What makes a good vehicle for people with disabilities? Our top picks include vehicles that can be easily adapted to accommodate wheelchairs and which are easy to get in and out of. If you’re in the market for a good used accessible vehicle, you might think you need to buy new to get a car you’re comfortable in. Thankfully, there are plenty of great used accessible vehicles to consider.
Features to look for in an accessible vehicle
From swivel seats to hand controls, advances in adaptive technologies are making it easier than ever for all drivers to operate vehicles comfortably and safely.
Depending on your needs, you might be able to purchase a used vehicle and customize it afterwards with just the features you need.
Evaluating your specific needs before you start shopping will help you find a vehicle that fits you properly. Once you have the right vehicle, outfit it with the features you need. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends vehicles with the following features:
- High or extra wide doors
- Adjustable foot pedals
- Large interior door handles
- Oversized knobs with visible labels
- Support handles to help with entry and exit
- Large print gauges
- Dashboard-mounted ignition
- Seat adjusters that move seats in all directions
All of the above features improve your comfort and safety while driving. After finding the right vehicle with the features you need, you may find it helpful to work with a qualified mobility dealer from the National Mobility Equipment Dealer Association (NMEDA) to make any additional adjustments you desire.
Five accessible vehicles for people with disabilities
The most accessible vehicles for drivers with special needs include the following:
Toyota Sienna
This reliable minivan is fully customizable for anyone who uses a wheelchair or mobility scooter. Toyota allows power mobility seats installed from the factory, so this may be a feature worth searching for as you look for the best car for you.
Honda Odyssey
The low step-in height of the Odyssey makes it a great accessible vehicle for persons with disabilities. Leather seats may make entry and exit a bit easier.
Mazda5
A feature to like about the Mazda M5 is its high ride height. Higher seats make it easier to get in and out of, especially for drivers or passengers who struggle to exit a low seat.
Chevy Equinox
The dash and instrumental panel of the Equinox is designed to surround the driver, putting everything you need to operate the vehicle within easy reach. The radio, cruise control and air conditioning/heater are easy to access.
Dodge Journey
Steering wheel-mounted controls are convenient for any driver, but people with disabilities will find them especially helpful in achieving better mobility control.
The secret to finding the best car for you is looking in the right place. Search Carvana’s inventory to find any of these models with the features you want and work with a mobility specialist to tailor the vehicle to your exact needs.
