Operating on a limited budget?  Want high-quality without the high retail price?

Consider purchasing used wheelchairs.   It seems there is no shortage of used wheel chairs and you can find them everywhere - internet auction sites, classified ad sites, newspaper ads, etc.  You can find great deals on used wheelchairs if you do your research. 

You should expect to pay somewhere between $750 - $2500 for a good used wheelchair.   However, be sure to do your homework.  Wheelchairs are somewhat unique in that most are customized to the original purchaser.  As a result, the best rule of thumb is to thoroughly inspect the chair.  If you can't do it in person, ask the seller for plenty of photos.  Listed below are some key areas to inspect.

• Research the chair manufacturer and model on-line and speak with others who have used the chair.  Wheelchair Junkie has a good message board where you can ask other their opinions.
• Check all sides of wheelchair for excessive wear - ask for photos.  If excessive wear is evident on the exterior, it's a safe bet there are bigger mechanical problems that may be harder to detect.
• Check the upholstery for damage
• Inspect the joystick housing for excessive wear / mileage
• Look inside the battery box for corrosion which is a sign of poor upkeep.
  • Rule of Thumb:  Plan to replace the batteries unless you're sure they're new.
• Inspect the chair in person if you can.

FINAL NOTE:  Research the used wheelchair model and price.  There are many used wheel chairs priced at or near what you can buy a new one for.  Don't take any claims for granted and do your homework before closing a deal.