verify the tightness of the wiring harness on the battery pack terminals.

Availability of Corrosion

With most mobility devices, especially those powered by lead-acid batteries, rust is a typical annoyance. It doesn’t matter what kind of battery your gadget uses, though, as the problem can affect any model.

Thus, you must unplug the device and clean the connections with a wire brush. You can also wipe the terminals with a fresh towel after cleaning them with a little baking soda and a moist toothbrush.

Charger Examination

While it may appear that the device is the source of a charge issue, it’s also crucial to perform a battery charger test.

At Electric Wheelchairs USA, we truly love helping our customers make the best choice for their needs whether it is a power chair, mobility scooter, or lift chair.