Buying an older RV can save you money on repairs, but you should consider the problems that you might encounter. Before making a purchase, make sure that the RV is in good shape and free of major damages. It is also worth considering the resale value of the RV. You may be able to find a great deal if you know what to look for.
Pre-purchase inspection
If you’re buying an older RV, the best thing you can do is to get it checked out thoroughly. Even if you’re planning on driving it for just a weekend, it’s still best to have a pre-purchase inspection performed. This inspection will help ensure that your new RV is safe for you and your family.
Pre-purchase inspections are critical for several reasons. If you have a limited budget, you may be tempted to purchase an older RV that doesn’t need repairs. But if you want to make the most of your money, make sure you get a thorough inspection first. A thorough inspection can reveal hidden flaws, and it will give you a better idea of whether the vehicle is worth it or not. It’s also good to have someone with mechanical knowledge inspect it. They’ll know how to check the engine and check the structural integrity, and they can identify problems before you do.
Problems with older RVs
There are a number of issues with older RVs. For one thing, they may be made of inferior materials and may have a shorter lifespan. This means you’ll have to replace damaged or worn items. You might also be faced with a high repair bill if you purchase a used RV.
Older RVs are also vulnerable to water damage. Older RVs often use wood as their main construction material, which rots and molds when wet. This weakens the structural integrity of the RV. Also, water can seep in through exterior vents, cracks, or tears, causing damage to the interior and walls.
Thankfully, there are several ways to remedy the problem. The first step is to fix the leak. You can temporarily cover it with garbage bags, but you must avoid duct tape as it can cause damage to the RV’s interior walls and sidewalls. Next, you need to check the window hardware. Make sure the weep holes are clear and allow water to drain away from the window tracks. To clean the weep holes, you can use a stiff wire or brush, or you can use compressed air.
Cost of repairs
Repair costs on an older RV are typically higher than those for a new one. However, an older RV with good maintenance may have fewer problems. If you plan on traveling for a long time, you may want to purchase RV mechanical breakdown insurance to cover unexpected expenses. In most cases, this insurance will cover the cost of repairs up to the warranty period. Warranty periods typically last for five years.
It’s important to shop around for the best rates. Big dealerships charge as much as $129 per hour for labor on expensive rigs, but smaller sellers charge as little as $65 an hour. By shopping around, you can cut down on labor costs. Also, some dealerships offer a flat rate per job, which will help keep your costs low.
Resale value of older RVs
RVs depreciate quickly, especially those that are older than two years. In the first year of ownership, an RV loses nearly half its value, and by six years, it is worth only half again. At this point, buyers often trade in their RVs. In order to make up for the loss, dealerships raise their price for replacement RVs. However, older RVs can increase in value when maintained properly.
A dealer will consider many factors when determining the trade-in value of your RV. To get an accurate estimate, make sure you pull a value report before visiting a dealership. If you find that the dealership doesn’t have accurate information, it may be worth looking elsewhere. Also, make sure you obtain comprehensive insurance coverage for your RV. This coverage must include damage and replacement value.
Buying used vs. new
Buying an older RV is a good option for some people. buy my RV blog article from Happy Camper Buyer is because older RVs tend to use more fuel, which means that they may cost you more money over time. You should always do your research before purchasing an RV, though. Here are a few things to consider before buying an older RV.
First of all, it is important to know how to negotiate for the price of an older RV. The price will vary depending on its age and model, and whether it’s drivable or towable. You can also ask the seller to reduce the price once you’ve inspected the unit thoroughly. Just remember that you get what you pay for, so make sure that you’re willing to negotiate.