Buying a Used RV: 11 Questions To Ask Before Buying It.
Some people might be wondering what the acronym RV means. It simply means a recreation vehicle. It’s always the best relaxing vacation. One should not just go on and buy a used recreation vehicle anyhow. Rather one should consider some factors by asking some very important questions.
1. Is the person showing you the RV, the true owner of it?
You should not engage in communications with a person who does not own the RV. This is because the person will not give you any important information pertaining to the RV. Any answer the person gives has no first-hand information therefore not guaranteed. The cost he or she gives is not also controlled neither the record of the RV.
Video Overview: What To Look For When Buying A Used RV
2. For how long has the RV been in operation, and how many people have been owning it for that period?
This will help you to know clearly whether the RV had always been serviced, the maintenance level of the RV, and the mileage covered. On the mileage, an RV that has covered little mileage might be accompanied by several questions, these are; why the RV was not in operation for all that time and whether it had some mechanical problems.
3. Does the owner have the maintenance records for the RV?
When the RV has full records, then you will have enough confidence to possess it. The maintenance records give you clear information on how many times the RV was repaired and some of the things that might have been replaced in the RV.
Video Overview: Buying A Used Motorhome – Don’t Make These Mistakes
4. The number of miles on the tires and their last replacement.
With the maintenance records, you can learn this very easily. A class-used RV has very expensive tires and in case you need to replace them as soon as you buy it, then you will incur extra expenses than expected.
5. Does the RV have water damage?
This is the worst thing in an already-used RV. If it has water damage kindly don’t buy it. You can realize this by pressing on its walls. In case you feel soft spots then the RV has continuous water damage.
Video Overview: Questions to ask yourself before buying an RV! Must watch!
6. Are all buttons in operation?
First, turn on the engine, and check the clearance lights and the brake lights on the outside. Simply make sure all the parts are in operation and strong.
7. Does the shower work?
Stand on it to confirm. The shower should be impressive and can accommodate you when on the road.
8. Is there some rust on the unit or even some damage?
Check whether there are cracks, rust, or even broken wheels to avoid expenses.
9. Are there some animals that might have lived in the RV?
Know whether there is that kind of animal like the rats so that you can be ready to take the necessary risk. You can notice this by the smell of the RV.
10. Is the owner ready for a test drive?
This will help you to notice whether the RV is in operation and also realize some various mechanical damages. In case the owner is not ready for a test drive then no need of buying the RV. What you need to test:
- See how the rig handles different speeds
- How it handles turns
- How the brakings work
- Swerving etc..
- See when you drive it, is it feel big for you, do you need to adjust something or it is OK to drive it.
- if you plan to go to the National parks you should take a few hills and listen to the engine.
11. Lastly, ask for a thorough inspection of the RV.
Ask the owner, if you can have the RV professionally inspected. Here you will be able to realize whether the owner hides you or cheated you on some information. Although this might attract some expenses(usually less than 200 USD), it’s necessary to avoid some conveniences between you and the owner of the RV. Thank me later.
If you still can not decide what type of RV to buy you can check my article: 20 Reasons to Choose a Class C RV and not Class A.
And from this post, you can learn which travel trailer brands to avoid: 5 Worst Travel Trailers Brands to Avoid.
