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How to Choose the Right Mobility Vehicle for Your Needs

Independence is essential for wheelchair users, and part of that is having access to an accessible vehicle. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, choosing the right mobility vehicle is an important step toward greater independence, safety, and comfort. However, with so many handicap vehicle options available today, it can be overwhelming to decide which is best for your unique needs and lifestyle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to consider, where to get expert help, and how to explore financing and grants for accessible vehicles.

Start Your Buying Process with Questions

Before visiting a dealership or browsing online, take a moment to sit down and ask yourself a few questions.

  • What are your mobility needs, and what level is the severity? This will help determine the kinds of features and conveniences that you will definitely want in your wheelchair van, and which you could do without.
  • How important are convenience and practicality? Depending on what you choose, some wheelchair vans may offer the capability to hoist the wheelchair user into the vehicle. They’ll also offer the ability to secure a wheelchair into the driver or passenger position, so you’ll need to have an understanding of who will be driving the van.
  • Does the van fit your current needs, or will it continue to meet your needs in the future? Investing in a wheelchair van is not something to take lightly. Ideally, you’d want a vehicle that can grow with you, whether for family needs or specific features and capabilities for future mobility. Wheelchair vans are typically an excellent choice for accessibility because they offer so many options that can grow and change with your needs.
  • Will you be working with a knowledgeable dealer? Just because a dealership has an accessible vehicle on its lot does not mean they have the information you need to know. Be sure you are working with a dealership that is mobility certified and can accurately answer any questions you may have about the wheelchair van you’re interested in.

What to Consider When Shopping for a Mobility Vehicle

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to think beyond the vehicle itself. From accessibility features and adaptive equipment to seating configurations and long-term value, here’s what to look for:

Size, Seating, & Accessibility Features

Finding a wheelchair accessible vehicle that truly fits your needs requires an assessment of how specific features will work with your mobility device, personal comfort, and routine use. To evaluate the most critical accessibility components, consider the following:

Wheelchair Accessibility

Start by measuring your wheelchair or scooter. This should include the height, width, length, and turning radius. Use these dimensions to compare against vehicle specifications. Ensure there’s enough interior space for entry, securement, and turning without obstruction. Look for vehicles with ADA-compliant door openings and low ramp angles to make getting in and out easier and safer.

You’ll also want to consider whether a side-entry or rear-entry configuration is better suited for your lifestyle and needs:

  • Side-entry vehicles allow the wheelchair user to enter from the passenger side and often enable front-seat driving or riding. They’re ideal for curbside parking, but may require more space for wheelchair ramp deployment.
  • Rear-entry vehicles offer access through the back hatch and are often more affordable and easier to park in tight spaces. However, they typically limit the user to mid-vehicle seating positions and may not support driving from the wheelchair user.

Ramp Types

Accessible vehicles typically include either a fold-out ramp or an in-floor ramp.

  • Fold-out ramps are more common, visible when deployed, and often more affordable, but they can obstruct entryways when stowed.
  • In-floor ramps slide beneath the floor when not in use, offering a cleaner entry space and easier access for passengers not using mobility aids. However, they’re typically more expensive. Assess which works best for your environment, such as tight parking spaces that may make side-entry fold-outs harder to use, for example.

Headroom & Door Height

If the user remains seated in their wheelchair during travel, vertical clearance is crucial. Measure from the ground to the top of your head while in the chair to ensure the vehicle’s interior height and door entry allow safe and comfortable movement. Look for lowered floor conversions or raised roof options for additional clearance.

Seating Configuration & Capacity

Think about who will be riding with you regularly. Will you need space for additional passengers, caregivers, or another wheelchair user? Some vehicles offer flexible seating, including removable front seats for wheelchair driving, or fold-away rear benches to accommodate extra riders. Be sure to verify seating layouts and anchor points during your walkthrough or test drive.

Vehicle Type: Minivan vs. Full-Size Van vs. SUV

Different lifestyles call for different vehicle types.

  • Minivans are popular for their ease of use, better fuel efficiency, and lower ride height, making them ideal for families or individuals who drive often.
  • Full-size vans offer greater capacity and are often used for transporting multiple passengers or wheelchairs, but can be harder to park and maneuver.
  • SUVs are newer to the accessibility market but provide a more rugged option for those who prefer a sportier feel and a higher ride.

Each type has pros and cons, so consider where you’ll be driving, how often, and who will be riding along. There are vehicle options within each category that can accommodate those looking for a rear-entry wheelchair van or a side-entry conversion.

New vs. Used Mobility Vehicles

Your budget may determine whether you shop for new or used.

  • New vehicles come with full warranties, the latest technology, and peace of mind, but they can be more expensive.
  • Used accessible vehicles are more budget-friendly and may offer great value, especially if they’re certified pre-owned. Just be sure to inspect the condition, mileage, and modification quality.

