Buying a used motorhome is how a huge number of people enter the camper world, and for good reason: you save a significant amount compared with a new one. But the saving is only real if you buy well. What looks like a good deal can hide leaks, badly repaired damage or unapproved conversions that will cost you more than the discount. Here's the checklist to work through before you hand over a euro.
Enemy number one: damp
If you could only check one thing, it would be this. Water does more damage to a motorhome than anything else, and often it isn't visible to the naked eye. Look for:
- Stains, bulging or a soft feel on walls, ceiling and around windows and roof lights.
- A musty or stale smell: a bad sign.
- Darkened wood or wood that gives when you press it, above all in corners and under windows.
- The water-ingress certificate: ask for it. A serious seller will have one or will let you run the test.
A motorhome with leaks is a bottomless pit of repairs; if in doubt, better to move on to the next one.
The paperwork: everything in order
- Technical data sheet and registration document up to date and in the seller's name.
- Current roadworthiness certificate, and ideally see its inspection history.
- Approved conversions: everything installed should be recorded on the technical data sheet. A camper with unapproved conversions will give you trouble at inspection and with insurance; we look at this in getting your camper approved.
- Gas certificate if it has a gas installation.
- Check it has no outstanding charges, fines or liens (a vehicle history check will confirm this).
The mechanicals: don't trust looks alone
A motorhome spends a lot of time standing still, and that takes its toll. Ideally, take it to a mechanic you trust or arrange a pre-purchase inspection. Pay special attention to:
- The timing belt (when it was last changed), the clutch and the engine's condition.
- Tyres: check their age, not just the tread; old tyres crack even with plenty of tread left.
- Brakes, the starter battery, headlights, radiator and exhaust.
- Signs of rust on the underside and bodywork.
Does the living area actually work?
Test everything with the seller present: fridge, heating, water (pump, taps, tanks), lights, roof lights, gas. And check the condition and age of the leisure battery, which is expensive to replace; ask how old it is and how it's been looked after. If you're torn between lithium and lead-acid, lithium or AGM can help.
The price and negotiating
Compare with similar models to know whether the price is fair, and use any defect you find (old tyres, a repair pending, a battery near the end of its life) to negotiate. And be wary of deals that look too good: in this world, they almost always hide something.
In short
Buying a used motorhome sensibly means thoroughly checking for damp (first of all), the paperwork and approved conversions, the mechanicals, and that the whole living area works. The step you can take today: take a written checklist to every viewing and don't skip the damp check out of embarrassment or hurry; it's the inspection that can save you the most money. And before buying, confirm the format suits you with the differences between a camper and a motorhome.
