Question 1

Do you have to pay for damage on a mobility car?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you return the car with damage that goes beyond fair wear and tear then there will be a charge for repairs. The contract is designed to keep costs low for you and based on the expected resale value of the vehicle when you return it. Any damage, either from an accident or from misuse will significantly alter the resale value, so that cost would need to be passed on.

Question 2

Can you get any car on Motability?

Accepted Answer

There are some cars which you cannot lease on the Motability scheme, but there is a huge range of cars that you can get.

You can, for example, get a base model 3 or 5-door MINI Hatch, or MINI Countryman, with zero advance payment or, with varying levels of advance payment, you could choose from several models in the BMW 1, 2, 3, or X series range . As the choice is quite large, it may still be worth asking even if the car you prefer is not listed as an option.

Question 3

Does Motability include insurance?

Accepted Answer

The Motability scheme does include insurance, unlike a regular contract hire agreement. You can get cover for up to two named drivers, to allow a carer or family member to drive.

The insurance covers you for all third-party claims plus accidental damage, fire or theft, as well as things like legal cover, recovery of uninsured losses, and key replacement. Any payment would be subject to your excess which will depend on a number of factors. You are not covered for loss of personal items, cosmetic damage, or any unauthorised use. Full details of all terms are available and are fully outlined in the contract.

Question 4

Can I change my Motability car early?

Accepted Answer

Although it is possible to swap your car in the event that your mobility needs have changed sufficiently to make it necessary, there is an administration fee of up to £250 and you would lose out on any potential “good condition bonus”.

Question 5

Can I return my Motability car early?

Accepted Answer

As for swapping your car early, there would need to be a valid reason relating to your mobility needs. There would also be an administration fee and you would forego any possible “good condition bonus” on the return of the car.

Question 6

Can you get 2 cars on Motability?

Accepted Answer

One person in receipt of a qualifying mobility allowance (see ‘Can I get a Mobility car?’) will be able to get one Motability car. If your family or household has more than one person in receipt of a qualifying benefit, then each person could be entitled to one Motability vehicle.

Question 7

Are Motability cars tracked?

Accepted Answer

Tracking the location of the vehicle is an option which is only used in certain circumstances to ensure the car is used for the benefit of the person for whom the scheme is intended.

If this is thought necessary, this would be discussed with you. No tracker would be fitted without your knowledge.

Question 8

What BMW cars are available on Motability?

Accepted Answer

There are quite a few different BMW models available to suit pretty much all needs and tastes.

If you want something small practical and economical, take look at the 1 Series, for example the 118i SE - 5 Door. For a little more room you might prefer the 2 Series Gran Tourer, or the even larger 3 Series Touring. If 4X4 is more your thing you could select an X1 or X2 for example. There are plenty to choose from. If the car you want is not listed it is still worth enquiring if it can be made available.

Question 9

Can I use my Motability car for work?

Accepted Answer

The agreement includes insurance which covers you for social, domestic and pleasure purposes including direct travel between home and your permanent place of work. As such, you would not be insured for using your Motability vehicle for business purposes.

If you need to use the car for work you would need to discuss this before taking out the contract and include a suitable level of insurance cover.

Question 10

Can you smoke in a Motability car?

Accepted Answer

Since the car is leased to you for your own private use, you may smoke in the car subject to any other legislation in force, for example, it is illegal to smoke in any car if there is also a person aged under 18 in the vehicle.

If you need to use the car for business purposes (see ‘Can I use my Motability car for work?’) then different legislation applies because your car becomes a work space although you may still be permitted to smoke if you are the only user of the car.

Question 11

How many drivers can you have on Motability?

Accepted Answer

You can add up to three drivers on your motability lease. Two can be added during your application, and the third can be added at any time during your lease. You can also change the listed drivers as needed.

Each driver must meet RSA Motability's eligibility criteria and adhere to the Scheme's policies, and hold a valid driving licence. RSAM will require their licence number, date of birth, and any motoring convictions. It's important to note that the vehicle must be used for the benefit of the disabled person, even if they are not present in the car for every journey or listed as a driver.

Only drivers listed on the Certificate of Motor Insurance will be authorised to drive the vehicle. And those who have certain motoring convictions, licence endorsements, fixed penalty notices or disqualifications within the last five years will not be eligible to drive your vehicle.

View Dick Lovett’s BMW Motability offers, or if you're interested in a MINI, view our MINI Motability offers here, or contact our friendly team today to find out more.

Question 12

How does mobility allowance work?

Accepted Answer

Mobility allowance is a component of certain disability payments. If you qualify for any of the following, then you would be entitled either to have the appropriate level of money paid to you to cover the cost of your mobility needs, or to convert that payment into a contract for a Motability vehicle.

Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

You do need to have at least a full year remaining on your claim to start a new contract.

Motability Questions - Page 2

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