A Buyers Guide for Purchasing a Used RV

With springtime here, and summer fast approaching, it's time to get the date book out and plan some of those memorable summer family outings. Some of you maybe booking airline seats or making hotel reservations. While others are grabbing their camping gear and driving maps. There are also some of you who may be looking to purchase that Recreational Vehicle for that summer road trip you have always dreamed about. If you're looking to purchase a used RV, there are some things you should really look for, besides the color and how many feet in length it is. Be educated before making the used RV purchase. One good option available is Carfax. If you run a Carfax report, this will tell you if there has been any major problems on the RV. However, if that option is not available for some reason, be sure to inspect the RV with great detail before deciding on purchasing the RV. If possible, have a mechanic come with you to check out the engine

Exterior: Check for stress cracks. Look along each side wall for small cracks in the fiberglass (if applicable). Another thing to look for is de-lamination. Are there any bulges in the sides? Bulges could indicate that de-lamination has started and will lead to further problems down the road. Try to find out how new the tires are. Also check the tire rating. Most motor homes should have a Class Load E rated tire. The date when a tire was manufactured is located on the sidewall of each tire. Each tire has a "DOT" Code, that will tell you the date of manufacture of the tires. For example, a DOT code ending with "0305" indicates a tire made in the 3rd week (Jan) of 2005. Along with the expense of purchasing this used RV, will you need to be adding the added expense of new tires? Be sure to also check the roof! Inspect the sealants around all of the openings and the seams on the roof. Water will take the path of least resistance and if there is the smallest opening it will find it. Towing....will you be towing anything using this RV? What is the hitch rating? Be sure to check the hitch rating so that you won't be towing a 5000 lb. boat with a 3500 lb. hitch rating. What type of electrical service does the RV have, 30 Amp or 50 Amp? This is important if you have dual air conditioners. With dual airs, you will need at least a 50 amp service. Open up the awning (if applicable). Check for rips and tears. Outside storage? Is there any? Consider what you are planning on taking, then be sure you will have room to take and store these things. The worst thing is having no outside storage. You will find you're sticking things inside you're RV, in every nook and cranny available, that you won't even be able to walk around and enjoy you're RV.
Interior: Does the refrigerator get cold? How about the air conditioning? Be sure, that if it's a private party you are considering purchasing from, that they turn on the refrigerator and the air conditioner prior to your arrival. If purchasing from a dealership, be sure they also turn these 2 components on during your visit. This will tell you if they each get cold enough. Check the ceiling, everywhere! Are there any yellow spots? If so, that indicates water leaking thru the roof. Check the floors, are they lifting or buckling anywhere? Is the layout specific to your needs? If you need sleeping arrangements for four people, is there room for 4 to sleep? Most motor homes will have a bed in the back, so check for an overhead bunk (if a Class C), or check for pull out couches on a Class A. Check the layout. Is it suitable for you're needs? Is there room to sit and eat dinner incase of rain outside? Is the walking room sufficient for you're needs? Check the closets, cabinets and drawers, is there space for all of your personal belongings?

Don't forget the bathroom! Are you able to move around in there? Can you be comfortable in there with the door closed? Are you able to close the door while seated on the toilet? I know that sounds like a bad question, however, I have been in quite a few, that if the door is closed...it is quite uncomfortable. Ask about the fresh, gray and black water tanks. How big are these tanks. Be sure they are large enough to satisfy you're needs, especially if you are dry camping. Be sure to take this RV for a test drive. Are you comfortable driving it? Another thing to consider is where you will be storing this RV. Is the size right for your yard? Will you need to find an RV storage lot? What is the monthly storage fee if you needed to put it into storage?

Last, but surely not least, ask questions. Why are they selling their RV? Were they towing anything? Check the mileage on the engine. Check the hours on the generator. When was the generator last tuned up? When was the last engine tune up?

Whether it's a Class A, Class B or Class C, research what is best for you and/or your family. The best buyers are the informed buyers.