How do you get a mobility scooter in your car? A Comprehensive Guide

Over 6.5 million people in the United States use mobility devices, with many needing a reliable way to transport their scooter in a car. Deciding how you get a mobility scooter in your car depends on factors like the scooter's size and your vehicle's cargo space. This guide details several methods, from vehicle lifts to disassembly, to help you find the best transport solution for your needs.

Quick Summary

Several methods exist for transporting a mobility scooter by car, including automatic or manual vehicle lifts, using a portable ramp for larger vehicles, or disassembling smaller, travel-friendly models. Safe securement with tie-down straps is critical, regardless of the chosen method, to prevent damage during transit.

Key Points

• Vehicle Lifts: An electric lift is the most effortless method for transporting heavy or non-folding scooters, with options for both interior and exterior mounting.

• Folding Scooters: Compact, portable scooters can be folded or disassembled into smaller parts for storage in a trunk or backseat, requiring manual lifting.

• Ramps & Carriers: Ramps provide a cost-effective alternative for larger vehicles like vans and SUVs, while hitch-mounted carriers keep the scooter outside the vehicle.

• Proper Securement: Always use high-quality, four-point tie-down straps or a manufacturer-provided securement system to prevent the scooter from shifting during transit.

• Assess Compatibility: The best transport method depends on the scooter's size, your vehicle type, and your personal physical ability; consulting a professional is recommended for major installations.

Choose the Right Transportation Method

Transporting a mobility scooter requires a practical and safe approach tailored to both your vehicle and your scooter's specifications. The primary options include automated vehicle lifts, manual ramps, or disassembling the scooter into smaller, more manageable pieces. The best method for you depends on the scooter's size and weight, your physical abilities, and the type of vehicle you have.

Vehicle Lifts: The Automated Solution

Vehicle lifts offer the most effortless way to load a heavy or non-folding mobility scooter. These systems use a motorized mechanism to hoist the scooter into or onto the vehicle. There are several types of lifts to consider:

• Exterior/Hitch-Mounted Lifts: These lifts attach to the rear of your car via a trailer hitch, featuring a platform where the scooter is secured. With the push of a button, the platform raises the scooter off the ground, keeping it outside the vehicle. This is an excellent option for preserving interior cargo space.
• Interior Hoist Lifts: Installed inside the cargo area of a van, SUV, or minivan, a hoist lift uses an arm to attach to and lift the scooter, swinging it into the vehicle for storage. This protects the scooter from weather but occupies interior space.
• Hybrid Lifts: Hybrid models combine elements of both interior and exterior lifts. The platform can extend out of the vehicle and lower to the ground, then retract inside the cargo area.

Ramps and Carriers for Larger Vehicles

For those with SUVs, vans, or pickup trucks, using a ramp or carrier can be an effective alternative to a full lift system. This method is often more cost-effective but requires a bit more physical effort.

• Portable Ramps: Lightweight, folding ramps allow you to wheel your scooter up into a larger vehicle like a van or truck bed. You must ensure the ramp is stable and your vehicle can accommodate the scooter's dimensions. Always use secure tie-downs once the scooter is inside.
• Hitch-Mounted Carriers: Similar to hitch-mounted lifts, these are platforms that attach to your vehicle's hitch. However, they may be manual and require you to load the scooter using an included ramp or a separate lifting mechanism. They are a great solution for those who want to use their cargo space for other items.

The Disassembly and Folding Approach

For smaller, lightweight mobility scooters designed for travel, disassembly or folding is the simplest method. Many compact models break down into lighter, more manageable pieces that can be stored in a trunk or back seat.

• Folding Scooters: These models, often activated by a remote control, fold automatically into a compact, suitcase-like shape, making them easy to lift and store.
• Travel Scooters: These are designed to be broken down manually into 3-5 lighter components (seat, battery, base) for easier lifting. The parts can then be placed into your car's trunk or back seat.

Safely Secure Your Scooter for Transit

Proper securement is paramount for protecting both your mobility scooter and your vehicle. An unsecured scooter can shift during transit, causing damage or becoming a safety hazard.

1. Turn off the power. Before you begin, turn off your scooter to prevent any accidental movement during loading and transport.
2. Use high-quality tie-downs. Invest in reliable straps designed for securing heavy equipment. Bungee cords are not sufficient or safe for this purpose.
3. Position the straps correctly. Secure the straps at four points on the scooter frame to a sturdy anchor point in your vehicle. For exterior lifts, ensure the scooter is locked into the designated securement mechanism.
4. Consider a wheel chock. For three-wheel scooters especially, a wheel chock can provide extra stability by locking the front wheel in place and preventing tipping.
5. Remove loose items. Detachable accessories like baskets or armrests should be removed and stored separately to prevent them from falling off or being damaged.

