Motability Scheme Guide, How It Works, Eligibility & Cars at Sherwoods Motor Group

As you will know all too well, getting from place to place should be simple, comfortable, and stress-free, and that is why in the UK over 750,000 active customers currently lease a car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter, or powered wheelchair through the scheme. So, whether you are heading out for the weekly food shop, catching up with family, or simply enjoying a weekend drive in the countryside, having reliable transport that you can trust just makes a world of difference to your everyday life.

That is why the Motability Scheme was created all those years ago in 1977 by Lord Goodman and Lord Sterling, to make motoring accessible, affordable, and straightforward for people living with disabilities, chronic conditions, and mobility challenges.

Consequently, if you are exploring the scheme for the first time or looking to renew your current lease, this guide will explain everything you need to know about how Motability works, what is included, and how our friendly team across the North East can help you get on the road.

  

Table of Contents

  

    
•       What Is the Motability Scheme and How Does It Work?     
    
•       How Is the Motability Scheme Is Structured and Managed?     
    
•       Who Is Eligible for a Motability Car? Qualifying Benefits and Criteria     
    
•       Motability Driver Rules - Commuting, Age Limits, and Mileage Allowances     
    
•       What Is Included in the Motability All-Inclusive Lease Package?     
    
•       Understanding the Costs and Advance Payments     
    
•       Motability Price Lists, Allowance Rates, and Charitable Grants     
    
•       Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs), Free Home EV Chargers, and End-of-Lease Bonuses     
    
•       Motability Car Adaptations, Driving Aids, Swivel Seats, and Boot Hoists     
    
•       Explore Motability Cars by Brand, Peugeot, Citroën, Suzuki, Fiat, and Leapmotor     
    
•       How to Apply for a Motability Car, Step-by-Step Order Process     
    
•       Find a Motability Specialist Near You, Durham, Gateshead, Sunderland & Washington     
    
•       Related Guides and Latest News     
    
•       Who is Sherwood's Motor Group     

What Is the Motability Scheme and How Does It Work?

As a result, instead of dealing with the large upfront expense of buying a vehicle outright or worrying about surprise repair bills, the scheme bundles everything into one straightforward monthly lease.

The payments then come directly from your mobility allowance, which means you never have to remember direct debits or budget for annual insurance renewals.

It is actually designed to give you total peace of mind. All you need to do is add fuel or charge your vehicle, and focus on enjoying your journey; your Motability is guaranteed for up to 60,000 miles over 3 years.

How Is the Motability Scheme Is Structured and Managed?

The Motability Scheme actually operates through a close partnership between a registered charity, a dedicated leasing company, and government bodies.

Organisation	Role and Responsibilities
Motability Foundation	This is the overarching charity that oversees the scheme, sets policies, and provides charitable grants to help customers afford advance payments or specialist adaptations.
Motability Operations Ltd	The commercial organisation that runs the day-to-day leasing, handles customer accounts, and manages the vehicle fleet.
Direct Line Motability (DLM)	The specialist underwriter providing comprehensive insurance for every vehicle, covering up to 3 named drivers.
DWP and Social Security Scotland	Government departments that assess and disburse your statutory mobility allowances directly to fund your lease.

Who Is Eligible for a Motability Car? Qualifying Benefits and Criteria

Qualifying for the Motability Scheme is much simpler than many people even realise. As here there are no separate medical assessments or examinations required to join, and to apply, you simply need at least 12 months remaining on an approved mobility allowance.

PIP Recipients

For PIP recipients, the points needed for mobility are a minimum of 12 points in either the planning and following journeys or moving around activities to secure the enhanced rate PIP mobility award.

You and we can also run a quick mobility qualifying benefits check against the official allowances accepted on the scheme below.

Qualifying Allowance	Eligibility Criteria and Details
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)	The Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component for adults across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, qualifying you for a brand new PIP car.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)	The Higher Rate Mobility Component, securing a higher rate DLA car allowance for children under 16 or existing adult recipients holding a DLA car lease.
Adult Disability Payment (ADP)	The Scottish equivalent benefit replacing PIP for disabled adults in Scotland, managed by Social Security Scotland for adult disability payment mobility leases.
Child Disability Payment (CDP)	The Scottish equivalent of higher rate mobility support for children in Scotland through child disability payment mobility applications.
War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS)	An allowance provided by Veterans UK for service-related mobility needs under the war pensioner mobility scheme.
Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)	Dedicated financial support for service personnel injured on active duty, fully accepted across the scheme.

