Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my Permobil wheelchair start?
- Possible causes and solutions:
• The batteries are discharged
→ Charge the batteries fully.
• The cable to the control panel is loose
→ Reinsert the cable securely into the control panel.
• The main circuit breaker is turned off
→ Turn it on (see User Manual).
• The main circuit breaker has tripped
→ Reset it once (see User Manual).
• The battery charger is still connected
→ Disconnect the charger.
• The wheelchair is in freewheel mode
→ Exit freewheel mode and restart the chair.
• The wheelchair is locked
→ Unlock it using the control panel.
• A seat function has triggered drive inhibit
→ Ensure the seat, backrest, and leg supports are in their driving positions.
• The motors are too warm
→ Turn off the chair and wait for the motors to cool down.
- Energy-saving mode is activated
→ Press the start button to turn it back on.
→ Reset it once (see User Manual). If it trips again, contact your service technician.
- A seat function has triggered automatic speed restriction
→ Make sure the seat, backrest, and leg supports are in their normal driving positions.
- If you purchased the product through a dealer or another provider: Please contact them directly for assistance, as they will be best equipped to help you. Find your local dealer here. Find your dealr
If you purchased and own the product yourself: Our Technical Support team is here to help. For non-urgent inquiries, please send an email to techsupport_uk@permobil.com . If your issue is urgent, call us directly at 01484 722 888.
Does rain or cold weather affect my wheelchair?
Yes, weather conditions like rain, snow, and cold temperatures can affect your wheelchair’s performance and longevity.
• Permobil wheelchairs are designed to handle light rain, but they are not waterproof. Avoid driving through heavy rain and puddles, as water can damage electrical components. If your chair gets wet, wipe it down with a dry cloth as soon as possible and avoid charging the chair until it is completely dry.
• Battery performance can decrease in cold temperatures, reducing the distance you can travel on a full charge. Charging may also take longer in cold environments. Avoid storing or charging your wheelchair in freezing conditions (e.g., unheated garages). Snow and ice can affect traction and may cause slipping or difficulty driving.
Who can I contact if I’m interested in buying a new wheelchair or other products?
If you’re looking for a new wheelchair or have questions about any of our products, our Customer Support team/your local dealer is ready to help. Please reach out to them directly, and they’ll guide you through your options and provide the information you need.
Can I buy parts or accessories for my wheelchair as a private person if they’re not covered by my provider?
Yes, you can! If the parts or accessories you need aren’t covered by your provider, you’re welcome to order them directly from Permobil. Visit our webshop or contact our Customer Support team customer_support_uk@permobil.com , and they’ll help you process your order and answer any questions you may have.
What are wheelchair accessories, and which ones are available?
Accessories are additional items or features that can be added to your wheelchair to improve comfort, functionality, or convenience. They are designed to support your daily activities and personalize your mobility experience. Permobil offers various accessories, including hand warmer, phone holders, cup holder, and alternative joysticks. Find our accessories on the links below.
Can I track my order?
Yes! To check the status of your order, see our Order Tracker where you can view the latest updates and estimated delivery time.
How much electricity does my wheelchair use in 24 hours?
The electricity consumption of your wheelchair over 24 hours depends on your daily usage. It varies from person to person based on:
• Distance driven – users who travel more kilometers will use more battery power.
• Use of seat functions – frequent adjustments or powered seating features also increase energy use.
Because of these factors, there’s no fixed amount of electricity used per day. To keep your wheelchair battery in good condition and ensure optimal performance, we recommend that you charge your batteries every evening/night when you have finished driving for the day. See our Battery Charging Guide for more information.
How long will my wheelchair batteries last?
Your wheelchair is equipped with maintenance-free AGM batteries from Permobil. While no physical maintenance is required, proper charging habits are essential to ensure long-term battery health, including daily charging with the correct charger, and allowing full charging time. See our Battery Charging Guide for more information.
Why can’t I charge my wheelchair?
Possible causes and solutions:
• The main circuit breaker is turned off
→ Turn it on (see User Manual).
• The charging circuit breaker has tripped
→ Wait 5 minutes; it will reset automatically.
Is there any risk of fire while charging the batteries?
No, there is no risk of fire when charging Permobil batteries. The batteries are designed with safety in mind and do not contain any materials that could trigger a fire during normal use or charging. Just be sure to follow our Battery Charging Guide and use the charger provided by Permobil for safe and optimal performance.
