What To Know Before Buying An RV

So you’re thinking about buying a used RV? Chances are you don’t want to spend years scouring the web for the perfect deal, and you definitely don’t want to hastily purchase an RV that isn’t what was advertised. Used RV Dealers can overcharge you if you don’t have a good understanding of the used motorhomes market, and private dealers can leave you with a hunk of metal if you don’t know what to look for in a used RV. Here at El Monte RV, our mission is to connect you with the motorhome of your dreams, using our robust network of sellers to meet your exact RV specifications and pricing needs. Find out what you should know before buying an RV and how El Monte RV can help you avoid overpriced used RV dealers and shady private sellers. 

How To Avoid Buying A Lemon

While an RV can grant you the freedom of the open road, there are a number of potholes to avoid on the path to buying a used RV. The most important fact to keep in mind is that sellers don’t always tell the truth about what they are selling, in fact, many used RV dealers will do everything they can to deceive you into paying more than your RV is worth—whether through fabricated vehicle histories, hiding serious mechanical issues, or simply lying to you about the facts. The easiest way to avoid overpaying for your RV is to use a reputable RV dealer with a clean sales record and reasonable prices. El Monte RV boasts a stellar reputation with our past customers because of our years of experience in the industry, our nation-wide network of used RV dealers, and our unbeatable customer service—making El Monte the clear choice for buying a used RV.

Tips When Looking At A Used RV

No matter who you are buying from, there are some things you should look for in all used motorhomes, simply so you can be aware of what you are paying for when you purchase a used RV. Here is a quick checklist to run through when checking out an RV:

  • Look for water damage, mold, and staining on the ceiling and floors
  • Check the engine to make sure it is what is being advertised
  • Never buy an RV from a private seller without seeing it first
  • Test out the appliances by turning on the air conditioning, lights, refrigerator, etc. 
  • Give it a test drive or use El Monte’s Try Before You Buy Service

Test Drive or Bust

When looking at used motorhomes for sale, there is one huge red flag to watch for that speaks volumes about the integrity of the dealer: do they allow you to test drive the vehicle? A test drive not only allows you to check how the RV is running mechanically, but it also gives you a sense of what it would be like to spend long hours on the road in your new RV. Untrustworthy used RV dealers will find any number of excuses to keep you from getting behind the wheel, but the bottom line is that they just want you to give them your money without thinking twice. When buying a used RV make sure to shop with a reputable dealer who allows you to test drive your new vehicle before you buy it. Here at El Monte RV, we offer a Try Before You Buy service at all of our nationwide locations, allowing you to feel confident in your purchase before committing to anything. Contact El Monte RV today to schedule a test drive at one of our conveniently located dealerships or to learn more about buying a used RV!

Want more time with your RV before you buy it? Use our rental program to become familiar with your vehicle before you buy!

buying a used rv

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