What United Access used vans are and where to find them
United Access is a national dealer network that sells new and used wheelchair-accessible vans, primarily through franchised locations across the United States. When you search for "United Access used vans," you are looking for pre-owned accessible vehicles that have been inspected and are listed for sale through their dealership network, not a single centralized inventory you can browse online.
Each United Access franchise operates independently, so the used vans available depend on which location you contact. A dealership in Florida will have different inventory than one in Oregon. You cannot order a specific van from across the country through a central system — you work with the location nearest you or one willing to ship a vehicle to your area.
United Access franchises typically handle the sale, financing, and delivery themselves. They also manage any warranty or service agreements that come with the used vehicle. This means you are buying from a dealership network with some standardization, not from a private seller or a generic used-car marketplace.
Key Takeaways
- United Access used vans are sold through independent franchise dealerships, so you need to contact a location near you to see what inventory they currently have.
- Each dealership sets its own pricing, financing terms, and warranty coverage, so calling multiple locations can reveal different offers for similar vehicles.
- Used accessible vans typically cost between $30,000 and $60,000 depending on the model year, mileage, and type of wheelchair lift or ramp installed.
- You will need to arrange financing, insurance, and registration yourself unless the dealership offers financing as part of the sale.
- Before buying, confirm what accessibility features are included, whether they have been recently serviced, and what warranty or return period the dealership offers.
How to locate a United Access dealership near you
Start by visiting the United Access website and using their dealership locator tool. Enter your state or zip code, and the tool will show you franchise locations within a set radius. Write down the phone numbers and addresses of the three or four closest to you.
Call each dealership directly and ask whether they currently have used vans in stock. Do not assume they will have inventory — some locations may have only new vehicles available, or their used stock may be limited. Ask specifically about the model year, mileage, type of accessibility feature (lift, ramp, or hand controls), and the asking price.
If no nearby location has what you need, ask whether they can source a used van from another franchise location or order one for you. Some dealerships will do this, though it may take several weeks and could involve shipping costs. Get a quote in writing before committing.
What to check before you buy a used accessible van
Inspect the wheelchair lift or ramp in person if possible. Ask the dealership to demonstrate it — lower and raise it several times, check for smooth operation, and look for rust or damage to the mechanism. A lift that sticks, makes grinding noises, or moves unevenly may need expensive repair soon after purchase.
Request the vehicle's service history and maintenance records. A used van with documented regular oil changes, brake service, and lift maintenance is lower-risk than one with no records. Ask the dealership how long ago the lift was last serviced and whether they have performed any repairs since taking the van in.
Have a trusted mechanic inspect the van before you finalize the purchase if the dealership allows it. This is especially important for the engine, transmission, and structural integrity. The cost of a pre-purchase inspection (typically $100 to $300) is far less than discovering major problems after you own the vehicle.
Confirm the warranty or return period in writing. Some United Access dealerships offer a 30-day return window or a limited warranty on the lift mechanism. Others may sell used vans as-is with no warranty. Know the terms before you sign the paperwork.
Financing and insurance for a used accessible van
Ask the dealership whether they offer in-house financing or work with outside lenders. Some franchises have relationships with banks or credit unions that specialize in vehicle loans. Others will direct you to arrange your own financing through your bank or a loan provider.
If you are financing through the dealership, request a detailed breakdown of the loan terms: the interest rate, the number of months, the monthly payment, and any fees (documentation, processing, delivery). Compare this offer to what your own bank or credit union would charge before deciding.
Contact your insurance company before you buy and ask for a quote on the specific van you are considering. Wheelchair-accessible vans sometimes cost more to insure than standard vehicles because of the specialized equipment and higher replacement cost. Get the quote in writing so there are no surprises after purchase.
Some states and nonprofits offer grants or low-interest loans for vehicle purchases by people with disabilities. Ask the dealership whether they are familiar with any programs in your state, or contact your state's vocational rehabilitation office to learn what funding options may be available to you.
Understanding pricing and negotiation
Used accessible vans do not follow the same pricing as standard used vehicles. The wheelchair lift or ramp adds significant value and cost, so a 10-year-old van with a lift may cost more than a newer standard van with similar mileage. Pricing varies widely based on the type of accessibility feature, the condition of the lift, and the local market.
Call at least three dealerships and ask for their pricing on similar model years and mileage. Write down what each one is asking and what features are included. This gives you a sense of the market range and shows you where one dealership may be priced higher or lower than others.
Ask whether the dealership will negotiate on price. Some franchises have fixed pricing; others are willing to move on the asking price, especially if you are paying cash or bringing a trade-in. Do not assume the first number you hear is final.
Confirm what is included in the asking price: Does it cover delivery to your home? Are there documentation or title transfer fees? Is the lift warranty included, or does it cost extra? Get all costs in writing before you commit.
What happens after you buy
The dealership will handle the title transfer and registration paperwork, though you may need to sign documents and provide proof of insurance. Ask them what paperwork you need to bring and how long the title transfer typically takes in your state.
If the van is being delivered, confirm the delivery date and address in writing. Ask whether the dealership will help you understand how to operate the lift or ramp, or whether they provide any training. Some locations include a brief orientation; others do not.
Register the van with your state's motor vehicle department and update your insurance policy with the new vehicle information. Keep all service records and warranty documentation in a safe place — you will need them if you ever need to make a warranty claim or sell the van later.
If the lift or ramp develops problems within the warranty period, contact the dealership when ready. Document the issue with photos or video if possible, and keep records of all communication. Warranty claims can take time to process, so do not wait to report problems.
Alternatives if United Access does not have what you need
If no nearby United Access location has a used van that meets your needs, consider contacting other wheelchair-accessible van dealers in your region. Companies like BraunAbility, VMI (Vantage Mobility International), and Mobility Ventures also sell used accessible vehicles through their own networks.
Some nonprofit organizations and disability services agencies maintain lists of used accessible vehicles for sale or can connect you with sellers. Contact your state's vocational rehabilitation office or a local disability advocacy group to ask whether they know of resources in your area.
Private sellers sometimes list used accessible vans on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or specialized vehicle sites. Buying from a private seller carries more risk because there is no dealership warranty or return period, but prices may be lower. If you go this route, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle and the lift before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test drive a used van before I buy it?
Yes. Most United Access dealerships will let you test drive a used van you are interested in. Ask to take it on a real-world route — not just around the lot — so you can feel how it handles and test the lift or ramp in actual conditions. Bring someone with you who uses the wheelchair or mobility device so they can confirm the accessibility features work for them.
What if the lift breaks down after I buy the van?
If the van is still under warranty, contact the dealership and report the problem. They will either repair it or arrange for a repair shop to fix it. If the warranty has expired, you will pay for repairs out of pocket. Lift repairs typically cost $500 to $2,000 depending on the problem, so budget for this possibility.
Do I need a special driver's license to operate an accessible van?
Not usually. If the van has hand controls or other modifications that change how you operate it, your state's motor vehicle department may require you to pass a driving test or get a special endorsement. Contact your local DMV to ask what is required in your state.
Can I return a used van if I change my mind?
This depends on the dealership's return policy. Some United Access locations offer a 30-day return window; others sell used vans as-is with no return option. Always ask about the return policy and get it in writing before you sign the purchase agreement.
What should I do if I find a problem with the van after I take it home?
Contact the dealership when ready and describe the problem. If it is covered under warranty, they will repair it. If it is outside the warranty period or the van was sold as-is, you may not be covered. This is why a pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is important — it can catch problems before you own the vehicle.