For your Pride GoGo mobility scooter, the best batteries are typically sealed lead-acid (SLA) or absorbed glass mat (AGM) types, often 12V, 12Ah or 18Ah. Choosing the right size and brand ensures optimal performance and longevity for your scooter.
Is your Pride GoGo scooter battery starting to feel sluggish? It’s a common issue that can leave you feeling stuck and frustrated. But don’t worry! Finding the right battery for your GoGo scooter doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the best batteries, keeping you mobile and independent.
We’ll break down battery types, explain what those numbers and letters mean, and give you simple tips to make sure you get the perfect fit for your scooter. Get ready to get back on the move with confidence!
Understanding Batteries for Your Pride GoGo Scooter
Your Pride GoGo scooter relies on its battery to power its motor, lights, and all the controls. Think of it as the heart of your scooter. Like any heart, it needs the right kind of energy to keep things running smoothly.
For most Pride GoGo models, you’ll find they use a specific type of battery. These are usually deep-cycle batteries designed to provide steady power over a longer period, perfect for the demands of a mobility scooter. Let’s explore the common types and what makes them suitable.
Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) Batteries
SLA batteries are the most common type found in mobility scooters, including many Pride GoGo models. They are a reliable and cost-effective choice. Here’s why they’re popular:
- Low Maintenance: They are “sealed,” meaning you don’t need to add water like older battery types.
- Leak-Proof: Because they are sealed, they are safe to use in various positions without leaking acid.
- Durable: They can handle the regular charging and discharging that a scooter requires.
- Affordable: Generally, SLA batteries offer a good balance of performance and price.
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries
AGM batteries are a type of SLA battery. The key difference is how the electrolyte (the fluid that stores energy) is held. In AGM batteries, it’s absorbed into thin fiberglass mats between the lead plates.
AGMs often offer some advantages over standard SLAs:
- Better Vibration Resistance: This is great for a scooter that might encounter bumps.
- Faster Charging: They can often accept a charge more quickly.
- Longer Lifespan: With proper care, AGMs can sometimes last longer than conventional SLAs.
- Can Be Mounted in Various Positions: Although both are sealed, AGMs are exceptionally robust in installation flexibility.
When looking for batteries for your Pride GoGo scooter, you’ll likely see both “SLA” and “AGM” mentioned. For most users, an AGM battery offers a slight upgrade in performance and durability compared to a standard SLA, though both will work well.
Key Battery Specifications to Understand
Batteries have numbers and letters on them that tell you a lot. Don’t let them scare you! Let’s decode them so you can pick the right one.
Voltage (V)
Voltage is like the “push” the battery gives to the electricity. Most Pride GoGo scooters use 12-volt (12V) batteries. You’ll often see two 12V batteries wired together to create 24V for the scooter’s motor system.
It’s crucial to match the voltage of your new batteries to what your scooter is designed for. Using the wrong voltage can damage your scooter.
Ampere-Hour (Ah)
Ampere-hour, often written as ‘Ah’, tells you how much energy capacity the battery has. Think of it like the size of the fuel tank in your car.
- A higher Ah rating means the battery can provide power for a longer time before needing a recharge.
- For Pride GoGo scooters, common Ah ratings are 12Ah, 18Ah, or even higher depending on the specific model.
If you want to go further on a single charge, look for batteries with a higher Ah rating, provided your scooter can accommodate the physical size and your charger can handle it.
Dimensions (Size)
Batteries come in different physical sizes. You need to make sure the new battery will fit into the battery compartment of your Pride GoGo scooter.
Battery sizes are often described using standard codes. For example, a common size for scooters might be:
- Length
- Width
- Height
Always check the dimensions of your old battery and compare them to the new one. You can usually find the exact dimensions in your scooter’s owner’s manual as well.
Choosing the Best Batteries for Your Pride GoGo Scooter Model
Precision is key when selecting batteries. Different Pride GoGo scooter models might have slightly different battery requirements. Let’s look at some popular models and what batteries they typically use.
Pride GoGo Ultra X
The GoGo Ultra X is a popular travel scooter known for its portability. It typically uses two 12V batteries.
- Common Battery: 12V 12Ah SLA or AGM batteries.
- Consideration: Because it’s a travel scooter, battery life and weight can be important. Higher Ah batteries can offer more range but will be heavier.
