Mobility Device Compatibility
Outside electric lifts are meant for mobility scooter, powerchairs, or it’s compatible with both. It’s best to use the outside electric lift that’s compatible with your mobility aid so the lift lasts and your mobility device is secure and safe.
Outside Lift For Power Wheelchair
If you use a power wheelchair, it’s best to look for an outside lift for power wheelchair. Since power wheelchairs are generally heavier, the outside lift for power wheelchair may have reinforced platforms and additional tie-down options. The outside lift for the power wheelchair will have a higher weight capacity.
Outside Lift for Mobility Scooter
If you use a mobility scooter, then you’ll want to use an outside lift for mobility scooter. An outside lift for a mobility scooter is usually cheaper (why not save money) because they are often simpler. Mobility scooters are lighter in weight, which means the outside lift for mobility scooters doesn’t need to be as strong. The platform lift for a mobility scooter doesn’t require as many brackets or extra stabilization.
Outside Lifts For Scooters & Powerchairs
If you are a person who has both a mobility scooter and a powerchair, it would be best to opt in for an outside lift for scooters and powerchairs. These lifts are versatile so you can use either your scooter or powerchair. Getting an outside lift that’s compatible with both will save you money, since you won’t need to buy 2 lifts and you won’t have to swap lifts on your vehicle to match your mobility device. Be sure to check the specs of both your mobility scooter and powerchair to make sure the electric lift can accommodate both.
Outside Lift Vehicle Compatibility
If you don’t already have a vehicle set up with a lift, the good news is with an outside electric lift, there are many vehicles that can use the lift. The outside electric lift connects with the trailer hitch, so as long as your vehicle has a Class II or Class III hitch, you should be able to use an outdoor electric lift.
Lift For Car
With the advancements in technology, you no longer need to trade in your car if you drive a mobility scooter. An electric scooter lift for a car allows you to keep your car and transport your mobility scooter. If you’re interested in an electric scooter lift for a car, make sure your car has a Class II or Class III hitch and make sure your car can handle the weight of the electric lift with your mobility scooter weight.
Lift For SUV
If you drive an SUV, an outside electric lift is a good choice. Most SUVs are equipped with the hitch and they are stronger than what you’ll find on a car. A mobility scooter lift for an SUV is a great way to transport your mobility scooter around and still have all your cargo space in the back.
Lift For Van
An outside lift for a van will be very similar to an SUV. Most vans already have a hitch, you’ll just need to make sure your particular van can handle the weight of the lift and the mobility device it’ll carry. When looking for an outside lift for a van, you’ll also need to consider the type of rear door and access. Some vans have rear doors that swing out (instead of lift up), which may be obstructed by an external lift. This won’t stop you from using a lift, but it can limit access to the back of the van when it’s installed.
Lift For Truck
When it comes to an outside electric lift for a truck, the truck hitch is the strongest option. The truck has a higher ground clearance as well, so you don’t have to worry about the lift scraping bottom when driving over bumps. With a lift for trucks, you’ll still be able to access the bed of the truck with ease.
Swing-Away Options
As wonderful as outside electric lifts are, it can be difficult to access the trunk or cargo space in the back of the vehicle. The swing-away allows you to swing the lift (without your scooter or powerchair) to the side so you can access your cargo space. Most of the outside lifts do not include the swing-away, but the swing-away is an added option. A scooter lift with swing-away option is still easy to use, strong, durable, and convenient. To use the scooter lift with swing-away option, you will pull the swing-away release lever (or turn the handle, depending on model) and then just swing the lift to the side. It’s that easy to operate a scooter lift with a swing-away option.
Best Outside Electric Lifts
When it comes to finding the best outside electric lifts, you can’t go wrong with brand names such as Harmar, TriLift, and Wheelchair Carriers. The best outside electric lift will be reliable, durable, secure, and will be able to be used with your vehicle and your mobility aid.
Best Scooter Lift for Cars
If you drive a car and are looking for the best scooter lift for cars, you’ll want to look for a smaller lift, since the car’s tongue weight capacity is usually lower.