Can You Get a Motability Car After State Pension Age?

A frequent question our team also often gets is: "Can pensioners join Motability?". The answer here is yes, provided you were awarded enhanced rate PIP or higher rate DLA before reaching state pension age and maintain continuous entitlement.

While your Attendance Allowance cannot be used to start a new lease, existing award holders who reach state pension age can continue to lease a vehicle or renew an agreement indefinitely.

Can Someone Else Drive Your Motability Car? Named Driver Rules

Under the scheme rules, you can add up to 3 approved drivers to your vehicle.

Then to make sure the car directly supports your daily transport, nominated drivers must normally live within 5 miles of your home address. Any non-resident carer or family member can also be added if they regularly drive you to medical appointments, shops, or family visits.

Every driver will also be backed on the road by official service partners. RAC Motability Assistance which provides 24-hour roadside recovery and home-start services, whilst Kwik Fit Fleet takes care of all your routine tyre replacements, puncture repairs, and wheel balancing across the UK.

If You Cannot Drive

If you cannot drive, do not hold a driving licence, or simply prefer having someone else take the wheel, you can then nominate up to 3 drivers on your lease. These can be family members, partners, friends, or designated carers.

The vehicle must then simply be used for your direct benefit, such as taking you to appointments, doing shopping, or running household errands for you.

Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians of children aged 3 and over who receive the higher rate mobility component can also lease a vehicle on their child's behalf also.

How does the Motability Scheme work if I don't drive myself?

You do not need a driving licence to lease a car. You can nominate up to 3 people to drive on your behalf, such as family members, friends, or carers, provided the vehicle is used for your benefit.

Can I nominate my grandson who lives 10 miles away as a Motability driver?

Nominated drivers usually need to live within 5 miles of your address. However, Motability can consider exceptions for family members or carers who live further away if they are essential to your regular transport needs.

Can I add a third driver to my Motability car insurance policy for free?

Yes, your lease includes comprehensive Motability car insurance cover for up to 3 named drivers at no extra cost, allowing total flexibility for your family and carers to help you travel.

What happens to my Motability car if my PIP award is reduced during the lease?

If your allowance stops or is reduced so you no longer qualify, you will need to hand the vehicle back.

Motability does offer you a transitional support package for those eligible, which provides a lump sum to help you arrange alternative transport.

Is there an age limit for claiming a car on the Motability Scheme?

There is no upper age limit for joining or remaining on the scheme, as long as you were awarded an eligible higher rate mobility allowance before you reached state pension age and still receive it.

How does the Motability Scheme work with Scottish Adult Disability Payment?

The process is exactly the same as it is for PIP. If you receive the enhanced rate mobility component of Adult Disability Payment through Social Security Scotland, you simply use that award to fund your lease in the standard way.

Which dealership has the best Motability specialists in Sunderland and Durham?

Here at Sherwoods Motor Group, we take immense pride in our award-winning customer care across the North East.

Our dedicated Motability specialists in Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead, and Washington are fully accredited and known for providing relaxed, expert guidance tailored to your specific mobility needs as well, and are here to help you.

Motability Driver Rules - Commuting, Age Limits, and Mileage Allowances

The rules for Motability are quite simple; some we have already covered, but to recap, here you have:

How many drivers on Motability can you have?

You can have up to 3 named drivers who can be insured on one agreement.

The Motability nominated driver radius rule then requires non-resident drivers to live within 5 miles of the customer, though carers living further away can be approved if they provide regular transport.

Can a family member drive my Motability car?

Yes, and similar questions, like can a husband drive his wife's Motability car, are also simple to answer, as any approved partner, family member, or carer named on the policy can drive, provided journeys benefit the customer.

Along with this, using a Motability car for work commuting is also permitted for named drivers travelling to work as part of supporting the household.

Can A Driver Learning to Drive Be Included?

Under the Motability provisional licence rules, provisional drivers aged 21 or over can learn in the car when accompanied by an experienced driver.

