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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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What To Look For When Buying A Used RV?
A recreational vehicle can be the perfect companion when planning an adventurous trip. However, buying a used RV requires careful consideration and thorough inspection. Our comprehensive guide on what to look for when buying a used RV will ensure you make an informed decision and enjoy hassle-free journeys.
- Exterior Check: Look for rust, damage, or wear signs.
- Roof Inspection: Examine for leaks or cracks thoroughly.
- Interior Inspection: Check the condition of furniture, appliances, and amenities.
- Water Damage: Watch for signs of water damage or mold.
- Mechanical Assessment: Ensure engine, brakes, and transmission are good.
- Service Records: Verify regular maintenance through service records.
- Age and Mileage: Consider age; low mileage isn’t always best.
- Title and Registration: Ensure clear title and current registration.
- Tire Inspection: Check tire condition and age for safety.
- System Testing: Verify plumbing, electrical, AC, heating, and systems.
Buying a used RV will help you save a few bucks. If you want to dive into the RV world without going broke or spending so much money, a used RV is a good option.
RVs are valuable vehicles, and most RVs have a high resale value. Thus, finding a used RV to buy is not difficult, as many RVers sell their RV to get a better one or when they want to quit RVing.
What’s difficult is buying a good used RV that will live up to expectations and not bring you more problems.
In this article, we will tell you what to look out for when purchasing a used RV so you don’t make a mistake. Here are a few tips to guide you.
What To Look For When Buying A Used RV?
The first tip when buying a used RV is to figure out the type of RV you would want to buy. Many people make the mistake of reviewing prices and settling for the cheapest option. The truth is that you don’t just need an RV, but you need an RV that will suit your needs.
If this isn’t your first time buying an RV, chances are you have an idea of what RV you want. If it’s your first time, you may need to evaluate your needs and determine the most suitable RV.
It could be the standard motorhomes, or a truck camper would be fine. It would be best to find out so you don’t buy an RV you don’t need.
How Much You Can Spend on a Used RV?
A used RV can still leave a dent in your pocket if you do not plan and budget for one. Your budget will depend on your financial responsibilities, as you do not want to buy an RV that will leave you broke.
After buying the RV, You will still have to do some repairs for used RVs. A used RV comes with further expenses. You may need to change the tires and repair other RV parts.
Additional hidden costs may be incurred, so you must save money.
Apart from the money spent on buying the RV, you must get insurance coverage, pay taxes, and pay licensing fees. Some places have further fees assigned to RV owners.
Thus, ensure you plan and budget for an RV before buying one.
Research is Key
When buying a used RV, you must activate your sixth sense and act extra caution. This means you must confirm many things or hire someone to research.
You should start by identifying the right RV for you and develop a list of 3-4 models you want to buy.
Read reviews of your preferred RV online. You can save yourself from making a wrong purchase by learning from other people’s experiences.
After doing this, you should check for the prices of these RVs on the market, both the new and old RVs, to find the best deals and offers.
After this, you can research the dealers or sellers of your preferred RV. Find out where they are and get as many details as possible on their RV title.
Find out the Market Value of Your Preferred RV
After identifying the RVs that meet your needs, you should research the fair market value of the RV. You can quickly get an estimate by entering the RV’s make, model, year, and other specifications on popular RV websites.
This will reveal the fair market value of the RV.
However, note that you can still beat the price of the RV down considerably. The market value should serve as a guide to know the RV’s worth and if it will be a good buy.
In the end, the amount you pay for the RV will be determined by other factors, such as the state of the RV at the time of purchase.
Buy from Authorised Dealers or Resellers
You can never be too careful when it comes to buying used items. Thus, it is advisable that you research thoroughly and only buy from authorized dealers and resellers.
A lot is at stake; you can lose all your money and get nothing. There’s a sort of protection you get when you buy from an authorized dealer.
Certain websites list used RVs for sale by dealers and individual owners. It’s safer to contact an authorized dealer through a trusted website.
Also, dealers in new RVs may sell one or more used RVs, so the best place to get a used RV is from an RV seller. If you must buy from unknown persons, be sure to perform a thorough inspection of the used RV.
Check the RV’s History
After you have decided to buy a particular RV, you should check the RV’s history. You can purchase an RV history report on rvchecks.com for a fee.
A vehicle history will include information on whether the vehicle has ever been damaged, rebuilt, or stolen, as well as the manufacturer’s specifications and recall notices.
This will help you make a better decision, as the report will reveal some hidden defects the seller may try to conceal.
In addition, the vehicle details can be used to compare all other RVs you had in mind, and you can settle for the one with the most minor damage.
