Q: How does the Motability scheme work?
A: You exchange your mobility allowance for a lease on a brand new car. Choose the car you want and the payment is taken out of your mobility allowance every four weeks. If the cost of the car is less than your allowance, you keep the difference. You can nominate someone to drive for you and you can also claim Motability for under 17-year-olds. This gives people with limited mobility a way to retain their freedom.
Q: What is included in the Motability scheme?
A: You get:
- A brand new car
- Fully comprehensive insurance
- Two named drivers
- Complete RAC breakdown cover
- Road tax
- Servicing, maintenance, tyres and windscreen repair
- 60,000-mile allowance over three years
- Some free Motability adaptations
Q: What is the mileage allowance on a Motability car?
A: For three-year agreements, the total mileage allowance is 60,000 miles. And for five-year agreements, the limit is 100,000 miles. Any extra miles are charged at 5p per mile. If you’ve driven under 15,000 miles, you might be able to keep your car for one or two years. If this is the case, you get an extra allowance of 20,000 miles per year.
Q: What cars care available on the scheme and how much will they cost me?
A: The available models on the scheme change every three months and the prices vary model to model. With cheaper leases you might get part of your mobility allowance back. More expensive models require an advance payment.
Q: Can I buy my Motability car after three years?
A: You can’t buy your Motability car after three years but at the end of your lease agreement you have three options:
- Choose another car to lease another car for three years.
- Extend your current car lease (only available in the last three months of your agreement.)
- Return your car and have your mobility allowance restored.
Q: How much is the good condition bonus from Motability?
A: If you return your Motability car in good condition, you can receive up to £600 back for a three-year lease. If you keep your car in good condition, including the paintwork, interior, tyres etc., you’ll receive this bonus. If your car meets these conditions, you receive a cheque in the post.
Q: Can I use my relative’s Motability car for work?
A: Only nominated drivers can use a Motability car, and this should only be for the sole benefit of the claimant. For example, you could drive to the shops, pick up medication or other routine activities.
Q: How long will it take to get a Motability car
A: Lead time on Motability cars depends on the manufacturer and model you choose. When finalising your application, we’ll let you know how many weeks until your car is delivered. If you already have a Motability car, you won’t receive your new model until the end date of your current agreement.
Q: Can I change my Motability car early?
A: You can change your Motability car early, but you need a valid reason. You can do so by cancelling your current lease and reapplying for a different car. There’s an admin fee of £250 when you cancel and your good condition bonus is waived too. Bear in mind if you cancel your agreement more than three times in seven years, your eligibility may be affected.
Q: Do I need to make an appointment to speak to someone about Motability?
A: We've have a team of Motability specialsits at our Pentagon dealerships. You can give us a ring on 0333 222 0424 for a quick chat, visit your local Pentagon dealership or book in for a video chat appointment. We're more than happy to run through any parts of the scheme with you.
