Top 10 Questions to Ask Your BraunAbility Dealer
1. What financing options are available, which do I qualify for, and what manufacturer rebates are available?
Many options may be available for financing wheelchair vans or wheelchair lifts. Depending on your medical needs, financial situation, and the vehicle and adaptive equipment you choose, your purchase might qualify for one or more manufacturer rebates, sales tax exemptions, or income tax deductions. Your BraunAbillity wheelchair van and wheelchair lift dealer is well-versed in available financing and savings options and will help you determine which you can qualify for.
2. What type of warranty is available for the conversion & accessible equipment?
Your wheelchair van conversion or wheelchair lift will be protected by BraunAbility's best-in-industry Three Year Limited Warranty. Your dealer can give you details about this warranty, including what exactly is covered, what you can do to ensure you maintain your warranty coverage, and how best to get service on a covered device/modification if you need it.
3. What type of warranty is available for the chassis?
BraunAbility's conversion process for wheelchair vans and the addition of wheelchair lifts to new vehicles ensures that their original manufacturer warranties are maintained for the consumer. So in addition to BraunAbility's Three Year Limited Warranty for the conversion, the chassis is covered by its own comprehensive warranty. Your dealer will be able to give you information about both of these warranties and which elements of your wheelchair van falls under each warranty. If you purchase a used vehicle from a dealer, be sure to ask them about both the chassis manufacturer and mobility conversion warranty status of the vehicle.
4. Where can I go to get service for the van and/or the adaptive equipment/conversion? Can you provide alternate transportation while the van is in for repair?
Any vehicle will require periodic repair and routine maintenance. One of the most important benefits of acquiring wheelchair vans or vehicles with wheelchair lifts from a local dealer is that the dealer is likely to be able to service your mobility equipment right there at the dealership, with trained, knowledgeable technicians who can efficiently diagnose and repair any problems. It's impossible for standard automotive repair shops to be familiar with the complex electrical systems that control the functions of a wheelchair van, and therefore can be a challenge to find service when you require it. That's why BraunAbility maintains a nationwide network of dealerships with trained repair technicians- wherever you are with your BraunAbility wheelchair van, there is likely a dealership nearby who can assist you with any repair or maintenance necessary. Depending on your needs, some dealerships may also be able to provide alternative transportation methods while your vehicle is being serviced.
5. What adaptive mobility features and equipment are available for each chassis, and can I add or modify features in the future if necessary?
Your BraunAbility dealer will work closely with you and collected detailed information about your needs, goals, and lifestyle to determine what type of wheelchair van conversion will work best for you, and the types of adaptive equipment that will make driving or riding as safe and comfortable as possible. Your dealer is knowledgeable about the many types of mobility modifications available and will take into account your current and possible future needs to suggest the equipment most appropriate for you.
6. Can I talk to some of your customers who are currently using similar equipment?
Another benefit of buying from a local BraunAbility dealer is that you can connect with other members of your community who have worked with that dealer. You can ask your dealer for references and talk with people who use BraunAbility equipment in their everyday lives about their experience with both the dealer and with their wheelchair vans, wheelchair lifts, scooter lifts, or any other type of adaptive equipment they've purchased. There's no substitute for talking to people with real-life experience with a product or dealer, so previous customers can be an excellent resource for anyone looking to purchase new mobility equipment!
7. Can you explain how the conversion process works? What modifications have been made to the van?
Understanding the process by which standard-chassis minivans are converted into wheelchair minivans, or by which wheelchair lifts are added to standard full-size vans can help you better understand how your mobility equipment works and ensure that you understand everyday operating procedures that can help improve its longevity and reliability. BraunAbility dealers are knowledgeable about the conversion process and can explain how your wheelchair van was created in as much detail as you'd like!
8. What chassis options are available for my wheelchair van conversion?
Just like any other new vehicle, you'll want to know about your wheelchair van's standard available options- from interior color and trim to engine and transmission type. BraunAbility's dealers aren't just knowledgeable about the mobility van conversion process- they can explain any of the original chassis features you'd like to know about as well, helping you decide which combination of chassis and mobility equipment will best work for you.
9. Can I test drive a similar van, or the van that you will be purchasing?
The value of real-life, first-person experience with the vehicle and/or equipment you're considering purchasing can't be overstated. Your dealer will suggest the most appropriate options for you based on your discussions about your lifestyle and requirements. However, only you can decide if you feel comfortable in a particular style of wheelchair van, or secure with using a certain wheelchair lift. There's no way to know unless you physically try it out! That's why BraunAbility dealers will always do their best to provide you with the opportunity to test various mobility equipment options and configurations- so you can make a choice you'll be happy with for years to come.
10. What type of resale/trade in value is my vehicle likely to have?
The chances of being able to trade in or sell your wheelchair van or accessible vehicle when you are ready for another are greatly increased by purchasing from a respected BraunAbility dealer. Service is easily available for all BraunAbility conversions and modifications, even older models- you can keep your vehicle in great condition while you own it, and whether a dealer takes in as a trade in or you sell it yourself, the next owner will always have the guarantee of service availability. It is sometimes difficult for mobility equipment dealers to take vehicles with mobility conversions performed by other manufacturers for trade because they cannot guarantee the high degree of service knowledge and availability they need to provide each of their customers.
Getting your wheelchair van or wheelchair lift dealer's answers to these questions will allow you to feel satisfied and comfortable with your significant, life-changing purchase. Our BraunAbility dealers would be happy to speak with you to find answers to all of your questions and help you find your best mobility solution!