Under Motability under 25 driver insurance rules, younger drivers must stick to cars in insurance group 16 or below with 120 BHP or less. Then, in the event of a claim, a standard Motability named driver insurance excess will apply, which you can check this current via the online Motability portal.

What is the Motability mileage limit?

Here, standard leases cover 60,000 miles over 3 years. To this end, keeping within your limit is really important, as excess mileage charges on Motability apply for every mile driven above your agreed cap at handover, which you will be responsible for.

What Is Included in the Motability All-Inclusive Lease Package?

One of the greatest benefits of Motability, by far, is the all-inclusive package.

Here, standard car leases often come with unexpected maintenance bills and fluctuating insurance rates; However, under Motability, your lease covers virtually all your running costs for the duration of the agreement.

Feature	What Is Covered
Brand-New Vehicle	A new car every 3 years (or 5 years for WAVs)
Comprehensive Insurance	Full cover for up to 3 named drivers
Servicing and MOT	All regular manufacturer servicing and routine MOT tests
RAC Breakdown Cover	24/7 roadside assistance, recovery, and home start
Tyres and Windscreens	Full tyre repair and replacement with Kwik Fit, plus windscreen repair
Mileage Allowance	Generous 60,000-mile allowance across a standard 3-year lease
Vehicle Adaptations	Many popular driving and access adaptations fitted at no extra cost

The Good Condition Payment

Taking care of your vehicle is also very financially rewarding.

If you return your car at the end of your agreement in good, undamaged condition, you will receive a Good Condition Payment as well. This bonus is paid directly to you and ranges from £250 for a standard 3-year lease up to £750 for a 5-year wheelchair accessible vehicle lease.

Electric Vehicle Charging Support

For those choosing your first pure-electric vehicle on the scheme, Motability will arrange and fully fund a standard domestic smart wallbox installation through their partner Ohme.

If you then do not have a driveway or suitable off-street parking, you will instead receive an eight-year subscription to the BP Pulse or Motability Go Charge public charging networks to make sure you can easily charge up while out and about.

Insurance Cover and Standard Excess

Your lease includes comprehensive motor insurance provided by Direct Line Motability, covering accidental damage, fire, and theft for up to 3 named drivers.

If you ever need to make a claim, the policy features a low, standard insurance excess of just £100, which keeps your out-of-pocket expenses to an absolute minimum.

Nominated Driver Address Rules

But to make sure the vehicle is always used for the direct benefit of the disabled customer, scheme rules require that any nominated drivers live within 5 miles of your registered home address.

However, if an essential carer or family member lives further away, you can request a special exception, which will be manually reviewed and approved by Motability Operations.

Automated Vehicle Tax

You never have to remember to renew your vehicle excise duty, commonly known as road tax, as well under this scheme.

As the tax is entirely free for the customer throughout the agreement and is managed automatically by the scheme itself. Motability here will also liaise directly with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) on your behalf as well, meaning your car is always legally taxed without you having to lift a finger or fill out any paperwork.

What Extra Running Costs Are Covered by Motability?

Drivers often ask us: "Is insurance included in Motability?"".

To which we answer: yes, comprehensive Motability insurance is arranged through Direct Line Motability, covering up to 3 named drivers, fire, theft, and accidental damage.

Who pays for Motability tyre replacements?

Here, Kwik Fit handles routine tyre repairs, puncture call-outs, and replacements as part of the agreement at no extra cost.

The package also features full Motability breakdown cover inclusions from RAC Motability Assistance, giving you roadside recovery and home-start around the clock.

Taking care of your car pays you back. Returning your vehicle in good order qualifies you for the Motability Good Condition Bonus, which pays out at lease-end directly to your bank.

Are routine services, tyre changes, and MOT tests completely free on Motability?

Yes, all of these are included within your lease. Regular manufacturer servicing, routine MOT tests, and unlimited tyre repairs or replacements through Kwik Fit are covered to keep you safe without any unexpected garage bills.

Is fuel or home electricity charging included in the Motability monthly lease cost?

No, while the lease takes care of maintenance, breakdown cover, and insurance, you are responsible for paying for your own petrol, diesel, or the electricity used to charge your vehicle.

What happens if my Motability vehicle breaks down on the motorway?

