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Best Scooter Lifts
Updated:
Jul 16, 2022
Best Scooter Lifts
For seniors who still want the mobility to get around, their electric scooter allows them to move about comfortably and confidently, maintaining a sense of independence. But there are times when the scooter needs a lift to travel even further, perhaps on vacation or visiting family in another city. Just because they’re in a different location, a senior should not be deprived of their mobility.
Thankfully, scooter car lifts provide the service of efficiently transporting mobility devices, so your senior is not limited. Scooter lifts are also great additions for caregivers; being able to take the elderly person you look after is accessible for day trips, shopping, appointments, and more.
We’ve reviewed the best options and gathered them here so you can find the best fit for your situation.
How We Found the Best Scooter Lifts
50 Products Considered
12 Hours of Research
7 Products Reviewed
3 Top Picks
Products carousel
Best Scooter Lifts We Reviewed:
- Mini Lift Model 117
- AL425 Axis II
- Harmar AL350
- Titan Medical Rack Ramp MC500 SC500
- FAR-250 Carrier
- BackPacker Plus
- AL690 Side-Door Hybrid Platform
Features & Specs
- Compatible with Class II and Class III hitches
- Swing away option available
- Scooter lift weighs 88 pounds
- Comes with two retractable ratchets
- The platform is 37 inches by 22 inches
- 24 inch ground clearance
- 150 pound weight capacity
- Hardwire power source
- Made of steel coated with scratch-resistant power
- Outside lift
Pros
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Automatically fold up
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Electric – no strength required
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Three-year warranty (limited)
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Made in the USA
Cons
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The motor can be a little loud
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Requires trailer hitch
The Mini Lift Model 117 is an excellent option for seniors, caregivers, or family members as it is easy to use, easy to lift, and easily folds up. The Mini Lift Model can lift three- and four-wheel travel scooters as well as small travel power wheelchairs.
The platform is large enough and made of all steel, thus strong enough to hold a scooter in place and easy to secure with the supplied tie-downs. The ease of this lift means anyone can work it, giving you the independence to travel where you need. And the lift works in hot weather, cold weather, and any other conditions–like rain or snow–without delay.
A straightforward switch box on the top of the device is used to control the scooter lift, but a hand crank is also included in the case of power loss.
When you or the senior in your life needs their mobility device, wherever they go, we recommend the Mini Lift Model for simplicity and ease of use.
Our Verdict
A scooter lift that requires no strength, simple to use, and will last for years. Excellent for travel scooters and wheelchairs.
Features & Specs
- Adjustable base, post height, and boom arm
- Weather resistant hand control
- Weight capacity is 400 pounds
- Lift weighs 90 pounds
- Hardwired power source
- Inside Lift
- Black Color
- Optional wireless remote control
Pros
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Can be installed on either side of the vehicle
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Three-year warranty (limited)
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Simple to use
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Electric – no strength required
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Compact
Cons
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Installation can be challenging
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Adaptor kit required for some vehicles
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Not suitable for cars with power hatches
The AL425 Axis II scooter lift is on our list because it works well with SUVs due to its compact design and high lifting capacity. If you or the senior in your life has a travel scooter, full-sized scooter, or a full-size power wheelchair, then this is the lift to use. As mentioned, it’s an ideal inside lift for SUVs, but also works well for vans and trucks.
The scooter or chair is attached to the lift from either the back or the side of the vehicle. From there, maneuvering is simple and automatic. You can use the optional remote control for even more ease.
The outstanding selling feature is that is only requires 30 inches of headroom for access. For seniors who rely on their mobility scooters, it’s a tremendous relief to know they can get away from home and still get around on their own.
Our Verdict
This boom lift has a high lifting capacity of 400 pounds and is compact and adjustable.
