Smart RV Shopping During Fall and End of Year

Have you been thinking about getting an RV?  The summer rush has come to a close, and it is the perfect time to start preparing for the vacation getaway you want next.  Other travelers are coming off their summer trips and are looking to upgrade their RVs, and dealerships want to move inventory so they can make room for new models.  You can expect lower pricing everywhere and even better finance options with dealers.  But to get the RV you want, there are a few things you need to know to act on a smart RV deal.

Smart RV Shopping in the Off-Season

You want to take advantage of RV shopping in the fall and through the end of the year because multiple benefits are in your favor.  Peak camping season is usually from spring to late summer, and the demand for RVs is at its highest during that time.  And dealers do not offer great discounts because inventory is already selling at a pretty good pace.  By early fall, this starts to change.

Benefits of RV shopping in the fall

• Year-end Discounts.  As dealers make room for new inventory, the older models will be marked down.  Brand new, unused, but with significant price cuts. 
• Less Competition.  Fewer people will be shopping for RVs in the colder months.  They aren’t planning for the RV they need for their next camping excursion.
• More Selection.  Not only will dealers be releasing last year’s models, but you will also have a huge inventory of used RVs to choose from on sites like National Vehicle.  Choose the specific model, year, and make.
• Motivated Sellers.  Dealers want to sell inventory so they don’t have to winterize the units, and private sellers may want to avoid extra storage costs when they know they are not planning on keeping their RV.

Things you need to prepare for when RV shopping in the fall

• New Models.  If you are shopping for a specific or popular model, it may be more difficult when looking for a current model.  You may need to expand your search parameters to find an RV that will meet your needs.
• RV Repairs.  Buying a used RV may require repairs, and the service departments may have limited time in the off-season.  If you are a do-it-yourself person, this might not be an issue for you.
• Storage.  Are you planning on using your RV for winter trips?  You might not be concerned with storage if you use the RV all the time.  But if you are only using it for limited times throughout the year, you will need to know how and where to store your rig.

What Type of RV Are You Shopping For?

While miles and maintenance are important things to consider when shopping for an RV, you also need to know that the lifespan of an RV is influenced by the RV type.  You want to get an RV that will meet your needs, but can also extend your vacation use.  Of course, a well-maintained RV, stored properly, can far outlast one that is neglected.  If you expect a lot of use from your RV, you will also want to look for higher-end brands that use more durable materials and have reinforced framing.  These can add to the lifespan of your RV.

Types of RVs and their lifespans

• Class A and C Motorhomes.  With a vehicle engine and living space, these RVs can last between 15 to 20 years with good maintenance.
• Class B Camper Vans.  They have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
• Fifth Wheels.  These are the most robust and are without an engine, so they can last from 15 to 20 years or more.
• Travel Trailers.  They usually last between 10 to 15 years with good maintenance.

What to look for when buying an RV at the end of the season

Whether you are buying from a dealer or an individual, you should do an inspection.  You can do it yourself or hire a certified inspector who is trained on what to look for when RV shopping. We hired an inspector, and the cost of what we paid was redeemed in the repairs we asked for before we paid for the rig.  It is worth the peace of mind, too.  If you want to do it yourself, here is what to look for.

Prioritized Inspection Checklist

Water damage (The most critical inspection)

Water damage is the most common and expensive problem in RVs. Look for:

1.  The roof: Use a ladder to check the entire roof surface, including the perimeter seams and all vents, antennas, and fixtures. Look for cracked, chalky, or lifted sealant, soft spots, and tears in the roof membrane.
2. Walls: Inside and out, check for signs of delamination, which looks like bubbles or ripples in the fiberglass. Feel the corners and under windows for dampness.
3. Floors: Press down on the floor, especially in high-traffic areas and around the kitchen and bathroom. Soft spots can indicate rotten wood from a leak.
4. Under sinks and fixtures: Use a flashlight to check all plumbing for leaks, water stains, or mold.

Mechanical systems (for motorhomes)

If buying a motorhome, a thorough mechanical inspection is essential.

• Engine and transmission: Check for leaks, unusual noises, and run diagnostic tests.
• Fluids: Verify that all fluid levels (oil, coolant, transmission) are sufficient and that there are no signs of leaks.
• Tires: Check the tread depth, tire pressure, and look for signs of dry rot, cracking, or uneven wear. Note the age of the tires, as they should be replaced every six to seven years, regardless of tread.
• Brakes and suspension: Ensure the brakes are functioning properly and inspect the suspension components for wear.
• Appliances and electrical systems

 Even in colder weather, you can test most systems.

• Electrical: Connect to shore power and test all outlets and lights, both AC and DC. Look for corroded batteries and check the breaker panel.
• Propane: With caution, test the stove, furnace, and water heater. Use a soapy water solution to check for leaks at the fittings.
• Air conditioner: If the weather allows, test the AC. If not, inspect the unit’s filter for signs of neglect.

Interior and exterior features

• Slide-outs and awnings: Fully extend and retract any slide-outs to check for smooth operation and proper seal compression. Similarly, test the awning for function and inspect the fabric for tears.
• Pest and rodent issues: Look for signs of infestation, such as droppings, chewed wires, or nests.
• Overall cleanliness: The RV’s overall condition and cleanliness can provide insight into how well it was cared for by the previous owner.

Documentation and history

• Maintenance records: Ask the seller for service and maintenance records. This shows a history of proper care and repairs.
• VIN and title: Verify that the VIN on the title matches the vehicle. You can run a history check with the VIN to ensure the title is clean.
• Usage and storage history: Ask how the RV was used and, critically, how it was stored during the off-season. This can hint at potential problems down the line.

Frequently Asked Questions