It can be quite difficult to specify what high mileage is simple because a used RV’s mileage tens to have little influence on its condition and reliability. Apart from that several RVers with the same RV could have different issues and that is why mileage will vary.
To answer the title question, there isn’t a standard or good mileage to look out for. What it depends on is the brand of the RV and the quality standard the RV was created with. So, you are really fine going with whatever mileage that suits you, as long as the RV has other important qualities that you require your RV to have.
One person could buy a Used RV that has 50,000 miles on it and 8 years later, it is still in great shape. Another could buy an RV with over 75,000 miles on it and a couple of years later the RV clocked 32,000 additional miles and still chugging.
There are some individuals and schools of thought that say you shouldn’t purchase an RV which has more than 100,000 miles on it, however, that isn’t always the case given that there are some RVs on the road with more mileage than that and they are still moving quite well.
It might seem strange but there are people that prefer purchasing a preowned RV that has higher mileage given that the mileage is evidence that the RV has been in use and every one of its parts is bound to be in working shape.
Such an RV might only need some minor repairs if any. A low mileage vehicle could mean that the RV hasn’t been moving as much, instead, it has been lying idle in some storage or backyard for several years. Buying this RV could be a risky move, given that some of the parts are bound to have issues as a result of underuse.
This article aims to help you understand how high mileage on a used RV isn’t always a bad thing, which type of engine is best for your RV, as well as highlighting things you should have knowledge of before purchasing an RV. Let us begin!
Mileage: Good, Bad or Doesn’t matter?
How many miles is an RV capable of?
Being able to understand an R’s average mpg is key to helping you understand your budget in the short and long-term. The majority of RV users tend to drive an average of 5,000 miles per year. That being said, there are some that have driven over that amount at 9,000 miles each year.
When it comes to fuel consumption, the majority of RV manufacturers tend to state that their RVs tend to provide anything from 10 to 20 miles to the gallon. This actual number in this range for an RV tends to vary from one brand to another. The online RV community has active users which state that diesel-powered RVs are much more beneficial economically than RVs powered by gasoline.
Nevertheless, the actual disparity between them in terms of fuel consumption is small. The only area where diesel RVs make a difference in fuel efficiency is towing capacity. That being said, in order to save fuel, it is important that your RV is regularly serviced as that enhances efficiency.
How many miles can a diesel RV handle before it packs up?
So long as there is no major fault affecting it, most RV transmissions and engines have been created to last for anything from 200,000 to 310,000 miles. Nevertheless, diesel engines have the potential to last much longer.
The actual lifespan of any engine really depends on how frequently it is maintained. When getting an RV, it is important to know that you will have to do your best to be a great driver. This can be done by minimizing your crash risk, frequently engaging in routine maintenance such as servicing and fixing leaks or any issues that might arise as soon as possible.
If you need to replace a part of the engine, it is always best to purchase the replacement from a trusted source, given that just about anything inferior can affect the performance of an engine.
What are the things you have to know before purchasing an RV?
Is owning an RV worth it?
When you properly maintain and use your RV, you will discover that owning one is definitely worth it. Additionally, an RV isn’t just a vehicle, it can be your home away from home, and should you desire, it can be your only home, affording you the freedom to live life on the open road without losing any amenities and home comforts.
It does not matter if your RV is large or small, it can be an important multiuse asset should you choose to get one.
When viewed with a long-term perspective, it is always better to own an RV as it can help reduce expenses associated with vacations.
When you have an RV, you don’t have to spend time at a hotel or go out to eat as much given that you have all the comforts of home right in your RV. This translates to you spending much less each year whilst fully enjoying yourself.
The majority of your savings can be gained by spending more time camping at some campsites and RV parks that offer discounts and subsidies.
Another aspect that makes owning an RV worth it is, is that you don’t have to fork out any rental fees when you go on vacation.
Additionally, the majority of vacations tend to happen during the summer when the prices of things are usually higher than the norm. Having an RV or purchasing one before this period can help save you money.
Advantages and disadvantages associated with owning an RV
It’s imperative that you understand the pros and cons of owning an RV before you purchase one. This can help you make an informed decision if owning an RV is suited to your lifestyle.
Advantages
- An RV is multi-purposed. It can be used as a hotel, home or vehicle.
- It helps cut down on hotel-related expenses particularly for large families.
- With an RV you can travel anytime anywhere without any prior preparation
- Your RV can be an additional source of income as you can rent it out when not in use.
- You get several discounts, as well as some free services and campsites which can help you save money
Disadvantages
- Purchasing an RV can be an expensive endeavor
- You will have to regularly maintain your RV and that is not only expensive but also time-consuming
- If you are not a fulltime RVer, trying to find storage for your RV can be quite challenging. This is because not every place allows parking, and some HOA areas require that RVs be parked in a garage out of sight. This can be difficult to do if you have a class A motorhome or a travel trailer. Additionally, your RV will need to be proacted from the weather, and dirt.
- Basic maintenance will have to be done.
Should you go for a Gasoline or Diesel RV?
Both types of engines come with their advantages and disadvantages so you must consider this and base your decision on which design is better suited to you. Being able to comprehend what you intend to get yourself into when you purchase either engine type not only helps save you money but also helps enhance your visit wherever you go.
Advantages of a gasoline-powered RV
- Can be cheaper to not only maintain but buy compared to diesel-powered RVs
- The pump price of gasoline is much cheaper
- Gasoline performs better in cold weather and higher altitudes
Disadvantages of a gasoline-powered RV
- It is not as efficient on mountainous terrain, particularly when towing
Advantages of a diesel-powered RV
- You get a higher valuation on resale
- Can be easy to tow
- if you drive 5,000 miles or less a year, a diesel RV can have a longer lifespan
- Longer times between next scheduled maintenance
- A lower maintenance frequency compared to a gas-powered RV
- The perfect RV for fulltime RVers
- A diesel-powered RV performs better in certain terrain like mountains
Disadvantages of a diesel-powered RV
- The purchase price is higher compared to gasoline-powered RVs
- It can be quite costly to maintain given that it utilizes specialized parts
- You will have to find a technician that specializes in diesel engines to repair it
The section above shows that both fuel types are great choices for any RV, however, how efficient they typically depend on what type of terrain you intend on using your RV.
Moreover, you should work with your budget, ensuring that you pick an engine type that is not only within your budget to purchase but to also maintain. In all, whatever engine type you choose, you should know that there is no such thing as good mileage, as there are a lot of factors to consider alongside the mileage of a used RV.