You are completely covered by RAC Motability Assistance.

So, whether you break down on a busy motorway, on a quiet country lane, or on your own driveway, the RAC will come out to repair the car or recover you and your passengers to a safe location at no extra charge.

Do I have to pay car tax annually on a Motability Scheme lease?

No, you do not need to worry about road tax. As here Motability handles the vehicle excise duty directly with the DVLA each year, so your car remains fully taxed without you having to lift a finger or pay anything extra.

Are electric vehicle charging cables included with Motability EV leases?

Yes, when you lease a pure-electric vehicle, the manufacturer will provide the standard charging cables you need to plug into a home wallbox or public charging station, meaning you are ready to charge straight away.

Can I take my Motability Scheme vehicle abroad to Europe on holiday?

You are also free to take your car abroad for up to 90 days a year within the European Union and certain other countries.

You just need to contact Motability before you travel to arrange a vehicle on hire certificate and ensure your insurance covers international trips.

What happens if I accidentally scuff an alloy wheel or scratch a Motability car?

Here, general wear and tear, including minor scratches or small alloy scuffs, are completely expected and accepted over a 3-year lease.

For more serious accidental damage, your insurance covers the repairs, subject to your standard excess fee.

Understanding the Costs and Advance Payments

Leasing a vehicle on the scheme is also very affordable, predictable, and transparent.

Because the cost is deducted directly from your allowance every 4 weeks, you always know where you stand.

Vehicles on the scheme generally fall into 3 price categories as well, including:

Nil Advance Payment

Here, many vehicles cost less than or exactly the same as your full weekly allowance.

For these cars, you pay nothing upfront at the dealership. You simply exchange your allowance for the 3 years, drive away, and enjoy the car.

Cars Costing Less Than Your Allowance

If you then choose a smaller, highly efficient car that costs less than your total mobility payment, the remaining balance of your weekly allowance continues to be paid straight into your bank account as usual.

Cars with an Advance Payment

For larger SUVs, estate models, premium trims, or models requiring specific technical specifications, an Advance Payment might be required.

This is then a one-off, non-refundable payment made directly to the dealership on the day you collect your car. It also covers the difference between your allowance and the total lease value of that specific model.

So, if you need a particular vehicle or adaptation to meet your mobility needs but are worried about the upfront cost, the charitable Motability Foundation can often provide you with grant support here to help cover your Advance Payments as well.

Can You Part Exchange Your Private Car for a Motability Advance Payment?

If you currently own a car privately, you can use it to help fund your new lease.

For instance, here at Sherwoods Motor Group, we allow you to part exchange your existing vehicle directly with us. The value of your trade-in can be put straight towards covering the advance payment on your new vehicle, or even used to add optional factory extras.

This, in turn, makes moving from private car ownership onto the scheme highly cost-effective.

How much is the Motability Good Condition Payment at the end of a 3-year lease?

If you return your car in good condition with no major damage at the end of a standard 3-year lease, you will receive a bonus of £250 paid directly into your bank account.

What is the maximum mileage allowance on a standard Motability contract?

A standard 3-year lease comes with a generous allowance of 60,000 miles.

If you then choose a wheelchair accessible vehicle on a 5-year lease, the limit increases to 100,000 miles.

How do I apply for a Motability Foundation grant for a high Advance Payment?

If you cannot afford the advance payment for a vehicle or adaptation that meets your specific disability needs, you can apply directly to the Motability Foundation.

Here, they will then review your financial situation and mobility requirements to see if they can provide a charitable grant to cover the gap.

Motability Price Lists, Allowance Rates, and Charitable Grants

Every quarter, Motability publishes the Motability price guide, listing hundreds of vehicles available from nil deposit Motability cars up to larger models requiring an upfront payment.

Motability Allowance Deduction Rates

The Motability allowance deduction rates then mean your allowance goes straight to Motability each month to pay for the lease.

Many people then look for a free car on disability allowance, and choosing from the Motability nil advance payment list means you pay nothing at handover and use your allowance to cover everything else.

If your budget then requires extra support to get the car you need, then a charitable Motability grant from the Motability Foundation can help fund Advance Payments or driving adaptations.