Buying New? Explore Available Manufacturer Conversion Capabilities

Standard minivans offer great features for wheelchair users even without any conversions, but if you’ve found a model you particularly like, you’ll want to determine if the manufacturer offers any conversion capabilities so it could be tailored to fit your needs completely. Some available manufacturer add-ons include foldout ramps and automatic lifts. Some manufacturers may also offer different levels of conversions, so you could choose a particular package depending on how much accommodation you need. Keep in mind that the more features and options you add on, the more expensive your wheelchair van will become.

New vans and vehicles will usually come standard with excellent safety features, but which ones you’ll get exactly may depend on the trim level you choose. These are some of the safety features to consider ensuring are included with your wheelchair van to make driving safe and comfortable.

  • Back-up cameras. This feature is becoming a standard on many new minivan models, and it makes reversing much easier and safer. It is particularly helpful for those who may have spinal issues and are unable to make the large rotation needed to look out the rear window. If you’re looking at a larger type of van or one that is not a standard model, ensure you can have a camera installed if it is not already included.
  • Blind spot warning. Blind spot warnings may be a simple light indicator on the side mirror to notify the driver that a vehicle is within the blind spot or, on some vehicles, a ding or beep will occur if you turn on your blinker and a car is located within the blind spot area. These warnings may provide extra assistance in the way that back-up cameras can, particularly with individuals who may have limited spinal mobility. Helping to ease the need to rotate the body can be helpful.
  • Excellent crash test ratings. As with any vehicle, it’s important to ensure the wheelchair-accessible vehicle you choose offers excellent crash and safety ratings. We never want to think about getting into a terrible accident, but in the event it does occur, you’ll want to ensure you and your passengers are safe.

Test Driving Accessible Vehicles

Even with all the specs and brochures, nothing replaces a hands-on experience. Always test drive a wheelchair accessible van or vehicle before making your final decision. This gives you a chance to check the ramp operation, comfort, and how the vehicle handles on the road. If you’re the driver, you’ll want to make sure you can comfortably reach the controls and mirrors. If you’re the passenger, test the entry, seating, and ride comfort.

Want a Longer Test Drive? Hold on Making the Purchase & Rent a Similar Model

Sometimes, it’s easier to make a big purchase decision when you’ve had the opportunity to gain first-hand experience with using a wheelchair accessible van in various everyday scenarios. Rather than make a large investment purchase, you can make accessibility easy with wheelchair vehicle rental. This allows you the opportunity to determine what features make the most significant difference, what you may not necessarily need, and what you may need that hadn’t been a thought before.

Where to Get Expert Guidance

There’s a lot to consider when purchasing a wheelchair van or accessible vehicle, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Certified Mobility Dealers

Working with a certified mobility dealer like Southern Bus & Mobility ensures you’re getting expert advice, high-quality conversions, and customer support before and after the sale. These professionals understand the ins and outs of accessibility and can match you with the right features, wheelchair accessible vehicle type, and financing solutions.

Occupational Therapists or Mobility Consultants

If you have specific medical or physical needs, consulting with a mobility specialist or occupational therapist can help tailor the search. They’ll help you evaluate important details, like seating transfer needs or hand control requirements, to ensure your new vehicle supports your long-term health and mobility.

Community Forums & Social Media Groups

While not a substitute for professional advice, online communities can be a great source of real-life experiences. Joining Facebook groups or forums related to handicap vehicle options can give you a sense of what others like or don’t like, and even help you discover questions you hadn’t thought to ask.

Financing & Grants for Mobility Vehicles

Buying a mobility vehicle is a significant investment, but there are plenty of resources available to help.

Financing Options

Many mobility dealers, including Southern Bus, offer in-house financing or work with banks and credit unions to offer flexible loan options. When comparing offers, look for rates, down payment requirements, and loan lengths that work within your budget. Mobility car financing is often structured to include both the cost of the vehicle and any adaptive equipment.

Government & Private Grants

Several organizations and programs exist to help cover the cost of accessible vehicles:

In some instances, additional assistance may be available through Medicaid, Medicare, or various nonprofits. Before purchasing, research available options and what you may qualify for to help make your wheelchair accessible vehicle more affordable.

Common Questions About Choosing a Mobility Vehicle

What’s the most important feature in a mobility vehicle?

The most important feature depends on the individual, but ease of access, like ramp type and height clearance, is often a top priority for users.

Are there grants for mobility vehicles?

Yes. Both government programs and nonprofit organizations offer grants for accessible vehicles, especially for veterans or individuals with qualifying medical conditions.

Can I try a mobility van before buying?

Absolutely. You should always test drive an accessible van to ensure it fits your physical needs and comfort preferences.

What is the average cost of a wheelchair-accessible vehicle?

Prices vary, but most wheelchair-accessible vehicles range from $40,000 to $80,000, depending on the model, features, and whether it’s new or used.

Looking for the Perfect Mobility Vehicle?

Southern Bus & Mobility is proud to offer a wide selection of personal mobility vehicles designed for comfort, safety, and independence. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to schedule a test drive, our team is here. As an NMEDA QAP Certified dealer, we are ready to help make your buying process easy to understand and ensure the wheelchair-accessible van you purchase is high-quality and meets all of your accessibility needs.

Browse our current mobility vehicle inventory, or contact us today to speak with a certified mobility expert.

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