Will an electric scooter get damaged if left unused for a long time?
2 Answers
Yes, prolonged inactivity can lead to battery discharge and damage. Here are the relevant details: Potential harm to the battery: Leaving an electric scooter unused for an extended period after installation will certainly cause some damage to the battery. This is because the vehicle's electrical components remain in standby mode even when the key is turned off, with the controller and anti-theft device still drawing small amounts of power from the battery. Over time, this can result in over-discharge. Battery plate sulfation: Most electric scooter batteries are lead-acid type, which generate current through sulfuric acid electrolysis in the battery plates. Prolonged inactivity without charging can cause sulfation of the battery plates, forming sulfides. This increases resistance during battery use, leading to higher heat generation during operation. Charging under these conditions accelerates water loss in the electrolyte, increasing sulfuric acid concentration and shortening battery lifespan.
From what I've seen, electric vehicles left unused for extended periods do tend to develop issues, with battery aging being the primary concern. If left idle for months, batteries self-discharge - lead-acid batteries are particularly prone to sulfation crystallization causing capacity loss, sometimes becoming completely unusable. While lithium batteries fare better, prolonged low charge also reduces their lifespan. Other components aren't trouble-free either: brake discs rust, tires deform or lose pressure, and exposed vehicles may develop body rust. Cold winters exacerbate these issues. My recommendation: before long-term storage, charge the battery to about 60%, start the vehicle monthly for a 30-minute drive, or simply remove the battery to store in cool, dry conditions. Regularly applying anti-rust oil to brakes and checking tire pressure prevents major repairs. After extended storage, always conduct a thorough inspection before use to avoid roadside breakdowns.
