How to Buy a UK Used WAV Car Without a Clue with FAQ

It’s understandable that finding a suitable wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) can be overwhelming, especially when it’s a sudden need. Here are some fundamental steps to guide your research:

First Question: Do you need a Driver or Passenger WAV Car? Determine if the wheelchair user needs to drive the vehicle or be a passenger. This will significantly narrow down your options. For more information on passenger WAVs, visit Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Somerset.

Which One? Passenger Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles or Driver WAV Cars?

Passenger Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are designed to transport wheelchair users as passengers. They typically have a rear ramp or side entry system for wheelchair access. For options, see our used WAV cars for sale in the UK. Consider the size and type of wheelchair the user has, as this will influence the vehicle’s accessibility features. Check out our guide on how to measure for a wheelchair accessible vehicle from home.

Driver WAV Cars allow wheelchair users to drive the car independently. They often have hand controls and adaptations for wheelchair transfer. Read more about driver WAVs in our guide on questions to ask when buying a WAV car.

DVLA – Do I need to submit medical information?

Get free vehicle tax if you’re a driver with a disability. You may not have to pay the DVLA vehicle tax if either: You’re a disabled driver, or you have a certain type of vehicle. You can only use your exemption on one vehicle at a time. If you have more than one vehicle, you’ll need to choose which one will be exempt from vehicle tax. Check the latest 2025 information on the DVLA website here.

The UK government does not currently require specific mental health checks for wheelchair users to obtain a driving license. However, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) may ask for medical information if they have concerns about a driver’s fitness to drive. This information is kept confidential. For more details, visit our FAQ on medical checks.

Cost of a New WAV Car vs. a Quality Checked Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Set a realistic budget for the purchase and potential modifications. Can you afford the time to research new 2025 models and their forecourt prices and accessories packages? Consider buying a used WAV to save costs. Reputable dealers like Michael Harraway Cars provide reliable options. Learn more about buying used WAVs in our article on buying used wheelchair accessible vehicles in the UK.

Explore New WAV Models

While WAV prices have naturally increased over the past two decades due to technological advances, Harraway offers competitive pricing. In 2024, the Peugeot Rifter Horizon starts around £26,000, reflecting the value of its advanced safety features, comfort, and accessibility. Learn more about the Peugeot cars for wheelchair users.

Technological Advancements in Peugeot – EasyGlide Ramp

Today’s WAVs, like the Peugeot Partner (now the Peugeot Rifter Horizon), have seen significant advancements. Earlier models may have lacked modern tech, but the latest vehicles are equipped with cutting-edge features such as Easyglide™ ramps, assisted parking sensors, rear-view cameras, and advanced hand controls.

These features make independent driving easier and more accessible than ever before. Discover more in our article on wheelchair accessible Peugeot Partner.

Used WAVs: A Cost-Effective Option

Consider buying a used WAV to save costs. Reputable dealers have time-served knowledge of WAVs and can provide reliable options. Michael Harraway Cars, established in 2005, has a 20-year outstanding reputation for quality, trust, honesty, and personalised customer care. Want to ask Mike about accessibility features and the latest AI modern technology? For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Michael Harraway Cars in Weston-super-Mare and start your journey towards enhanced mobility today.

Consider Modifications

If you find a suitable non-WAV vehicle, you can explore professional conversion services to make it wheelchair accessible. When you buy a manufacturer-fitted accessible car, there’s a few different options – but what’s the difference between a Peugeot Partner and Citrown Berlingo?

Consider adding adaptive equipment like hand controls, spinner knobs, or pedal extenders to enhance the driving experience. Read our guide on WAV care and maintenance.

Additional Considerations and Expert Advice

Consult trusted companies like Disability Rights UK or the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Association (WAVCA) for guidance and resources. Occupational therapists can assess the wheelchair user’s specific needs and recommend suitable vehicle modifications. Visit reputable WAV dealers who can provide expert advice and demonstrations of different vehicles. For more information, check out our WAV information page.

Insurance, Accessibility, Safety and Annual Maintenance

Research insurance options for WAVs, as they may have specific requirements and premiums. Our article on privacy policy provides insights into insurance considerations. Learn more about why you should buy used WAV cars from us.

Consider the accessibility of the vehicle, including ramps, lifts, and interior space. Ensure the vehicle meets the specific needs of the wheelchair user for comfort and safety. Learn how to measure for a wheelchair accessible vehicle from home.

Has the vehicle has adequate safety features for a first time buyer, especially if the wheelchair user is driving? Read our trouble-shooting guide for common safety checks. Factor in the costs of regular maintenance and potential repairs for a WAV. Stay prepared with our winter-ready WAV maintenance guide.

With a steep learning curve at first, finding the right WAV is a personal journey. Take your time, research thoroughly, and chat with Mike to make an informed decision that best suits the wheelchair user’s needs and preferences. For free assistance at no charge, please do feel free to contact us at Michael Harraway Cars.

Buy Used Wheelchair Accessible Cars and Vehicles from a Trusted UK Dealer

When considering used wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), trust and expertise are paramount. Michael Harraway Cars, with 20 years of experience, provides a service that goes beyond simply selling cars. Located in Banwell, Weston-super-Mare, near the M5, their coverage extends across the South West, from Swindon to Dorset, Devon, Bristol, Bath, Somerset, and Exeter, offering convenience to customers across the region.

