Everybody loves shiny and new things. Those feelings can be intensified when it comes to vehicles, too.
However, sometimes the used route is the better road to go down. Life can be simpler this way, especially when it comes wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs). Newer iterations of WAVs are out there, but in many cases, buyers tend to prefer the used route.
It’s worth investigating why these preferences matter and how people arrive at them. After all, though every vehicle needs to feel like a perfect fit for the owner, it’s fair to say that disabled individuals have more considerations to mull over.
Let’s explore these ideas in more detail, then. Here are the best reasons to secure a used WAV today.
Avoiding Supply Issues
There should be new WAVs for any that want them. Sadly, that doesn’t mean such is true in reality, with many people struggling to get their hands on them.
Unfortunately, British vehicle manufacturing has fallen to critically low levels recently. Supply chain issues are well-known, but you might not know that some factories have closed their doors and turned off their machines completely. In many cases, the devastation of the auto industry is unsalvageable.
There’s a chip shortage. The manufacturers still standing are also working through a hefty backlog of orders. Reliable dates for when future vehicles will be made are very seldom. Even the process of converting vehicles into WAVs is more expensive and consumes more energy and resources. Many manufacturers would rather make commercial vans, too, as they can be made faster without the need for interior comforts.
So, it’s a bleak outlook on the new WAV scene. Exceptions to these remarks can be found in rare instances with leading providers, but generally speaking, you’ll have a far easier time securing a used WAV rather than a brand-new fresh off the production line. There’ll be no anxious and frustrating wait times – you’ll see what you like and be on the road in no time.
Better Price Points
The less of something there is, the more expensive it can be to purchase. Newer WAVs take another hit in that regard.
You can find something to suit your lifestyle with used WAVS at varying prices. Allied Mobility has a great range of stock available (and also some newer WAVs if you’re interested) for every budget. Each vehicle has rear access, and you can browse by model, manufacturer, or number of wheelchair spaces thanks to Allied Mobility’s filtered search capabilities.
So, one might argue you have more flexibility with a used WAV search. Things may not be perfect within the wider industry, but the leading specialists work hard to provide a reliable service that will meet all of your needs. Nobody is left behind, whether you need a larger converted vehicle for a group of people or something for just you.
They Can be RAC-Approved
Some people believe that used vehicles can be inundated with a multitude of problems. It’s not an unreasonable assumption to make, given the conditions some of these things can be found in or supposedly fixed up from.
While buying a used vehicle can be a roll of the dice in other contexts, the situation with WAVs is very different. Sellers and their stock undergo a series of testing precautions to ensure what they’re selling is legitimate and functional. The transaction is fairer, as buyers have key assurances to make a more informed decision.
We’re referring to the fact you can find RAC-approved and within your budget online. As you’re probably aware, the service specialises in the breakdown, recovery, and repair of vehicles, so their inspections will be highly focused and authoritative. Their criteria is rigorous, and their standards are high. They’ll examine safety features, electrical systems, and the vehicle’s general mechanical and roadworthiness condition.
While things vary here, some RAC-approved vehicles come with extra parkers, like warranties provided by the organisation itself. Such safeguards may cover electrical and mechanical components, ensuring the WAV can be quickly fixed in the unlikely event anything goes wrong.
Free Home Demonstrations
Services providing WAVs used and new may offer free home demonstrations. That’s a huge advantage for you as a buyer.
Depending on your communication preferences, you can email or ring expert mobility advisors around WAVs. They can answer any questions and help you book the demonstration that’s not just ‘free’ but has no subsequent obligations attached to it either. Calls can also be free, or you can click a link online.
These advisors will discuss the makes and models of WAVs you’re interested in and would like to see. You can discuss specifications and any other requirements. After that, your details will be passed along to a consultant in your area, who will then contact you to arrange the visit for a convenient time, not them. If you like what you see and experience, they’ll help you complete the paperwork.
As we mentioned, those looking for a new WAV get the same experience too. However, because you can also have demonstrations for a used WAV, you can be confident that you’re getting the same assurances and treatment. A used vehicle isn’t a compromise here. It’s equally important, and you won’t encounter inferior products or services.
A Provable Track Record
Newer vehicles might seem like they’ll have fewer faults at first. That said, there are never any guarantees, and a sense of uncertainty can sometimes surround them.
While in some circles the history of used cars can be deceptively obscured, providers of WAVs don’t feel any inclination to be shady in their dealings. The track record of their vehicles is readily available for anybody who wishes to know about them, with WAV mobility advisors being very forthcoming in sharing the details.
Mileage, accident history, modification changes, and more can all be discussed in-depth. Knowing that a vehicle has served another owner, or several others, well through the years can be reassuring. Sure, there may be some issues to look out for, but you’ll be made aware of them as they’ll be well-documented. You can receive guidance for fixing problems, too.
Put simply; there are no question marks. Free home demonstrations provide a lot of clarity and are recommended, but being able to research the history of your desired WAV anytime, anywhere, is vital too.
Dodging Discrimination
Discrimination is being challenged more rigorously today. However, it can’t always be stamped out entirely, especially in our lifetimes.
For example, there are reports of taxi drivers refusing disabled passengers for a ride. It’s shameful behaviour, and while the offender’s licence was rightly revoked, it’s still an inconvenient and traumatic process for any passenger to go through. Events like these can have an impact long after they’re over, and people are fearful or anxious about attempting to use such services again.
Not every taxi driver will be that way inclined, of course. That said, a used WAV can mean that you don’t need to worry about these situations anywhere near as often. You deserve better, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can get around and enjoy a full life without depending on public transportation services.
Conclusion
There are many good reasons to secure a used WAV. There are fewer supply problems, more flexible and reasonable prices, and numerous quality assurances. Hopefully, you can also feel more confident and independent sooner rather than dealing with delays and discrimination. Consult the experts, and take your time choosing.