Harmar AL010 Micro Scooter Lift
The Harmar AL010 Micro Scooter Lift is one of the best scooter lift for cars. The AL010 Micro Scooter lift weighs about 70 lbs, making it ideal for vehicles with lower hitch capacities. This lift does have a lower weight capacity of 135lbs, so it’s only ideal for micro scooters. The platform is also manual, so keep that in mind.
TriLift Mobility Carrier
If you need something that can carry heavier weight, the TriLift Mobility Carrier is another best scooter lift for cars. The TriLift Mobility Carrier doesn’t have a platform, instead, it uses a patented triangular interlocking system that securely connects your mobility device to the lift, reducing overall weight and improving ground clearance. It has a weight limit of 500 lbs, so it has the capability to transport most mobility scooters and some power wheelchairs.
Best Outside Scooter Lift for Seniors
Seniors generally want a lift that’s easy to use and requires minimal effort. The best outside scooter lift for seniors is reliable and safe for both the user and their scooter or powerchair.
Harmar AL100 Universal Scooter Lift
One of the best outside scooter lifts for seniors is the Harmar AL100 Universal Scooter Lift. This fully automatic lift is renowned for its ease of use and reliability. It features a 350 lb lifting capacity and secures scooters without the need for modifications. Compatible with most vehicles equipped with a Class III hitch. This lift has a manual backup crank in case the battery is low or dead. The Harmar AL100 Universal Scooter Lift is favored by seniors.
Purchasing An Outside Electric Lift at Scooter Direct
Purchasing an outside electric lift from Scooter Direct is a great solution for individuals seeking to transport their mobility scooters or power chairs with ease. Scooter Direct offers a range of outside electric lifts designed to attach to a vehicle's hitch receiver, facilitating the loading and unloading process for users. These lifts are compatible with various vehicle types and are made to accommodate different scooter sizes and weights. With features such as automatic operation and secure hold-down mechanisms, these lifts provide convenience and safety during transport. Additionally, Scooter Direct ensures competitive pricing and customer support to assist buyers in selecting the appropriate lift for their specific needs. If you are unsure which outdoor electric lift will work best with your vehicle and mobility device, please feel free to call one of our mobility specialists.
FAQ
Can I install an outside lift on my car or SUV?
Yes, installing an outside mounted mobility lift on your vehicle is relatively easy. If your vehicle already has a compatible hitch, most lifts slide into the hitch and secure with a pin. Electric models may require wiring to the vehicle battery or trailer wiring harness.
Do I need professional installation for an outside lift?
Most outside lifts are made for people to install it themselves, but if you feel more comfortable with a professional installing your lift, it’ll put your mind at ease knowing your lift is secure and wired correctly.
What’s the difference between an inside and outside lift?
Both lifts will be able to transport your mobility aid and both are great options. With an outside lift, the lift is outside of the vehicle and transports your scooter or powerchair on the outside of the vehicle. This allows you to keep cargo and passenger space. With an outside lift, your mobility device is exposed to the outside elements. An inside lift is a lift in the vehicle and allows you to transport your aid in the vehicle. This usually requires a little more installation and it will take up either cargo or passenger space. Your scooter or wheelchair is protected from the outside elements. When it comes to deciding which lift is best, it comes down to personal preference.
Are outside electric lifts weather-resistant?
Yes, most outside electric lifts are designed to be weather-resistant and can handle rain, snow, and sun. They typically feature rust-resistant coatings and sealed electronics. However, using a protective cover and performing regular maintenance can help extend the life of the lift, especially in harsh climates.
Is it easy to operate an electric scooter lift?
It’s incredibly easy to operate an electric scooter lift. With just the flip of a switch, the electric scooter pretty well does it all for you. Once lowered, you just roll your scooter on, secure it using straps or locking arms, and lift it back up with the same control. Many users find it quick and easy to learn.
How much weight can an outside electric lift hold?
This will vary from model to model, but generally, an outside electric lift can hold between 135-400lbs. Before purchasing an outside electric lift, be sure to check how much your mobility scooter or powerchair weighs and make sure it fits within the lift’s weight capacity.
Are there swing-away options available?
Yes! Many models offer the swing-away option for an additional charge. Manufacturers like Harmar offer swing-away arms compatible with models such as the AL100, AL300, and AL500 series. These swing-away arms are typically designed for Class II or Class III hitch receivers and are intended to be used when the lift is unloaded.