Comparison of Transportation Methods

Feature	Disassembly/Folding	Vehicle Lifts	Ramps/Carriers
Scooter Type	Lightweight, compact models	Heavy-duty, larger, non-folding models	Mid-size to heavy-duty models
Effort Required	Moderate manual effort (lifting parts)	Minimal, often automated	Moderate to high manual effort (rolling up ramp)
Vehicle Type	Sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, vans	Vans, SUVs, trucks (hitch-mounted for cars)	Vans, trucks, SUVs
Vehicle Modification	Usually none required	Professional installation required	Hitch installation needed for carriers; portable ramps require no modification
Cost	Low to Moderate (cost of scooter/straps)	High (thousands of dollars)	Low to Moderate (cost of ramp/carrier)
Best For	Users with some lifting ability, smaller vehicles	Users with limited lifting ability, larger vehicles	Budget-conscious users with suitable vehicles

Conclusion

Choosing the best way to transport your mobility scooter is a personal decision that balances convenience, cost, and your physical needs. For those with lighter, folding models, simply disassembling and stowing the scooter in a trunk or backseat is the easiest path. For larger, heavier scooters, the investment in a vehicle lift provides an automated and low-effort solution. Alternatively, using a ramp or a hitch-mounted carrier offers a middle ground for users with larger vehicles and some lifting capability. Regardless of the method, always prioritize safety by properly securing the scooter before travel. Consulting with a mobility specialist can also ensure you select a system compatible with your specific scooter and vehicle combination.

How to Select the Best Transport Method

Step 1: Assess Your Scooter

Evaluate the size, weight, and features of your mobility scooter. Is it a small, portable model that disassembles, or a large, heavy-duty unit? A travel-friendly scooter can be folded or broken down, while larger units will require a lift or ramp.

Step 2: Examine Your Vehicle

Consider your vehicle's type and available cargo space. Do you have a large SUV, a van, or a sedan? For larger vehicles like vans, the cargo space is often ideal for ramp or interior lift systems. For sedans, a folding scooter or a hitch-mounted lift might be your only options.

Step 3: Evaluate Your Physical Ability

Consider your own strength and dexterity. If lifting heavy objects is difficult, an automatic vehicle lift is the safest and most practical choice. If you have enough upper body strength for lifting scooter components or guiding it up a ramp, simpler, more affordable methods may work.

Step 4: Budget and Research

Establish a budget for transportation accessories. A vehicle lift can be a significant investment, while portable ramps and basic tie-downs are much more affordable. Research manufacturers like Bruno, Harmar, and others to compare different lift models and features.

Step 5: Consult a Professional

For major modifications, such as installing a vehicle lift, it is essential to consult a professional installer. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) provides a directory of accredited dealers who can help find and install a system that complies with safety standards.

• NMEDA: The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association offers resources and a directory of accredited mobility equipment professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any mobility scooter be folded to fit in a car?

No, not all mobility scooters are designed to be folded or disassembled. Only specific travel or folding models have this feature, while larger, heavy-duty scooters require a vehicle lift or ramp for transport.

Are vehicle lifts covered by insurance?

Sometimes. Certain health insurance providers, including Medicare in some cases, may cover the costs of vehicle alterations like scooter lifts, but this depends on your provider and individual plan. Always call your provider to inquire about available benefits.

What kind of vehicle is best for transporting a mobility scooter?

Vehicles with ample cargo space like minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks are often best, especially for larger scooters that need a ramp or lift. For folding models, even a sedan with a large trunk can be suitable.

Is it safe to transport a scooter on an outside lift?

Yes, outside lifts are safe, provided the scooter is securely fastened to the platform and the lift is compatible with your vehicle's hitch capacity. For added protection from the elements, you can use a weatherproof cover.

Can I install a scooter lift myself?

Due to the specialized nature of scooter lifts and the safety concerns involved, professional installation by a certified dealer is highly recommended. Improper installation can be dangerous.

How do I secure a scooter if I'm just putting it in the back of my SUV?

Use high-quality, purpose-made tie-down straps to secure the scooter's frame to anchor points in your vehicle. For three-wheeled scooters, a wheel chock is also recommended to prevent tipping.

Do I need a ramp for a folding scooter?

For a lightweight folding scooter, a ramp is typically not necessary, as it is designed to be lifted manually into the vehicle. A ramp is most useful for heavier, non-folding models that are wheeled into a larger vehicle.