Buying a used RV

[Kevorows]

Can you guys help me make a list for my cousin. She and her husband want to start looking for a used RV before the spring comes. But I think they should take a checklist along with them and learn more about used rv for sale. I think it would be kind of hard to buy a used trailer or whatever because there are so many things that could be wrong. Like the working order of the stove, fridge, furnace and taps.
Is the vehicle in good condition inside or does it look like it has been trashed?
Can you add some others so I can put this in a spreadsheet and print it out.

 

[DennisT]

One recommendation would be to have them hire a certified inspector to go through what they decide they want to pursue.

We had it done in our new unit and was worth the money for the peace of mind.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

What market? Private or dealer?
I would call before I went and have them start all equipment. Water heater, A/C, water pump. Anything not running assume it doesn't work? Offer to run a hose to flood the roof. Any hesitation likely is a problem!

Inspection is only a small part, it must work, not just look fit.

Might I also recommend copies of my two previous posts, before looking further!!!

 

[B52Bombardier1]

All good advice above. Ask for all associated owners manuals for the individual appliances. If they don't give them to you then you will certainly be coming back here looking for them later. And who knows if they are still available.

Good tires? They are expensive. Including the spare. Check the DOT date code embossed into the tire sidewall.

Good black and gray water drain hoses?

How old is the battery? Yes, these things have large, expensive batteries and they lose their ability to deliver amps (not just volts) as they age.

Is the black tank truly and actually emptied? If that solidified into a monolith, you will likely be replacing the entire tank.

Rick

 

[Wemustrv]

The first thing I recommend is establish what the maximum you want to spend is then determine what type of RV you want. Now that you have determined these items I recommend that you sit down and make a spreadsheet and on that spreadsheet list all the items you must have and all the items that would be nice to have but not a deal breaker if not included. On that same spreadsheet open a new tab and start listing the units that fit your needs from online searches. This gives you a good idea of what is out there and pricing. Once you find several that meet your needs start talking to owners and look at them and as suggested by others get an independent inspector to look over any selected unit. Also a good idea to look at the various forums for the unit you are looking at and see what people have to say about them. Realizing that many people only post when there is an issue. Good Luck!

 

[Diesel Pusher]

Search the interweb for an RV Inspection Check List rv inspection check list - Bing