Are you thinking about getting a wheelchair accessible van for your organization but feeling a little unsure? It’s normal to worry about what might go wrong and what wheelchair van problems you’ll run into after making such a big purchase. After all, buying one of these vehicles is a major investment, and you want to make sure it’s reliable for everyone who depends on it.
Some of the potential issues that may linger around in your mind include:
- Frequent breakdowns
- High maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency
- Accessibility
With over 20 years of experience helping organizations like yours, our team at MoveMobility understands how important it is to remove barriers to transportation and healthcare. That’s why we focus on building dependable, accessible vehicles.
Our mission is to help you make a difference by providing accessible transportation and mobile healthcare solutions that save lives. We know there are other manufacturers out there, but our main goal is to share our knowledge so you can avoid any potential issues.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the top 5 wheelchair van problems you can easily prevent. When you know about these common issues ahead of time, you can take simple steps to keep your wheelchair vehicle running smoothly so your passengers will be safe.
What wheelchair van problems are preventable?
Some wheelchair van problems are easier to avoid than others. In this section, you’ll learn about some common ones you can prevent.
1. Choosing the right size for your needs
The first common mistake organizations make when purchasing a wheelchair accessible van is assuming they need a bus or RV when they might not. While a bus might seem like the best option for transporting multiple people, it’s not always the most practical choice.
Assess your needs: Before deciding on a bus, take a close look at the number of people you actually transport regularly. Organizations often find they never fill the bus to capacity, making it an inefficient choice.
Consider maneuverability: Buses are tougher to maneuver than smaller wheelchair vehicles, such as vans. If you’re only using the vehicle for medical appointments or transporting a few people, a bus might be more trouble than it’s worth.
Licensing requirements: Operating a bus requires a specialized license. This can add complexity and cost to your operations. If you don’t need extra space, a smaller van might be more practical and cost-effective.
Think carefully about your actual needs before committing to a larger vehicle. Sometimes, a smaller van can meet your needs just as well without the added hassle.
Wheelchair vans offer the perfect balance between capacity and practicality. They give you the space you need without the hassle of a larger bus. With vans, you can easily transport passengers comfortably and navigate tight spaces with better fuel efficiency and no specialized license requirements.
2. Choosing the right vehicle for your environment
Next, when picking out a wheelchair vehicle, it’s important to consider where you’ll be driving it. Not all vehicles are built for every type of road, and choosing the wrong one can lead to some avoidable problems.
Traveling in remote areas: A standard minivan isn’t the best fit if you’ll be taking your wheelchair vehicle on rough, remote roads. Minivans are perfect for city streets and highways, but they can struggle when the terrain gets tough.
Trail Edition Upgrade: If off-roading or rough terrain is in your future, consider going for a Trail Edition Upgrade. This upgrade enables your wheelchair van to handle bumps and uneven ground, giving you and your clients a smoother, safer ride.
Picking the right vehicle from the start can save you a lot of trouble down the road. This way, your wheelchair vehicle will stay in great shape and keep you moving smoothly, no matter where you’re headed. Click the button below to get started on choosing the right vehicle for your organization.
3. Keeping your wheelchair van clean
One of the easiest ways to prevent problems with your wheelchair accessible van is by keeping it clean. It might sound simple, but regular cleaning can make a big difference in how long your vehicle lasts and how well certain parts work.
AutoFloor system: Dirt and grit can build up in the AutoFloor system, making it harder for seats and wheelchair clips to fit into the floor properly. A quick sweep can keep everything running smoothly and ensure the safety of your passengers.
Ramp or lift: It’s also important to clean the ramp or lift regularly. Dirt and debris can get into the electrical components and cause them to wear down faster. If you don’t keep these parts clean, they might jam up, leading to expensive repairs.
Taking a few minutes to clean out your van’s floor, ramp, and lift can save you a lot of time and money down the road. Plus, it helps keep your passengers safe and comfortable during their ride.
Aluminum is known to be easier to clean than many other materials. The aluminum build of our vans makes cleaning a breeze.
4. Checking for rust and lift functionality
If you’re considering buying a used wheelchair van, you must do your homework to avoid potential problems. Rust is one of the biggest issues with used vehicles, especially in areas with harsh winters.
Check for rust: Before purchasing a used wheelchair van, thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s underside. Salt and moisture can cause significant rust damage that might not be immediately visible. Rust can weaken the vehicle’s structure, leading to safety concerns and costly repairs down the line.
Lift functionality: Make sure the lift is working properly. Test it a few times to ensure it’s smooth and reliable. If the lift isn’t functioning as it should, it could pose a serious risk to the passengers who rely on it. Also, check that the lift complies with current safety regulations to avoid legal issues.
If your organization is considering buying used, take the time to inspect these things above. It can help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your wheelchair vehicle safe and reliable for years to come.
5. Choosing the right service team for your wheelchair van
When it comes to maintaining your wheelchair accessible van, not all mechanics are created equal. Taking your van to a local shop might seem convenient, but it can lead to unnecessary problems and hefty bills.
Specialized expertise: Wheelchair vans have unique features that require specialized knowledge. Most local mechanics aren’t trained to handle these systems, which can result in improper repairs or suggestions for unnecessary work.
Know your warranty: Before heading to any shop, it’s important to understand your van’s warranty coverage. The manufacturer may cover some parts, saving you from paying out of pocket. Always check your warranty first and consider using a service team specializing in wheelchair vehicles to avoid costly mistakes.
For example, one of our clients took their van to a local body shop they thought they could trust. The mechanics, unfamiliar with the van’s specialized needs, recommended multiple unnecessary replacements. The result? A shocking $12,000 quote for work that wasn’t needed. They contacted our service team at MoveMobility, and all the work was covered.
When you work with the right service provider, you can keep your van in top condition without spending a fortune.
Avoid these problems and learn about your next steps
You came to this article to learn how to avoid common wheelchair van problems. By now, you should better understand the top issues to watch out for and how to prevent them.
We’ve discussed the importance of regular cleaning, understanding your driving environment, and choosing the right vehicle size for your needs.
At MoveMobility, we know that choosing the right vehicle is about more than just making a purchase—it’s about providing the safety and comfort your passengers need. We’re proud to lead the industry in accessible transportation solutions. If you have any questions or need guidance, click the button below to talk to a mobility expert.
If you’re not ready to reach out just yet, we’ve got more resources you can explore to learn more.
Start by checking out the video below on the cost of a wheelchair van. This will help you get a better idea of how to budget for one of these vehicles.
After that, learn more about what you can expect during the wheelchair van buying process with MoveMobility.