Customers ordering pure-electric models can also benefit from the Motability electric vehicle grant, which covers the standard home wallbox installations and setup.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs), Free Home EV Chargers, and End-of-Lease Bonuses

When it comes to WAVs and charging, the scheme offers tailored vehicle choices and practical perks to make driving affordable and simple.

For instance, here you have:

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)

If you or your passenger need to remain seated in a wheelchair whilst travelling, a WAV provides converted floor pans, ramps, and tie-down restraints.

Standard WAV leases run for 5 years with an allowance of 100,000 miles, ensuring ample time to enjoy your converted vehicle.

Home EV Chargepoint Installation

Then, when you choose your first pure-electric car through the scheme, Motability arranges and covers the cost of a standard home chargepoint installation through partner Ohme.

If you have suitable off-street parking, a 7kW smart wallbox is fitted at your property at no extra charge, allowing you to charge conveniently overnight.

Good Condition Payment

Taking care of your vehicle pays off. Because if you return your car in clean, roadworthy condition at the end of your 3-year lease, you will receive a £250 Good Condition Payment (or £350 for a 5-year WAV lease).

This bonus is paid directly into your bank account and can be put towards the Advance Payment on your next car.

Can I get a brand-new electric car on Motability with zero Advance Payment?

Yes, there are many electric vehicles available on the scheme that require no upfront payment.

The cost of the lease is simply covered by exchanging your weekly mobility allowance.

Does Motability provide a free home charger when you order an electric vehicle?

When you lease your first pure electric vehicle on the scheme, Motability will also arrange and cover the cost of a standard home chargepoint installation, provided you have suitable off-street parking available at your property.

What are the best high-seating-position Motability cars for bad backs?

SUVs and crossovers are excellent choices for easier access. For example, models like the Peugeot 2008, Citroën C5 Aircross, and Suzuki Vitara offer you that higher, commanding driving position, making it much easier to slide in and out of the cabin without bending down.

Motability Car Adaptations, Driving Aids, Swivel Seats, and Boot Hoists

Every driver and passenger also has unique needs, and this is recognised really well under the scheme.

For instance, here Motability works closely with approved installers to ensure your car fits your lifestyle pretty much seamlessly.

Many Motability driving adaptations can be fitted free of charge prior to collection, while more complex equipment is heavily subsidised.

For example, here you have fitted:

  
• Push pull hand controls for smooth braking and acceleration without foot pedals
  
• Left foot accelerator fitment and pedal extensions disabled driver options for modified pedal reach
  
• Electronic steering aids mobility drivers can use for lighter, one-handed wheel control
  
• Swivel seats for disabled drivers and transfer plates for car seats for effortless cabin transfers
  
• Wheelchair car ramp installation and manual wheelchair boot hoist cost support for stowing heavy mobility equipment

Hoists

If you then need specialist car hoist installation, our North East teams at our dealerships can coordinate the entire fitting process before you collect your car.

Driving Aids

Hand controls, steering wheel balls, electronic accelerators, and left-foot throttle pedals can help you operate the car comfortably and safely without foot pedals.

Access Solutions

Swivel seats, transfer plates, and electric person hoists make getting in and out of the car smooth and pain-free for drivers and passengers with reduced joint mobility.

Boot and Wheelchair Storage

Loading a heavy wheelchair or mobility scooter into a boot can be challenging.

That is why boot hoists and lightweight aluminium ramps can also be fitted to allow you to stow heavy equipment effortlessly at the push of a button.

Many of these modifications can be ordered at the same time you choose your car and fitted before collection, often at zero additional cost.

What is the difference between Nil Advance Payment and paying an Advance Payment?

A Nil Advance Payment means the lease cost is fully covered by your weekly mobility allowance, so you hand over no money at the dealership.

An Advance Payment is also a single, non-refundable sum you pay upfront to cover the difference if you choose a larger or more premium vehicle that costs more than your standard allowance.

Can I lease a Motability car for a disabled child under 16 years old?

Yes, parents and legal guardians can easily apply on behalf of a child who is aged three or over, provided the child receives the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or the Scottish Child Disability Payment.

Can a learner driver learn to drive in my Motability Scheme car?

