Purchasing an RV is a significant investment, and whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading from your current rig, performing a detailed walkthrough before finalizing your purchase is essential. With many types and styles of RV for sale today, understanding what to inspect during a walkthrough can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Here’s what you should keep in mind to ensure you drive off with confidence.
Exterior Inspection: The First Glance Tells a Lot
When evaluating any RV for sale, start by examining the exterior condition. Walk around the RV slowly and look for signs of wear, damage, or poor maintenance. Check for cracks or delamination in the sidewalls, which could indicate water intrusion or structural problems. Inspect the roof for patches, bubbling, or discoloration—issues that often lead to expensive repairs.
Don’t forget the undercarriage. A rusty or damaged frame can significantly affect the RV’s safety and longevity. Ensure all exterior lights, reflectors, and the hitch system are working properly. Tires should be inspected for tread wear and cracking—even if they look good, tires older than 5-6 years may need replacing.
Interior Condition: Comfort and Cleanliness Matter
Once inside, assess the overall cleanliness and odor. Musty smells can be a red flag for hidden moisture or mold problems. Test every door, cabinet, and drawer to ensure they open and close properly. Examine the ceiling and corners for water stains, which may signal leaks.
Check the flooring for soft spots or sagging—particularly around sinks, bathrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to water damage. Even in the most promising RV for sale, hidden damage can drastically affect your ownership experience and resale value later on.
Electrical Systems and Appliances
All appliances should be tested to confirm they are in working condition. This includes the refrigerator, oven, microwave, air conditioner, furnace, and water heater. Ask the seller to hook up the RV to shore power or demonstrate functionality with the onboard generator, if equipped.
Test light switches, outlets, and power sources throughout the RV. A faulty electrical system can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Don’t forget to try all fans, the HVAC system, and slide-out mechanisms. Any sluggish or non-functional component should be noted.
Plumbing and Water Systems
Ask to run water through all the faucets and test both the hot and cold settings. Flush the toilet and check the shower for water pressure and temperature. Look under sinks and around the water heater for leaks. Ensure the water pump is operating quietly and efficiently.
If you’re inspecting a used RV for sale, it’s particularly important to check the holding tanks and their drain valves. Make sure there are no signs of clogs, leaks, or damage. A broken black tank valve or malfunctioning gray tank system can be costly and unpleasant to deal with.
Mechanical and Driving Components
For motorized RVs, a test drive is crucial. Listen for unusual engine noises, check the alignment, and verify that the transmission shifts smoothly. Inspect the dashboard indicators and confirm that the brakes, wipers, horn, and emergency signals function correctly.
For towable RVs, inspect the hitch components, including the coupler and safety chains. Review the braking system if it’s a trailer equipped with electric brakes. You should also verify the proper functioning of leveling jacks and stabilizers, which are often overlooked but crucial for setup at campsites.
Documentation and Service Records
Always ask for service and maintenance records. These documents give insight into how well the RV has been cared for and whether recurring issues exist. When browsing listings for an RV for sale, an owner who keeps good records typically reflects someone who has maintained their rig responsibly.
Also, check for a clean title and ask about any accidents or insurance claims. If the RV is still under warranty, request the transfer documentation and understand what’s covered.
Final Thoughts
A thorough walkthrough is one of the most important steps in buying an RV. With many different RVs for sale—ranging from compact campers to luxury motorhomes—it’s easy to be swayed by appearance. However, it’s what’s beneath the surface that truly counts.
