Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about buying, financing, or renting an accessible vehicle? We’ve answered the most common ones below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, just give us a call — we’re happy to talk it through.
About AMS Auto
What does AMS Auto do?
AMS Auto, short for Alternative Mobility Solutions, is a family-owned business in Woodstock, IL that has been helping people with disabilities and mobility challenges since 2008. We sell and rent wheelchair accessible vans, install adaptive driving equipment (hand controls, wheelchair lifts, securement systems, and more), and work with you personally to find the right solution for your situation. When you come to us, you deal directly with our family, not a salesperson at a call center.
Where are you located, and what areas do you serve?
Our shop is at 1340 Cobblestone Way, Woodstock, IL 60098, and we serve customers throughout the Chicagoland area, including McHenry County and Crystal Lake. We also offer national delivery, so if you find the right van in our inventory, we can ship it straight to your door anywhere in the continental U.S. or Canada.
Do I need to visit in person to buy a van?
Not necessarily. Many customers complete the purchase process remotely. We can walk you through our inventory over the phone, answer questions via email, and arrange delivery. That said, if you’re able to visit, we always welcome it since it’s easier to find the right fit when we can assess your specific needs in person.
Adaptive Equipment & Installation
Can you modify a vehicle I already own?
Absolutely. Installing adaptive equipment on an existing vehicle is a big part of what we do. We work with hand controls, foot controls, steering aids, wheelchair lifts, transfer seats, and securement systems. Give us a call or stop by and we’ll assess what’s possible for your vehicle.
Do I need a driver evaluation before getting adaptive equipment installed?
If you’re installing equipment that will change how you operate the vehicle, such as hand controls or steering aids, a driver rehabilitation evaluation is generally recommended and sometimes required before installation. We can point you toward the right resources. If you’re modifying a vehicle for a passenger rather than a driver, an evaluation is typically not needed.
Is the adaptive equipment you install covered by insurance or government programs?
Buying an Accessible Van
What types of accessible vehicles do you carry?
We carry a variety of wheelchair accessible minivans and full-size vans from makes like Toyota, Chrysler, Honda, Dodge, and Ford. Our inventory includes both new and pre-owned vehicles with conversions from trusted manufacturers such as BraunAbility, VMI, and Rollx. Conversion types include rear-entry and side-entry ramps, power and manual options, and different wheelchair docking configurations. You can browse our current inventory here.
What's the difference between rear-entry and side-entry vans?
Rear-entry vans have the ramp at the back of the vehicle, which is often a more affordable option and works well for passengers who will ride in their wheelchair. Side-entry vans have the ramp on the driver’s or passenger side and are typically the better choice for drivers who use a wheelchair, since they allow easier access to the driver’s seat area. Not sure which is right for you? Contact us and we’ll help you figure it out based on how you plan to use the vehicle.
What price range should I expect?
Our inventory ranges from roughly $32,900 for budget-friendly pre-owned options up to $70,000+ for new hybrid models with the latest conversions. Vehicles in the $45,000–$65,000 range tend to offer a strong balance of features, mileage, and warranty coverage. We also maintain a $40K & Under filter in our inventory for those working with a tighter budget.
Do your vehicles come with a warranty?
Many of our vehicles include a mobility conversion warranty, for example, several of our current pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on the conversion. Warranty coverage varies by vehicle, so check the individual listing or ask us directly for details on any van you’re considering.
Can you help me trade in my current accessible van?
Yes. We buy accessible vans for cash and also accept trade-ins and consignments. We’ll often beat competitor prices on trade-in value. Reach out and we can get the process started.
Financing
How do I finance a van through AMS Auto?
We’ve partnered with American 1 Credit Union, a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution that offers dedicated Mobility Vehicle Loans. You can learn more about how the process works and what to expect on our Financing page, then apply online through American 1’s secure portal when you’re ready.
What makes a Mobility Loan different from a regular auto loan?
A standard auto loan only covers the cost of the vehicle itself. American 1’s Mobility Loan lets you bundle the vehicle purchase and the cost of accessibility modifications, such as a wheelchair lift, hand controls, or a ramp, into a single loan. That means one monthly payment covering everything, which is simpler and often more affordable than financing them separately.
What are the interest rates?
Rates start as low as 4.99% APR, depending on your credit history and loan term. Rates are subject to credit approval and may change. Check American 1’s current loan rates for the most up-to-date information.
Do I need to be a member of American 1 Credit Union to apply?
No, you can apply and become a member at the same time. Membership requires a one-time $3 fee to join the Community 1 Co-Op, and you can complete the entire process online. If you’re already a member, you can log in to Online Banking and apply even faster with your information pre-filled.
What do I need to have ready when I apply?
You’ll need your U.S. Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number and a valid photo ID: a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The application saves your progress, so you don’t need to complete it all in one sitting.
Can I finance a van if I don't live near American 1 Credit Union's branches?
Yes. The entire application and approval process can be done online.
What if I'm not sure I'll qualify?
The best step is to apply and find out, it takes only a few minutes online. If you’re concerned about your credit history, American 1 also offers a Fresh Start Loan program designed for people who are working to rebuild their credit. You can also contact us at AMS Auto and we’ll have an honest conversation with you about your options before you apply.
Rentals
Do you offer wheelchair accessible van rentals?
Yes. Renting is a great option if you need a van for a short period: for travel, a medical appointment, a family visit, or to try out an accessible vehicle before deciding to buy. Visit our Van Rentals page for current availability and details.
Is renting a good way to figure out what I want before buying?
It can be a smart first step. Renting lets you experience different entry types, ramp styles, and seating configurations in real conditions, so when you’re ready to finance a purchase, you already know what works best for you.
Still Have Questions?
We’re a family business, that means you can actually reach us.