Where to find wheelchair accessible vehicles in your area

Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) are sold through a mix of dealerships, specialized conversion shops, and used-vehicle marketplaces — not all of which are equally straightforward to find. Your best starting point depends on whether you want a new vehicle, a used one, or a conversion of a vehicle you already own.

New WAVs come from mainstream dealerships that stock them (Ford, Chrysler, and Honda carry accessible models), but inventory varies widely by location. Call ahead rather than visiting in person — many dealerships order accessible vehicles rather than keeping them on the lot. Specialized conversion companies like BraunAbility, VMI (Vantage Mobility International), and Mobility Ventures both sell new converted vehicles and retrofit existing ones. These shops typically serve a multi-state region, so you may need to travel or arrange delivery.

Used WAVs appear on general marketplaces (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Autotrader) and on specialized sites like Mobility.com and Disabled Dealer. Local wheelchair repair shops and disability service organizations often know of used vehicles for sale in your area and can point you toward private sellers or small dealers who specialize in accessible cars.

Key Takeaways

  • New wheelchair accessible vehicles are available through mainstream dealerships and specialized conversion companies, though you may need to order rather than buy off the lot.
  • Used accessible vehicles appear on general marketplaces and on disability-focused sites, and local disability organizations often know of vehicles for sale nearby.
  • The cost of a new converted vehicle typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 depending on the base vehicle and conversion type, while used models vary widely.
  • Financing options include standard auto loans, dealer financing, and some disability-focused nonprofits that offer loans or grants for vehicle purchases.
  • Test-driving an accessible vehicle before purchase is essential because the layout, controls, and ease of entry vary significantly between models and conversions.

Types of wheelchair accessible vehicles and what they cost

Wheelchair accessible vehicles fall into three main categories: lowered-floor minivans (the most common and affordable), full-size vans with wheelchair lifts, and hand-control vehicles for drivers who cannot use foot pedals. Each type serves different needs and comes at a different price point.

Lowered-floor minivans have a hydraulic system that lowers the floor at the side door, creating a ramp or platform for wheelchair entry. Models like the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Honda Odyssey come factory-equipped with this feature. A new lowered-floor minivan typically costs $45,000 to $65,000. Used models from recent years (within five to seven years) range from $20,000 to $45,000 depending on mileage and condition.

Full-size vans with wheelchair lifts (often based on Ford Transit or Chevrolet Express platforms) have a motorized lift at the rear or side door and more interior space for multiple wheelchairs or medical equipment. These cost $55,000 to $85,000 new and $25,000 to $60,000 used. Hand-control vehicles — standard cars or vans modified so the driver operates gas and brake with hand levers — cost $35,000 to $70,000 depending on the base vehicle and conversion complexity.

How to finance a wheelchair accessible vehicle

Standard auto financing works for accessible vehicles, but several other funding paths exist that may lower your out-of-pocket cost. Start by checking whether you have access to any of these before committing to a traditional loan.

Vocational rehabilitation programs (run by your state's department of rehabilitation services) sometimes fund vehicle purchases or modifications for people whose disability affects employment. You must be working or preparing to work, and the vehicle must be necessary for that work. Contact your state's vocational rehabilitation office to learn whether you meet their criteria.

Nonprofit grants and loans for accessible vehicles exist through organizations like the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), which maintains a directory of dealers and can point you toward funding sources in your state. Some disability-focused nonprofits offer low-interest loans or matching grants. Search "[your state] disability vehicle grant" or "[your state] accessible vehicle loan" to find local programs.

Standard auto loans from banks, credit unions, and dealerships work the same way for accessible vehicles as for any car — your credit score, income, and down payment determine your rate and terms. Some dealerships that specialize in accessible vehicles offer in-house financing or partnerships with lenders experienced in this market, which can be faster than shopping rates yourself.

What to check before buying a used accessible vehicle

A used accessible vehicle needs the same mechanical inspection as any used car, plus specific checks on the accessibility equipment itself. Never skip the test drive — what works for one person's body and wheelchair may not work for you.

Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle's engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension before you commit. Then test the accessibility features yourself: Does the ramp or lift operate smoothly? Does it lower and raise fully? Are the tie-down systems (straps or clamps that find the wheelchair) intact and functional? Check the interior space — can you maneuver your wheelchair comfortably, or does the conversion take up too much room? Test the hand controls or other driving modifications if the vehicle has them.