How much electricity does it take to charge my wheelchair battery?
The amount of electricity used to charge your wheelchair battery depends on several factors, including:
• Battery type and capacity
• How much the battery was discharged before charging
• Charging environment (e.g., temperature)
Permobil wheelchairs use AGM maintenance-free batteries, and while exact electricity usage can vary, a full charge typically takes 8–12 hours.
Where should I store my wheelchair batteries?
Proper battery storage is essential for maintaining performance and extending battery life. We recommend that you store and charge your wheelchair in a dry indoor environment at around 20°C (room temperature). Ensure the area is well-ventilated and free from moisture or condensation.
Can I store or charge my wheelchair in the garage?
It depends on the conditions in your garage:
• If your garage is insulated, dry, and maintains a stable indoor temperature, then yes, you can store and charge your wheelchair there.
• If your garage is cold in winter or hot in summer, or exposed to humidity, it’s not recommended.
How do I change the time (clock) on my Permobil wheelchair?
To change the time on your Permobil wheelchair, follow these general steps (note: the exact process may vary slightly depending on your model):
1. Turn on the wheelchair.
2. Access the settings menu by pressing and holding the settings button on your joystick or control panel.
3. Navigate to the “Time & Date” section using the joystick.
4. Use the joystick to adjust the hours, minutes, and date as needed.
5. Confirm and exit the menu to save your changes.
Why is my speed limited when I drive my wheelchair in elevated mode?
When your wheelchair is in elevated seat mode, the maximum driving speed is automatically reduced for safety reasons.
This is because:
• The center of gravity is higher when the seat is elevated, which can affect stability.
• Driving at high speeds in this position increases the risk of tipping or losing balance, especially on uneven surfaces or during sharp turns.
• The speed limitation helps ensure safe maneuvering while still allowing you to move around comfortably in elevated mode.
This is a built-in safety feature and cannot be disabled
How high can my wheelchair go to help me reach something?
With ActiveHeight™, your Permobil wheelchair can elevate the seat by up to 14 inches (approx. 35 cm). This feature is designed to help you:
• Reach higher shelves or counters
• Engage in face-to-face conversations at standing height
• Improve visibility and independence in daily tasks
When combined with ActiveReach™, which offers up to 45° of forward tilt, you can lean into tasks more effectively—like reaching for something on a table or transferring more easily. Learn more about ActiveHeight and ActiveReach.
How fast can my Permobil wheelchair go?
• The Permobil M5 Corpus can reach speeds of up to 12 km/h (7.5 mph)
Other models may have different speed limits based on their design, configuration, and safety features. Keep in mind that certain functions—like elevated seat mode—will automatically reduce your top speed for safety. You can find the maximum speed for your specific model in the User Manual, under the section called Technical Specifications.
The maximum weight capacity varies by model, but for many chairs, it is typically 150 (330 lbs). You can find your wheelchair’s weight in the User Manual under Wheelchair specifications.
The total weight includes:
• The user’s body weight
• Any bags or items placed on the backrest, armrests, or footplates
• Accessories such as oxygen tanks, baskets, or holders
Regular cleaning helps prevent wear and keeps your wheelchair looking and performing its best. Always turn off the power before cleaning and avoid high-pressure water, soaking the chair or spraying water directly into the joystick, control panel, or battery area.
General Cleaning Tips
- Metal surfaces: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild detergent. Dry thoroughly. For scuff marks, use soft wax or car polish depending on the surface finish.
- Plastic parts: Clean with a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water. Avoid solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Upholstery & vinyl: Wash with lukewarm water and non-abrasive soap using a soft cloth or brush. Dry completely. For stubborn stains, repeat the process or use isopropyl alcohol for ink spots. If necessary,you can remove the cover before cleaning.
Basic maintenance tips
• Charge the battery daily – even if you haven’t used the chair much.
• Clean regularly – wipe down metal, plastic, and upholstery surfaces with mild soap and water (see our cleaning tips).
• Inspect tires and casters – check for wear, debris, or damage.
• Check the joystick and control panel – make sure they respond properly and are free from dirt or moisture.
• Listen for unusual sounds – squeaks or grinding may indicate a need for service. Contact your local service provider for assistance.
• Keep connectors clean and dry – especially around the battery and charging ports.