Wheelchair Van Buyer’s Guide: New vs. Used

new wheelchair vans vs used wheelchair vans

When it comes to vehicle shopping, there is one question which everyone must face:

Should I buy a new wheelchair van or buy a used wheelchair van?

There are strong motivators for both options.  Used are popular simply because of their affordability, opening up vehicle choices and options that would otherwise be unattainable for consumers on a lower income.

On the reverse, a new vehicle brings a certain amount of confidence, knowing you’re much less likely to have mechanical issues and if you do, they’ll be covered under a warranty.  Plus a new vehicle brings a sense of pride and comfort.  You can choose exactly what options you know instead of being left with whatever the previous owner chose.

What’s the difference between a new and used wheelchair van is still a question that has to be asked.  In fact, considering the additional complexities a wheelchair van has, there are even more elements that factor into it.

If You’re Looking at Used Vans

There was a time not too long ago when used wheelchair vans weren’t very popular.  In fact, Rollx Vans was one of the first places to sell them (which is why we have the biggest selection of used wheelchair vans today).

Because of the way wheelchair vans are made, there are actually different types of used wheelchair vans.

Used Van with a New Conversion

In some cases, a used van will be taken and converted into a wheelchair van.  That means the van itself is older but the parts are brand new.  This is a great option if you already have a van that you would like to be converted into a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

That way you simply pay conversion and equipment cost.

Reconditioned Van

When we take in a used wheelchair van, we don’t simply turn it around and sell it.  First it enters a reconditioning process (click here for more info on that).  Everything is inspected, worked over, and you get brand new carpet!

In other words, you don’t have to worry about the conversion failing on you.

New Vans

A new wheelchair van obviously comes with all the benefits you would expect from a new vehicle.  You have a wide selection of makes, models, colors, and features, making sure you get exactly the van you want.

In addition to that, there are also conversion options with the type of ramp, the style of securements, whether the wheelchair will be for a passenger or the driver.

And everything is done to a very high standard that exceeds the normal safety specs required for a factory van.  With a new wheelchair van, you get more than what you want.  You get what you need. 

When it comes to wheelchair vans, there is arguably nothing more important.

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