Do you want an RV but have a smaller budget? Buying a used RV might be the option you’ve been looking for. Keep reading to find out what you should look out for when buying a used RV.
Factors To Consider Before Buying a Used RV
Finding a used RV in good condition that suits your needs can be difficult and time-consuming. Before investing in one, make sure you’re completely prepared. Consider the following factors when looking at a used RV you’re interested in buying.
Water Damage
Water damage is an indicator that a used RV requires costly repairs. Look for:
- Mold
- Brown spots
- Bowed ceiling
- Corroded screws
- Squishy walls
- Rusty parts
These are all tell-tale signs your RV has water issues.
Electrical Systems
A major thing to look for when buying a used RV is damage to the electrical systems, including:
- The wiring
- Outlets
- Power cords
- Lighting fixtures
- Batteries
- Battery voltages
- The fridge and freezer
Make sure each of these systems have no electrical damage before purchasing your used RV.
Gas & Plumbing
Your RV’s gas system needs an inspection before you buy it. Check it out yourself to confirm there are no problems.
Inspect your propane cylinders to see if they’re less than ten years old—their performance is inconsistent after a decade. Test your plumbing by looking at any valves, hoses, piping, and waste tanks while establishing your water pumps provide proper flow through the faucets.
Maintenance Records
Regular maintenance records tell you if your RV is a good investment or not. Make sure the previous owner meticulously documented all maintenance records. If they did, they likely kept up with common RV issues and repairs.
Storage Methods
The majority of motorhomes spend more time idle than in use. Where and how your RV is stored contributes to the vehicle’s condition. Ideally, the RV should be stored under a roof. When an RV is consistently exposed to air, water, and the sun, decals become brittle, fade paint, and curtains and awnings become damaged.
Rainy climates can cause your motorhome to grow mold, mildew, and moss, which is why it’s vital for previous owners to store RVs in the proper environment.
Research Market Value
Another thing to look for when buying a used RV is market value. If you’re looking for a specific RV model in mind, it’s crucial to determine what a fair price is for that particular make. Take a look at previous listings to see what they’ve sold for. This knowledge is critical to the negotiation process and helps you get the best deal possible.
Questions To Ask Your Dealer
Now that you know some things to look for when buying a used RV, and you’ve confirmed there are no issues, you can move forward in the financing process. When purchasing a used RV, ask your dealer the following questions:
How Long Will the Camper Last?
Maintenance plays a huge role in either shortening or extending the average lifespan. Generally speaking, after 20 years or 200,000 miles, RVs become less efficient.
Are There Any Loans or Outstanding Debts on the Vehicle?
If working with a third party, you want to confirm there are no outstanding loans or debts on the motorhome. If your seller still owes money on the RV, the vehicle’s title cannot be directly transferred to you.
Are There Any Wear and Tear Issues the Owner Knows About?
Ask the owner if there have been any recent undocumented maintenance issues. Inspect the RV roof for any soft spots and gauge the tire pressure to make sure there are no air leaks.
Find out how often the RV requires repairs and confirm the time it was inspected. This gives you a rough idea of how well the previous owner kept up with necessary maintenance.
How Old Is Too Old When Buying a Used RV?
If the previous owner took good care of their motorhome, age is not always an issue.
But the age of your RV can still be indicative of how well it’s going to function. Older models are prone to standard wear and tear issues.
Like cars, regular maintenance can keep your RV in good shape. An RV that’s seven to ten years old and well maintained can perform better than a newer RV that isn’t maintained regularly.
Confirm with your dealer how well the previous owners kept up with repairs to know if this purchase is right for you.
Ask for a Test Drive
Your seller should let you take the rig out for a test drive. If they don’t, that’s a major red flag.
Test your new RV on the road and see how you handle driving it. Does it feel too big? Is that something you can adjust to? You’ll spend a lot of time in your motorhome, and you need to be sure it’s a comfortable experience.
If possible, take it up hills to see how it performs. Be on the lookout for any suspect engine noises or overheating issues. Listen for any rattling sounds, as those indicate potential damage
Finance Your Next Purchase Through Us
You don’t need to go through your dealership to finance your next RV purchase. Finance Solution strives to provide our customers with the best loan rates available. We help you understand the things to look for when buying a used RV. Get in touch with our expert team to learn more.
