What To Look For When Buying A Wheelchair Accessible Van

There are many things to consider when purchasing a used wheelchair accessible van, and one of the most important is the condition. This aspect is even more paramount when considering a wheelchair van as the vehicle has been structurally modified.  

Anyone who is considering the purchase of a wheelchair accessible van should have the van thoroughly inspected. Special attention should be paid to the body and frame of the vehicle. This part of the inspection is even more crucial if the van was originally from a Northern state that experiences snow every year. In cities that experience snow, the local government will often spread salt on the roads and sidewalks to melt ice and snow, or to keep ice from forming. However, the salt can be a double edged sword as it speeds up the corrosion process that forms rust. This is also true if the vehicle resides close to the beach and ocean (salt water).  

The undercarriage is the area of the vehicle most exposed to salted snow, with the front end a little more exposed. Some components that should have special attention paid to them during vehicle inspection include the frame rails, sub frames, rocker panels, suspension components, brake components, and the engine itself. Not only will the undercarriage come into contact with the salted snow, but it will also be flung up into the wheel wells and towards the back of the undercarriage. 

In conclusion, remember to have any wheelchair accessible van that you are considering purchasing inspected thoroughly, especially if the vehicle is from an area that experiences snow, or near the ocean. 

For any wheelchair van service, repair or maintenance, schedule an appointment with Mobility Express and certified and trained mobility technicians. Fill out our fomr here or call: 1-800-918-7433