Buy or Avoid: Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Used RV
Purchasing a used recreational vehicle (RV) can be a great way to save money and still get everything you would expect from a new model. If you are a first time buyer, choosing pre-owned over new may be your best option to experience the RV lifestyle.
When you are shopping for a used RV, it is best to plan ahead. Knowing if you are making the right choice can be challenging since there are many factors to consider. Sherwood RV wants to make the entire process easier by providing some helpful tips so that when the time comes to make a purchase decision, you are knowledgeable and confident.
What Model is Suitable for You?
First off, it is important to distinguish which type of RV would benefit you and your family the most. Choosing the right style is crucial as it can play a significant factor in how your camping experience goes. From travel trailers to motorhomes and everything in between, the possibilities are endless. Your towing capabilities and sleeping requirements are two of the most important considerations, aside from budget, when determining which RV is best for you. For example, a travel trailer tends to be lighter to pull and is more convenient to use in areas with low clearance, whereas a fifth wheel tends to have a more spacious interior. Be sure to make a checklist of your absolute must-haves, which will help steer you in the right direction. There are many variations of models, so be sure to explore all your options.
Research the Value
After you decide which type of RV you plan to purchase, it is time to do some research. This step can seem daunting, but it is essential in ensuring you receive the best bang for your buck. Understanding the RV’s value and the current market prior to the purchasing process will help you find the perfect unit for the best price.
The best way to find out how much an RV is worth is determine Fair Market Value. This is the amount of money a knowledgeable buyer would pay for a product from a knowledgeable and non-pressured seller. Both parties need to agree on a price that is fair and reasonable. Searching online and visiting dealers in your area is a great way to compare prices for specific makes and models.
Factors that will determine an RV’s value include the current market conditions, the supply and demand for RVs at the time of purchasing, your geographical location, and the physical conditions of the RV. RVs that share the same year, make and model can vary considerably based on options, so comparing similar models will help determine the worth of an RV.
Complete an In-person Inspection
When purchasing from a dealership, a thorough inspection is usually completed to ensure the RV is as advertised. A checklist is generally completed to be sure that features such as appliances, lights, and technology are working properly. Any possible damage that exists, such as soft spots throughout the camper, are generally noted.
However, it is still important to inspect the RV yourself in case anything was missed. Viewing the RV in person also creates an opportunity to ask questions about anything you may be unsure of. Although there may be circumstances where you are unable to view the RV in person, it is always in your best interest to make sure you complete a full in-person inspection before purchasing.
Check for Damage
Start with the roof
A roof inspection is a great indicator as to whether or not there will be further damage throughout the rest of the RV. A leaky roof can cause damage that is hard to see and easily missed. Water damage can cause rot and mould within the walls. When you are inspecting the roof, be sure to check for any cracks, rips, failed seals, or severely worn areas. Pay close attention to areas where water tends to pool naturally. Do not forget to inspect the state of the sealants and caulking. If it looks old and dried out, there is a potential for leaks.
Floors
The floors of your RV should be sturdy and stable, so it is essential to check for any instability or rot in the floors. Be sure to walk throughout the entire RV to ensure there is not any significant give in your steps. The kitchen area and bathroom are critical areas to inspect as water damage is more likely to occur in those areas.
Exterior walls
When inspecting the exterior walls of the RV, check for any cracks, bubbles or protruding bulges. A closer look at all caulking is critical to ensure there are no cracks or peeling. The walls should appear straight with no structural issues. Cracks and frame damage will be the result of any crooked or misaligned walls. Bubbles in the walls could be from delamination, which occurs when the fibreglass outer layer starts to pull away from the substrate. This begins as small cracks and starts to spread outward. Water intrusion tends to accelerate delamination, and the repairs can get expensive. It is crucial to stop the cracks early on, so check that seams are sealed.
Check the tires
Do not overlook the tires on your RV. If the tires are in poor shape, the likelihood of a blowout increases. This is always a more dangerous scenario than with a regular vehicle due to the weight of an RV. Be sure to ask how old the tires are and if they have ever been replaced. The DOT label on the side of the tire provides a four-number code and will indicate the week and year the tires were made. Keep in mind that you should generally replace RV tires every 5 years.
Buy from a Reputable Dealer!
Finding a reputable dealer who you can trust is one of the most important steps in this entire process. First, explore the service department. See if they have Certified Service Camper Technicians on the team. Should you ever have any troubles with your camper down the road, you will want to be sure the technicians are qualified and trustworthy.
Also, check out the service department and service bays. Are they clean and organized? Check the reviews online. Are they positive? Does the dealer respond to reviews, good or bad, and provides solutions to questions asked?
When purchasing directly from a dealer, you will also have access to the RV’s history including accidents, service or warranty work, replaced parts, or recommendations for future work. This service history is a great tool for revealing any recurring problems and will assist you in making an informed decision.
Buying a used RV can be a less stressful process once you know what you are looking for. Sherwood RV has a great team of industry experts that can help you get into the RV you desire. Shop our pre-owned RVs today so you and your family can hit the open road.