RVers can be an indecisive bunch, and rightfully so! When you make an investment as large as your home-on-wheels, it may take a few tries to get things just right. And switching rigs early and often can be quite a blessing for newcomers to the market, as there are consistently a large number of gently used RV’s on the market! While your selection may be broad, make sure that you approach the purchasing process with a sharp eye, so that you don’t end up with someone else’s secondhand problems. Buying a used RV requires a lot of time and research, but will pay off big if you know what to look for. When starting your search, you’ll want to check for the following:
- Water leaks! As many of our RV Warranty customers can attest to, a simple water leak can mean big damages in your motorhome, travel trailer or 5th wheel. From mold to spongey surfaces, damaged flooring and even delamination, the cost to attempt repairing this type of damage is likely to supersede even a heavily discounted purchase price. If you suspect water damage RUN, don’t walk, away!
- Rust and corrosion! Another issue that our motorhome warranty customers have unfortunate experience in is the extent of costly damage that can be caused by rust and corrosion. Rust generally takes place in the undercarriage due to vehicles being stored improperly. Be sure to check this area for signs of rust, as breakdowns caused by it are expensive to repair and specifically excluded by even the most comprehensive RV Extended Warranty policies.
- Get an RV Warranty! Almost every manufacturer warranty for motorhomes, travel trailers and 5th wheels apply only to the first owner of a coach. This can leave you high and dry if your rig suffers a breakdown shortly after you take ownership of a gently used rig. Make sure to look into an RV Extended Warranty from a 3rd party provider such as Wholesale Warranties!
Buying used can save you huge amounts off the cost of your vehicle, but be sure to look twice and check every bell and whistle before you lock yourself into a purchase. Have you purchased a used RV? What was the hardest part of the process for you? Sound off in the comments section below!
I like that you remind readers to check for rust and corrosion before buying the RV. After all, you wouldn’t want to find that while you’re out on the road with it. If you do find rust or corrosion, you should ask to get it fixed before buying it.