Hills Ford Motability Explained

Navigating the Hills Ford Motability Scheme: Your Gateway to Accessible Driving

For many individuals in the UK living with a disability, maintaining independence and freedom of movement is paramount. The Motability scheme, a national charity, plays a crucial role in facilitating this by enabling disabled people to lease new cars, powered wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. Hills Ford, a trusted name in automotive services, is a proud partner of the Motability scheme, offering a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for those looking to access a new vehicle through this invaluable programme. This article delves into the intricacies of the Hills Ford Motability scheme, outlining its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the straightforward process of securing your next vehicle.

What Exactly is the Motability Scheme?

Before we focus on Hills Ford's involvement, it's essential to understand the broader Motability scheme. Motability is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a flexible, worry-free way for people with disabilities to lease a car or powered wheelchair. It's designed to be inclusive, allowing individuals to exchange their government-funded mobility allowance for a brand-new, reliable vehicle. The scheme covers not only the car itself but also a range of essential services, ensuring peace of mind for all users.

The Hills Ford Advantage: Why Choose Us for Motability?

Hills Ford is committed to providing exceptional service to all its customers, and this extends to those participating in the Motability scheme. When you choose Hills Ford, you're not just getting a car; you're gaining a partner dedicated to making your Motability journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Our knowledgeable Motability specialists are on hand to guide you through every step, from understanding your options to arranging test drives and finalising your agreement. We pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of Ford vehicles, many of which are available with nil advance payment, making them accessible to a broader range of individuals. Our commitment goes beyond the initial lease; we ensure you receive excellent after-sales support, including servicing and maintenance, keeping your vehicle in prime condition.

Eligibility: Who Can Benefit from the Hills Ford Motability Scheme?

The Motability scheme is available to anyone who receives the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA) or the War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS). If you receive the enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you are also eligible. Crucially, you do not need to be able to drive yourself; you can nominate up to two other drivers, such as a family member, friend, or carer, to drive the car on your behalf. This opens up the benefits of the scheme to a wider circle of individuals who may rely on others for transport.

To confirm your eligibility, you will need to provide evidence of your allowance. The Motability scheme will then issue you with a Customer Information Letter (CIL) which you will need to present to us at Hills Ford. This letter confirms your eligibility and the duration of your award.

The Process: How to Get Your Car from Hills Ford

Securing a vehicle through the Hills Ford Motability scheme is a straightforward and rewarding process. Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps involved:

1. Initial Enquiry and Consultation: Contact our dedicated Motability team at Hills Ford. They will discuss your needs, preferences, and answer any questions you may have about the scheme and the available vehicles.
2. Vehicle Selection: Explore the extensive range of Ford vehicles available through Motability. We can help you identify models that best suit your lifestyle, whether you need a compact city car, a spacious family SUV, or a versatile estate. Consider factors like boot space, ease of access, and any adaptations you might require.
3. Test Drive: It's vital to experience the car before committing. We will arrange a convenient test drive for you. If you're not the driver, we encourage your nominated driver to accompany you.
4. Understanding the Agreement: Our Motability specialists will explain the lease agreement in detail, including the contract length (typically three years), mileage allowance, and what is included in your weekly payments (if any).
5. Advance Payment: Many vehicles are available with a nil advance payment, meaning there's no upfront cost. For some models, there may be an advance payment required. This is clearly communicated, and we can help you find vehicles that fit your budget.
6. Placing Your Order: Once you're happy with your choice, we'll help you complete the necessary paperwork to place your order.
7. Delivery: We will keep you informed about your car's progress. When it arrives, we'll arrange a convenient time for delivery, ensuring you understand all the features and controls of your new vehicle.

What's Included in Your Motability Lease?

The beauty of the Motability scheme, and by extension the Hills Ford Motability offering, is the comprehensive package it provides. Your lease typically includes:

• Insurance: Comprehensive insurance for up to three drivers is included as standard.
• Servicing and Maintenance: All routine servicing and maintenance are covered, ensuring your car remains in excellent working order.
• Repairs: Any necessary repairs due to normal use are included.
• Breakdown Cover: RAC or AA breakdown assistance is provided, offering peace of mind on every journey.
• Tyre Replacement: New tyres are supplied and fitted when needed.
• Windscreen Replacements: While not always included, many policies offer windscreen cover.
• Annual Mileage Allowance: You'll agree on an annual mileage allowance, typically ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 miles.

Ford Vehicles Available Through Hills Ford Motability

Hills Ford offers a diverse range of Ford models that are popular choices for Motability customers. These include:

Our team can advise on the latest models and specifications available through the scheme, including those with automatic transmissions and features that can aid accessibility.

Adaptations: Making Your Ford Work for You

For many Motability users, vehicle adaptations are essential to ensure comfortable and independent driving or travel. Hills Ford works closely with accredited adaptation specialists to provide a range of modifications. These can include:

• Hand Controls: For individuals who cannot use their feet to operate the pedals.
• Wheelchair Access: Ramps or lifts to allow easy entry and exit for wheelchair users.
• Driving Controls: Modified steering wheels, pedal guards, and secondary controls.
• Seat Modifications: Swivel seats or hoist systems for easier entry and exit.

The cost of necessary adaptations is often covered by the Motability scheme, either as part of the nil advance payment or with financial assistance. Our specialists will guide you through the assessment and ordering process for any required adaptations, ensuring your Ford is perfectly suited to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hills Ford Motability

Q1: Can I lease a car for someone else if I don't have a disability?
Yes, you can nominate up to two drivers who do not need to have a disability. These drivers must be over 21 (for car leasing) and live at the same address as you. If you are under 21 and eligible for the scheme, there are specific driver age restrictions and vehicle type limitations.

Q2: What happens at the end of the lease agreement?
At the end of your three-year lease, you have several options: you can return the car, potentially part-exchange it for a new Motability vehicle (if you're eligible and there's no outstanding balance), or in some cases, you may be able to purchase the car outright. We will discuss these options with you well in advance of your agreement ending.

Q3: What if I exceed my agreed mileage allowance?
If you exceed your agreed mileage allowance, you will be charged a pence-per-mile fee at the end of your lease. It's important to be realistic when setting your mileage allowance to avoid these charges.

Q4: Can I take my car abroad?
Yes, you can usually take your car abroad for up to 90 days in a rolling 12-month period. However, you must obtain a European Travel Enablement form from Motability before you travel. Certain countries may have specific requirements.

Q5: What if I want to swap my current Motability car for a different one before the lease ends?
Early termination of a Motability lease is generally not permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a significant change in your mobility needs. Motability will assess each case individually. It's best to discuss any potential issues with your nominated dealership, like Hills Ford, as early as possible.

The Future of Motability with Hills Ford

The Motability scheme is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of disabled people in the UK. Hills Ford remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of these developments, ensuring our customers have access to the latest Ford models and the most up-to-date information on the scheme. We are passionate about empowering individuals through accessible and reliable transportation, and our partnership with Motability allows us to do just that. We invite you to visit Hills Ford, speak to our expert Motability team, and discover how easy it can be to drive away in a new Ford.

Choosing Hills Ford for your Motability needs means choosing a partner committed to your mobility and independence. We are here to support you every mile of the way.

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