Yes, a provisional licence holder can learn to drive in the car as long as they are officially named on your lease insurance. Unless the learner is the person receiving the mobility allowance, they must be aged 21 or over to be added to the policy.

Can I get push-pull hand controls fitted to a Peugeot 2008 through Motability?

Absolutely. Push-pull hand controls are a very common driving aid and can be easily fitted to most automatic vehicles on the scheme, including the popular Peugeot 2008.

If you order them at the same time as your new car, they are usually fitted at zero extra cost.

Choosing the Best Vehicle Boot Space and Shape for Mobility Equipment

Not every car suits every adaptation, so picking a model with the right dimensions is crucial.

For example, the flat boot floor in the Citroën C5 Aircross easily accommodates a heavy 40kg boot hoist without blocking the underfloor storage area.

Alternatively, the wide rear doors and spacious cabin layout of the new Leapmotor C10 provide excellent clearance for fitting swivel seats and transfer plates.

Our team knows exactly which vehicles in our lineup work best with the specific hardware you need.

Explore Motability Cars by Brand, Peugeot, Citroën, Suzuki, Fiat, and Leapmotor

At Sherwoods Motor Group, we supply a broad range of vehicles built by Stellantis N.V., one of the world's leading automotive groups.

This manufacturing partnership brings together trusted names including Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Abarth, and Leapmotor under one roof.

To this end, our factory-trained technicians use genuine parts and official diagnostic tools to keep every vehicle running smoothly throughout your lease.

Manufacturer	Key Features and Popular Models
Peugeot	Renowned for sleek styling, refined interiors, and the innovative Peugeot i-Cockpit, offering popular options like the compact 208, 2008 SUV, and 3008.
Citroën	Celebrated for supreme ride comfort with Advanced Comfort Seats and suspension, perfectly showcased in models like the C3, C3 Aircross, C4, and C5 Aircross.
Suzuki	Packed with practical features, compact reliability, high driving positions, and mild hybrid efficiency in models such as the Swift, Vitara, and S-Cross.
Fiat and Abarth	Iconic character, compact agility, and modern designs including the new Fiat 600 and Grande Panda.
Leapmotor and Maxus	Cutting-edge electric vehicles offering generous cabin space, low running costs, and modern connectivity.

Popular Motability SUV, Hybrid, and 7-Seater Deals Across the North East

So, whether you want an automatic Motability SUV deals lineup or a hybrid SUV on Motability, Sherwoods provides options across all categories:

  
• Peugeot 2008 Motability advance payment options with sharp styling and raised seating
  
• Citroën C5 Aircross Motability offers providing supreme comfort with advanced suspension
  
• Suzuki Vitara hybrid Motability scheme choices delivering reliable mild-hybrid efficiency
  
• Fiat 600 electric motability lease packages for practical, zero-emission urban driving
  
• Leapmotor C10 motability review favourites and Leapmotor T03 motability pricing for high-tech electric driving
  
• 7 seater motability cars zero advance solutions, and wheelchair accessible vehicles north east families rely on for extra passenger room

How to Apply for a Motability Car, Step-by-Step Order Process

Joining the scheme is a relaxed, friendly experience. We make sure every step is clear so you feel confident and supported.

Step 1, Check Your Eligibility

Confirm that you receive a qualifying mobility allowance with at least 12 months remaining.

If you are unsure, check your award letter from the DWP or Social Security Scotland.

Step 2, Book an Appointment with Our Specialists

Contact your local Sherwoods dealership.

We have accredited Motability specialists based at our showrooms in Durham, Gateshead, Sunderland, and Washington, and we will make you a cup of tea, sit down together in a no-pressure environment, and discuss what you need from a car.

Step 3, Take a Test Drive

Then the best way to know if a car suits you is to experience it.

So please sit in the seats, test the boot size with your mobility equipment, check the visibility, and take it for a spin. If you are not driving, you are very welcome to test the car as a passenger.

Step 4, Place Your Order

Then once you have picked the right vehicle, your specialist will place the order directly on the Motability system.

You will just need to bring along your driving licence (or your named drivers' licences), your award entitlement letter, and proof of address.

Step 5, Clear Delivery Times and Fast Track Stock

We know that waiting for a new vehicle can be frustrating, so we provide complete transparency regarding delivery pipelines across all our Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, Suzuki, and Leapmotor ranges.