You are also better positioned to negotiate a reasonable price if you know all the defects.
Hire a Technician
One mistake most buyers make is attempting to close a transaction by themselves and negotiating for the delivery of the purchased item without seeking the advice and expertise of a professional.
You can avoid many mistakes and save yourself from buying a lemon if you hire a technician.
You will need a technician to inspect the used RV and make a recommendation before you purchase the RV. A technician is better positioned to detect faults from the RV than you can.
RV service technicians are trained to inspect, diagnose, and repair recreational vehicles. Thus, a technician can discover gas, hydraulic, appliances, plumbing, chassis, or towing systems defects.
Besides, if you are going to repair some things on the RV, you need a technician to estimate the repair cost so that you can negotiate the price.
Check the Exterior
A used RV cannot be spotless or without any fault. However, the extent of wear and tear can help you negotiate a good deal, or you may opt for a better RV.
Thus, the exterior is the first thing you should check when buying a used RV. Inspecting the RV for dents, rust, and other external damage would be best.
Most exterior defects would be easy to spot, although it’s advisable to do a thorough inspection. If you can, get someone else to help you check, as two pairs of eyes are better than one.
They may highlight defects you missed while inspecting the RV exteriors.
Check for Water Damage
Water damage is quite common in used RVs but is challenging to detect. When checking for water damage in a used RV, you should start from the visible part- the exterior.
From the exterior, you can get an idea of the state of the RV and how long it has been used. Most RVs are designed with aluminum or fiberglass sidings on their exteriors.
These sidings protect the RV from harsh environmental factors and keep the temperature inside the RV bearable.
Fiberglass exteriors are generally preferable as they are more durable and provide better insulation than aluminum. However, fiberglass RVs are more expensive than aluminum RVs, so you can still opt for either, depending on your budget.
Before purchasing a used RV, inspect the exterior for water damage. You can do this by tapping gently on the exterior with a nickel. Listen as you tap for dead thuds. Also, look out for delaminations, scratches, and signs of fading.
You may not notice water damage from outside the RV for aluminum-sided RVs. So you need to inspect the interiors for water damage. Check the panels, cupboards, and slides to ensure no hidden leaks.
On the interior, you can detect water damage from stains and discolorations. Soft spots around windows, slideouts, inside cabinets, and on the floor are also signs of water damage.
Also, you should check hidden places like underneath the RV and the roof if you can climb up. It would be best to inspect the windows, doors, and generally places with less surface area.
Inspect the Tires
Check the date code of the tires and sidewalls of the tires of the used RV you intend to buy. You need to know if you need to replace the tires or if you have more time before returning them.
Also, you should check to see if all the tires are from the same manufacturer or brand. If the tires are from different brands, previous owners have replaced them.
Check for tread wear and also check for tread depth. Inspect the spare tires to ascertain that they are in good condition and ensure the proper jack and lug wrench are present. Finally, check for scuffing, cracks, or bulges on the tires.
Check the Seals
The seals are used to keep the water out and prevent water damage. You should check the Seals to see if they are firm enough to seal off water. All the seals need to be inspected.
If most of the seals require resealing, the chances are that the RV has suffered water damage. If you skip checking this, you may purchase a damaged RV with many leaking places.
You should examine the sealants on the roof to see if there are any tears on the roofing materials.
If you hire a technician, the technician can set up a seal tech machine to pressurize the interiors and spray water on the roof to detect leaks. This is a faster way of inspecting the seals.
Check the Batteries
If the battery of the RV you intend to buy is not maintained correctly, you might incur an additional cost in replacing it. There are different types of RV batteries with varying maintenance requirements.
Lithium batteries, for instance, require less maintenance than other types of batteries.
Also, since recreational vehicles are usually stored for a long time without being driven, there’s a possibility that the battery may get discharged.
Thus, checking the batteries before purchasing a used RV is essential to determine if you need new batteries.
Inspect the Appliances
It’s essential to check every appliance in a used RV before buying the RV. These should be done for a long time. You will probably not notice any faults from turning on the appliances for a few seconds.
You can ask to be allowed to observe and make use of the appliances for 24-48 hours to confirm that they are working perfectly.
If you don’t think you can detect the faults by yourself, you can hire a qualified technician to inspect the appliances in the RV.
These appliances cost a lot to replace, so you need to ensure they are in good condition and that the seller is willing to replace them or give an excellent discount to cover the cost of racing them.
Check the Engine
The engine of an RV is an essential part. Without a functional engine, your motorhome might be an apartment. When checking the engine, you should check for any leaks.
It could be oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks. Then, proceed to check for tears and wear. Check the tension of all drive belts and the wiring for signs of burnt insulation.
