Your guide to adaptations on the Motability Scheme

For many disabled individuals and their families, mobility is more than just convenience—it’s independence, freedom, and quality of life. The Motability Scheme has long been a cornerstone in helping disabled customers access vehicles that meet their unique needs. But beyond simply leasing a car, one of the most impactful and often underappreciated aspects of the scheme is vehicle adaptations.

In this guide, we’ll take a critical and practical look at adaptations available through the Motability Scheme, who can benefit, what’s covered, and the process involved.

What is the Motability Scheme?

At its core, the Motability Scheme allows individuals receiving specific disability-related benefits to lease a new vehicle, scooter, or powered wheelchair using their mobility allowance. It’s available to people receiving:

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)

Participants can lease a brand-new car, often with servicing, insurance, and breakdown cover included, typically for a term of three years (or five years for wheelchair accessible vehicles, or WAVs).

Why Adaptations Matter

While leasing a standard vehicle might be sufficient for some, others need more specialised solutions. Whether it’s due to limited mobility, reduced muscle strength, or difficulty transferring from a wheelchair, adaptations can turn an inaccessible car into an empowering mode of transport.

Adaptations generally fall into three categories:

• Driving adaptations – to make it easier to control the car (e.g., hand controls, steering aids).
• Stowage adaptations – to store mobility aids like scooters or powered wheelchairs.
• Access adaptations – to assist with getting in and out of the car.

These modifications can make a critical difference in maintaining independence and safety.

Types of Adaptations Available

As outlined by Motability, adaptations range from simple mechanical solutions to sophisticated electronic systems. Some commonly fitted adaptations include:

• Left foot accelerators
• Push/pull hand controls
• Electronic accelerators
• Remote control devices
• Transfer plates
• Person hoists
• Swivel seats
• Wheelchair and scooter hoists

Importantly, over 150 adaptations are available, and many are provided at no extra cost if arranged at the start of the lease.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVS)

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVS) are modified vehicles built to enable wheelchair users to travel securely and comfortably while remaining in their wheelchairs. These vehicles typically include access solutions such as ramps or lifts, along with features like lowered floors and specialised restraint systems to ensure safety. WAVs are available for purchase or lease, with programmes like the UK’s Motability Scheme offering support for leasing options.

For customers who cannot transfer from their wheelchair to a car seat, a wheelchair accessible vehicle may be the best solution. These vehicles are specially converted to allow a wheelchair user to travel as a passenger or driver while staying in their wheelchair.

Key features may include:

• Ramps or lifts
• Lowered floors
• Secure wheelchair tie-downs
• Power-assisted doors

Motability offers WAVS on a five-year lease. They also support home demonstrations, ensuring you can try out different vehicles to suit your needs before committing.

However, it’s worth noting that advance payments on WAVS can be substantial, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, raising critical concerns about affordability for many users.

Eligibility and Allowances

To be eligible for the scheme, you must receive one of the qualifying benefits, with a minimum remaining award length of 12 months. Your allowance is exchanged to cover the lease, and it typically includes:

• Servicing and maintenance
• Insurance for up to three named drivers
• RAC breakdown cover
• Annual MOT and road tax
• 60,000-mile limit over three years (or 100,000 miles for WAVS)

This all-inclusive package offers peace of mind, especially for those who rely heavily on their vehicle.

Critically Evaluating the Scheme

The Motability Scheme is widely praised, but it’s not without criticism. Some of the key issues raised by users include:

• High advance payments, especially for WAVs and certain vehicle models
• Limited customisation options after the lease starts
• Complex eligibility rules that can be a barrier for some
• Resale restrictions on vehicles adapted privately after the lease

There are also questions about long-term cost-effectiveness. Some users may find that purchasing a second-hand wheelchair-accessible car or adapting a personal vehicle outside the scheme may offer better value, especially if they drive less frequently or need highly specific customisations not offered by Motability partners.

The Process: How to Get an Adaptation

Start with an assessment – Before choosing a car, it’s essential to speak to an adaptations specialist. Mobility centres across the UK offer practical driving assessments and advice on which adaptations would best suit your needs.

• Choose your vehicle carefully – Not all adaptations work with all vehicles. Your adaptations installer can help ensure compatibility.
• Order your adaptation with your vehicle – Most adaptations are easier and cheaper to fit when done before delivery. Retrofitting can be limited and costly.
• Consider future needs – Your mobility needs may change over time. Choosing a vehicle and adaptations with flexibility in mind is crucial.

Adaptations can be life-changing, providing accessibility, independence, and dignity for thousands of disabled drivers and passengers across the UK. While the Motability car scheme provides excellent support and resources, it’s important to approach the process with a critical eye, ask detailed questions, and explore all available options—especially if your needs are highly specialised.

Whether you’re a wheelchair user, a carer, or a new applicant navigating the scheme for the first time, make sure to use trusted resources, like mobility centres and the official Motability website, to make informed decisions that truly enhance your independence.

Discover the freedom of tailored mobility with PB Conversions. 

Explore our wide range of high-quality vehicle adaptations designed to suit your individual needs—whether you’re a driver or passenger. From driving aids to full wheelchair-accessible conversions, we’re here to help you travel safely and comfortably.

Get in touch with us today to find the perfect solution for your mobility needs. Your independence is just a call or click away!