If you or your loved one are looking for a wheelchair van, you’re probably thinking: Wow, this is a big investment!
New wheelchair vans can be extremely expensive. About $60,000 dollars apiece is around the starting price for a brand new mobility van.
If that price is completely out of your budget, no worries! There are lots of great options for used handicap accessible vans. With a little bit of research and a trusted dealer, you should have no problem finding a quality and reliable used wheelchair van.
If you have concerns about some of the issues you may run into owning a used wheelchair van, we hope this information helps you navigate through your questions.
Question: Can I still receive financial aid when purchasing a used wheelchair van?
Answer: Yes! Financial assistance for mobility vans can come from many different resources. Typically, whoever is providing the financial aid should be willing to help you purchase a used van. Depending on where you live, there can be financial assistance available from non-profit groups, the VA, and other organizations. Sometimes the paperwork involved with these groups can seem complicated. Ask your dealer to assist you with the process. In many cases, these groups can assist you with the full cost of the vehicle.
Question: How long will my used wheelchair van last?
Answer: Used wheelchair vans are often kept in exceptional condition. Most owners of mobility vehicles don’t use them as often as a regular car. When dealers go to purchase used handicap accessible vans, they usually have a pretty meticulous checklist of quality assurance before acquiring them. Many times, if there is an issue with a used wheelchair van the dealer will either send it to a trusted specialist or to their in-house mechanic to fix any sort of problem.
Many dealerships also offer warranties on used wheelchair vans. Warranties will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Make sure to be really well-versed in what your van’s warranty will cover.
You will find when test-driving used mobility vans that most are in great shape and have been taken care of by their previous owners. A used wheelchair van, depending on the mileage should last you a very long time.
Question: What do I do if something breaks on my used wheelchair van?
Answer: If your used wheelchair van is no longer under warranty, there are several things to do if it breaks down.
- Bring the van back to the dealership or another trusted mechanic and have them take a look at what the possible problem could be. It may be something simple.
- If the dealership you purchased your used mobility van from doesn’t have a mechanic that can help you, ask them to refer you to someone who has a solid knowledge of wheelchair van repairs.
- Make sure once purchasing your van that you have roadside assistance for mobility vehicles. The NMEDA (National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association) has compiled a list of companies that offer roadside assistance to wheelchair van owners.
Be persistent and thorough when looking for a used wheelchair van! Mobility vans offer so much more than just rides for their occupants. Owning a quality handicap van can offer freedom and independence.
Looking for a new or used wheelchair van? Classic Vans in Hayward, California has a fantastic selection of custom disability vans for sale. From full-sized to minivans, we are experts in helping you find a quality vehicle just right for you! Contact us to ask about low cost nationwide delivery or browse our website.