Just what exactly is an accessible minivan?
Accessible minivans, also known as wheelchair vans or ramp vans, have been remanufactured to offer unparalleled ease of access for wheelchair and scooter users. The floor has been substantially lowered and the van equipped with a lightweight ramp for easy entry and exit. A kneeling system lowers the rear suspension, decreasing the slope of the ramp even further when deployed. Both front seats are removable, enabling wheelchair users to drive or ride in the passenger position.
How much does a wheelchair minivans cost?
Handicapable Vans offers several mobility conversions to meet a variety of budgets. We will carefully assess your needs and recommend the right vehicle in your price range.
I already own a minivan - can Handicapable Vans convert my van?
Possibly, but certain conditions must be met. Only certain makes and models can be converted. Additionally, the vehicle must have less than 30,000 miles, and is subject to inspection before the conversion process can begin.
Can I purchase a minivan at my car dealership and then have it converted?
While this can sometimes work, we recommend contacting us at Handicapable Vans before purchasing a van. If you visit a car dealership first, you risk purchasing a vehicle that cannot be converted because it is the wrong model - or it may be the right model, but not equipped with the right options. At Handicapable Vans we can help guide you through the process, we can even work with your preferred car dealer to ensure you purchase the right equipment. Often, you may find the perfect vehicle sitting at Handicapable Vans already converted and ready for delivery.
Can I simply add a ramp to my existing van?
No. The sturdy aluminum ramp is just one aspect of the major remanufacturing required to create a wheelchair van. Teams of skilled technicians work together to produce fully-integrated conversions with lowered floors and reconfigured seating.
Can I put a wheelchair lift in my minivan instead of a ramp?
Due to the lack of head clearance, a minivan lift is not an application that can be used for an adult. Adults need the extra headroom provided by a fully converted accessible vehicle to ride comfortably and safely. In certain cases, however, a minivan lift can be a good solution for pediatric chair users.
What kind of warranty will I get?
BraunAbility backs the quality craftsmanship of their minivans with an exclusive Three-Year Limited Warranty - the best the industry has to offer. On top of that, the chassis is covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty.
Where will I get service?
At Handicapable Vans, we understand the importance of maintenance and service of your accessible vehicle and its specialized equipment and we are committed to providing our customers with the availability of service. Our highly trained and certified service technicians are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality service in the vehicle modification industry. Both of our locations are also QAP (Quality Assurance Program) certified through the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), meaning that Handicapable Vans is held to the highest standards in the accessible vehicle industry.
Whether you are a long time customer coming in for routine operational maintenance of the equipment you have in your modified vehicle, or a new customer who needs adaptive equipment installed on your vehicle, we will do our best to get you back on the road as quickly and safely as possible. It doesn’t matter if you bought it from us or elsewhere, at Handicapable Vans we want to make sure that your vehicle is always working for you.
How long will repairs take?
Buying an accessible van from Handicapable Vans is the best way to assure you will seldom need repairs. If you do, however, we will likely have the necessary replacement parts on hand for a quick turn-around. If not, we can usually get the parts we need the next business day so you can get back on the road right away.
Is financing available?
In some cases, part of your cost may be covered by insurance or military benefits, and most major automobile manufacturers offer rebate programs toward the purchase of adaptive equipment. If you need additional financing we will also put you in contact with various financial institutions, some with up to 10 years of financing available. They are familiar with the added value of mobility equipment and have helped many of our customers secure financing for their purchases.
How long will I have to wait to buy one?
Handicapable Vans maintains a stock of minivans converted and ready for immediate delivery. You will have a choice of chassis and ramp styles to try out, allowing you to determine which vehicle best meets your needs.
What if my need for a Wheelchair van is temporary?
Handicapable Vans also rents accessible wheelchair vans for temporary needs.
Is there any trade-in value?
When you are ready for a new vehicle, Handicapable Vans will appraise your old van as a trade-in. Trade-in value is usually very good, but is of course dependant on a number of factors such as vehicle condition and mileage.