Also, you should check all the fluid levels to ensure they are topped up and the fluids are clean.
Check Maintenance Records
Most dealers will include a maintenance record in the documents shown to inquirers. The maintenance records cannot replace the need for a mechanic to inspect the RV, but it gives the buyer a clue about how the RV was managed.
From the maintenance records, you will know if the previous driver was meticulous about the RV maintenance or neglected to maintain the car.
If you are not shown any maintenance records, you can ask the dealer for them. Although the record might not have details of every maintenance activity on the RV, it would have a few, and you can judge from this.
Take the RV for a Test Drive
Before you buy a used RV, you need to take it for a drive. You may not notice some faults until you test the RV on the road. While driving, you should watch out for any unusual noise.
A noisy engine might indicate that the RV has been overworked or improperly maintained.
You also want to check the responsiveness of the brake and clutch and how the tires slide against the road. Check the horns, the wipers, and other fittings in the RV.
Also, you should check how easy maneuvering the RV, and the speed and power are.
You can spot a fault that will make you change your mind or negotiate for a lower price from a driver. Also, you can see how the RV performs on different t roads.
While most dealers will be reluctant to leave you with the RV for a while, many others will be willing to negotiate the terms for the test drive.
Check the Storage
Storage is essential in an RV, and if you are going to enjoy your RV, you need to buy one that suits your storage needs.
You need to check the storage provisions in the RV and ensure you can fit in all you need on your trips. If you will be traveling with many things or people, be sure that the RV can accommodate all that you need.
Also, you can check for signs of water damage in the storage. Check for leaks and loose nuts, and you can demand that the seller repairs any damage before you buy.
Check the Size
You must check the RV size to determine if it suits your needs. Apart from the specifications, it would be best to fit inside the RV to see what the space arrangement looks like.
Check if the floor plan allows smooth movement inside the RV or if you have to move out many things to create the space you need—all these matters so you don’t buy an RV that is too small for your needs.
Compare the Specifications with the RV
If it’s your first time buying an RV, the chances are that you do not know what to expect. This is why you should go with an expert or have a checklist of the vehicle specifications you are about to purchase.
With a list of the specifications, you can compare the RV you’re being shown with what you expect to get.
Some dealers or resellers sell parts of the RV or replace parts of the RV with inferior parts before they put it up for sale.
To ensure that you do not get less than what you expect, compare what is on your checklist with the RV’s make, model, and other features.
It’s also good to have a technician present to correctly identify and make the comparison. You may not be able to decipher what you are looking for from your checklist, but a technician would be able to do that for you.
Negotiate the Price
This last tip is essential to ensure you get the best price possible. After using all previously shared tips, price negotiations should be the last thing you do.
After going through the abovementioned process, you must decide whether to buy that RV.
Thus, you either discontinue if you are not convinced that the RV is in good condition or bargain with the seller to get a reasonable price if you want to buy the RV.
With all the information you must have garnered from the inspection, you can negotiate a reasonable price for the used RV.
This is because you would not just be quoting an amount off the top of your head but giving reasons why you think the seller should take you up on your offer.
Does the Age of an RV Matter?
While the age of an RV can be an essential factor, it is not the only determinant of its value or functionality. The maintenance history often provides a more accurate reflection of the vehicle’s condition.
An RV that has been meticulously cared for, even if it’s 15 years old, could very well be a better investment than a 5-year-old RV that hasn’t been adequately maintained.
Thus, age can indicate potential issues, but overall condition and maintenance history dictate whether an RV is too old.
Final Words
When determining “What To Look For When Buying A Used RV,” it is crucial to investigate several vital aspects thoroughly. Start with an exterior check, which includes looking for signs of rust, damage, or wear.
The condition of the exterior can provide valuable insights into how well the RV has been maintained.
Next, conduct a roof inspection to look for leaks or cracks, as these could lead to significant repair costs down the line. An interior inspection is equally essential; examine furniture, appliances, and amenities for their condition and functionality.
Water damage is typical in used RVs, so watch for signs like stains, soft spots, or mold. A mechanical assessment should not be overlooked; the engine, brakes, and transmission must be in good condition for safe and reliable operation.
Service records can offer a glimpse into the RV’s maintenance history and frequency of use.
Age and mileage should also be considered, remembering that a low-mileage RV isn’t always best if it’s old and hasn’t been appropriately maintained.
Lastly, ensure a clear title and current registration to avoid legal complications. Don’t forget to check the tires’ condition, as replacing them can be expensive.
Knowing what to look for when buying a used RV can save you from unexpected expenses and ensure a positive travel experience.
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