What to Look for when Purchasing an RV Camper

Before you purchase any vehicle, it is highly recommended that you do a thorough inspection. This is true of RV campers, also. Here are some tips to help you know what to look for when you are buying an RV camper.

The most obvious item to look for when inspecting a used RV camper for purchase is anything that looks as if it was not repaired properly. It is easy to spot something of this nature. These types of repairs could be a huge safety hazard for your family. And, if modifications have been made that are not standard, be sure to ask for details on installation and maintenance of these items.

If you are looking a a motorhome, road safety is another concern. You should look to make sure the tires are in good conditions. Check for holes, cuts, or defects in the sides of the tires. If they are cracked or split on the sides or at the valve stem, this is an indication they need to be replaced. Look for uneven wear or balding tread. There could be a problem with the alignment of the vehicle.

You should be allowed to take the RV camper for a test drive. If there is any noise from the breaks, they may need to be looked at. Have someone who is with you step outside the vehicle while you apply the brakes and check to see if the brake lights are working properly. The brake fluid should be checked during the inspection of the engine.

While you are trying out the RV camper, turn on all the lights and flashers. Be sure they all work, inside and out. This will include flashers, turn signal lights, headlights on high and low beam, and any inside lights, as well.

When your partner is checking on the brake lights, they should also check to see if there is any smoke coming out of the tailpipe. The rest of the exhaust system should be check for leaks, as well. This is especially dangerous if the gases are escaping into the passenger compartment.

In the living area of any RV camper you should do a thorough inspection as well. If there are any gas appliances, they should be checked to see if the vents are properly working. Watch for blockages of the vents caused by something that was added on after it was bought from the dealer. Also check for any exposed wiring. These can cause shocks and fires.

There should be smoke detectors and fire extinguishers included with your RV camper. Check the dates on all of these and be sure they have been properly maintained and replaced as needed. Check the button on the smoke detectors and be sure they work.

The latches on all doors, cabinets, and any appliances should be check to make sure they work properly. Open all of the doors to check for problems with hinges, as well. You do not want anything to come open if you are required to make a sudden stop. If something comes flying out of a cabinet or a door is flung open, someone could be injured.

Purchasing a new RV camper can be very exciting. But, be sure to do a thorough inspection. It would be a shame to get home with your new vehicle and find something that should have been uncovered well before any deal was made for the purchase. Hopefully, these tips will help you avoid any unnecessary pitfalls when you are purchasing your new RV camper.

SOURCE

Eure, Marian. "The Everything Family Guide to RV Travel & Campgrounds". 2005. Adams Media. Avon, MA. USA.