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.
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.
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:
Finance – we work with our partner Mallard Finance. Unlike leasing a car on the Motability Scheme you will own your vehicle at the end of the repayment period. Applications can be taken from anyone aged 18 – 75 and you do not have to be in full-time employment or in receipt of DLA or PIP. Remember if you are not registered disabled before the age of 65, you cannot use the Motability Scheme. For more information visit their website.
The most important thing when buying any 2nd hand WAV is that the seller is reputable. If anything were to go wrong, you can go back to them to get it sorted out. Also many WAV’s are bought at auction and sold on by traders who often aren’t specialists in the field. So it’s always advisable to work with a company that specialises in wheelchair accessible vehicles. Make sure they offer free home demonstrations.
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.
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.
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 2-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.