Mobility vehicles are game changers! They provide you the freedom to travel wherever you please. Nevertheless, these vehicles require regular maintenance to stay in good shape. Read these five tips for maintaining your wheelchair van to keep it running smoothly for years.
Retaining Cleanliness
A clean and clutter-free vehicle cabin makes for a comfortable drive. Keep your belongings organized in the van, remove trash promptly, and regularly clean the interior of debris. A neglected interior can encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. Using a sanitizing solution can keep the surface areas clean.
If needed, take your van to a detailing shop for service. The professionals at this shop will deep clean the interior of your mobility van and thoroughly cleanse the exterior.
Hand Control Maintenance
Hand controls allow a driver to operate both the brake and accelerator of a mobility van with their hands. This feature is valuable for people with limited mobility or lower body restrictions. If these controls don’t receive regular service, they can become stiff. Unresponsive hand controls can lead to safety hazards while driving. Regular maintenance keeps these controls in good condition, providing the driver with reliable driving mechanisms.
Lubricating Your Van
Lubrication is an important part of maintaining your wheelchair van. Hinges, pivot points, door slides, rollers, and the ramp all need lubrication to run smoothly.
The vehicle’s engine and transmission also require lubrication to function. Next time you take your mobility van to the mechanic for an oil change, ask them to check the levels of engine coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.
Tire Care
Regular tire inspections of your mobility van are important for your safety on the road. Tires are the vehicle’s only point of contact with the road, and their condition can significantly affect your van’s performance and safety.
Over-inflated or under-inflated tires can lead to blowouts or flats, compromising your safety on the road. Misaligned tires, on the other hand, can cause your van to pull to one side, leading to increased tire wear and reduced fuel efficiency. Regular tire inspections enable you to maintain optimal tire pressure and alignment for safe driving.
Schedule Regular Maintenance Services
Check all of these components frequently to avoid issues while driving that could compromise your safety. Northwest Mobility wants you to feel secure on the road, so we offer wheelchair-accessible van services! A mechanic will examine the battery, fluid levels, tire status, and other components that allow your accessibility van to accommodate your mobility needs.