RV prices have shot up since COVID, and buying used is one of the best ways to get into a better rig without wrecking your budget. And honestly? A lot of used RVs are barely used. Some sat in storage most of their life and still have that “new rig smell.”
But here’s the thing: you’re not just buying an RV. You’re buying someone else’s choices. And sometimes… their problems.
Whether you’re shopping a dealership lot or checking out a Facebook Marketplace find in someone’s driveway, these are the questions that matter—and what to watch for before you hand over any money.
1. Has there ever been water damage?
This is the one that can turn a “great deal” into a full-blown regret. Water is sneaky. And expensive.
Ask directly: Has there ever been a leak? Water damage? Any spots that were repaired?
Then get nosy. Open every cabinet. Check corners. Look up at the ceiling. Touch the floor near the entryway. Trust your hands and nose—soft spots, bubbling wallpaper, and musty smells are all red flags.
What to watch for: Evasive answers like “Not that I know of” or “We resealed the roof last year just to be safe.” Ask for photos, receipts, or service records if they claim it’s been repaired.
2. How old are the tires?
Even if the tread looks fine, tires can age out. Especially when they’ve been sitting in the sun for three summers straight.
Check the DOT code (a 4-digit number on the sidewall). If the tires are older than 5–6 years? They’re due—even if they’ve barely rolled. Replacing them before you hit the road is a lot better than dealing with a blowout on the side of the highway.
What to watch for: Sellers who say “they’re practically new” but can’t show you the date codes—or try to wave it off like it’s no big deal.
3. What’s the GVWR—and can you actually tow it?
This is where a lot of new RVers get burned. Sellers (and yes, some dealers) will talk about dry weight. But dry weight doesn’t include water, propane, gear, food, or anything else you’ll be hauling.
You want the GVWR—Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. That’s the real number to check against your vehicle’s actual tow capacity. And no, “I saw someone towing one like this with a Tacoma” is not good enough.
What to watch for: Anyone who tells you “you’ll be fine” without asking what you drive.
4. Does everything actually work?
This is where you don’t just ask—you test. On the spot.
Fridge, water heater, furnace, A/C, lights, slide-outs, awning, jacks, shower, toilet, water pump. Turn it all on. Watch it run. Wait a few minutes. Press every button. Press it twice. You’re not being rude—you’re being smart.
What to watch for: “We haven’t used that in a while” or “It probably just needs a fuse.” If it doesn’t work now, assume it’s broken.
5. How was it stored?
Sun, snow, rain, and humidity all take their toll. Ask if it was stored under cover, indoors, or out in the elements.
Look for signs of UV damage, cracking, dry rot, and brittle sealant. Check the roof. Check the tires. Check the awning.
What to watch for: Anything that looks sunbaked or untouched for years. Bonus points if they throw in, “We kept it under a cover.” Ask to see the cover.
6. Any service records or repair receipts?
A good seller has some kind of paper trail. Tires, batteries, brake work, roof resealing, appliance replacements. Even notes on winterizing and maintenance count.
If they don’t have anything? Not a dealbreaker, but you’ll need to check everything twice.
What to watch for: Vague answers like “I think we had that done… maybe last summer?” and zero documentation to back it up.
7. Can we hook it up and test it?
Bring a checklist. Plan to spend time. Hook it up to shore power and water. Flip every switch. Let the fridge and A/C run together. Flush the toilet. Test the outlets. Look for leaks, weird smells, flickering lights—anything that feels off.
What to watch for: “It’s winterized, so we can’t really test it right now.” That’s fine—ask them to de-winterize if you’re serious. If they won’t? Keep walking.
8. Why are you selling it?
Simple question. And usually a revealing one.
Are they upgrading? Downsizing? Switching to a different style of travel? That’s helpful context. Are they vague, defensive, or talking in circles? That’s… less helpful.
What to watch for: “We just didn’t use it much,” but you see signs of wear and tear. Or worse—“We don’t really remember…”
Don’t Skip the Inspection
Just like you wouldn’t buy a house without an inspection, you shouldn’t buy an RV without one either. Whether you’re looking at a vintage camper or a barely-used rig, an independent inspection can save you thousands—and a whole lot of stress.
Look for a certified RV inspector through NRVIA or hire a mobile tech from a service like Wrench. Many of them will come to the RV’s location and walk through everything from the roof seals to the electrical system to the undercarriage. They know what to look for and can spot hidden damage or issues that aren’t obvious to the average buyer.
Even if the RV looks great, an inspector might uncover water damage, frame rust, slide issues, or outdated propane lines. Spending a few hundred dollars now could keep you from sinking way more into repairs later.
A seller who’s confident in their rig won’t mind an inspection. If they push back or seem hesitant, that’s a red flag. You’re about to make a big purchase—don’t skip this step.
If the RV is located far away, you can often find a local inspector near the seller who can send you a full report and photos. And if you’re buying from a dealership, don’t assume everything’s perfect—independent inspections are just as important for used models on a dealer lot.
It’s OK to walk away
Used RVs are everywhere. You don’t have to take the first one you find. Slow down. Ask real questions. Crawl under it. Open every cabinet. Take notes.
A seller in a rush to move it now might have a reason. So trust your gut. If something feels off—or if you’re already making excuses for things you hope won’t be a big deal—it’s probably not the right rig.
And when you find one that checks the boxes, fits your tow vehicle, and doesn’t come with mystery leaks or excuses? That’s the one worth driving home.
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