Buying a wheelchair-accessible van is one of the most significant purchases a person with a disability — or their family — will make. The decision affects daily independence, safety, and long-term quality of life. If you’re buying for the first time, here’s what to know before you spend a dollar.

Step 1: Identify How the Van Will Be Used

The most important question isn’t which van to buy — it’s how the wheelchair user will ride. There are three scenarios:

  • Wheelchair user drives independently: You’ll need a van with a driver-side conversion, hand controls or a left-foot accelerator, and a tie-down system positioned at the driver’s location.
  • Wheelchair user rides as front passenger: Side-entry vans allow the wheelchair user to position in the front passenger spot with the factory seat removed.
  • Wheelchair user rides in the rear: Both side-entry and rear-entry vans work. Rear-entry vans are often less expensive.

Step 2: Choose Side-Entry or Rear-Entry

Side-entry vans deploy a ramp or lift from the sliding side door. The main advantages: no need for extra clearance behind the vehicle, and the wheelchair user can sit anywhere in the cabin (including the driver’s seat or front passenger position).

Rear-entry vans use a ramp from the rear hatch. Advantages: lower cost (no floor lowering required), simpler conversion, and easier for caregivers to operate. Disadvantage: the wheelchair user must position in the rear, and you need 5–6 feet of clearance behind the vehicle to deploy the ramp.

Step 3: Choose a Conversion Brand

The conversion brand matters as much as the base vehicle. The main brands are:

  • BraunAbility — Most widely sold in the U.S. Excellent dealer network, long parts availability, strong resale value. Their powered in-floor ramp for the Chrysler Pacifica is the industry standard.
  • VMI (Vantage Mobility) — Competitive with BraunAbility. The Northstar conversion is known for a low ramp angle, which is easier for lighter manual chairs.
  • Eldorado National — Specializes in Toyota Sienna conversions with a reputation for quality fit and finish.

Step 4: Consider Your Wheelchair

Your current wheelchair — its width, height, and weight — determines which vans will work. Measure your wheelchair in your seated position before shopping:

  • Width: The ramp and doorway opening must accommodate it. Most modern minivan conversions handle up to 30″ width easily; some wider power chairs need a full-size van.
  • Height: The interior height after floor lowering must be enough for you to sit upright comfortably. Lowered-floor minivans typically offer 56″–62″ of interior headroom.
  • Weight: Ramp weight ratings vary. Most handle up to 800 lbs (combined wheelchair + occupant). Heavier power chairs or bariatric chairs may require a lift rather than a ramp.

Step 5: New vs. Pre-Owned

New wheelchair vans come with full warranties on the base vehicle and the conversion, but they’re expensive — typically $65,000–$100,000+ (a new 2026 BraunAbility Chrysler Pacifica conversion starts around $93,000). Pre-owned accessible vans with the same conversions can cost $20,000–$40,000 less.

Pre-owned vans that have been properly inspected by a certified mobility dealer (like Access 2 Mobility) are a sound investment. Ask specifically about the condition of the ramp or lift, the floor lowering, and the tie-down anchors.

Step 6: Explore Financial Assistance

Most buyers don’t pay full price out of pocket:

  • VA Automobile Allowance — Up to $27,074.99 (current rate as of Oct 2025) for veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities
  • Medicaid Waiver Programs — Many state Medicaid programs fund vehicle modifications
  • Vocational Rehabilitation — If your disability affects your ability to work, VR can fund the vehicle
  • Non-profit grants — See our Texas grants resource page
  • Specialized financing — Partners like Eastman Credit Union offer accessible-vehicle loan programs

Step 7: Schedule a Test Drive

Always test the ramp with your actual wheelchair before buying. Load angles, door widths, and cabin positioning feel different in person than they look in photos. A reputable dealer will encourage a test drive and give you time to evaluate how the vehicle works in your daily routine.

At Access 2 Mobility in Tyler, TX, we welcome test drives and encourage you to bring your wheelchair, your caregiver, and your family. Call (903) 592-6760 to schedule.