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How To Find a Quality Used RV

Jun. 13 2022 Buying Guide By Broadmoor RV

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Not all used RVs are a good investment. Some models can be full of problems...that will result in expensive repairs down the road.  

To avoid costly mistakes, follow these tips when shopping for a used RV.

See What Current Owners Say

For any used RV that you consider buying, there will be multiple families who currently travel with that given model. Many folks will share their experiences through online reviews.

By reading through these posts, you can learn about the reality of the given model. 

For example:

  • Is it easy to tow or drive? 
  • Does it feel spacious enough to be comfortable for large families? 
  • Is there enough room in the cabinets and fridge to store enough food for a longer vacation?

It can be hard to get the answers to these types of questions by simply reading a model's description, but reading through owners' experiences can give you plenty of useful information. Customer reviews can help you narrow your search and make a more informed purchase.

Learn About the Used RV's Past

Once you find a used camper that you are interested in, the next step is to learn about its history. Knowing about the model's past can help you predict its future performance and longevity.

Ask for a copy of the used RV's maintenance records. Look for potential red flags, such as evidence that the camper was in an accident or that the past owner didn't keep up with preventative maintenance. 

If possible, find out why the past owner decided to sell their camper. In some cases, they may be selling because they are upgrading to a newer model. But in other cases, they may be selling because they had too many problems with the camper and they want to get rid of it before it causes them any more headaches. You don't want to inherit those issues!

Inspect the Used RV

Start by looking at the outside of the RV. Check to see if there is any damage to the body or the paint job. Some damage can be purely cosmetic, such as a small scrape or dent. But larger areas of damage can mean that there is internal damage as well.

Next, take a look inside the RV. Test all of the appliances and electronics to see if they are in good working condition. Open all of the cabinets and drawers to make sure that they open and close smoothly. Look in the various nooks and crannies for signs of pest or water damage.

If you notice any problems, be sure to factor repair costs into your budget. Some small issues can be a quick and cheap fix, but be cautious about buying a used RV that needs a massive overhaul before hitting the road.

Want more shopping tips? Want to explore used RVs for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at Broadmoor RV are here to help. We are based in the Tri-Cities, Washington, and also serve those in Seattle and Spokane.