Pride GoGo Elite Traveller Plus
This model offers a bit more robust performance and comfort. It also generally uses two main batteries.
- Common Battery: 12V 18Ah SLA or AGM batteries.
- Consideration: The slightly higher Ah rating of 18Ah provides a good balance for extended use without significantly adding bulk compared to smaller batteries.
Pride GoGo LX with Comfort-Trac Suspension
The LX model focuses on a smoother ride and often comes with slightly higher power demands.
- Common Battery: 12V 18Ah SLA or AGM batteries.
- Consideration: Similar to the Elite Traveller, 18Ah is a standard and effective choice. Ensure the physical dimensions match perfectly.
| Pride GoGo Model | Typical Battery Voltage | Common Ah Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoGo Ultra X | 12V (x2) | 12Ah | Compact, lighter batteries are favored. |
| GoGo Elite Traveller Plus | 12V (x2) | 18Ah | Good balance of range and size. |
| GoGo LX with Comfort-Trac | 12V (x2) | 18Ah | Ensure dimensions match for fit. |
Important Note: Always check your specific scooter’s manual or the label on your current batteries. What’s typical can sometimes vary by year or specific sub-model. Using the exact type and size recommended by the manufacturer is the safest bet.
Where to Buy Batteries For Your Pride GoGo Scooter
Finding good batteries is half the battle. Here’s where you can typically find reliable options:
Authorized Pride Mobility Dealers
- Pros: Guaranteed genuine parts, expert advice, warranty support.
- Cons: Can sometimes be more expensive than other options.
Specialty Battery Stores
These stores focus on all types of batteries.
- Pros: Wide selection, knowledgeable staff, competitive pricing.
- Cons: May not always have Pride-specific brand batteries, but will have compatible equivalents.
Online Retailers (Amazon, Dedicated Battery Websites)
Many websites sell replacement batteries for mobility scooters.
- Pros: Huge variety, competitive prices, convenience of home delivery. Look for sellers with good return policies and clear specifications.
- Cons: You can’t see the battery in person before buying, relies on accurate product descriptions.
Tips for Buying Online:
- Read Reviews: See what other customers say about the battery’s performance and the seller’s reliability.
- Check Specifications Carefully: Ensure the voltage, Ah rating, and dimensions match your needs precisely.
- Look for Warranties: A good warranty offers peace of mind.
- Verify Seller Reputation: Buy from reputable sellers, especially on large marketplaces.
When purchasing, don’t just look for the cheapest option. Consider the brand reputation, warranty, and customer reviews to ensure you’re getting a battery that will last and perform reliably.
How to Replace Your Pride GoGo Scooter Batteries (Step-by-Step Guide)
Replacing batteries on your Pride GoGo scooter is a project you can typically do yourself. It’s a straightforward process, but always prioritize safety.
Safety First!
Before you begin, remember these important safety tips:
- Turn Off the Scooter: Make sure the scooter is completely powered off.
- Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from any accidental sparks or debris.
- Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from grease and potential battery acid (though SLA/AGM are sealed, it’s good practice).
- Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Especially when charging or dealing with used batteries.
- Remove Metal Jewelry: Rings, watches, and bracelets can cause dangerous short circuits if they touch battery terminals.
- Don’t Smoke or Use Open Flames: Batteries can produce flammable hydrogen gas.
Tools You’ll Likely Need:
- Your new replacement batteries (usually two)
- Wrench or socket set (commonly 10mm or 13mm for terminal bolts)
- Pliers (optional, for stubborn connectors)
- Screwdriver set (if there are battery cover panels)
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- A small container or bag for the old batteries
Step-by-Step Replacement Process:
- Access the Battery Compartment: Your GoGo scooter usually has a battery cover or panel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location and how to open it. It might be under the seat, on the side, or at the rear.
- Locate Batteries and Cables: Once the compartment is open, you’ll see the batteries and the wires connecting them. Note how the wires are connected – typically, one battery’s positive terminal connects to the other’s negative terminal, and then main power cables go to the scooter’s electronics.
- Disconnect the Old Batteries:
- Always disconnect the negative (-) terminal first. This is usually the black wire. Use your wrench to loosen the bolt and carefully remove the cable from the terminal.
