The price of new wheelchair accessible vans has increased considerably over the past few years. The increased prices have proved it nearly impossible for some of the neediest wheelchair occupants to obtain new vehicles. New wheelchair accessible vans, be it mini van or full size conversions run anywhere from $45,000 up to $80,000 depending on specialized equipment required. Most new accessible conversions are applied to mini vans due to ease of operation and driving in high traffic metropolitan areas. The full size vans are used now mostly in commercial applications such as nursing facilities and ambulatory applications.

Many mobility conversion manufacturers have learned that a large number of users of these vans cannot afford to purchase new vehicles. To combat this price issue manufacturers have devised a plan to purchase one or two year old mini vans from large car rental agencies. A slightly used wheelchair van that has been maintained well with records and tend to run well below the price of new vans. Used wheelchair vans from the rental industry are only in service for one or two years then released to the wholesale market.

The conversion factory then places a new conversion on the mini van. There are many different types of wheelchair conversions available today. There are side entry versions as well as rear entry versions. Each version has a unique application. The rear entry version is probably the most flexible when it comes to all around use. There are many different seating options that are available. These options allow the entire family to ride along. Affordability has become a huge issue today. Mobility vans hold there retail value really well and those who have investigated pricing have found that even ten year old vans are very high in price.

Even in todays volatile financial climate there is still long term financing available for wheelchair accessible vehicles. Most mobility dealers and conversion manufacturers that contribute to the retail and end user market have many different financing options that can be extended out to as long as 120 months. Longer term financing does include higher interest rates and stricter lending guidelines. Longer term financing is also available on used vehicles depending on the year and mileage.

If your financial situation dictates that you must purchase a used wheelchair van you should put efforts forth to find one of the slightly used vans mentioned above. You will save thousands of dollars when purchasing used, but remember these vehicles have been previously driven by others and research should be your best weapon against a poorly maintained van. There is a small cost involved with obtaining documentation on the vans history but I would highly recommend that the investment be made. This is going to be a vehicle that you own for a long time. Prepare yourself to make the best decision possible.