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Car assist handle

By the Life in Good Form editors. Updated 2026-10-15.

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How a car assist handle works

Vive describes its Car Assist as a single piece that slides into the car door's latch, the U-shaped striker on the door frame, and is removed again after use. It says the handle works with cars, trucks and SUVs that have a U-shaped door latch, on the driver or passenger side, and is lined with a cushioning, non-slip grip.

The latch is part of the car's frame, so the handle gives a firmer push point than the door itself, which can swing. Keep the door fully open while using it, and take the handle out before closing the door.

Vive says the handle gives stability when getting out of a pickup truck as well as a car, and that it is made of a strong composite material. Because it is small and loose, store it in the same place every time so it is always at hand, and check the latch area is clean and dry before you push on it.

Specs to check

Details are from Vive's product page. Vive suggests storing the handle in the door compartment, center console or glove box, and cleaning it with a damp cloth and mild detergent or disinfectant wipes.

Getting in and out step by step

• Park on level ground. MedlinePlus advises getting into the car from street level, not from a curb or doorstep, after hip surgery.
• Open the door fully and insert the handle into the latch.
• Sit first, then swing. Back up to the seat, sit down, then turn your legs into the car together.
• To get out, turn your legs out first, plant your feet, then push on the handle with one hand and the seat or door frame with the other to stand.
• Remove the handle before closing the door.

Follow any hip or knee precautions your surgeon gave you, such as limits on how far you bend.

Swivel seat cushions

A swivel cushion turns under you so you can rotate your legs in and out without twisting your back or hips. Vive's Gel Swivel Seat Cushion uses gel-infused memory foam with a silent 360 degree swivel, a non-slip bottom and a removable, washable cover, and Vive says it can be used on car seats, dining chairs, wheelchairs and transfer benches.

MedlinePlus says to make sure you can slide easily on the seat material before getting into a car after hip surgery, and that car seats should not be too low; sitting on a pillow can help if needed. Check that a cushion does not raise you so high that your head hits the roof line.

Long rides after surgery

For people with a new hip, MedlinePlus advises breaking up long car rides by stopping, getting out and walking about every 2 hours. It also says not to drive until your hip surgeon says it is OK, and that the wait varies depending on whether the right or left hip was replaced. Bring your cane, crutches or walker within reach, and see our crutch pads guide and lightweight wheelchair guide if you travel with mobility aids.

Limits to keep in mind

A car assist handle helps you push up; it does not replace a helper if you cannot bear weight or stand safely. Do not use it on a door latch that is damaged, and stop if the handle feels loose. If getting in and out of the car is a regular struggle, ask a physical or occupational therapist to teach you a car transfer, which can be practiced before you leave the hospital or clinic. For other transfer aids, see our transfer board guide.

What to look for when you buy

Questions people ask

How does a car assist handle attach?

It slides into the U-shaped door latch on the car frame and is removed after use.

How much weight can a car assist handle hold?

It depends on the model; Vive rates its Car Assist up to 300 pounds.

Does it work on any car?

Vive says it fits cars, trucks and SUVs with a U-shaped door latch, on either side.

How should I get into a car after hip surgery?

MedlinePlus advises getting in from street level and making sure the seat is not too low.

Do swivel seat cushions help?

They let you rotate your legs in and out more easily; check the seat height afterward.

Sources

• Car Assist (vivehealth.com), Vive Health
• Gel Swivel Seat Cushion (vivehealth.com), Vive Health
• Taking care of your new hip joint (medlineplus.gov), MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Sources checked 2026-10-15.