Home » How MobilityWorks Reconditions Pre-Owned Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

How MobilityWorks Reconditions Pre-Owned Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

A person in a work uniform is checking under a preowned wheelchair van’s hood, using diagnostic tools and cables connected to the vehicle’s battery.

When you purchase a pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle from MobilityWorks, you can feel confident knowing it has undergone a comprehensive reconditioning process designed to help ensure safety, reliability, accessibility, and comfort.

Every used wheelchair van or wheelchair accessible SUV on our lot is inspected and serviced by Certified Mobility Technicians who evaluate both the vehicle’s mechanical systems and its accessibility equipment. From wheelchair ramps and lifts to securement systems and safety features, every critical component is tested before the vehicle is offered for sale.

What Goes Into Reconditioning a Pre-Owned Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle?

Reconditioning is the process of inspecting, servicing, repairing, and testing a vehicle to help ensure it meets our standards for performance, accessibility, and safety.

At MobilityWorks, this process includes:

  • A comprehensive 160-point inspection
  • Testing and servicing adaptive mobility equipment
  • Interior and exterior reconditioning
  • Accessibility feature updates when needed
  • A final quality assurance review and road test

Step 1: Comprehensive 160-Point Vehicle Inspection

Every pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle begins with a detailed 160-point inspection performed by a Certified Mobility Technician.

Mechanical System Inspection

Our technicians evaluate key vehicle components, including:

  • Engine performance
  • Transmission operation
  • Suspension systems
  • Brake systems
  • Steering components

This inspection helps identify signs of wear and confirms that essential systems are operating as intended.

Safety Systems Evaluation

Safety features are carefully inspected and tested, including:

  • Airbag systems
  • Seatbelts
  • Vehicle lighting
  • Warning indicators
  • Sensors and diagnostic systems

Diagnostic tools are used to verify proper system functionality.

Vehicle History Review

Each vehicle’s CARFAX® Vehicle History Report is reviewed to provide additional insight into:

  • Service and maintenance records
  • Reported accidents or damage
  • Title status
  • Ownership history

This review helps confirm that the vehicle meets MobilityWorks standards before moving forward in the reconditioning process.

Step 2: Adaptive Equipment Inspection and Testing

Unlike traditional used vehicles, wheelchair accessible vehicles contain specialized mobility equipment that requires expert evaluation.

Our mobility technicians inspect and test every accessibility component.

Wheelchair Ramps and Lifts

Whether manual or powered, ramp and lift systems are inspected for:

  • Smooth operation
  • Proper alignment
  • Structural integrity
  • Weight-capacity performance

Kneeling Systems

Kneeling systems are tested to ensure the vehicle lowers properly and provides safe, convenient wheelchair access.

Wheelchair Securement Systems

Securement equipment is evaluated to help ensure wheelchairs can be transported safely. Technicians test:

  • Wheelchair tie-down systems
  • Occupant restraint systems
  • Docking stations and automatic securement devices

Driver Accessibility Equipment

When equipped, additional adaptive driving equipment is tested, including:

  • Hand controls
  • Steering aids
  • Transfer seats
  • Other driver-assist mobility solutions

Step 3: Interior and Exterior Reconditioning

Every vehicle receives cosmetic and functional reconditioning to enhance cleanliness, comfort, and overall usability.

Interior Cleaning and Sanitization

Our reconditioning process includes:

  • Deep cleaning of seats and flooring
  • Surface sanitization
  • Odor removal and deodorization
  • Interior detailing

Repair or Replacement of Worn Components

As needed, technicians repair or replace:

  • Seat upholstery
  • Flooring materials
  • Interior trim pieces
  • Damaged or worn components

Exterior Appearance Improvements

Minor exterior imperfections may be addressed through:

  • Paint touch-ups
  • Scratch repair
  • Minor dent correction
  • Exterior detailing

While some cosmetic wear may remain on older vehicles, every vehicle is evaluated for safety, reliability, and functionality.

Step 4: Accessibility Enhancements and Technology Updates

When appropriate, we may update accessibility-related features to improve usability and help ensure the vehicle meets current standards.

These enhancements may include:

  • Installation of new wheelchair securement systems
  • Updating electronic accessibility controls
  • Reprogramming remotes and key fobs
  • Servicing mobility-related electronics
  •  

Step 5: Final Quality Assurance Inspection

Before a vehicle is listed for sale, it undergoes a final quality assurance review.

Road Test Evaluation

Technicians conduct a real-world test drive to assess:

  • Handling
  • Acceleration
  • Braking performance
  • Ride quality

Ramp and Lift Performance Testing

Wheelchair ramps and lifts are cycled multiple times to verify:

  • Consistent operation
  • Proper deployment and stowage
  • Reliable performance

Client-Ready Inspection

A final review confirms that important vehicle features are operating properly, including:

  • Climate control systems
  • Power accessories
  • Interior components
  • Convenience features

At MobilityWorks, our goal is not to make every vehicle look brand new. Our goal is to provide dependable, thoroughly inspected wheelchair accessible vehicles that help meet the mobility needs of our customers.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why Reconditioning Matters for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

A pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle is more than just transportation—it is an essential mobility solution for many individuals and families.
Professional reconditioning helps ensure:
* Vehicle safety and reliability
* Proper operation of accessibility equipment
* Improved long-term value
* Greater peace of mind for buyers

What is a reconditioned wheelchair accessible vehicle?

A reconditioned wheelchair accessible vehicle is a pre-owned vehicle that has been inspected, serviced, repaired as needed, and tested to help ensure safe operation of both the vehicle and its mobility equipment.

Do MobilityWorks technicians inspect wheelchair ramps and lifts?

Yes. Every wheelchair ramp or lift is inspected and tested for proper operation, alignment, reliability, and performance.

What is included in MobilityWorks’ 160-point inspection?

The inspection covers major mechanical systems, safety equipment, accessibility components, and vehicle history verification.

Why is adaptive equipment testing important?

Wheelchair ramps, lifts, kneeling systems, and securement devices are critical safety components that require specialized inspection and servicing by trained mobility technicians.


Find a Pre-Owned Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle You Can Trust

When you choose a pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle from MobilityWorks, you’re choosing a vehicle that has undergone a thorough inspection, professional servicing, adaptive equipment testing, and multiple quality assurance checks.

Our team is committed to helping you find the right mobility solution for your lifestyle, budget, and accessibility needs. Explore our inventory or speak with a MobilityWorks expert to learn more about available wheelchair accessible vans and SUVs.

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