Electric Wheelchair Maintenance: A Quick Guide to Longer Life

Electric wheelchairs help thousands of people across the UK regain their freedom and independence. These are big investments, £1,500 to £5,000 or more. Maintenance not only protects that investment but keeps you safe and prevents breakdowns.

This covers everything you need to know about keeping your electric wheelchair in top condition, from daily checks to seasonal maintenance. Whether you’re new to a chair or have been using one for years these tips will help extend the life of your chair and keep it running smoothly.

Daily Maintenance Tasks

Battery Care

The battery is the powerhouse behind your electric wheelchair. Never be left stranded with a flat battery.

Daily battery tips:

• Charge your battery fully every night, even after short journeys

• Use only the manufacturer-recommended charger

• Check connection points for corrosion or damage

• Keep the battery clean and dry at all times

• Monitor battery indicator lights during use

"A well-maintained battery will last 18-24 months, a neglected one 6 months," says James Thompson, mobility specialist at the British Assistive Technology Association.

Tyre Inspection

Tyres are what connect your wheelchair to the ground, ensuring both safety and comfort.

Check daily for:

• Proper inflation (use a tyre pressure gauge)

• Foreign objects in the tread

• Excessive wear or cracking

• Loose wheel nuts or axle bolts

For pneumatic tyres, follow the pressure recommended in your user manual. If your wheelchair has solid tyres, check them regularly for wear and replace when the tread is worn.

Control System Check

Before you set off each day:

• Test the joystick for smooth movement

• Check speed settings work

• Check brakes engage and disengage properly

• Check all lights and indicators are working

Weekly Tasks

Cleaning Schedule

A weekly clean prevents dirt build up that can damage moving parts.

Weekly cleaning checklist:

1. Wipe down the frame with a damp cloth

2. Clean the seat cushion and upholstery

3. Remove debris from wheels and casters

4. Gently clean electronic components with a dry cloth

5. Check for hair or string wrapped around axles

"Don’t use high pressure water or harsh chemicals that can damage electrical components," says Sarah Collins, occupational therapist specialising in mobility equipment.

Frame Check

Once a week check the frame for:

• Loose bolts or fasteners

• Metal fatigue or cracks

• Folding mechanism (if applicable)

• Seat stability and attachment points

Motor Maintenance

The motor powers your mobility so it deserves weekly attention:

• Listen for unusual noises during use

• Check for overheating after use

• Motor mounts are secure

• Cables and connections are intact

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

More thorough checks should be done monthly:

Battery Deep Check

• Check battery terminals for corrosion (clean with a wire brush if needed)

• Test battery capacity with a multimeter if you have one

• Record charging times to see if it’s deteriorating

Brake System

• Test both electronic and manual brakes

• Check brake pads for wear

• Make sure auto braking works when you release the joystick

Electronics Review

• Inspect all wiring for damage or wear

• Check connectors for a good fit

• Test all functions on the control panel

• Update firmware if your model requires it

Seasonal Maintenance Considerations

Winter Care

Cold weather is tough on powered wheelchairs' equipment:

• Keep your battery warm as cold temperatures reduce capacity

• Don’t expose electronics to extreme cold

• Dry your chair thoroughly after being in the snow or rain

• Consider using covers when outdoors

"Your battery can lose up to 50% efficiency in very cold conditions," says Dr. Mark Williams, assistive technology researcher at Manchester University.

Summer Care

Hot weather requires different precautions:

• Don’t let electronics overheat in direct sunlight

• Check tyre pressure more often as heat can cause expansion

• Make sure cooling vents are clear

• Don’t leave your chair in hot cars or conservatories

When to Get Help

While you can do many things yourself, some situations require professional attention:

• Error codes on the control panel

• Unusual noises from the motor or drivetrain

• Big drop in battery life or range

• Problems with the power seating functions

• After any crash or big impact

• Annual service

Most manufacturers recommend a service every 12 months. It costs between £80–£150, but could save you thousands in future repair bills.

Maintenance Log

Keeping records helps you track your wheelchair:

Things to record:

• Service dates and what was done

• Battery replacement dates

• Tyre changes

• Parts replacements

• Unusual events or accidents

• Performance changes

A notebook or digital spreadsheet works fine. Some newer wheelchairs even have apps to help you track maintenance.

Common Issues and Fixes

Battery Won’t Hold Charge

• Clean and check connections

• Check charger is working (look for lights)

• Less than 18 months old? Contact manufacturer about warranty

Wheelchair Moves Slow

• Check tyre pressure

• Check speed settings haven’t been reduced

• Look for objects in wheels or around axles

• Check battery level

Joystick Not Working

• Restart control system

• Check connections

• Check not in “lock” mode

• Check battery level

Strange Sounds

• Tighten loose parts

• Check hair or string around wheel axles

• Check for objects in wheels or chassis

• Check worn bearings or bushings

Extend Your Wheelchair’s Life

By following these tips you can extend the life of your electric wheelchair:

• Store indoors in a dry place

• Clean regularly especially after outdoor use

• Check tyres are properly inflated

• Look after battery health with good charging habits

• Fix small problems before they become big issues

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines

“A well maintained electric wheelchair can last 5-8 years or more, a neglected one might need to be replaced within 2-3 years” says Robert Jenkins, mobility equipment specialist with 15 years of experience.

Your Electric Wheelchair FAQs

How often should I charge my wheelchair battery? 

Daily charging is recommended even after light use. It keeps your battery in top condition and makes it last longer.

Can I wash my electric wheelchair? 

You can wipe it with a damp cloth but never use pressure washers or submerge electrical components. Always make sure it’s dry before use.

What’s the average lifespan of an electric wheelchair? 

With proper maintenance 5-8 years is typical, some last longer with good care and occasional part replacements.

Have you got a regular maintenance routine for your electric wheelchair? Comment below!