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10 Ways To Find a Car That Meets Specific Needs Without Breaking the Bank

September 8, 2024

4 min Read

Written by Laura Beck

Edited by Levi Leidy

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Drazen Zigic / Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Cars can be hard enough to buy even if you don’t have specific needs – but when you factor those into the mix, it can feel downright impossible. GOBankingRates spoke to an automotive expert about how exactly to find cars that are great for all kinds of people (and all kinds of budgets). After all, it’s your car and you should feel comfortable in it.

Here are 10 ways to find a car that meets specific needs without breaking the bank.

The Minivan Miracle

Chris Pyle, an auto expert at JustAnswer, dropped this nugget of wisdom: “Minivans work best for handicapped vehicles due to the taller doors, seats near standing height, a flat floor front to back and space inside to store things and move around as needed.”

So, if you thought minivans were just for soccer moms and dads who’ve given up on having a cool car, think again! These versatile vehicles can be excellent for those with mobility issues.

The Used Car Gold Mine

Pyle thinks that buying used can be a great idea for people with specific needs – that way, the adjustments have already been made and you can get it at a good price. “When buying a used one, the expenses for the altercations are greatly reduced,” he said.

He shared that you can find these cars pretty easily on eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.

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Do Your Homework

Don’t be the person who pays full price for a “vintage” 1998 Dodge Caravan with hand controls that look suspiciously like they were made from old curtain rods.

“Do your research though to see what the car value should be and how much the retrofit costs when installed new, to make sure you are not overpaying or being taken advantage of,” shared Pyle.

The Retrofit Route

If you’ve got a car you love but it needs some tweaks, consider retrofitting. Many vehicles can be adapted to suit various needs. There are some changes you can make yourself, or seek out a qualified specialist to work with you the build the right car for your needs.

Government Grants and Assistance Programs

Some countries and states offer financial assistance for vehicle modifications. Before you do anything, make sure to check with your local government offices or disability support organizations for information.

Charity and Nonprofit Organizations

There are organizations out there dedicated to helping people with disabilities get the transportation they need. They’re well worth reaching out to before you buy a car.

Flexibility Is Key

Pyle shared a success story about his friend who uses a wheelchair. “My buddy […] purchased a 2020 full four-door 4×4 F150 for $32K. His driver and passenger seats come out then turn 90 degrees then lower. He hops from the chair to the seat. Then a crane picks up the chair and places it inside the bed under a topper.”

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The lesson? Sometimes the perfect car isn’t what you’d expect. Be open to creative solutions.

Rent Before You Buy

If possible, rent a vehicle with the modifications you’re considering. It’s like taking a car for a test drive, but longer and with more opportunities to figure out if that hand control is in just the right spot or if it’s going to drive you nuts after day three.

This is great for shorter people and people with larger bodies, as well – rent the car and make sure you fit comfortably and enjoying driving it. It’s your car and you should love it, so take the time to get the right fit for you.