How To Change a Tyre on a Mobility Scooter 

For many elderly or disabled people, their mobility scooter is so much more than just a way to get around. It provides them with invaluable freedom and independence. 

So, if a mobility scooter becomes damaged or is not working correctly, it can be an extremely distressing issue. One of the most common problems that mobility scooters experience is damage or punctures to tyres. 

At London Mobility, we specialise in the supply of a wide range of mobility scooters that can enhance the day-to-day lives of individuals throughout the capital. Our expertise extends to the maintenance of these scooters, and we’ve put together a handy blog that outlines how you can change tyres if a fault has occurred. 

Why is it important to change mobility scooter tyres?

For those who require them, mobility scooters play a vital role in everyday life. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that they’ll sustain some wear and tear over time, particularly on the tyres.  

If you notice that the tyres on a mobility scooter have started to become damaged or excessively worn, it’s important that the issue is addressed as soon as possible. If not, it could result in more costly damage or an unpleasant experience for the user.  

For example, the risk of the scooter breaking down in public will be increased, potentially leaving the user stranded. Plus, the scooter can become difficult to steer and even lead to back pain and other injuries to the user. 

Furthermore, damaged tyres can lead to the scooter riding closer to the ground, meaning its chassis may become damaged which will result in more expensive repairs.      

Type of mobility scooter tyres 

There are two main types of tyres when it comes to mobility scooters. 

They are:

Air-filled tyres – also referred to as pneumatic tyres, these tyres use air to maintain structure. The most common type of tyre you’re likely to come across, they contain a valve stem which is used to inflate or deflate the tyre. These tyres provide better traction and grip for mobility scooters.

Solid tyres – these tyres are made from a robust material known as solid polyurethane foam filling as well as rubber. These tyres are less likely to become punctured or lose air. 

Before you change a mobility scooter tyre, it’s important to know what kind of tyres your machine requires. You can find this information in the product’s manual or by asking a professional mobility scooter company. 

How to change mobility scooter tyres

Now we’ve discussed the importance of changing tyres and the different types, let’s take a look at how to actually change mobility scooter tyres. 

First, you need to use a socket wrench to undo the central bolt in the middle of the scooter’s wheel. Once this has been removed, you’ll easily be able to pull off the wheel. Next, you’ll need to deflate the tyre. Take off the valve cap, and using a small screwdriver or valve tool, insert it into the valve to relieve the pressure from the tyre. 

For the next stage, you’ll need to use a vice to clamp the tyre in place. Using a wrench, undo the four remaining bolts that are located around the wheel. Then, use two big screwdrivers to prise out the wheel’s central rim. 

Now, you’ll come across the wheel’s inner tube. We’d always recommend replacing the tube, as using an old tube in new tyres can cause you problems in the future. Once you’ve replaced the tube, you can attach the new tyre to the wheel. Make sure you have a tyre that is the same size as the old one, reinsert the wheel and inflate to the intended pressure. You can find information on how much to inflate the tyres in your scooter’s manual. 

Reattach the bolts you removed earlier, and place the wheel with its new tyre back on the scooter, making sure to properly secure the central bolt. 

At London Mobility, we’d always recommend calling on the professionals for any tyre changes. We provide a dedicated repairs service that can ensure your scooter is back up and running as quickly as possible. Plus, we provide servicing that can nip any potential issues in the bud before they become a major problem. You should always get mobility scooters serviced every one or two years. Contact London Mobility today to find out more.