If you’re researching funeral car manufacturers, you’re likely comparing options, weighing timelines, and trying to make the right call before you purchase your next funeral car. Most funeral professionals reach this stage because an aging hearse is costing time, money, and reliability during services.
Designed for buyers who want real insight, this guide explains how funeral cars are built, who the major manufacturers are, and how to choose the right option for your funeral home.
At CoachWest, we work with funeral directors across California who are navigating these decisions every day. This buyer’s guide reflects the real questions they ask and the tradeoffs they face.
Quick Answer: Who Manufactures Funeral Cars?
Most funeral cars and hearses are manufactured in two stages:
- Automakers like Cadillac and Lincoln build the base chassis.
- Coachbuilders (funeral car manufacturers) build the finished hearse or funeral coach on top of that chassis.
Major coachbuilders include Eagle Coach, Federal Coach, K2 Vehicles, MK Coach, and Platinum Coach. Many buyers work with an authorized dealer like CoachWest to compare available inventory and choose the right fit.
Funeral Car Manufacturers vs Coachbuilders: What Buyers Need to Know
One of the biggest sources of confusion in this category is the word “manufacturer.” In the funeral vehicle industry, most finished hearses and funeral cars are built by two different parties.
Automakers
Automakers produce the base chassis. This is the foundation of the vehicle, including the engine, drivetrain, and core safety systems. The most common automakers used for funeral vehicles are Cadillac and Lincoln.
Coachbuilders
Coachbuilders take that chassis and build the finished funeral vehicle. This includes the roofline, rear compartment, interior layout, glass, lighting, and ceremonial details. When buyers talk about hearse manufacturers or funeral coach manufacturers, they are almost always referring to these coachbuilders.
Understanding this distinction matters because the coachbuilder largely determines how the vehicle functions, looks, and holds up over time.
Who Are the Major Funeral Car Coachbuilders?
CoachWest works with established coachbuilders that are widely recognized across the funeral industry for consistency, build quality, and long-term serviceability.
Eagle Coach
Eagle Coach is one of the most recognized names in funeral vehicles. Their builds are often selected by funeral homes that value traditional styling and strong resale value.
Best for:
- Traditional services
- Cadillac-based builds
- Long-term resale considerations
Federal Coach
Federal Coach offers flexibility in layout and configuration. Their vehicles are commonly chosen by funeral homes operating multiple vehicles or planning future fleet expansion.
Best for:
- Custom interior layouts
- Multi-vehicle fleets
- Balanced design and function
K2 Vehicles
K2 Vehicles are known for contemporary styling and modern finishes. These vehicles are often chosen by firms looking to update their fleet appearance without sacrificing professionalism.
Best for:
- Modern aesthetics
- Brand-forward funeral homes
- Premium presentation
MK Coach
MK Coach focuses on craftsmanship and structural durability. These vehicles are often selected by funeral homes that put a lot of miles on their fleet.
Best for:
- High-use operations
- Long ownership cycles
- Professional longevity
Platinum Coach
Platinum Coach vehicles emphasize refined interiors and exterior detail. These builds appeal to funeral homes offering higher-end service experiences.
Best for:
- Premium service offerings
- Elevated interiors
- Detail-oriented buyers
See what funeral vehicles are currently available
Comparison Table: Major Funeral Car Manufacturers at a Glance
| Coachbuilder | Styling Focus | Best Use Case | Chassis Options |
| Eagle Coach | Traditional | Classic services | Cadillac |
| Federal Coach | Versatile | Custom layouts and fleets | Cadillac, Lincoln |
| K2 Vehicles | Modern | Updated fleet image | Cadillac |
| MK Coach | Durable | High-use ownership | Cadillac |
| Platinum Coach | Premium | Luxury presentation | Cadillac |
Note: This table is about fit, not ranking. The right choice depends on how your funeral home operates day to day.
Let’s walk through your options!
How to Choose the Right Funeral Car Manufacturer
Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself when choosing the best funeral car manufacturer for your day-to-day operations.
How often will the vehicle be used?
If a vehicle is used often, reliability matters more than extra features. A funeral car that’s out of service can disrupt scheduled services.
What impression do you want the vehicle to make?
Some firms prefer a traditional look that families recognize immediately. Others choose a more modern design that reflects an updated brand.
How long do you plan to keep the vehicle?
If you replace vehicles every few years, resale value plays a bigger role. If you plan to keep a funeral car long term, build quality and durability usually matter more.
Who supports the vehicle after the sale?
The manufacturer matters, but so does the dealer. Ongoing support, service coordination, and access to parts can make ownership far easier over time.
Looking for Hearses for Sale in Los Angeles or Southern California?
If you’re comparing hearses for sale, the dealer relationship matters more than most people think, especially once you factor in timelines, customer support, and what inventory is actually available.
CoachWest is a California-based hearse dealer that Los Angeles funeral homes trust to compare options, review new and pre-owned vehicles, and coordinate next steps through one point of contact.
New vs Pre-Owned Funeral Cars: What to Consider
Both new and late-model pre-owned funeral vehicles can be the right choice. The better option usually depends on how quickly you need the vehicle and how long you plan to keep it.
New Funeral Cars
New funeral cars make the most sense when you’re planning ahead. They let you choose layouts, finishes, and features that align with how your services operate.
The tradeoff is time. Build schedules and delivery windows matter, especially if a current vehicle is already showing its age.
Pre-Owned Funeral Cars
Pre-owned funeral vehicles are usually chosen for one reason. Timing. When a hearse goes down or reliability becomes unpredictable, waiting months is not an option.
Pre-owned, late-model funeral cars offer a fast solution to meet demand without compromising on professional appearance.
CoachWest helps buyers compare both paths honestly and choose the option that fits their timeline, budget, and day-to-day service needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Car Manufacturers
What’s the difference between a funeral car manufacturer and a coachbuilder?
Automakers build the base chassis. Coachbuilders manufacture the finished funeral vehicle used in services.
Who are the major funeral car manufacturers?
Most buyers are referring to coachbuilders such as Eagle Coach, Federal Coach, K2 Vehicles, MK Coach, and Platinum Coach.
Are most hearses built on a Cadillac chassis?
Yes. Cadillac remains the most common platform due to size, reliability, and brand recognition.
Can I buy a hearse directly from the manufacturer?
Most funeral homes work through authorized hearse dealers like CoachWest, not directly with the manufacturer. CoachWest helps buyers compare inventory, review new and pre-owned options, and coordinate service and support after the sale, all through a single point of contact.
Is it better to buy new or pre-owned?
It depends on your timeline and budget. Pre-owned vehicles work well for urgent needs, while new vehicles allow full customization.
Ready to Work With a Trusted Funeral Car Dealer?
For over 35 years, CoachWest has worked with funeral homes across California that want clear answers before making a purchase, including:
- Which funeral car manufacturers make the most sense for your operation
- What inventory is realistically available right now
- What to consider before committing to a new or pre-owned vehicle
If you are replacing an aging funeral car or planning your next addition, a short conversation can help you move forward with clarity instead of second-guessing. Contact CoachWest or give us a call to walk through your options!
