What To Look For When Buying A Mobility Vehicle

So you’re thinking about buying a mobility vehicle? As with any type of big purchase, it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for before entering the dealership. We’ve gathered a few of the more important questions, facts, and details to take into account to make sure your purchase is worth the money and time invested. 

Make Sure To Have Your Needs Figured Out

When you invest in a mobility vehicle it is usually for the long term , so you should be certain that the one you choose fits your needs precisely for both the present and the future. Make sure to ask yourself the following questions to ensure you pick the right one: How many people will typically travel in the vehicle? Who will be the primary driver – the wheelchair user or a caregiver? Rear-entry or side-entry? Slide-out ramp or fold-out ramp? Is extra room for height, weight or a large power wheelchair needed?

The answer to each of these questions will depend on factors, such as your personal preferences, lifestyle and even the environments in which you will normally use and park your mobility vehicle. For example, one with a side-entry won’t be the right choice if your garage is too small to allow this.

Obviously, the most important thing will be that both you and your wheelchair fit in the vehicle, so make sure to measure your wheelchair width, height (from the top of the head to the floor whilst sitting) and total length (from the front of the wheelchair to the back). 

Once this is all figured out, you’re ready to get to the next step. 

Do Your Research

After having all your needs figured out, it’s time to start researching the features and types of vehicles that you can purchase and which of these fit your needs accordingly. While most mobility vehicles should come with exactly everything that’s needed, you may want to consider searching for one that comes with a particular hand control or kneeling feature. 

Read online reviews and ask about issues, such as warranty, conversion types and after-sales service. Take the time to visit manufacturer websites, read car reviews and learn the benefits of each mobility product. All this will help you make a better informed purchase and avoid any unforeseen mishaps and surprises, while also narrowing down your options.

Determine Your Budget

According to your budget, there will be different options to choose from when buying a mobility vehicle. Are you ready to go for a new wheelchair van? Or maybe it’s a safer choice to pick a used one? In case you go for the latter, you could either pick a used van with a new conversion or a used van with a used conversion. 

If you’re on a tight budget, look into these options to figure out which one is best for you and make sure to only look for certified-used wheelchair vans and dealers. 

Don’t forget to look into financing options, as this can make buying a mobility vehicle much more affordable. Manufacturers and dealerships offer many types of loans, promotions, and other deals in order to help you get the right wheelchair van for you. If you’re a veteran, for example, Van Products provides special financing and opportunities worth looking into. 

Trust Your Instincts

After looking at all of the options, it’s time to go see and test them for yourself. Make sure to visit your dealership or manufacturer showroom with the company of a caregiver or person you trust, as they will be just as aware of your particular needs as you are and can help you assess the options at hand. 

Buying a mobility vehicle is a big decision, so make sure to follow your intuition along with the research, ask as many questions as you need, and request a test drive or demo to compare your options until you find the absolute best fit.