8 questions to ask when buying a used RV
Buying a used RV can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know which questions to ask when making such a big purchase.
Answer the questions below to find the perfect RV based on your travel preferences, camping needs, space requirements, and much more.
1. What are my RV travel needs?
Your RV must meet your personal needs and travel goals. Answer these questions about your travel preferences:
Will you take long cross-country trips, short weekend getaways or will you live full-time in your RV?
Will you travel solo, as a couple, or with family?
Are there any mobility issues to consider?
Will you and other drivers be comfortable driving a larger or smaller vehicle?
2. What type of bathroom should my RV have?
What is your bathroom preference? A separate shower or will a wet-bath work?
Most Class B RVs have “wet baths”— a shower head over the toilet and space is tight. Many campervans also have an outdoor shower head.
Class C RVs typically have a separate sink, toilet and shower, which can be pivotal for some customers who still want the convenience of home.
Class A RVs can have two bathrooms inside – which is great for personal comfort and convenience.
3. Which RV can haul my recreational gear?
If you enjoy activities that require equipment like biking or boating, make sure the RV you purchase has the capacity to haul your gear.
Most RVs can accommodate a bike rack or straps for small- to medium-sized equipment. But many vehicles have a limited towing capacity, so research if a rig can accommodate a tow vehicle (called a “toad”) or a trailer to hold equipment like kayaks, boats, ATVs, motorcycles, jet skis, etc.
Some RVs have interior storage space in the rear such as the Winnebago Revel and toy haulers.
4. What will I need at my RV campsite?
Consider what you’ll want once you arrive at camp:
Will you stay in campgrounds with hook-ups, or will you be off-grid or dry camping (off-grid camping may require a generator or lithium ion batteries, 4-wheel drive, and larger fresh and gray/black water tanks)?
Do you need air conditioning while camping or is fresh air okay?
Will you cook in your RV or will meals be simple (this determines the size and type of kitchen equipment you need)?
Will you drive at your campsite? Smaller RVs are easy to park and can serve as a car for sightseeing and errands. Larger Class A RV owners often tow a car since RVs over 30 feet can be difficult to maneuver and park.
5. Which size is right for my RV lifestyle?
Once you know how you’ll use your RV, you’ll select your size: Class A, Class B, Class C or a travel trailer or fifth wheel.
Size matters and there are trade-offs with each option:
Class A RVs, like the Thor Quantum motor coach, epitomize a luxurious home-on-wheels experience with extensive living space and amenities. Though they offer maximum comfort ideal for long-term travel, their larger size requires more care for maneuverability and parking.
Smaller Class B “camper vans” (such as the Winnebago Revel and the Winnebago Solis) are super easy to drive and park and provide a simplicity and ease of use. But the smaller size also means less storage, sleeping capacity, kitchen space, and hanging out space. The many avid Class B RV fans don’t mind the trade offs and like to feel that nature is their living room.
Mid-size Class C RVs—like the Winnebago View, Winnebago EKKO and Thor Quantum—offer slide-outs to allow for a more spacious interior. These RVs have larger kitchens and bathrooms, making them a comfortable middle ground between the compactness of Class B and the spaciousness of Class A.
Try before you buy
Unsure which RV is right for you? With Blacksford RV rentals, you can take a test trip with your favorite model before making a purchase.
6. What is the RV’s maintenance history?
Understanding the vehicle’s maintenance record before you buy is critical. Ask these questions about accidents, repairs, and past usage:
Has the RV been in an accident or had any major repairs? Always ask for a complete repair and service history—do not buy an RV without it.
Has the vehicle had regular preventive maintenance such as oil changes, filter changes, flushing of gray/black/fresh water tanks? Strongly consider hiring an independent RV inspector before you buy to really look at all the systems.
Were repairs done by the owner or a professional RV service technician? Many RV owners try to save money by doing repairs themselves and “learning on the job.” Some RV owners are quite skilled, but others may cut corners.
What is the usage history and types of trips previous owners took—long, short, mountains, off-roading? The mileage matters, though diesel engines generally have a much longer lifespan than gas engines. Off-roading can be hard on RVs so be extra sure to have it fully inspected for any damage.
7. What is the RV’s ownership history?
The ownership history is also important. Get answers to these questions about past owners:
How many owners has the RV had?
Why is the current owner selling the RV? What are they replacing it with?
Did past owners have pets? Pet dander, damage and stains can cause issues with cleanliness, wear-and-tear, and allergies.
Did past owners smoke? Smoke of any kind can be hard to eliminate.
Is there any time left on warranties? RVs with many systems often have different warranties for the chassis, engine, awnings, toilets, appliances, tires, etc.
8. What are my purchasing options?
Before you buy a used RV, ask about the purchase details:
Are prices negotiable or firm?
Is financing available? What are the terms?
Does the company offer delivery?
What will the sales and/or property taxes be? Taxes are typically paid in the state in which you register the RV.
Can I hire an independent inspector? A third party can help to ensure the RV is as good as it is advertised as.
Once you make the decision to buy, have a cashier’s check or wire transfer ready. And spend as much time as you can having the owner walk you through how each system works – even consider videotaping it on your smartphone.
Want an easy RV purchase experience? Shop Blacksford!
If you are looking for an RV that aligns with your adventurous spirit and travel aspirations, consider buying from Blacksford. Our gently used, professionally maintained and low mileage RVs are waiting for you to start your dream adventure.
Browse our used RV inventory today and embark on your dream journey!
