Are DIY Wheelchair Van Conversion Kits Safe?

When it comes to converting vehicles to be wheelchair accessible, individuals from Los Angeles, CA to Dallas, TX have more options than ever before. There are even DIY wheelchair van conversion kits available. But are DIY wheelchair van conversion kits safe? Converting a vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair with a rear entry or side entry ramp is more complicated than the average vehicle customization made by Battle Creek drivers. To ensure your safety when using your vehicle, it’s best to entrust wheelchair van conversion to the manufacturers. Freedom Motors USA provides more insight into this common question, below.

Learn More About Vehicle Customization for Wheelchair Accessibility

Did you know that a wheelchair van conversion can involve as many as 40 alterations? Depending on the conversion being made the number will vary, with most alterations being made to the vehicle’s frame. Among the alterations that must be made, the most significant is lowering the vehicle’s floor by about 10 inches to create a comfortable clearance for the wheelchair user. But that’s not all that needs to be done; wheelchair van conversion also includes extending the doorway height, integrating the necessary wiring, reconfiguring the vehicle’s standard seating, and installing the rear entry or side entry wheelchair ramp.

Wheelchair van conversion manufacturers require the experience and skill of multiple technicians to complete just one conversion, so you can imagine how difficult it would be to carry out a safe conversion by just one person at their home.

Wheelchair Van Financing

How much does a wheelchair van conversion cost? The average price can range from $10,000 to $20,000 on top of the cost of the vehicle itself. There are numerous features available with vehicle customization that can affect the total cost, so individuals should expect the price to vary based on their unique needs.

Wheelchair van conversion manufacturers’ professionally altered vehicles may come at a higher price than if you were to modify your vehicle yourself, but there are a number of perks that come with the higher price:

• Peace of mind that your conversion was done correctly and your vehicle is absolutely safe for you to travel in
• Warranty coverage to protect your investment
• The retailer your vehicle came from will serve as a reliable resource if you need repairs or further modifications carried out on your vehicle in the future

At Freedom Motors USA, we are committed to providing flexible wheelchair van financing solutions to our customers. We understand the importance of having mobility freedom, no matter your financial circumstances. A member of our finance team will take the time needed to learn about your accessibility and budgetary needs, allowing them to create a personalized finance plan you can feel confident about moving forward. If you would like to get the process started today, we welcome you to fill out our secure online finance application.

What Are the Best Vans to Convert?

We’ve learned about the process of converting a vehicle to be wheelchair accessible and explored pricing, but for some, a question will remain: What are the best vans to convert? Here are a few favorable options among wheelchair van conversion manufacturers:

• Chrysler Pacifica
• Chrysler Voyager
• Dodge Grand Caravan
• Toyota Sienna
• Toyota Sienna Hybrid

What Are the Best SUVs to Convert?

For some wheelchair users, the best vans to convert aren’t vans at all! Here at Freedom Motors USA, our handicap vehicles for sale also include several SUV models pre-fitted with rear entry or side entry wheelchair ramp solutions. Popular SUV conversions include:

• Hyundai Palisade
• Chevrolet Traverse
• Kia Telluride
• Kia Soul
• Kia Sorento
• Honda HR-V
• Buick Enclave

Contact Freedom Motors USA to Learn More

If you already own a vehicle but it is not currently suited to your mobility needs, it may be tempting to consider a DIY wheelchair conversion. However, as we discussed here today, the safest option is to have your vehicle converted by a professional. Or, you could consider trading in your vehicle for a pre-modified van or SUV with a rear entry or side entry wheelchair ramp.

Searching for “wheelchair van dealers near me?” Look no further than Freedom Motors USA. Serving individuals from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL, you can contact us today to get help finding an accessible vehicle that will exceed your expectations.