Getting in and out of a car shouldn't be the hardest part of your day. A swivel seat turns towards the door, so you can sit down and lift your legs in with far less strain. It's one of the most popular car adaptations available on the Motability Scheme, and it can make everyday journeys feel easier from the very first trip.
This guide explains how swivel seats work, the types you can choose, and how to arrange one as part of your lease. If you're new to the Scheme, you can first read what the Motability Scheme is and who it's for.
What Is A Swivel Seat?
A swivel seat is a car seat that rotates towards the door opening. Instead of twisting your body into a fixed seat, you sit down while the seat faces outwards, then turn to face forwards.
Some seats turn by hand, and others move at the press of a button. Many also lower or extend outside the car, which brings the seat closer to a wheelchair or to standing height.
How Swivel Seats Help You
The main benefit is simple: less bending, twisting, and lifting each time you travel. That can ease pressure on your back, hips, and knees, and it helps you save energy for the rest of your day.
Swivel seats also support the people around you. A partner, family member, or carer can help you transfer more safely when the seat does much of the work.
They can be fitted on the driver or passenger side, depending on who needs them and how you use the car.
Manual And Powered Swivel Seats
Manual swivel seats rotate when you release a lever and turn the seat yourself. They suit customers who have enough strength and movement to guide the seat, and they tend to cost less to fit.
A powered swivel seat does the work for you at the touch of a button. Many also glide outwards and downwards, so the seat meets you rather than the other way around. These suit customers who need more support to transfer.
An adaptations installer will talk through which option matches your strength, your mobility, and your chosen car.
Permanent And Wheelchair Swivel Seats
There are two broad types to know about. A permanent swivel seat stays built into the car and rotates to help you step or transfer across.
A wheelchair swivel seat can lift out of the car entirely and lower to become a seat you move to and from your wheelchair. Both types can only be fitted to certain vehicles, so it's worth planning early.
Choosing The Right Vehicle
Not every car suits every adaptation, and door size, seat height, and interior space all make a difference. Higher-riding models often give you a more natural transfer height, with a wider door opening to work with.
This is why many customers look at SUVs on the Motability Scheme when a swivel seat is on their list. Roomier models such as Honda cars on the Motability Scheme can also pair well with powered seats and side steps.
Your installer will confirm which makes and models are compatible before you order.
Other Access Adaptations Available
Swivel seats often work alongside other adaptations that help you get in and out. You might combine one with a transfer plate, a hoist, or a side step for larger vehicles.
Transfer plates give you a smooth surface to slide across between your wheelchair and the seat. Electric hoists lift you in and out, while side steps help you climb up into taller cars safely.
You can explore the full range of vehicle adaptations available on the Scheme to see what suits your needs.
How To Arrange Your Adaptation
Start by booking an adaptations assessment, ideally at a Driving Mobility centre, where specialists recommend the right setup for you. Plan this before you order, so your chosen car and adaptation are compatible.
Next, speak to an adaptations installer, who fits the seat and advises on suitable vehicles. Arrange your adaptations when you start your lease, as some can be fitted at no extra cost this way.
Your new car then arrives with everything fitted, ready for your first journey.
Find Your Motability Scheme Car
Ready to explore your options? Browse the full range of Motability Scheme cars at Vertu, or see the Motability Scheme servicing included as part of your worry-free lease.
When you're ready, Book an appointment at your local Motability Scheme dealership and our colleagues will help you find a car and adaptation that fit your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Have A Swivel Seat On The Driver's Side?
Yes, swivel seats can be fitted on either the driver or passenger side. Your adaptations installer will confirm what works for your chosen car and how you use it.
Do Swivel Seats Cost Extra On The Motability Scheme?
Some adaptations can be fitted at no extra cost when you arrange them at the start of your lease. Speak to an installer, who will confirm what applies to your seat and vehicle.
Which Cars Can Have A Swivel Seat Fitted?
Only certain models are suitable, as door size, seat height, and interior space all matter. Higher-riding cars and SUVs are often a good starting point, and your installer confirms compatibility before you order.
Can I Combine A Swivel Seat With Other Adaptations?
Often, yes. Many customers pair one with a transfer plate, a hoist, or a side step, and an assessment makes sure the combination works together in your vehicle.
How Do I Arrange A Swivel Seat Assessment?
Book an assessment at a Driving Mobility centre, ideally before you order your car. The specialists there recommend the right adaptation, and an installer then fits it to a compatible vehicle.
- Motability