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What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Choosing the right handicap accessible van is a decision that impacts everyday life. What you choose affects your comfort, independence, and freedom to travel. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, the process involves much more than picking a make and model. The mobility industry has grown, with leading manufacturers offering various wheelchair van conversion types, accessibility features, and driving aids. With so many options now available, it’s important to understand what will best fit your needs today and in the coming years to make the most of your investment.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the most important factors to consider when purchasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), from entry types to insurance options, so you can make an informed decision and gain greater mobility with confidence.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

When searching for the best vehicle for wheelchair users, you’ll want to consider your lifestyle, budget, physical needs, and preferred features. Some of the most important considerations include entry configuration, vehicle size, ramp or lift type, interior customizations, and financial support options.

Entry Type: Side-Entry vs. Rear-Entry

One of the first decisions to make is how you’ll enter and exit the vehicle. Both side-entry and rear-entry wheelchair accessible vans offer distinct benefits depending on how and where you travel.

Side-Entry Vehicles

Side-entry WAVs allow for easy access to the driver’s or front passenger’s seat, making them ideal for individuals who prefer or need to ride up front, or even drive. Vehicles with side entry ramps typically include a lowered floor and may come with removable front seats to accommodate different mobility needs.

Pros:

  • Allows wheelchair users to sit in the front or drive
  • Better access to parking lots with ADA-designated side-entry spaces
  • More interior space for passengers

Cons:

  • Can be challenging to load/unload in narrow spaces
  • Typically more expensive than rear-entry options

Rear-Entry Vehicles

Rear-entry vans are often more affordable and easier to park in residential driveways or crowded lots. As the name suggests, rear-entry vehicles allow wheelchair users to enter through the back and are great for families who need flexible seating arrangements.

Pros:

  • Generally more cost-effective
  • Easier to park in non-ADA-designated spaces
  • Ideal for narrow or residential parking

Cons:

  • Limited access to front seating
  • Less suitable for wheelchair users who want to drive

Vehicle Size and Interior Space

Another essential factor when selecting a wheelchair van is interior space. Think about how many people typically ride with you, how much room is needed for the wheelchair to turn inside the vehicle, and whether you need extra cargo space for medical equipment or other cargo like groceries or shopping bags.

Minivans vs. Full-Size Vans

Minivans are the most common base for wheelchair van conversions due to their maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. They work well for small families and individuals who navigate urban areas.

Full-size vans, on the other hand, offer more headroom, additional seating, and greater customization potential. These are ideal for larger families or individuals with more complex accessibility needs.

Manual vs. Powered Ramps or Lifts

Finding the right lift solution is another crucial consideration. Both manual and powered wheelchair lifts make it possible to load a wheelchair into the vehicle, but each comes with its pros and cons, particularly regarding cost, independence, and maintenance.

Manual Ramps

Manual ramps are budget-friendly and simple to operate with minimal maintenance. However, they may not be ideal for users with limited mobility or those who lack the upper-body strength to deploy or retract the ramp.

Pros:

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Fewer mechanical issues
  • Lighter weight, improving fuel efficiency

Cons:

  • Requires physical strength to use
  • Less convenient for solo travel

Powered Ramps or Lifts

Powered ramps and lifts offer greater convenience and independence, especially for those who travel alone. These systems use a button or remote to deploy automatically, though they often come at a higher price and may require more frequent servicing.

Pros:

  • Easy to use with little to no physical effort
  • Ideal for solo drivers or passengers
  • Adds convenience for caregivers

Cons:

  • Higher cost
  • More complex systems that may require regular maintenance
  • May need more frequent repairs

Taking your vehicle in for routine maintenance or repairs may be inconvenient, but working with a knowledgeable repair technician will ensure it’s easy and done right.

Driving Adaptations and Controls

Many ADA-compliant vehicles are equipped with specialized driving aids. Common adaptations include:

  • Hand controls for gas and brake
  • Pedal extensions or repositioning
  • Custom steering devices for better grip or one-handed operation
  • Touchscreen driving systems for high-tech accessibility

These modifications should be professionally installed and tailored to the driver’s physical abilities. Working with an experienced mobility vehicle provider ensures your vehicle is not only compliant but truly comfortable to drive.

For more on safety and compliance, visit NHTSA’s page on adapted vehicles.

New vs. Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Budget often plays a major role in your decision-making. While new wheelchair-accessible vans offer the latest features, warranty coverage, and low mileage, used handicap vehicles can be a more affordable way to gain mobility with the essential features you need.

New Vehicle Benefits:

  • Latest technology and ADA features
  • Full warranty
  • Customizable conversion options

Used Vehicle Benefits:

  • Lower upfront costs
  • Faster availability
  • Often reconditioned and safety-inspected

Financing and Insurance Considerations

Paying for a wheelchair accessible vehicle doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Explore the following options to make your wheelchair van more affordable:

  • Mobility financing programs: Many lenders offer specialized auto loans for accessible vehicles.
  • VA benefits: Veterans may qualify for grants that cover some or all of the cost of a wheelchair van.
  • State and local grants: Nonprofit and government programs may provide funding assistance.
  • Adaptive vehicle insurance: Ensure your policy covers the value of modifications and driving aids.

Work with an experienced dealer like Southern Bus & Mobility to learn what funding options are available to you.

Ready to Find the Right Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle?

Southern Bus & Mobility is here to help you navigate every step of your journey toward freedom and mobility. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new vehicle or exploring cost-effective options, we offer a wide selection of handicap and wheelchair-accessible vans with the latest mobility conversion types, ramp systems, and driving adaptations.

Browse our online inventory or visit us in person to test out the best vehicle for your needs. Your mobility matters—let us help you drive with confidence.