For many people living with mobility challenges, a wheelchair accessible van represents more than transportation—it’s freedom, flexibility and independence. Whether you’re heading to work, visiting family, or exploring somewhere new, the right vehicle helps you stay connected to the moments that matter most.

When you’re ready to get one, the big question is: should you lease or buy a van? Both options have their benefits, depending on your lifestyle, driving habits and budget. Here’s what to consider before making your decision.

Why Lease a Wheelchair Accessible Van?

If you want flexibility and the ability to drive newer models more often, van leasing may be the best fit. When you lease a van, you pay for the use of the vehicle for a set term—usually two to five years—without taking full ownership.

Flex Lease: Maximum Flexibility

This option requires a higher initial payment but gives you the ability to return the vehicle at any time with no long-term commitment. For many families, this flexibility is invaluable especially when the expected length of need is uncertain due to medical changes, recovery, or evolving mobility situations.

Standard Lease: Lower Upfront, Predictable Costs

A traditional lease is also available, offering predictable payments and the convenience of returning the vehicle when the lease ends. Leasing also removes the stress of trying to sell the van later, which can be especially helpful if the vehicle is no longer needed.

Lease-to-Own: A Path to Ownership

For some clients, leasing offers the right monthly payment structure but long-term ownership is still the goal. In these situations, a lease-to-own pathway could be the best approach. With this approach, a client may choose to purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease by paying the residual value, the remaining lease payments, and an acquisition fee.

Additional Benefits of Leasing

• Access to newer, lower-mileage vehicles (note: not all vans will qualify for leasing)
• Often fewer unexpected repair costs while under warranty
• Ability to upgrade into newer models with updated accessibility features

Leasing may be the right choice if you’re looking for flexibility, want to avoid long-term financial commitment, or are unsure how long you’ll need a wheelchair accessible van.

👉 Learn more about leasing a wheelchair accessible van

Why Buy a Wheelchair Accessible Van?

If you plan to keep your vehicle long-term and want full ownership, buying might be the better route.

Benefits of buying include:

• Long-term savings once your loan is paid off
• No mileage restrictions, giving you the freedom to travel as much as you’d like
• Full customization—you can add or modify adaptive equipment to fit your exact needs
• Vehicle equity, allowing you to trade in or resell later (note: equity may build more slowly than in the past due to today’s higher interest rates and longer loan terms)

Buying might be ideal if:

You plan to use your wheelchair accessible van for many years and want complete control over its use and features.

Key Questions to Ask Before You Decide

Ask yourself:

• How long will I need the vehicle?
• What’s my ideal monthly budget?
• How often do I drive/ride long distances?
• Do I want access to new technology every few years?

Your answers can help determine whether leasing or buying makes more sense for your situation.

Visit a MobilityWorks Location Near You

No matter which path you choose, MobilityWorks is here to help you find the right solution. Our team can guide you through both van leasing and purchase options, answer your questions and help you compare wheelchair accessible vans that match your lifestyle and mobility needs.

👉 Find your nearest MobilityWorks location to schedule a personalized consultation or test drive today.