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Wheelchair Repair Costs
Scope of Works
Fault assessment & safety check – inspect frame, seating, wheels, brakes and electronics; run controller diagnostics on powered chairs.
Minor mechanical fixes – replace tyres or inner tubes, adjust footplate hinges, tighten wheel bearings, set parking brakes.
Electrical & drive repairs – swap batteries, test chargers, replace joystick modules, service motors/gears, update control software.
Upholstery & accessory fitting – renew arm‑pad covers, lap belts, headrests or anti‑tip bars as required.
Functional testing – road‑test for straight tracking, smooth acceleration, safe hill‑hold and folding where applicable.
Documentation & hand‑over – issue service report, warranty on parts/labour, and battery‑disposal certificate if relevant.
Typical Cost (inc. VAT)
Charge type | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
Call‑out / minimum | 40 | 80 | Includes first 15–30 min diagnostics (NRS Healthcare, 2024 guide) |
Labour per hour | 45 | 70 | Mobility‑equipment engineer rate 2025 (Motability repair data) |
Materials | 20 | 250 | Pneumatic tyre £20–£45; joystick PCB £180–£250; pair of AGM batteries £200–£240 |
Disposal / environmental fee | 0 | 30 | Lead‑acid battery disposal ticket or tyre recycling |
Extras (motor swap, rush parts) | 60 | 300 | Drive motor £150–£280; overnight courier £25–£45 |
TOTAL (most jobs come in here) | 180 | 650 | Typical puncture, brake set‑up, or battery change & calibration |
Time on Site
Tyre/tube change or brake tweak: 30 – 45 minutes.
Battery replacement & controller test: 1 – 1.5 hours.
Motor or joystick replacement: 1.5 – 3 hours (may need programming).
Extra time if stair access, heavy powered chair disassembly, waiting for diagnostics to complete, or weather‑proofing outdoor tests.
Questions to Ask Your Trade
Are the replacement parts OEM, compatible or refurbished, and what warranty applies?
Will the call‑out fee be waived if I proceed with the quoted repair?
Do you carry diagnostic software for my chair’s make & model (Invacare, Sunrise, Pride, etc.)?
How will old batteries or tyres be disposed of, and is the environmental charge included?
Will you test ride/drive the chair with me to verify speed, braking and seating comfort?
Are you insured and DBS‑checked for work in care homes or NHS premises?
What is the lead time on non‑stock parts and will an interim loan chair be available if delays occur?
How to Avoid Surprises
Model & serial photos: send before booking so the engineer brings correct spares and firmware.
Clear access & parking: reserve a level spot near the entrance; powered chairs can weigh 100 kg+.
Charge batteries overnight: a fully charged chair speeds diagnostics and motor tests.
Check funding options: some repairs may qualify for Motability, NHS voucher or insurance cover—verify before authorising work.
Document all symptoms: note fault codes, beeps or intermittent behaviours to aid quick diagnosis.
Confirm all‑in quote: ensure it lists call‑out, labour blocks, parts mark‑up, disposal fees and VAT so your bill stays within the £180 – £650 range above.
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