Investing in a used RV can be a great way to save money while still enjoying your travel experience. However, purchasing a pre-owned RV can come with many risks if you do not know what to look for. Asking the right questions before making a final decision can help prevent potential unexpected problems in the future. So let’s talk about a few things you can ask before you buy a used RV.
1. What is the RV’s Full Maintenance History and Has it Had Any Water Damage?
Maintenance and water damage is one of the biggest concerns when buying a used RV. It is important to know how often routine checks were completed and if it was well cared for. A few things you should specifically be asking about is roof inspections, tire replacement history, major repairs, and water leaks. All of these things have a big impact on the future durability of the RV. Water damage is one of the most common problems in RVs so be sure to look around for stains, soft spots, window sills, and even be aware of musty smells. These can all be a sign of water damage so be sure to ask the owner about it before buying.
2. Why is The Current Owner Selling The RV?
This is a very simple but very effective question as it can reveal many important details about your buying decision. Maybe they just want to upgrade or downsize, or their lifestyle is changing and therefore so is their RV. But if they are not upfront about it, it could be because there are reoccurring issues that the owner has not disclosed. Ask how often the RV was used and if it was stored properly when it was not being used. You just need to fully understand the thought process being them selling so that you can make more informed decisions.
3. Are All Systems and Appliances Functioning Correctly?
This is a big question to ask, because upon touring you might not have the chance to test if the stove, the sink, or the toilet is working properly. So ask the questions about all the systems within the RV. From plumbing and electrical to hearing and air. Ensure the leveling system works right and all the appliances are up to date. If you can you should test all of these things before buying because an RV has many important moving parts.
Buying an RV requires more than just finding a model and size that you like. It requires detailed questions about past maintenance, water damage, ownership history, and their reasoning behind selling. Taking that extra time during the buying process will end with a much better ownership experience in the long run.
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