Ask the seller for records of maintenance on the accessibility equipment. Lifts and ramps are mechanical systems that wear out and need service. If the seller has no records, budget for a professional inspection of those systems specifically. Some conversion companies will inspect a used vehicle they did not build for a fee (typically $200 to $500) and can tell you whether repairs are needed soon.

Dealerships and conversion shops near you

Finding a dealer or conversion shop requires a few targeted searches rather than a single directory. Start with the NMEDA dealer locator at nmeda.org — enter your zip code to see certified dealers and conversion shops within your region. This list includes both new-vehicle dealers and shops that retrofit existing vehicles.

Call mainstream dealerships (Ford, Chrysler, Honda, Toyota) in your area and ask whether they stock or can order wheelchair accessible models. Ask specifically whether they have a salesperson trained in accessible vehicles — some dealerships have one person who handles these sales and can answer detailed questions.

Search "[your city] wheelchair accessible vehicles" or "[your city] mobility conversion" to find local shops. Check their websites for photos of their work and customer reviews. Call before visiting — many conversion shops work by appointment and may not have display vehicles on site.

Financing through insurance and tax deductions

Some health insurance plans cover modifications to vehicles if they are deemed medically necessary, though coverage is uncommon and varies by plan. Contact your insurance company's medical equipment department and ask whether vehicle modifications are covered. You will likely need a letter from your doctor stating that the modification is medically necessary.

The cost of an accessible vehicle or modification may be deductible as a medical expense on your federal tax return if your total medical expenses exceed a certain threshold (7.5% of your adjusted gross income as of 2024, though this changes yearly). Keep receipts for the vehicle purchase and any modifications. Consult a tax professional to determine whether your situation qualifies.

Some states offer tax credits or exemptions for people with disabilities who purchase accessible vehicles. Search "[your state] disability vehicle tax credit" or contact your state's department of revenue to learn whether this applies to you.

What happens after you buy: maintenance and support

Wheelchair accessible vehicles need regular maintenance on both the standard vehicle systems and the accessibility equipment. The lift, ramp, or lowering system should be serviced annually or according to the manufacturer's schedule. Many conversion companies offer service contracts or can recommend local mechanics trained on their systems.

If you buy from a conversion company, ask about their warranty on the accessibility equipment and what happens if something breaks. Some offer multi-year warranties; others cover only the first year. Understand what is covered and what is not before you drive off the lot.

If you buy a used vehicle and the conversion was done by a company you cannot reach, a different conversion shop can often service or repair the equipment. Bring documentation of the original conversion (the paperwork that came with the vehicle) to help the new shop understand what was installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a wheelchair accessible vehicle instead of buying one?

Yes. Some car rental companies (Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis) offer accessible vehicles through their standard booking system — search for "wheelchair accessible" when you reserve. Availability is limited and varies by location, so book well in advance. Specialty rental companies like Mobility Ventures and Wheelchair Getaways rent accessible vehicles for longer periods and have more inventory in many regions.

What if I already own a vehicle and want to make it accessible?

Conversion shops can retrofit most vehicles with hand controls, lifts, or ramps. The cost depends on what you want to add — hand controls typically cost $8,000 to $15,000, while a wheelchair lift retrofit runs $15,000 to $30,000. Not all vehicles are good candidates for conversion (very small cars or sports cars may not have the space or weight capacity), so get a quote from a conversion shop before deciding.

Do I need a special driver's license to operate a wheelchair accessible vehicle?

Not for the vehicle itself, but if you use hand controls or other adaptive driving equipment, your state's DMV may require you to pass a driving test with those modifications before you can drive legally. Contact your state's DMV to learn their specific rules. Some states require a notation on your license indicating you use adaptive equipment.

What if the accessible vehicle I want is not available locally?

Dealerships and conversion shops can order vehicles and arrange delivery, though this adds time and sometimes a delivery fee. Ask whether the dealer or shop will deliver to your home or to a local service center. Some people travel to a dealership in another state to pick up a vehicle, which can be worth it if the price difference covers the travel cost.

Are there used wheelchair accessible vehicles that are significantly cheaper than new ones?

Yes, but condition and mileage vary widely. A used accessible vehicle from a private seller may cost thousands less than a dealer vehicle, but you have no warranty and no recourse if something breaks. Dealer-sold used accessible vehicles cost more but typically come with a limited warranty and have been inspected. Budget for a professional inspection either way.