Buying used cars is an excellent option if you are under a budget or are looking for a very special, vintage model. Besides, such vehicles are also a great choice if you want to save money on car insurance. Lastly, refurbished vehicles are also usually the go-to choice for eco-conscious individuals. Among the several options, a used RV stands out. If you are interested in knowing about the A to Z of a refurbished RV, this blog is the right place.
Introduction to Class A RVs
The first step in understanding RVs is their ‘class.’ Simply put, an RV, irrespective of its class, refers exclusively to a motorhome that combines a locomotive with a living space on the same chassis. There is no towing involved and the camper’s interiors are always accessible to passengers during travel.
Likewise, when you usually talk about an RV or a motorhome, you are generally referring to Class A. A class A RV is the quintessential ‘box on wheels’ that you see sweeping through the interstate roads. These are self-propelled campers that either have a gas or diesel power engine.
The Class A RV usually starts as a bare chassis, and then the living quarters are established on top by an RV manufacturer. These motorhomes have all the amenities, including interior furnishing, style choices, and more.
Now, let us quickly gauge some of the stats of Class A RV.
- Length – 28 to 45 feet
- Sleeping Capacity – 4 to 6 people
- Gas Mileage – 6 to 10
- Gross Vehicle Weight – 22 pounds to 55000 pounds
- Towing Capacity – 5000 to 20000 pounds
- Retail Price – USD 100000 to USD 400000; it can extend up to USD 2 million + for a bus conversion
Advantages of Buying A Used Class A RV
Now that we have touched upon the basics of a used Class A RV, let us check out the pros of purchasing a refurbished or used variant.
- New Class A RVs are Expensive and Depreciate Quickly
When it comes to depreciation, new Class A RVs are very similar to cars. They lose their value as soon as you drive them on the road. So, unless you are planning to keep the RV for an extended time period to amortize the depreciation, the instant value loss is, undoubtedly, money gone down the drain. Thus, opting for a used RV is a better and more strategic decision.
2. New RVs Come with Bugs
Of course, the feeling of being the owner of a brand new Class A RV is out of this world. The smell and ambience are mind-blowing. But, you pay a price for elements that have no tangible value. RV manufacturers often shun the fact that their new models usually come with bugs.
At times, the bugs are minor. But, on certain occasions, these bugs can become major defects. And, the worst part is that getting these glitches fixed on the manufacturer’s warranty can be quite the hassle. It is quite common for RV enthusiasts to opine that bugs and getting rid of those bugs are the main reasons they do not opt for a brand-new variant.
3. The Used Class A RVs for Sale Come With A Lot of Diversity
The used market has a phenomenal selection of RV types, models, ages, floor plans and price points. You can find everything – from nearly new motorhomes to retro campers and DIY restoration projects.
4. Get a Nearly New Class A RV at a Lower Price
The biggest benefit of buying a used Class A RV is that it will cost less. You save money now and on maintenance costs later. Used RVs have few bugs, which is a comfort for RV newbies. Moreover, used RVs are just as reliable as the new ones.
Now that we have touched upon the top 4 pros of purchasing a Used Class A RV, let us check out how the process of buying a refurbished vehicle gets smoother.
Buying A Used Class A RV: A 6-Step Guide
- Determine Your Needs
Your RV journey begins with lucidly understanding and acknowledging your needs and financial boundaries. So, gauge the size of your travel party, the types of trips you frequently plan, and of course, the budget.
2. Pre-Purchase Preparation
Before going all out with your search and contacting dealers, it is essential to engage in some pre-purchase preparation. Class A RVs come in an array of sizes and shapes. Besides, the used or refurbished market is all the more saturated and diverse. Thus, talk to RV owners and enthusiasts, research on the internet and check out YouTube videos on the various advantages and disadvantages of different RVs.
3. Inspection and Evaluation
The third and very important step is to inspect and evaluate the used RVs you are thinking of buying or have filtered out. Some eminent things to check are –
- Signs of Mold and Water Damage
You might not see any immediate signs of water damage on the RV’s interior. But, take the extra step and use a flashlight to open up all the cabinets, invigilate walls, corners, and the caulking in the bathroom and ensure that there is no mold or signs of leakage.
- Check the Roof
Gently tread on the roof of the rig and ensure that it is sturdy and does not seem wobbly from any angle.
- Check the Floors
Walk heavily on the roof of the Class A RV and test its sturdiness. Make sure that there are no brown spots and that the roof feels resilient and crisp.
- Evaluate the Exterior
Look for visible signs of dents, scratches or rust on the Class A RV for sale. Moreover, assess the condition of the tires to ensure that they have adequate tread and are devoid of cracks.
- Check the Interior
Scrutinize the RV’s interior for stains, soft spots on the floor, musty outdoors and likewise. Then, check all the appliances, such as the stove, refrigerator, air conditioner, and heating system to confirm that they are in working order. Lastly, inspect the upholstery, flooring and cabinetry for signs of depreciation.
- Documentation and History Check
Ask the seller for maintenance records and documentation of any repairs and upgrades. Likewise, check out the RV’s insurance policies, purchase documents, and so forth. A history and maintenance check can offer excellent insights into how well the RV was cared for by its previous owner.
- Test Drive and Mechanics Evaluation
Evaluate the fluid level and leak check, engage on a road test to check powertrain performance, suspension and brake systems, etc. Thereafter, examine the fresh water and drainage system, audio and video components, levelling jacks, slide-outs, awning motor, etc. If checking the technical aspects seems too overwhelming, opt for professional help.
- Negotiation and Purchase
After the inspection is complete and you are content with the RV’s condition, it is time to negotiate the price. Research the market value of similar used RVs for sale to set a clear price range. Be prepared to let go if the seller is unwilling to budget or negotiate.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
To ensure that you are getting the best deal on your used Class A RV, it is essential to be mindful of certain pitfalls and avoid them at all costs. These include –
- Not taking a test drive
- Not getting a professional vehicle inspection
- Not reading up on self-containment rules
- Not checking weight restrictions
- Not setting a budget
- Not checking or considering storage space
- Not considering the layout
Post-Purchase Considerations
After buying your used RV, make sure to take proper care of the vehicle. Go for regular maintenance and repair, and also restore it as per your needs and requirements.
So, there we have it, a comprehensive guide to buying a used Class A RV.