Features & Specs
- Weight capacity is 350 pounds
- Four manually adjustable cam buckle straps
- Lift weighs 80 pounds
- Electric stitch to raise and lower lift
- Key switch for security
- Compatible with Class II hitches and Class III hitches
- Wheel cradle
- Patriotic Stars and Stripes design on the platform
- The platform is 27.5 inches by 39 inches
- Optional Accessories:
- Swing Away Arm
- 4 Q’Straint Retractors
- Class II Hitch Adapter
- Battery Pack
- Drop Adapter
Pros
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Electric – no strength required
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Four straps for extra security
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Additional, easy-to-use straps
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Key required for use
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Versatile
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One-year transferable warranty
Cons
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Straps do not self-retract
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Requires a hitch
The Harmar AL350 scooter lift works for both scooters and power wheelchairs and easily attaches to a hitch on the outside of your truck. Solidly built with a very large deck, the platform holds the rear wheels in place for added security, in addition to the four supplied tie-downs.
The ease of use is so simple that once the scooter is driven into place, the lift pretty much does the rest of the work. The power switch is located on the head of the unit to control height as well as folding the deck in towards the vehicle when not in use. A key is required to turn on the power, adding extra security so only you control the lift.
The Harmar’s simplicity means that most anyone with limited mobility issues can utilize it. Plus the design of the straps makes it easy to use for those with dexterity or strength challenges. For seniors this offers reassurance that their mobility is in their control.
Our Verdict
A lift that requires no strength and has additional security features like cambuckle straps and a key is needed for use. Hitches well to trucks with Class II or Class III hitch.
Best For Outside Manual
Titan Ramps Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair and Scooter Carrier – 500 lb. Capacity
$199.99
Features and Specifications
- Manufactured from steel
- 500 lb. Weight capacity
- Measures 52″ W x 48″ D with a 60″ L ramp; basket measures 47.5″ W x 28.5″ D x 4.375″ H
- Supports most power scooters and electric wheelchair
- Folds against the vehicle when not in use; fits 2″ Class III or IV trailer hitches
Pros
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High weight capacity
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Universal design for scooters and power wheelchairs
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More affordable
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The ramp allows for quick loading
Cons
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Not electric requires manual work
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Not for use with 1.25 inch hitches
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Adds length to the vehicle when parking
For seniors with smaller scooters, we recommend the Titan Medical Rack Ramp MC500 SC500, not only for its size, but for its affordability, making it a great option for seniors on a limited income. It is simple to remove and reattach for convenience, and the lift folds up against the vehicle when not in use.
This scooter lift is not an electric device that goes up and down. Instead, a ramp folds down on the right side into an easy slope so you can drive your scooter directly up to the platform. There are three positions: locked and folded against the car, locked upright with an 80-90 degree angle when loaded, and down as a ramp.
The lift is made of steel and will last for years. Holes along the platform make it easy to secure your scooter with cords of your choice. The reviews for the Titan Medical Rack Ramp not only praised its cost-effectiveness, but its solid construction as a must have for any smaller scooter or wheelchair.
Our Verdict
An affordable lift option with a sturdy ramp to transport smaller sized scooters.
Features & Specs
- 41 inch ramp
- Powder coated finish
- 25 inch security rail
- Compatible with Class III hitches and Class IV hitches
- Weight capacity is 250 pounds
- Lift weight is 68 pounds
- Outside lift
- Black color
- Steel material
- Manual Lift
- The platform is 46 inches by 28 inches
- Reflectors
- Tie-down holes
- Carrier handles
Pros
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Easy to mount
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Compact
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Light and strong
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Simple to transport scooters
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Ramp handle
Cons
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Will wobble if not secure
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Does not come with straps
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The hitch pin not included
An excellent scooter lift option, we recommend the FAR-250 Carrier for smaller sized scooters, travel scooters, and full-size power wheelchairs. While made of a durable steel, it is lightweight enough that many seniors are able to handle it on their own, ensuring their mobility and independence.
The FAR-250 Carrier is a manual, outside lift that is straightforward to install providing a simple ramp for easy transportation. The lift comes with multiple tie-down holes to secure the scooter and adjustment bolts to prevent rattling. When not in use, the lift can fold against the back of the car for ease of parking.
Our Verdict
This scooter lift works on any vehicle to transport smaller sized scooters and power chairs with the ease of a ramp.
