Knowing how to choose a good scooter lift for SUVs involves the price that you need to invest. Most of them are very affordable but the price range can vary significantly depending on price, type, and other factors.
This post will discuss what can be expected when it comes to the cost of a mobility scooter lift for a car.
Different Types of Mobility Scooter Lifts
Scooter carriers aid in transporting a mobility scooter from one place to another, usually in the bed of a pickup truck or with a hitch mounted on the back of an SUV.
For over 3 million Americans that use a wheelchair whether a manual folding wheelchair or electric scooter for their daily activities, having a reliable car mobility scooter lift is something that can’t be taken for granted.
Here are some of the most popular types of power chair lifts and mobility device lifts you can find in the market:
Hitch Lifts
Hitch lifts are the simplest and most cost-effective type of mobility scooter lift for a car. They come in both manual and motorized models and are usually attached to the hitch of your vehicle.
Prices for these types of lifts start at around $800, but can easily reach up to $2,000 or more depending on the model you choose.
Some of the advantages of hitch lifts over other types of lifts are their lightweight design and the fact that they can be used with a variety of vehicles. However, because it attaches to your vehicle’s hitch you do need to make sure your car has the adequate weight capacity for it.
They are perfect vehicle lifts for cars, vans, and SUVs that don’t have that much space inside.
Hoist Lifts
A hoist lift is another type of lift used to transport a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This type of wheelchair lift is commonly found in the truck bed or cargo space of a van or SUV.
Prices for these types of lifts start at around $1,500 and go up to $3,000 or more depending on the size and features you choose.
The advantages of hoist lifts are that they can be used with a variety of vehicles and they offer more stability than hitch lifts. However, because they require more space inside the vehicle, they may not be an ideal choice for smaller cars or sedans.
Inside-Mounted Lifts
This platform-style scooter lift has fully assisted power models that can be installed inside a vehicle. And because of this feature, they are often costlier than the other two types of lifts.
Prices for these types of lifts start at around $2,000 and can go up to $4,000 or more depending on the model you choose.
These wheelchair lifts can lift both user and the mobility device together which is perfect for those who are using a manual wheelchair.
It doesn’t necessarily add up to the vehicle’s dimension, meaning it won’t take up too much space inside. Since it is installed inside the vehicle, it is more stable and secure than a hitch lift and not exposed to elements, which can reduce its lifespan.
Factors That Affect Wheelchair Lift Prices
Several factors can affect the price of a wheelchair lift, such as:
Size and weight capacity
Lifts come in different sizes and have different weight capacities. A larger lift or one with a higher weight capacity will generally cost more than a smaller lift with a lower weight capacity.
Installation costs
The cost of installing a wheelchair lift will depend on the type of lift, the location of the lift, and any necessary modifications to the building or structure.
Brand and model
The brand and model of the lift can also affect the price. Some brands and models may be more expensive due to their features and reliability.
Features
Wheelchair lifts may have several features, such as remote control operation, safety sensors, and folding platforms. These additional features may increase the price of the lift.
Location
The cost of a wheelchair lift may vary depending on the location where it is being installed. Some areas may have higher labor or material costs, which could affect the overall price of the lift.
Additional services
Some companies may offer additional services, such as maintenance and repair, which may be included in the price or offered as an additional cost.
The Bottom Line
A mobility scooter lift is an investment that should be carefully considered. Prices for these types of lifts vary greatly, depending on the size, model, features, and installation location. Before purchasing a lift, make sure to research all your options and consider your budget and needs to find the right lift for you.
If you are interested in learning about how to maintain and repair your mobility lifts, check out our guide on “How To Maintain Your Mobility Scooter Lift“.
