Information About Wheelchair & Scooter Lifts

Vehicle lifts are a handy technology - affordable, adaptable, and practical - with styles, features and options that can create the perfect match between you, your mobility product and your vehicle. Below you will find the important information that can help you make theright decision when selecting a lift to match your mobility and vehicle requirements.

1. Outside lifts mount on a hitch on the outside of the vehicle. Depending on the model, lifts attach to a Class I, Class II or Class III hitch receiver. Exterior lifts are a great choice because they don't consume any space within the vehicle, preserving maximum cargo room and passenger seating.

Power Platform Lifts: 

Power platform lifts require no physical labor to operate and automatically secure the device with a hold-down bar or retractable straps. These lifts are automatically folded against the vehicle when not in use and  most offer a "swing-away" option for trunk access. It can be wired to the car battery or choose the battery pack option. (Battery Packs are available on Harmar & Pride Silver Star Lifts) Most require a Class II or Class III hitch. Click here for more Hitch Information.

Manual Platform Lifts

  • Provide the most economical solution. 
  • Are available in steel or aluminum
  • Most fold up against the car when not in use.
  • Use “tie-down” straps to secure the scooter or power chair.
  • Require some manual effort to release ramp, so they may not be the best choice for those with
  • limited strength or dexterity.
  • Manual platform lifts do not swing out of the way for trunk access.
  • Require a Class II or III hitch. Learn how to selecHow to Determine Your Hitch Size t the right hitch.    

2. Inside Hybrid Lifts:

Interior vehicle lifts are increasingly popular, allowing a power wheelchair or scooter to be transported inside a car, truck, minivan, or SUV. The foremost benefit of an interior lift is that it protects your mobility product from weather and potential road hazards, a definite plus for those living in severe weather climates. Further, interior lifts can be mounted in the rear cargo section of vehicles, or in the side door of a minivan for easy user transfers and operation. 

3. Installation:

Installation of hitch mounted and inside hybrid lifts is available from United Seating & Mobility. Call us at 877-873-5332 and we will arrange for the installation of your  new lift. If you purchase a lift from outside our coverage area, don't worry, we'll help you find a qualified installer or offer you installation support should you choose to install the lift yourself.