Features & Specs
- Battery hardwired
- 2-button hand control
- Manual override
- Inside lift
- Weight capacity is 350 pounds
- Lift weighs 150 pounds
- The platform is 43 inches by 27 inches
Pros
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Three-year warranty (limited)
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Made in the USA
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No permanent installation
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Hardwired kit included
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Electric – no strength required
Cons
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Remote is not wireless
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Supports for wheels allow for some movement while traveling
The BackPacker Plus scooter lift is an inside electric lift that is mounted in the back of a minivan when removing the back seat. The existing floor latches that hold the rear seat connect with the carrier so no drilling or modifications need to be made.
This lift is not a permanent installation, though it is possible to have it permanently added to your vehicle. The unit can easily be transferred and installed in another car. Use the battery pack as an outside source of power, so there is no need to connect to your car battery.
The platform is controlled automatically and moves out, lowers to the ground, is loaded with your scooter and climbs back up and in the car.
Our Verdict
Great scooter lift that is not a permanent installation and eases to be transferred and installed in another car.
Features & Specs
- Hardwired Power
- Weight capacity is 275 pounds
- The platform is 38 inches by an adjustable length of 21.5 inches to 28.5 inches
- Headroom required is 32 inches
- Lift weighs 199 pounds
- Inside lift
- Depth required is 55 inches
- Side-door loading
- Remote hand control
- Mounts to the second row of seating
Pros
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Three-year warranty (limited)
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No drilling or medication required for vehicle
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Convenient
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Simple to use
Cons
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Lower weight capacity
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Wires to the car battery and can be challenging to stall
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Adaptor needed for Stow and Go seating
The AL690 Side-Door Hybrid Platform Lift stands out to us a wonderful alternative to rear loading lifts. We want our seniors to maintain their mobility and their independence, but we want them to remain safe. This lift does both as it is a side door loading lift; safer because you are next to the vehicle rather than behind where traffic is traveling.
This carrier is designed to fit into the second row of seating for vans. The platform comes outside the car, the scooter loads, and the platform moves into the vehicle through the side door. No drilling or special mounting parts needed.
We recommend the Side-Door Hybrid Platform Lift for senior travel scooters and full-size power wheelchairs. It functions with a standard remote hand control and requires no strength to maneuver. For seniors, having their chair transported inside a vehicle will also help prevent wear and tear.
Our Verdict
Alternative comparing to rear loading and safer for some people because you are next to the vehicle rather than behind where traffic is traveling.
Why Get a Vehicle Lift?
Getting out and about is an integral part of living, keeping a daily routine, and maintaining a sense of independence—especially for seniors aging in place. With a proper vehicle lift, they can make going out an everyday event.
If you are a caretaker or have a loved one who requires a scooter, a vehicle lift introduces new adventures. On their own, or together with you, going to the movies, going out to eat, and going shopping all become possible.
Vehicle lifts are also crucial if the senior you care for requires multiple doctor visits. Going to the doctor isn’t always enjoyable, but it is essential. And by bringing their mobility device, you have increased your loved one’s confidence and independence.
And scooter lifts don’t need to be a burden. Many seniors prefer to lease vehicles, and the good news is that many scooter lifts work well in leased vehicles. Outside lifts can be attached to any car with the proper hitch, and many inside lifts are now designed to have no permanent installation and require no modification.
Inside Lifts vs. Outside Lifts
Inside lifts are typically designed for vans and SUVs. They can be side-door access or rear access. The scooter or power chair travels directly inside the vehicle. An inside lift is an excellent option if you want to protect your power chair from wear and tear while traveling.
Some people prefer side-door lifts, which are limited to inside lifts because they can be safer to use. When loading a rear lift, you are vulnerable to traffic traveling past the vehicle. Side-door lifts keep you next to the car.
Outside lifts attach to the rear of your vehicle, and you can find one compatible with nearly any car. Outside lifts do fold against the trunk or tailgate when not in use, but once a scooter is loaded it extends the length of the vehicle. Sometimes it becomes tricky to find a parking space to accommodate the extended range.
Summary
When considering the right scooter car lift, consider the weight of your scooter and the type of lift you want. Inside and outside lifts have their benefits. Also, understand your own ability and strength and/or that of your senior, and consider if a manual lift with a ramp is possible or if you prefer the ease of an automatic, electric lift.
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