1. How much does a wheelchair van cost?
The cost of a wheelchair-accessible van varies widely based on whether it is new or pre-owned, the vehicle model, and the type of conversion. New wheelchair vans typically range from $45,000 to $90,000 or more. Pre-owned accessible vans can be found for $20,000–$50,000 depending on year, mileage, and condition. Conversion costs alone — the ramp, lowered floor, and structural modifications — typically add $15,000–$25,000 to the base vehicle price. Financing, VA grants, and Medicaid funding can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
2. Does insurance cover wheelchair van conversions?
Standard auto insurance covers wheelchair vans as vehicles, but the coverage of conversion components (ramps, lifts, modified floor) depends on your specific policy. It is important to notify your insurer that your vehicle contains adaptive equipment and to request that the conversion components be specifically listed in your policy. Some insurers offer 'agreed value' or 'stated value' policies that better reflect the true replacement cost of a mobility vehicle. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage may also help with costs related to vehicle access needs following an accident.
3. What is the difference between side-entry and rear-entry wheelchair vans?
Side-entry vans deploy the ramp from the vehicle's sliding door on the side of the van, allowing the wheelchair user to position near the driver's seat — ideal for drivers. Rear-entry vans deploy the ramp from the back of the vehicle, which is generally less expensive but requires more clearance space behind the vehicle to load and unload. Side-entry is typically preferred by wheelchair drivers and families who want a more natural boarding experience; rear-entry is a practical choice for passengers or when budget is a primary concern. Both configurations are safe and widely used.
4. Can I finance a mobility vehicle?
Yes. Apple Ford Mobility Center offers standard auto financing through multiple lenders, with terms typically ranging from 48 to 84 months. We work with buyers at all credit levels and can structure financing to work alongside grants or other funding sources. VA Automobile Adaptive Equipment grants can be applied as a down payment component, and Medicaid waiver funding may also be coordinated through our finance department. Contact our team at 866-841-9642 to discuss your specific financing situation.
5. Are there grants available for wheelchair vans?
Yes, several grant programs exist for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The VA Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) grant provides eligible veterans up to approximately $21,488 toward a vehicle purchase. Maryland Medicaid HCBS waiver programs may cover vehicle modifications for eligible participants. Vocational rehabilitation agencies, such as Maryland DORS, may fund modifications necessary for employment. Nonprofit organizations including the BraunAbility Mobility Assistance Program, United Spinal Association, and Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust also provide funding assistance. Visit our financing page for details on each program.
6. What is BraunAbility?
BraunAbility is the world's largest manufacturer of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and automotive lifts. Founded in 1966 by Ralph Braun — who built his first three-wheeled scooter at age 13 to overcome the effects of spinal muscular atrophy — BraunAbility has produced millions of mobility products over the past six decades. The company is headquartered in Winamac, Indiana, and its conversions are available exclusively through authorized dealers such as Apple Ford Mobility Center. BraunAbility is best known for its patented in-floor ramp system and its industry-leading safety engineering.
7. How long does a wheelchair van conversion take?
Factory conversions performed on new vehicles before delivery typically take 4–8 weeks from the time the base vehicle is ordered. If you are purchasing a pre-converted vehicle from our in-stock inventory, there is no waiting period. Custom modifications or specialized equipment additions performed after purchase can typically be completed in 1–3 weeks depending on parts availability. Our team will provide a specific timeline when you place an order or request a custom modification.
8. Can I test drive a wheelchair van?
Yes. Apple Ford Mobility Center encourages all customers to test-drive and test-load a wheelchair van before purchasing. We can arrange for you to bring your wheelchair to our Columbia, MD location to verify fit and comfort. For wheelchair users who drive independently, we can arrange an adaptive driving evaluation with a certified driver rehabilitation specialist if needed. Testing the vehicle with your specific wheelchair before purchase is the single most important step in ensuring the vehicle is right for you.
9. Do you offer wheelchair van rentals?
Apple Ford Mobility Center does not currently offer a rental program. However, several national rental companies specialize in accessible vehicles, including AVIS, National, and Wheelchair Getaways. For temporary needs, MedRide and similar services offer accessible vehicle rentals in the Maryland and DC area. If you are evaluating a specific vehicle model before purchase, we can often arrange an extended test-drive at our Columbia, MD location.
10. What maintenance does a wheelchair van need?
In addition to standard vehicle maintenance (oil changes, tire rotation, brake service, etc.), wheelchair vans require periodic inspection and maintenance of the conversion components. The ramp mechanism should be lubricated and inspected at every oil change interval or annually at minimum. Tie-down systems and floor anchors should be inspected for wear and secure attachment. Electrical connections for power ramps and lifts should be checked annually. Most manufacturers recommend a professional mobility equipment service inspection every 12 months. Apple Ford's service department is equipped to service both the base vehicle and the conversion equipment.
11. What is the difference between a ramp and a lift?
A ramp creates a sloped surface for a wheelchair to roll up and into the vehicle, while a lift uses a platform that rises vertically to bring the wheelchair to floor level. Ramps are lighter, require less maintenance, and deploy faster — they are standard on most minivan conversions. Lifts are more commonly found on full-size vans and are better suited for very heavy power wheelchairs or individuals who cannot navigate a slope. Both systems are safe when properly maintained, and the right choice depends on the wheelchair type, the user's strength, and vehicle configuration.
12. Can any vehicle be converted to wheelchair accessible?
Not every vehicle is a practical candidate for wheelchair conversion. Minivans and full-size vans are the most common platforms because their interior dimensions — particularly ceiling height and floor-to-ceiling space — allow for a lowered floor conversion while maintaining sufficient headroom. SUVs and crossovers have been converted, but the smaller interior space limits headroom after floor lowering. Sedans and coupes are generally not suitable for ramp or lift conversions. Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Transit, and Ford E-Series are the most widely converted models and have the most aftermarket support.
13. What is the VA Automobile Adaptive Equipment grant?
The VA Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) grant is a benefit provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to help eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities purchase a specially adapted vehicle and/or adaptive equipment. The current grant amount is up to approximately $21,488 for the vehicle purchase, plus a separate amount for adaptive equipment. Eligibility requires a service-connected disability involving loss or permanent loss of use of one or both feet or hands, permanent visual impairment in both eyes, or severe burn injury. The grant is applied as a one-time benefit. Apple Ford Mobility Center is an authorized VA adaptive vehicle dealer and can assist with the grant process.
14. Do you deliver mobility vehicles?
Apple Ford Mobility Center is located at 8800 Stanford Blvd, Columbia, MD 21045, and we primarily serve customers who visit our location for purchase and delivery. We can accommodate customers traveling from across Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the Washington, DC metro area. For customers with significant distance or access constraints, please contact us at 866-841-9642 to discuss delivery options. All vehicles must be fully demonstrated and inspected by the buyer or their designated representative at the time of delivery.
15. How do I choose between a full-size van and a minivan?
The right choice depends primarily on the wheelchair type, the number of passengers, and how the vehicle will be used. Minivans are generally preferred for daily family use, solo drivers, and individuals with standard-sized power or manual wheelchairs — they are easier to park, more fuel-efficient, and less intimidating to drive. Full-size vans are preferred when transporting multiple wheelchair users, very large or heavy power chairs, or when maximum headroom is required. We recommend visiting our Columbia, MD showroom to sit in both types with your wheelchair to compare the experience directly.
Don't see your question answered here? Visit our other guides: Wheelchair Vans, Accessible Minivans, Adaptive Equipment, Financing & Grants.
Still have questions?
Our mobility specialists at our Columbia, MD dealership are happy to answer any question — by phone or in person.