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How Much Does a Motability Car Cost Per Month

The Motability Scheme’s purpose is to provide worry-free, affordable and accessible motoring. 

So how much does a Motability car cost per month? From initial payments to budgeting, we cover everything you should consider.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Motability Scheme, you must receive one of the following qualifying mobility allowance with at least 12 months remaining on your award length. 

  • Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
  • War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
  • Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA)
  • Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (ERMC PIP)
  • Higher Rate Mobility Component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland)
  • Enhanced Rate Mobility Part of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland)

Initial payments

If your chosen car costs less than or the same as your weekly mobility allowance, then there is no initial or down payment you need to make.

However, if you select a more expensive car that costs more than your weekly mobility allowance, you will be required to pay an Advance Payment. This is an upfront payment of the extra cost of your vehicle over the three year lease and is non-refundable. 

The Motability website is regularly updated so you can view the latest motability car prices and Advance Payments online.

Monthly lease costs

Many of the costs and expenses typically associated with owning a car are fully covered through the scheme:

  • Annual road tax included
  • Insurance cover for three named drivers on the car
  • Full breakdown assistance package
  • Cover MOT and regular servicing appointments
  • Funding for a wide range of car adaptations

This means that one of the only monthly expenses you’ll need to pay out for, is your fuel and of course giving up some, or all of your mobility allowance.

Additional considerations

Whilst Motability offers an all inclusive motoring package, there are some potential extra costs to consider such as excess mileage charges or early cancellation fees. 

Your Motability Scheme package includes a mileage allowance of 60,000 miles over a three year agreement, but you will be charged 5p per mile for any additional miles. Or if you decide to cancel your lease early, you will be charged an early cancellation administration fee of £250.

Budgeting tips

The biggest costs associated with your Motability car will be your Advance Payment (if you choose a car that requires one) and your fuel usage. 

Firstly, ensure you’re choosing the right car to suit your needs and explore all your options. Are you choosing a bigger, more expensive car because of requiring easier access? If so, explore the accessible vehicle adaptations available on the scheme to provide a solution for access into smaller vehicles as this could save you money on your Advance Payment! 

It’s also important to look at your lifestyle and regular journeys to ensure you’re selecting the right fuel type and engine size for your needs -this will save you over spending on fuel in the long run. 

Overall, the Motability Scheme provides affordable access to a vehicle with the Motability car costs being much lower compared to privately owned vehicles. Find out how our team of mobility experts can help you with selecting the right adaptations for your needs and advice on obtaining them on your Motability car. Get in touch online or call us on 0800 288 4422. 

Our disability car allowance blog provides further details on mobility car allowance including the application process.

For further information on finding a suitable vehicle, read our motability car guide for everything you need to consider.