When you join the Motability Scheme you get more than just a car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair of your choice, you also get to enjoy all the freedom that comes with a truly worry-free lease. We know that getting a new car is a big decision, which is why we’ve highlighted a few things that people often want to talk to us about before deciding if the Scheme is for them. Have a read through and you may well find answers to questions that have been on your mind too!
1. How does the Motability Scheme work?
The purpose of the Scheme is to provide the simplest, most affordable way to run a brand new car. There’s no credit checks or lengthy forms to fill out. You just exchange your mobility allowance to lease the car that suits your needs best. Everyday running costs such as insurance for up to three named drivers, servicing and maintenance and breakdown recovery are all included in the weekly price. So, you just need to pay for fuel and off you go.
2. Can I get a car on the Scheme if I don’t drive?
Yes, you don’t have to be able to drive to get a car on the Scheme. Lots of our customers don’t drive. That’s why the insurance with your lease is for up to three named drivers. So your car could be driven by a family member, friend or carer, it doesn’t have to be you. Also, you may like to know, you can lease a Motability Scheme car as a learner driver, so long as you have a provisional licence and are listed as a permitted driver on the Certificate of Motor Insurance. You must also be accompanied by a driver who is over 21 and has held their licence for at least three years. They should also be named on your Certificate of Motor Insurance in case they need to take control of the car themselves.
3. What if I’m family, a friend or a carer?
We want the Motability Scheme to be as convenient as possible for our customers and the people who support them. That’s one of the reasons we include insurance for up to three named drivers on the lease. Also, if it’s easier for the customer, they can nominate you to speak to us about the lease agreement on their behalf.
4. How do I know if I am eligible for the Scheme?
Simple, you’re eligible if you currently receive any of these allowances and have 12 months remaining on your award:
- Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
5. What about PIP reassessments?
If you’re currently in receipt of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and are invited for a reassessment, as long as you’re successful in your application for the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you will still be eligible to join the Motability Scheme. If you became a customer, then lost your allowance, we would offer you the chance to buy the car, or you could return it with no further payments to make.
6. How much will a new car cost me a week?
We have a wide choice of vehicles, split into the three price band options below. You can pick from the one that fits your budget the best:
- Cars that cost less than your weekly mobility allowance, so you keep the difference.
- Cars that cost exactly the same as your allowance.
- Cars that cost the same as your allowance, plus a one-off Advance Payment.
Remember, whatever car you choose, insurance, servicing, repairs and breakdown recovery, are all included in the weekly price.
Use our car search tool to find the right car for you
7. What if I need adaptations?
If you require adaptations to help make driving, or travelling, easier or more comfortable, you’ll be pleased to know that many of the most popular ones are available at no additional cost when fitted at the start of your lease.
Adaptations generally fall into three categories:
- Driving adaptations to help improve your driving experience
- Stowage adaptations allowing you to stow your scooter or wheelchair
- Access adaptations which help you get in and out of the car
8. Can I trade in my old car against a new one?
You can trade in your privately owned car at most Motability Scheme dealerships. This could help finance an Advance Payment or optional extras for your new car. And remember, a Motability Scheme car is brand new and your lease includes all the maintenance you’ll need to keep your vehicle running smoothly. So that means none of the unexpected repair bills, often associated with running an older car.
9. Will I definitely be able to get the car I need?
The Motability Scheme stays right up-to-date with the latest car models from most of the leading manufacturers. So yes, the likelihood is that the car you want will be available. All we would say is, before setting your heart on a particular car, visit a dealership or two and speak to their Motability Scheme specialist for expert advice. They may recommend other cars to test drive, so you can compare them to the one you were thinking of.
Finding the right new car starts with having the best possible choice of manufacturers and their latest models – and that’s what you’ll find on our Car Search tool. And whether you’re looking for a low emission hatchback, or a bigger family vehicle, our easy online ‘Car Search’ makes getting to what you want easy.
10. How do I apply?
It’s simple- search through our range of vehicles to see what’s available, then visit a dealership to speak to a Motability Scheme specialist and arrange a test drive. When you’ve decided on the car, the dealer you choose will complete your order for you at the dealership.
Want to know more?
Remember, we’re here to help however we can, so if there are other things that you would like to talk to us about, just call when you are ready. Or you can request a call back at a time that’s convenient for you. You can reach one of the team on 0800 694 9000.
Once you have an idea of the car makes you’re interested in, you can search for dealerships near you online. Choose from over 4,500 dealerships across the UK, each with Motability Scheme specialists on hand to give you expert help and advice, and arrange a test drive. If you would like to talk to a trained Motability Scheme specialist for expert advice, you can search for your local dealership now.
If you’d like to know more about the Scheme, request a free information pack and we’ll send you all the information that you need.
