Maintenance
Caring for your wheelchair or power chair: a monthly checklist
Ten minutes once a month prevents most of the breakdowns that leave people stuck at home waiting for a repair.
By David Ellison
Senior mobility editor · Updated
Every week
Wipe down the frame and armrests with a damp cloth and mild soap. Pick out hair and thread wound around the caster axles — it's the most common cause of pulling and squeaks. Check that the brakes hold the chair on a slope.
Every month
Pick one day, such as the first of the month, and put it on the calendar.
The monthly checklist
- Tires: check pressure on air tires; look for cracks or flat spots on solid tires.
- Brakes and wheel locks: adjust if they don't hold firmly.
- Bolts and screws: tighten anything loose on the frame, footrests and armrests.
- Joystick and cables: look for fraying or loose connectors (power chairs).
- Battery: note how far you get on a charge — a sudden drop is the first sign it's aging.
- Upholstery: look for tears or sagging that could affect posture or skin.
- Folding mechanism: open and close it, and clean the hinge.
Every year
Book a professional service with a mobility dealer or the manufacturer. They'll check bearings, motors, electronics and seating, and catch problems before they strand you. Keep your receipt and serial number together for warranty claims.
Weather
Rain is usually fine; puddles and heavy downpours aren't. Dry the chair after wet outings, and never store it outside. Road salt in winter corrodes quickly — wipe the wheels and frame when you get home.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist about what's right for you.