Buying a motorhome is a significant investment, and ensuring you select the right one requires careful consideration. So far in this series, we have covered four critical steps in the motorhome purchasing journey. First, we explored the importance of determining a realistic budget that includes not just the purchase price but also long-term costs like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and campsite fees. Next, we examined how assessing your travel needs plays a crucial role in determining the ideal motorhome size, layout, and features.
In Step Three, we delved into the different types of motorhomes, from the luxurious Class A models to the compact Class B campervans and the versatile Class C options, ensuring you choose the right vehicle based on your travel preferences and storage requirements. Most recently, Step Four helped weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a new or used motorhome, factoring in depreciation, warranties, upfront costs, and long-term reliability.
With these foundational steps complete, we now move on to an essential phase of the buying process: inspecting and test-driving the motorhome. Whether you choose a new or pre-owned vehicle, a thorough inspection and a test drive will help you assess its condition, functionality, and comfort before making a final decision.
Why a Detailed Inspection is Crucial
A motorhome is more than just a vehicle—it’s your home on wheels. Ensuring that everything is in working order will help you avoid costly repairs and unpleasant surprises after purchase. A proper inspection covers the motorhome’s engine, electrical and plumbing systems, appliances, and overall structural integrity.
Exterior Inspection
Start with a visual assessment of the exterior. Look for signs of rust, dents, or damage, especially around the roof and windows. Check that all doors, storage compartments, and seals are in good condition. Ensure the awnings extend and retract properly, and inspect the condition of the tyres for any signs of excessive wear or cracking.
Interior Inspection
Step inside and evaluate the general cleanliness and condition of the furnishings. Check for signs of water damage, mould, or leaks around windows, ceilings, and flooring. Turn on all interior lights and appliances, including the refrigerator, stove, oven, and heating or air conditioning units, to confirm they function correctly. Open cabinets and storage compartments to assess their space and usability.
Plumbing and Water Systems
The plumbing system is a vital component of any motorhome. Turn on taps and showers to ensure proper water flow and check for leaks under sinks. Test the toilet to ensure it flushes properly. If possible, fill and drain the water tanks to ensure there are no blockages or hidden leaks.
Electrical and Battery System
Check that all lights, outlets, and electronic controls function properly. If the motorhome includes solar panels, ensure they are correctly connected and charging the battery. Test both the main and auxiliary batteries to confirm they hold a charge and are in good condition.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Turn on the heating and air conditioning systems to confirm they work efficiently. If the motorhome has a propane heater, check the fuel levels and ensure there are no gas leaks. Proper ventilation is essential, so open and close all windows and roof vents to ensure smooth operation.
Engine and Mechanical Components
For motorhomes with an engine (as opposed to towable campers), open the hood and inspect for leaks, corrosion, or worn belts. Check the oil and transmission fluid levels to assess whether they are clean and at the proper levels. If you’re unfamiliar with mechanical inspections, consider hiring a professional mechanic to assess the engine and undercarriage before making a purchase.
The Importance of a Test Drive
A test drive is just as important as the inspection, as it provides firsthand experience of the motorhome’s drivability, comfort, and handling.
Handling and Manoeuvrability
Motorhomes vary significantly in size and weight, which affects their ease of handling. Drive the vehicle in different conditions, including highways, narrow streets, and parking lots, to get a feel for how it responds. Pay attention to the turning radius, blind spots, and visibility from the driver’s seat.
Braking System
Test the brakes at different speeds to ensure they respond effectively without excessive noise or vibration. If the vehicle has air brakes, check that they engage smoothly without sudden jerks.
Acceleration and Engine Performance
Evaluate how the motorhome accelerates from a stop and whether the engine feels powerful enough for the vehicle’s weight. Pay attention to any unusual noises, rattling, or excessive vibrations.
Suspension and Comfort
As you drive, notice how the suspension handles bumps and uneven roads. A rough ride could indicate worn-out shocks or suspension issues. If the motorhome has slide-outs, ensure they remain secure while driving.
Reversing and Parking
Test how easy it is to park and reverse, particularly if the motorhome has a backup camera. If possible, practice reversing into a camping space or driveway to ensure you’re comfortable with the process.
Additional Considerations When Inspecting a Used Motorhome
If you’re purchasing a used motorhome, a few extra steps can help you avoid hidden problems. Always request a full service history to understand how well the motorhome has been maintained. Check for records of oil changes, brake replacements, and major repairs. It’s also beneficial to obtain a vehicle history report to check for previous accidents, flood damage, or insurance claims.
Consider bringing along a professional inspector or mechanic to assess the motorhome before finalising the purchase. They can help identify any underlying mechanical or structural issues that might not be immediately visible.
Conclusion
Inspecting and test-driving a motorhome is a critical step in ensuring you invest in a reliable and comfortable vehicle. A thorough evaluation of both the exterior and interior, including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems, can prevent costly surprises down the road. Likewise, a test drive allows you to assess the handling, braking, and overall comfort of the motorhome, ensuring it meets your expectations.
By following the first five steps in this series—establishing a budget, assessing travel needs, researching motorhome types, comparing new versus used options, and now thoroughly inspecting and test-driving—you are well-equipped to make an informed purchase.
In addition to the steps covered so far, upcoming articles will explore other crucial topics related to motorhome ownership. Future articles will provide insights into motorhome maintenance, security measures, legal and insurance requirements, customisation and upgrades, budgeting, road trip planning, full-time motorhome living, and common mistakes first-time owners should avoid.
In the next article, we will explore Step Six: Checking the Vehicle’s History, a crucial process for used motorhome buyers to ensure they are making a safe and sound investment.
Stay tuned for more expert advice on purchasing the perfect motorhome!
Finally, check out: The Ultimate 8-Step Guide to Buying a Motorhome: New vs. Used