Mobility scooter modifications - How speed limiter tampering will invalidate insurance cover

There are countless websites that demonstrate how to tamper with the speed limiter on mobility scooters to unlock more performance. However, there are many reasons why modifying a scooter in this way is a bad idea.

Insurance invalidated

If you have modified your road-going mobility scooter so its top speed is more than 8mph, your insurance is unlikely to pay out in the event of a crash.

Warranty void

Boosting the top speed of a mobility scooter will cause the electric motor to work harder and put additional strain on components. You may void any warranty you have.

If you’ve bought a mobility scooter without paperwork, how can you tell what type it is?

Mobility scooters and the law

There are two categories of mobility scooter.

Class 2 mobility scooters are not allowed on the road. The exception is when there isn’t a pavement. They have a maximum speed of 4 mph. This type of mobility scooter does not need to be registered.

Class 3 mobility scooters can be used on the road, and have a maximum speed of 4 mph off the road, and 8 mph on the road. This type of scooter should be registered with the DVLA.

If your scooter has a dial that allows you to adjust its top speed it’s a type 3.

Couples insurance cover for mobility scooters

Insurance from the ETA already represents great value at £65 per year to cover a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair worth up to £3,500, but you can now buy the same policy to cover two people at the same address for only £90 per year – a saving of 30 per cent.

You now also have the option of insuring your mobility scooter or powered wheelchair for £3,500, £5,000. £7,500 or even £10,000.

There’s never been a better time to buy ETA mobility scooter insurance.

Getting the best performance from a mobility scooter

You don’t need to break the law to get good performance from your mobility scooter. Keep your tyres properly inflated. Replace the batteries when they no longer hold a charge as well as they once did. Finally, when you have your scooter services, make certain its moving parts are lubricated.