Tips for Buying a Used RV

For the discerning outdoorsman unwilling to give up the comforts of city life, a recreational vehicle is the closest thing to having your own home with you in the wilderness. But, for those of you researching the price of RVs and motorhomes, the price can sometimes be prohibitive. A luxury motorhome can sometimes cost as much as a home! Luckily there is an abundance of good, used RVs to buy. However, in order to buy a used RV, you may have to scrutinize your future purchase more so than if it was new. Here are some tips to help you buy a used RV which is in sound working order.

How to Buy a Used RV

By Don Pepinno

If you have always wanted to own an RV, but the price of a spanking new model is just too steep to consider, there is an alternative.

You might find and buy a wonderful used RV. To start your search you might read the classifieds in your town or visit a few “for sale by owner” lots that are becoming popular on weekends around the country.

With a little patience and due diligence you can buy the used RV of your dreams and be ready for the open highways and adventure.

Did you find a used RV you think is just right? Are you ready for that first magical adventure next weekend?

Well, before you start packing, there are some things you must do to make sure that the used RV that you buy is mechanically sound and structurally sturdy.

Here are a few tips that will help you as you make the final decision to buy a used RV.

•Make sure to thoroughly inspect the RV, both mechanically and structurally.

•Look for tell tale signs of wear such as nicks and dents, patched or repaired windows and tires.

•Inspect the roof for any cracks or problems in the seams.

•Go through the inside with a fine tooth comb. Is the floor solid? Does all the plumbing work? What about the stove, the oven, the shower?, the toilet? The refrigerator?

•Check all the water lines for any problems

•What’s the condition of the carpet? Is it new or does it seem soft or moldy? This could be a signs of leaks.

•Step back outside for a moment. Check the trailer jack and make sure it is in good working condition.

•How about the brakes? Are they in good condition or do they need to be replaced. Remember, the safety of you and your family is at stake when you head down the road in your “new” used RV.

•Check the battery for corrosion . Start the engine and make sure the battery has sufficient “juice” to get you started without challenge.

•Open and close all windows, vents and doors to make sure that they operate smoothly,. If they do not it might be a sign of a structural problem.

•Inspect the Gas and Propane lines for any problems as well as the regulator and tanks for required updates

•Inspect all the lights, both interior and exterior to determine if any are faulty.

•Make sure that all vents open and close and are working properly.

The pointers above ARE NOT a complete list of items to inspect when you buy a used RV. This list will get you started until you call in a certified RV mechanic who will do a complete inspection of the RV you plan top buy.

While there may be problems in any used RV you want to buy, many of these problems are repairable and are not very expensive. The main point is to do a thorough inspection, before you commit to buy a used RV. Do this before you hazard the road and the safety of your family on a trip in a potential road hazard on wheels.

For more information on buying used RV visit our vacation and RV site at http://rvbuyersguide.e-vacationsmadeeasy.com/

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Synonyms:  Caravan, camper, RV and motorhome are often used synonymously.

vehichle, vechicle, vehical, vechile, vehcile, are typos for "vehicle."