What You Need to Know About Buying a Used RV
Did you know that around 1 million Americans live in recreational vehicles full-time?
Owning an RV can be a great way to see the country, but it can also be expensive. Between the purchase price, insurance, gas, and maintenance costs, owning an RV can add up quickly.
Buying a used RV can be a great financial decision if you know what to look for during the purchasing process. Keep reading to learn more about how to buy a used RV and save money on your next road trip.
Table of Contents
1. Get the Vehicle’s History
Doing a bit of research before you purchase a used RV is crucial to get the best value for your money. A vehicle’s history report will provide key information about the new RV, such as identification numbers, title information, and lien holder details.
It can also give insight into any mechanical problems or recalls that the vehicle might have experienced, so you can better prepare yourself for any repairs that may be needed down the road. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of how many previous owners it has had, and whether it has been serviced and maintained regularly. Having this knowledge will help you decide if a certain RV is worth your investment.
2. Inspect the Exterior and Interior
If you are about to purchase a used Recreational Vehicle, you must inspect both the exterior and interior before signing on the dotted line. First, analyze any signs of wear or damage on the outside of the vehicle – scratches and stains should not be overlooked or neglected when determining if this recreational vehicle is right for you.
Additionally, take a critical look at the RV’s roof to ensure there is no sign of rusting that could be attributable to water damage. Lastly, check out the condition of various appliances and accouterments on the inside of your possible purchase. If all needs measured up to your standards, then it may be time to go ahead with investing in a used RV!
3. Test Drive It
Shopping for a used RV is an exciting time and it’s easy to get caught up in the specifics of features or layout that you may have been looking for. However, one other important step to take before making the purchase is to request a test drive of the vehicle. This will provide you with an opportunity to experience how it handles overall – speeding up and slowing down, cornering, etc.
Additionally, listen carefully for any indications that there may be something amiss under the hood; strange noises or rumblings can hint at potential problems down the line if not dealt with before purchase. Lastly, take note of your overall comfort level as this should be a major factor during your drive – after all, this should be your home away from home.
4. Consider the Cost of Upgrades and Maintenance
Before purchase, carefully examine the RV inside and out and make note of any upgrades or repairs that may be needed. These could include replacing aging parts such as tires, brakes, hoses, and belts as well as any other general maintenance issues that may present an additional expense.
It is always a good idea to budget for these costs when making your purchase decision since even a seemingly minor repair can quickly become an expensive proposition. Additionally, upgrading the appliances or accessories to an older model may help you enjoy many of the comforts of home while living on the road.
5. Ask for Help
Seeking help from an expert can be the best decision when looking to buy a used RV. Working with a professional can provide you with peace of mind and knowledge that your purchase decision is made based on correct information.
A reputable motor home service mechanic will have an important, insider perspective about the condition of the RV and any potential red flags related to the previous ownership. Along with weighing any concerns, they also can provide suggest useful tips on the next steps toward making the right purchase for you.
6. Get the Right Insurance
When it comes to making a purchase decision, there is one integral step that cannot be overlooked if you are the proud owner of an RV – insurance. Investing in the right coverage will provide you with invaluable security should any unexpected events happen while you are out traveling.
As luxury items such as awnings and other accessories may require repair or replacement at some point, being certain that these items are included in your policy can give you peace of mind before setting off on your vacation. It’s advised to contact numerous companies to compare prices and terms, so you can make sure that you get a plan with a premium rate that fits within reasonable budget constraints.
7. Enjoy the Ride
Buying a used RV is an exciting and oftentimes, nerve-wracking experience. Taking time to research ahead of time, carefully inspect all aspects of the vehicle, and seek out help from an expert or two can be essential in making sure you make the right purchase decision.
Once everything checks out, secure the proper insurance and enjoy your RV ownership!
Need More Help Buying a Used RV?
RVs can be a great purchase for adventurous people who love to travel and camp. If you’re thinking about buying a used RV, research is key to getting the best deal possible on a quality vehicle.
Be sure to consult multiple sources when making your decision, so that you know everything there is to know about used RVs before signing on the dotted line. With a little knowledge and effort, you can find the perfect used RV for your needs – and save yourself some money in the process!
To learn more, check out our blog for more articles like this.
Last Updated on January 17, 2023
