Things to Look For When Buying a Used RV
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Things to Look For When Buying a Used RV

It makes no difference from whom you are buying your motor home, an auction, a dealer, or a private sale, you must thoroughly check out every feature of the RV before making an actual purchase. For many RV owners, the cost of their RV is one of the most expensive purchases that they have ever made, except for the cost of their permanent residence. Take your time and ask questions.

Don’t be afraid to leave the seller’s lot and return home to think about things. Write down any concerns and note anything that looks to you as though it might need attention. The cost of any needed repairs or upgrades will have to be included in the final cost of the RV.
If possible, have a trusted mechanic come with you to examine the RV. An experienced RV professional will undoubtedly check out the following factors:

Batteries – Motor homes usually have two groups or types of batteries. One group is known as “house batteries.” These batteries provide mobile power for normal household functions. The other group is called “vehicle batteries.” These batteries must be powerful enough to provide the power needed to start the engine under all environmental conditions, especially cold weather.

Oil – Check to see if the oil is burned or discolored. This could indicate that there is some sort of problem with the engine. Thick highly viscous oil with traces of white foam could be evidence that oil additives have been used in an attempt to seal damaged or leaking engine gaskets.

Brakes – You RV is a very heavy vehicle. It and requires a durable heavy-duty braking system. Have the brakes, including the hand brake, inspected and tested by an expert. When the RV is fully loaded and travelling at speed, it can be difficult to stop without a perfectly functioning braking system.

Rust – Rust can be a clear indication that the RV may be approaching the end of its useful life. If you see any rust, have an auto-body expert check the extent of corrosion. If it is simply a non-critical problem with small areas of the finish, it can be easily repaired. Be especially vigilant for small raised bubbles on the surface, which could indicate that a rusted area had been painted over to hide it.

Paperwork – Demand to see all paperwork associated with the RV including its repair and maintenance history. Find out how many previous owners it has had. Ensure that the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the vehicle matches the number shown on the documentation. Check the vehicles weight and load limits. Make sure that the total weight, minus the weight of the vehicle, leaves enough room for you to store all that you need for your travels, without overloading the RV. You never want to travel with an overloaded RV.

House Batteries – These batteries are the RV’s power source whenever an external hookup is not available. Make sure that the batteries are functioning properly, and can hold their charge. If your RV has solar panels, ensure that they are functioning properly and producing the specified charge to your batteries.

Propane System – It is critically important, for both function and safety, that the propane gas system is functioning perfectly. Ask for and read any safety certificates. Check to ensure that your refrigeration system can be switched for gas to electrical power when the RV is connected to an external electrical power source.

Toilet – Ensure that the toilet is functioning properly. There is nothing more off putting that the smell from the holding tanks backing up into the toilet area and into the RV.

Flooring – Check the flooring for soft spots particularly around sinks, toilet, and shower. Long-term leaks could cause wood to rot and metal to rust, a very expensive repair problem.

Ceilings – Damp spots on the ceiling could be an indication that there is a leak in the roof. Check the areas inside cabinets and closets, and any other hidden spaces. A leaky roof can cause unhealthful and damaging mold, and can be very hard and quite expensive to repair.

Heating – Test the heating system. Make sure that it adequately heats the entire RV comfortably. The heating system will most probably also provide hot water for the RV. Make sure that all heating vents are clear and working, and that ducts are clean.

Air Conditioning – Test the air conditioning system. Make sure it runs quietly and delivers cold air. Have it charge tested. Recharging the system can be expensive.

Insulation – Check the specification on insulation. Make sure that it is adequate for cold nights. Also ensure that the hot water tanks are well insulated.

Comfort – Try out all the furniture as though you were living there. Lay on the beds and on any couches. Sit on all the chairs. Is the furniture located conveniently? Can you watch TV from the bed, from the kitchen table? Can your family eat together comfortably at the table. Are the stove and oven adequate for your family’s needs? Is there enough counter space?

Final RV Check – Give the entire RV a final once over, inside and outside. Turn on all appliances, TVs, and lights. Check all door and cabinet latches. Ensure that all electrical outlets work properly. Check all vents. Check all window and door locks. Make sure you are totally satisfied that the RV meets your needs.

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