If you need a car quickly, we regularly hold physical stock and pipeline vehicles that are available for immediate collection within 14 days.

If you then prefer to specify a custom factory order or require extensive adaptations, we will give you an honest delivery timeline before you sign and keep you fully updated while your car is being built.

Step 6, Collect and Drive Away

Then, when your brand-new car arrives at the dealership, we will give you a comprehensive tour of all the controls and features before handing over the keys.

What documents do I need to bring to Sherwoods Motor Group to order a Motability car?

When you visit our showroom to finalise your order, you will need to bring your official award entitlement letter showing your mobility allowance, a recent proof of address, and the driving licences for all the people you want to name on the insurance policy.

Can you transfer an existing private registration number plate to a Motability lease vehicle?

Yes, you can assign a private number plate to your lease vehicle. You will need to complete the relevant DVLA paperwork and pay the standard transfer fees yourself, but our team and Motability can guide you through the process when you order.

How long does it take for a brand-new Motability car to be delivered to the dealership?

Delivery times then depend entirely on the specific make, model, and whether you are having custom factory adaptations fitted.

Your Sherwoods specialist will give you a clear estimated timeline before you place your order and will keep you updated throughout the build process.

How do I renew my Motability car lease when my 3-year term is finishing?

Around 3 months before your current lease ends, Motability will contact you to start looking for your next car.

You simply browse the latest vehicles, book an appointment at your local dealership, and place an order. You keep your current car until the new one is ready to collect.

Can I trade in my privately owned car as part exchange against an Advance Payment at Sherwoods?

Yes, if you currently own a car privately, you can part exchange it at our dealerships.

We will value your vehicle, and you can use that amount to cover or contribute towards any upfront payment needed for your new lease.

Are adaptations like swivel seats and boot hoists transferable to a new car?

It depends on the equipment and the new vehicle model. Some straightforward adaptations can be transferred, but because car shapes and boot sizes change, it is often safer and easier to order new adaptations designed specifically to fit your new car perfectly.

Find a Motability Specialist Near You, Durham, Gateshead, Sunderland & Washington

Here at Sherwoods, we operate dedicated Motability dealerships in Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead, and Washington to serve drivers across the region.

So please book a Motability test drive North East appointments with our Sherwoods Motability specialists in Durham, Motability specialists in Gateshead, or our team supplying Motability cars washington north east. As experienced wheelchair car dealers in Sunderland, trusted by motorists, we also help customers source north east wheelchair accessible vehicles or a specialist WAV vehicle.

From exploring Sherwoods car dealership Motability offers and completing paperwork on your Motability portal to handling Motability servicing, Durham maintenance, and celebrating your Motability collection day at Sherwoods handover, our specialists are with you every step of the way.

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Who is Sherwood's Motor Group

Here at Sherwood's Motor Group, we are a well-established car dealership group located in the North East of England with locations in Durham, Newcastle, and Sunderland.

As a result, we can offer you a wide selection of new car deals and used cars, backed by the ultimate peace of mind. While Leapmotor is an exciting new name on British roads, it arrives with the massive corporate and engineering backing of Stellantis - the global automotive giant behind household names like Peugeot,  Citroën , and Vauxhall. Because Sherwoods is already an authorised partner for these leading Stellantis brands, our factory-trained technicians have direct access to official diagnostic platforms, comprehensive parts networks, and manufacturer-approved warranty support - so by assembling vehicles closer to destination markets, the brand retains a distinct electric vehicle manufacturing cost advantage. Due to this, this corporate synergy allows us to offer you seamless part exchange options and elite long-term maintenance for your new electric vehicle.

In addition to our car sales, we can provide you with a range of services, including vehicle maintenance, MOTs, and repairs.

As an authorised dealer and one that is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), here at Sherwoods Motor, we can ensure that our customers receive high-quality, reliable services with official parts and warranty options as well.

We also cater to both individual customers and businesses, offering flexible car finance options, leasing deals and a range of after-sales services as well.

All in all, here at the Sherwoods Motor Group, we have built a reputation over the years for our customer service and comprehensive vehicle support, making us a go-to dealership for motorists in the area as a result.

So contact us today if we can help you; we are here to help.