Used WAV buying guide

Buying a used wheelchair accessible vehicle can be a complex process if you don’t have all of the information required to make an informed decision. We have compiled this list of frequently asked questions to guide you through the process.
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What does ‘Approved Used’ mean?

At Sirus we refer to our used wheelchair accessible vehicles as ‘Approved Used’ wheelchair accessible vehicles. This is because we are an Approved RAC Dealer and all of our Approved Used wheelchair accessible vehicles go through a rigorous process before they are released.

Sirus service includes...

  • Free home demonstrations
  • Free delivery nationwide
  • Sirus conversion service & final quality checks*
  • 12-months MOT
  • Buy back scheme for existing Sirus customers*

What is the benefit of buying an Approved Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle?

We are finding our Approved Used wheelchair accessible vehicles are becoming increasingly popular and some of our customers choose to purchase a second-hand WAV as opposed to using their DLA or PIP allowance towards the cost of a Motability vehicle. Advantages of purchasing an Approved Used WAV include:

  • Timing –If you are in a hurry, this could be the option for you as an Approved Used WAV is usually ready to go within 2 weeks (depending on your location and adaptations required).
  • No Motability Advance Payment – with all Motability WAV’s, you have to fund the Advance Payment (an upfront lump sum which is not returned to you after the lease ends).

What should I look for in a second-hand WAV supplier?

The most important thing when buying any 2nd hand WAV is that the seller is reputable. It’s always advisable to work with a company that specialises in wheelchair accessible vehicles.  Make sure they offer free home demonstrations.

What do Sirus Approved Used WAV’s include?

  • 82 Point RAC Approved Preparation Check – visit the RAC’s website for details.
  • Vehicle History Check (to determine the number of previous owners, any past issues with the vehicle or any prior accidents).
  • 3-year RAC Warranty*
  • 1-year RAC Breakdown Cover (roadside, recovery, at home)
  • RAC Accident Care (for the duration of your breakdown cover)

My mobility needs have recently changed. Do I need to have a driving assessment?

Driving Mobility is the charity that accredits a nationwide network of driving assessment centres. Each centre provides professional driving assessments and advice for individuals with restricted mobility. This support signposts clients to suitable adapted controls, wheelchair accessible vehicles, training or further services. Centres operate as either independent charities or as part of an NHS Trust so that service users can gain, or retain, the ability to drive following a diagnosis involving impairment or disability. Individuals can self-refer or are signposted by the DVLA, Motability, Police and healthcare professionals such as OTs and GPs. For further information visit their website.

Our mobility specialists at Sirus have the knowledge and experience to carry out fittings for adaptations you require. Please ask us for further details.

What are the advantages of using the Motability Scheme?

There are many advantages to using the Motability Scheme. Your insurance, MOT, servicing is all included, it really is as they describe it, ‘worry-free motoring’.  You will keep the vehicle for a period of five years (with the option to extend to seven if you wish) and you will have to fund the Advance Payment (upfront down payment). Some people receive a grant to help towards this but there is certain criteria you have to meet. For more information visit their website.

What Aftercare and Warranty is included?

You will receive ongoing support and advice from our dedicated aftersales team. There may be instances where the Sirus team will be able to deal with your problem, and other times when it would be easier and more efficient for the RAC to help. You will receive a 3-year RAC Warranty and 12 months RAC breakdown cover as standard with your vehicle.  If you would like to read more about our aftersales and the service and warranty on your Approved Used WAV, visit here.

What is the process when buying an Approved Used WAV?

  1. Make an enquiry and we will answer any questions you have.
  2. Arrange a free home demonstration at a time to suit you.
  3. If the vehicle isn’t quite right, if we have an alternative, we will happily bring this out to you.
  4. Your vehicle will then go through a rigorous RAC 82 Point Check* and the conversion will be serviced.*
  5. We will fit any further adaptations or wheelchair securing systems to your vehicle and carry out a fitting with one of our mobility experts at your home.
  6. We will arrange when your vehicle will be delivered to your home.
  7. Time for your handover! We will show you all of the vehicle and adaptation features.

Terms and Conditions:

  • RAC 82 Point Check is only applicable if the vehicle has less than 2 years on manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Sirus conversion service is carried out if required depending on the age of the vehicle or date of the last service
  • Buy Back Scheme may be dependent on what stock we have at that time
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