How to Buy a Used RV

To buy a used RV these days, you just need a WiFi connection and time to do a little research. You can save a lot of cash up front by purchasing a pre-owned RV, but any used vehicle purchase comes with some risks. We’ll walk you through the process of how to buy a used RV step by step so you can make sure your new ride is in working order.

Buying a used RV

Buying a used camper requires a few extra steps. Here’s what you need to know to find the best used motorhome for you.

1. Choose your RV. Before you start looking at RV listings, do some research on the best types of RVs to buy and select the one that fits your lifestyle and budget.
2. Search RV sites for listings. If you’re wondering where to buy a used RV, the answer is simple: start online. Sites like RV Trader, Camping World and RVs.com will show you used RVs from dealerships and/or private sellers. You can also use tools from the National Automobile Dealers Association — the Kelley Blue Book for used RVs — to estimate the value of a used RV to see if you’re getting a fair deal.
3. Check out the RV in person. Before you buy a used RV, make sure to take a close look in person. Take it for a test drive, ask the right questions and know what to look for in order to make sure the RV is roadworthy.
4. Get a Level 2 inspection. We strongly recommend hiring a professional to inspect the used RV before you buy it. They’ll pick up on any serious maintenance issues that could cost you thousands in the long run.
5. Get an RV loan. Some RV loans come with low interest rates, but you’ll have to apply for several in order to make sure you’re getting the best rates. Use our RV loan calculator to make sure you can afford your monthly payments.
6. Sign the paperwork. As with any vehicle purchase, you’ll sign paperwork when you buy a used camper. In addition to the loan agreement, you’ll need to make sure that the title transfer, bill of sale, registration and any state-specific certifications are in order.
7. Pay any taxes and fees. Depending on your state, you may need to pay registration fees to the DMV, sales tax and a use tax.

What to look for when buying a used RV

The most important difference between buying used and new RVs is that you’ll need to do your due diligence when you purchase any used vehicle. In addition to a Level 2 inspection from a professional RV inspector, you should take some time to examine the vehicle yourself.

Look at the interior and exterior, checking for signs of water damage or any issues outside of normal wear and tear. You should examine the roof, walls, windows and floors, looking for stains or cracks.

Make sure that the appliances, HVAC system, electricity and plumbing are working. Turn on the air, flip on the lights, run the faucets, flush the toilets and look below the trailer for any leaks.

Questions to ask when buying a used RV

It’s important to get a thorough history from the seller to determine whether the previous owner maintained the RV properly. Here’s a list of questions to ask the owner or RV dealer:

• Can I take it for a test drive? It’s reasonable to request a test drive before you buy an RV. When you drive the vehicle, check the brakes and listen to the engine for any unusual sounds. Try driving on the highway to see how the RV handles higher speeds. If you’re buying a trailer, make sure it connects to your tow vehicle.
• Can I see the title and vehicle identification number (VIN)? Check to see if the title is in the owner’s name and if the VIN on the car matches the one on the title. Running a VIN check will help protect you against buying an RV with an undesirable history.
• What issues has the RV had, and how did you fix them? It’s important to know if there are any functional problems with the RV so that you can factor any future repairs into the cost of ownership. Ask to see maintenance records to verify any repairs.
• How did you use the RV? Knowing how often the RV was on the road and how it was used will help you determine the condition of the vehicle. If the RV was used as a full-time residence, it will likely have more wear and tear — but it’s also possible that well-used vehicles have been better maintained.
• Have you made any upgrades to the RV? This will give you insight into how well the previous owner maintained the RV.
• How old are the tires? The answer to this question will help you calculate how soon you’ll need to replace the tires, which you can factor into your negotiations.

Depending on the seller’s answers to your questions, you may even be able to negotiate a lower asking price. At the very least, you’ll know about the RV’s history and how well it was maintained, which can help you decide whether to buy it or wait for a better deal.