A Trusted Source for Quality WAVs

From manual ramps in the early 2000s to today’s electric and hydraulic lift systems, Harraway’s vehicles are fitted with the latest features that make mobility easier and safer. Their vehicles also include larger windows, improving visibility for wheelchair users who drive, and advanced accessible sat nav systems, allowing for independent travel. Learn more about our WAV vehicles.

Pre-Sale Service and Quality Guarantee

One of the standout benefits of buying from Michael Harraway is the comprehensive pre-sale service each vehicle undergoes. Every car is subjected to a multi-point inspection, covering everything from tyre conditions (replacing any below 3.5mm) to essential services like engine oil and filter changes. Harraway goes a step further by offering a minimum of 9 months MOT on every used WAV and replacing the timing belt and water pump if they are due within 12 months. This ensures the customer gets a reliable vehicle ready to use from the moment it’s delivered. For more details, read our selling guide.

Beyond technical inspections, each vehicle also undergoes a professional interior and exterior valet service, guaranteeing that your WAV not only performs well but also looks great. This level of attention to detail reflects Harraway’s commitment to providing the highest quality vehicles, offering in-house, comprehensive warranties that are straightforward and hassle-free. Unlike many dealers who use third-party warranties with multiple exclusions, Harraway’s direct approach gives customers peace of mind, knowing that issues will be addressed swiftly and fairly.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Bristol, Bath and Beyond: A Full UK Nationwide Helpful Dealer With Honest Answers

Established in 2005, Michael Harraway takes great pride in the quality and preparation of every WAV car that’s sold, and no car will leave the premises unless we are 100% satisfied with it. Our client base is throughout Bristol, Bath, South Wales, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and the whole of the South West UK.

We do not believe in sales gimmicks so we will not bombard you with additional extras such as fancy paint protection or some special insurance policy. Just a good honest transparent purchase experience. Our aim is to provide the best possible customer service and make the experience of purchasing your new vehicle as straightforward and enjoyable as possible.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles Bristol, Bath and Beyond: A Full UK Nationwide Helpful Dealer With Honest Answers

We offer any vehicle part exchange facilities even if your existing vehicle is worth more, we will happily refund the difference. At our showroom, you will be welcomed to a different car buying experience with guaranteed zero sales pressure. We are always happy to offer free advice and look forward to seeing you soon.

WAV Cars and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles South West UK

Browse the used WAV vehicles now, do remember our stock is updated daily and demand is high for certain makes and models. Schedule an appointment here –  if you have seen a wheelchair accessible vehicle on our website do remember to add this to your message.

We are located on the outskirts of Weston super Mare in the small village of Banwell. Situated on the main A371 and less than a 10-minute drive from Junction 21 of the M5 motorway so getting to us is very direct. We pride ourselves on the quality of our vehicles that have been carefully selected and prepared to the highest standard.  We understand that buying a used car can be a stressful situation which is why we guarantee to offer our customers a personal, hassle-free, no gimmick approach to purchasing a used WAV car. One of our key principles is to treat our customers how we would like to be treated.

WAV Vehicles Superior Standards and Professional Valet

To ensure that every vehicle meets our meticulous standards prior to the sale we place all our vehicles through a comprehensive multi-point pre-delivery inspecting and road test that includes all the wheelchair adaptions. Feel  confident that your new vehicle will function exactly as you would expect.

Wheelchair Accessible Cars and Vehicles Warranty

Every vehicle we sell comes with our own in-house, no-nonsense comprehensive parts and labour warranty.

Pre-Delivery Multi-Point Inspection Minimum Standards – Key points.

• All wheelchair adaptions checked and verified in full working order
• Any tyre under 3.5mm of tread will be replaced excluding spare. The legal limit is 1.6mm
• Engine Oil and Filter replaced if the last change exceeds 3,000 miles or 6 Months
• Minimum 9 Months MOT for confidence and peace of mind
• Timing, belt and water pump replaced if due within the next 12 months or 10,000 miles
• Every vehicle will be supplied with 2 x keys
• In addition to the pre-delivery inspection every vehicle receives a professional interior and exterior valet so every used car we sell not only performs well but looks to too.

The reason we choose to do our own in house warranty is that there is not a one size fits all when it comes to warranty claims and we decided to change our previous agreement by dealing with the insurance backed warranty companies. We experienced issues whereby there was always a reason why something isn’t covered (or why they will only pay part of the claim). We are dedicated to providing superior customer support and service from the ground up.

As a WAV specialist dealer, we fully understand that we have a responsibility to our customers should a problem arise. Our warranty goal is to get things resolved as quickly and efficiently as possible with the least amount of fuss. As with all warranties, there are terms and conditions – but nothing horrendous – so as long as you have not broken it or mistreated it, or it is trim or bodywork or something silly like a puncture repair, or a light bulb then we will aim to cover it.

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30 – 18:00, Saturday 9.30 – 17:00. Alternative hours available on request for Sunday and Bank Holiday so Contact Us.

Why Buy From Michael Harraway Cars in Somerset? We understand the importance of choosing the right Wheelchair accessible vehicle or used car.  We have a great selection to choose from which is always changing and every day we have new WAV vehicle stocks online. With over 28 years’ experience in the car industry, we only buy quality stock that meets to our demanding criteria so you can be confident that the cars we sell have been carefully selected and prepared to a high standard both cosmetically and mechanically prior to being displayed on our forecourt.

We are currently operating a viewing by appointment only policy this allows us to limit the number of customers on the premises at any one time to adhere to social distancing guidelines. You can leave a message by telephone on 01934 820077 or if you prefer, send a message online and provide some dates and times that’s best for you to visit.