Wheelchair vans, whether new or used, can be an expensive purchase. These vans often cost more than other already-expensive vehicles due to the need for extra equipment, custom conversion and adjustments in insurance compliance with applicable regulations.

Wheelchair vans tend to have a lifespan of about one decade before the wear and tear of regular use render them inadequate.   Obviously, that assessment is an average and specific vehicles can defy the odds based on their specific histories.   Nonetheless, the relatively short life of a wheelchair van underlines the importance of making a wise decision.

If you want to find an ideal wheelchair van for your needs, it’s essential to research all aspects of the models under consideration and to compare them against other options.   You’ll want to be aware of probably repair costs for both the vehicle and its accessibility accessories.

New

A brand new wheelchair van will usually cost between $20,000 and $50,000,   Some high-end options can cost considerably more.

You can either find an appealing van and then pay for the customization or you can invest in a “ready to use” wheelchair van that already features all necessary equipment.   Regardless of which route you choose, the price is likely to fall into the aforementioned range.

Finance

You can finance a wheelchair van in the same way you can finance any other vehicle.   Banks won’t treat your accessibility vehicle any differently than they will any other car or truck purchase.   The terms of your loan will be determined based upon your credit score and history.

Medicare Options

Buyer may want to investigate Medicare options before signing a loan, though.   Medicare does provide some people with the opportunity to purchase a new wheelchair van or to be transported via van. Under Medicare Part B, a doctor can actually prescribe the use of a van when it’s in the patient’s best interests.

Medicare Part B can also pay for the conversion of a standard van into a wheelchair van.   It won’t pay for the vehicle itself, but may provide some assistance with respect to covering necessary customization.

If you’d prefer to avoid a substantial cash outlay for a new vehicle or aren’t interesting in financing an expensive wheelchair van purchase, you will want to look at used models.

Budgeting Is Essential

When budgeting for the ownership of a wheelchair van, the purchase price is only one consideration.   Buyer must understand the likely costs of maintenance and repair, insurance and gasoline use.   A “bargain van” may turn out to be the proverbial “money pit” if it provides poor fuel economy and requires numerous costly repairs.

It’s virtually impossible to estimate those expenses without first knowing one’s exact situation.   The person who uses a van sparingly will have a far different experience than the one who commutes to and from work in a van every day and then uses it for touring vacations, as well.

You want to think about what you’re paying for the van, but you can’t limit your thinking about the true cost of the vehicle on that basis.   Make a point of considering all of the expenses associated with a given vehicle before making a purchase.