I conducted a survey recently to ask what were some frustrating things that RV buyers wished they had known about before they made their purchase? And, as you can imagine, there were plenty of surprising responses like:
- They forgot to test the awning and it tore the first time they opened it.
- Construction materials from the factory were left behind and completely prevented the black tank from dumping.
- The doors were installed upside down at the factory and leaked during the first rain.
- The refrigerator was not turned on until minutes before their arrival on pick up day, so the dealership missed the fact that it was completely inoperative during the walk through.
- They forgot to test the water heater and had to replace it after the first trip.
- That they purchased a brand new rig at auction and discovered the black and gray tanks were completely missing once they got it home.
- Not understanding how expensive oil changes and engine work would be on their new diesel pusher.
- And that even after thorough research, they underestimated the towing capabilities of their truck and did not feel safe or confident with it once they got the RV out on the road.
So, what can you do to try to avoid some of these costly, aggravating, and sometimes scary discoveries when purchasing an RV?
- Ask the owner to have all utilities available to test before you agree to purchase. This is standard practice, so insist upon it! Water, electric, and sewer.
- Operate all of the mechanical items like the awnings and slides.
- Operate all of the appliances like those in the kitchen, the AC, furnace, water heater and generator.
- Check the electrical panel connections and water/plumbing systems.
- Take a test drive or a test tow – preferably with your own tow vehicle.
- Look at manufacture dates, tread and sidewall condition of all tires.
- Check all of the life safety systems like detectors, LP tanks, and running gear condition, etc.
- Request and observe the maintenance records from the seller or dealership.
If all of this sounds overwhelming, you know I will suggest to hire a third party Certified RV Inspector like me, Queen Bee RV!
I had the opportunity to share this tip first with RV Lifestyle and their YouTube channel and Podcast. Thanks to them for having me! There’s more quick tips coming soon to my YouTube channel, so be sure to subscribe and follow along here.