- Next, disconnect the positive (+) terminal. This is usually the red wire. Loosen the bolt and remove the cable.
- If the batteries are linked together, disconnect that link cable as well.
- Remove the Old Batteries: The batteries can be heavy. Carefully lift them out of the compartment. If they are secured by a strap or bracket, remove that first.
- Install the New Batteries:
- Place the new batteries into the compartment, ensuring they are positioned correctly.
- Make sure they fit snugly. If they came with a tie-down strap or bracket, secure them firmly.
- Connect the New Batteries:
- Connect the positive (+) terminal first. Attach the red cable to the positive terminal of one battery and tighten the bolt.
- Connect the negative (-) terminal next. Attach the black cable to the negative terminal of the other battery and tighten the bolt.
- Reconnect the link cable between the two batteries (if applicable), usually connecting the positive of one to the negative of the other, and then the main wires to those respective terminals. (Refer to your manual/old setup carefully).
- Double Check Connections: Ensure all cables are securely fastened and not loose.
- Close the Battery Compartment: Replace the cover panel securely.
- Charge the New Batteries: It’s a good practice to fully charge your new batteries before their first use. Plug in your scooter’s charger and let it run through a full cycle.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your scooter batteries. You can find resources on battery maintenance and charging best practices from organizations like the U.S. Department of Energy, which provides general information on battery technologies.
Maintaining Your Pride GoGo Scooter Batteries for Longevity
Once you have new batteries, taking care of them will help them last longer and keep your scooter running reliably. Here are some simple tips:
Regular Charging is Key
- Charge After Every Use: Try to charge your scooter after each significant outing, even if you haven’t run the battery down completely.
- Use the Right Charger: Always use the charger recommended for your Pride GoGo scooter. Using an incorrect charger can damage the batteries. The charger for SLA/AGM batteries is designed to manage the charging process safely.
- Avoid Deep Discharges: Letting the battery drain completely too often will shorten its lifespan. If your scooter has a battery indicator, pay attention to it.
- Don’t Overcharge: Modern chargers are designed to stop charging when the battery is full. However, if you’re using an older manual charger, be careful not to leave it connected indefinitely after the battery is charged.
Storage and Temperature
- Store in a Moderate Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can affect battery performance and lifespan. If storing the scooter for an extended period, keep it in a cool, dry place.
- Charge Before Long-Term Storage: If you need to store your scooter for more than a month, ensure the batteries are fully charged before putting it away. Check and top up the charge every few months to prevent them from discharging too deeply.
Keep Terminals Clean
- Occasionally, check the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion (a white or bluish powdery substance).
- If you see corrosion, disconnect the battery (negative first!), clean the terminals and connectors with a wire brush or a cloth dampened with a mixture of baking soda and water, and then reconnect (positive first). Make sure the terminals are dry before reconnecting.
Monitor Performance
Pay attention to how long your scooter runs on a charge. If you notice a significant decrease in range, it might be a sign that your batteries are nearing the end of their life and should be considered for replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How often should I replace the batteries in my Pride GoGo scooter?
A1: Typically, mobility scooter batteries need replacing every 1 to 3 years. This can depend on the quality of the batteries, how often you use the scooter, and how well you maintain them. Signs that you need new batteries include shorter travel range, slower performance, or the charger not fully charging them.
Q2: Can I use a higher Ah battery than what came with my scooter?
A2: Yes, in many cases, you can use a higher Ampere-hour (Ah) battery, provided it has the same voltage (e.g., 12V) and fits physically in the battery compartment. A higher Ah battery will give you a longer range. However, ensure your scooter’s charger is compatible with the new battery’s capacity, as some chargers are designed for specific Ah ranges.
Q3: What is the difference between a 12V 12Ah battery and a 12V 18Ah battery?
A3: The voltage (12V) is the same, meaning they provide the same electrical “push.” The Ampere-hour (Ah) rating indicates the capacity. An 18Ah battery can store and deliver more energy than a 12Ah battery, allowing your scooter to travel further on a single charge. However, 18Ah batteries are usually physically larger and heavier than 12Ah ones.
Q4: How do I know if my Pride GoGo scooter is 12V or 24V?
A4: Most Pride GoGo scooters operate on a 24-volt system, but this is achieved by using two 12-volt batteries wired in series. So, you will typically be replacing two
