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Wheelchair Lifts for SUVs

While mobility-impaired individuals would appreciate the spacious legroom and headspace of an SUV, getting in and out of these vehicles takes too much effort. In most cases, it takes at least two to three people to move patients from their wheelchairs to their cars. Not only does this waste so much time, but it also makes your senior loved one feel uncomfortable.

Do you wish to restore a portion of your aging relative's independence? Look into the best wheelchair lifts for SUV cars! These mobility devices for the elderly allow wheelchair users to get in and out of large vehicles independently. Users would simply have to roll their power wheelchair onto the platform, press a few buttons, and then the device will safely lift them into their vehicle.

The Best Wheelchair Lifts for SUVs in 2024

The market offers a wide range of wheelchair lifts. A quick Google search will reveal dozens of car lifts for various types of vehicles, from large pickup trucks to compact sedans. While having several options seems convenient, first-time shoppers often find the sheer number of options intimidating. Where do you even start looking?

To make things easier for you, we researched the most popular wheelchair car lifts currently on the market. Peruse the specs of these vehicle lifts and see which ones match your senior loved ones best.

Best Overall Wheelchair Lift: Curb-Sider from Bruno

  • Hoist Wheelchair Lift
  • $4,700
  • 450 lbs. lift max

The Curb-Sider from Bruno takes the number one spot on our list of wheelchair lifts. This reliable, durable hoist lift has a whopping weight capacity of 450 lbs. and can accommodate most wheelchairs and scooters with ease.

Despite its sturdy, heavy-duty frame, this power lift does not consume too much cargo space. It has a compact design that neatly folds to the side. As long as the lift is not carrying a mobility device, you can continue using the second- and third-row seats as you usually do.

Best Budget-Friendly Option: AL055 Economy Inside-Wheelchair Lift from SpinLife

  • Hoist Wheelchair Lift
  • $740
  • 200 lbs. lift max

Since most wheelchair lifts on the market range within the four- and five-digit price points, seniors on a fixed-income often forgo these mobility devices. However, the absence of a reliable power lift makes traveling tricky. If you need a durable yet inexpensive car lift for your senior's power chair, try the AL055 from SpinLife.

This SUV crane lift retails for around $740. Shoppers can get an even better deal by breaking down the amount into small monthly payments with a zero-interest rate credit card.

Furthermore, SpinLife didn't skimp on quality to make this lift affordable. It has a weight capacity of 200 lbs. and can accommodate most wheelchair sizes, although scooters might be too heavy.

Best for Maximizing SUV Seating: Out-Sider from Bruno

  • Exterior Auto Lift
  • $1,950
  • 350 lbs. lift max

Motorists often complain that wheelchair lifts consume too much cargo space. Even if the vehicle does not have a mobility device onboard, passengers still cannot use the back seats because of the fixed power lift. This issue is especially prominent among families that share one vehicle.

To ensure that your SUV has sufficient cargo space, opt for the Out-Sider from Bruno. Since this exterior auto lift hangs outside the trunk, you can use your SUV's backseats without limits — regardless if you have a wheelchair onboard or not.

Best for Scooters and Power Chairs: AL600 Hybrid Lift from SpinLife

  • Vertical Platform Wheelchair Lift
  • $3,030
  • 350 lbs. lift max

While hoist and crane lifts allow seniors to travel conveniently, these still require some dexterity and flexibility on the user's part. Seniors can only maximize these lifts if they stand up from their wheelchairs.

If you need a more convenient, hassle-free platform, try the AL600 Hybrid Lift from SpinLife. This platform has a weight capacity of 350 lbs. and lifts users along with their devices. It accommodates even bulky scooters and power chairs.

Most Versatile Wheelchair Lift: Chariot from Bruno

  • Exterior Auto Lift
  • $3,950
  • 350 lbs. lift max

Families looking for a versatile lift that fits any vehicle type can try Chariot from Bruno. Whether you drive a compact sedan or a large SUV, this platform neatly latches onto the cargo truck. It can accommodate mid-sized scooters and wheelchairs. However, we discourage users from staying on the platform for too long because the excess weight might damage smaller vehicles.

Best for Full-Size Vans: Millennium Series from BraunAbility

  • Vertical Platform Wheelchair
  • $1,000
  • 750 lbs. lift max

What makes the Millennium Series lifts from BraunAbility a hit among seniors is their powerful weight capacity. These platforms can lift a maximum of 750 lbs. This power is enough to lift both seniors and their caregivers onto the vehicle.

Despite its heavy-duty frame and structure, Millennium Series lifts do not eat up cargo space. They neatly fold on the side of your van, leaving enough room for passengers to move around—even in tight parking spaces.

Best for Pickup Trucks: PUL-1100 Out-Rider from Bruno

  • External Vehicle Mount
  • $5,200
  • 350 lbs. lift max

While pickup trucks are practical, reliable daily drivers, they aren't the most PWD-friendly vehicles. Most wheelchair users probably can't ride these independently. They would need help boarding the steep ledge and carrying the wheelchair overhead the cargo trunk.

Does your senior loved one miss being in pickup trucks? Try the PUL-1100 Out-Rider. It's a durable, heavy-duty external mount that allows seniors to lift their wheelchairs onto the cargo bed without actually doing any heavy lifting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare pay for wheelchair lifts for vehicles?

The Medicare Part B program will not cover the cost of a scooter lift for your car or van. The Part B DME coverage specifically covers certain types of durable equipment but unfortunately does not include walk-in tubs and wheelchair ramps.

Why are wheelchair vans so expensive?

Wheelchair van manufacturers do more than just convert the vehicle for use. This process includes reinforcing the structure, lowering the floor, and adding any features that are selected by customer needs.

How much does a transport wheelchair cost?

Transport wheelchair prices range from $100-$300. These wheelchairs are a great option for those with limited mobility: with features like swing-away leg rests and fixed side panels, the user is able to enter or exit their wheelchair effortlessly.

Who is eligible for a mobility scooter?

You can only drive a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair if you: have trouble walking because of an injury, physical disability, or medical condition.

How much does it cost to put a wheelchair lift in a van?

If you're looking for a way to get your wheelchair into the car, then an auto lift might be just what you need. Prices range from $1,500 up to $5,000, depending on which type of vehicle and model is appropriate for your needs.

These are just some of the best wheelchair carriers you can attach to your van, truck, or SUV. Feel free to explore other car lifts. As with stair lifts, make sure that your wheelchair car lift suits the user's weight, size, mobility device, and individual preferences. Strive to make traveling and transportation as convenient for them as possible.

Remember: the key the improving any senior's quality of life is convenience. If your aging partners or relatives use mobility devices, constantly look for ways to transform their surroundings into a more PWD-friendly one. Eliminate the barriers further hampering their mobility.

Looking for more ways to make daily tasks easier and more convenient for your aging loved ones? Senior Strong has you covered! Check out our resources for more information on various other senior care products.

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