Back

Complete Used RV Inspection Checklist

Nov. 4 2024 News By Sturgeon Woods RV

Share

Are you planning to hit the the open road with the family? Then a well maintained RV should be your top priority to ensure everyone's safety. However, if a few things get missed, then your used RV can quickly become your biggest problem. 

RVs are not like regular vehicles, and you need to be very mindful when choosing one. If you are buying a secondhand, then you need to be extra cautious, and regularly go through a RV maintenance checklist. You can lose a lot of money on your original investment if you ignore RV service and maintenance. 

Here, we have created a comprehensive RV inspection checklist that you can easily follow. Feel free to skip a few if you are buying a new one. However, for those who are buying a pre-owned RV, make sure you check everything on this list. 

Exterior Inspection

The exterior checklist includes inspecting the body frame, roof, windows and doors, tires, and some additional external accessories. Let's look at each one by one. 

Body and Frame

For this, you need to look for mainly,

  • Rust
  • Dents and scratches 
  • Structural damages ( this includes misaligned panels, sagging roofs, or uneven gaps between body panels)

Roof Condition

A good roof condition shouldn't have the following.

  • Cracks and leaks
  • Sealant and caulk around vents and other openings

Also, consider the type of roof material (e.g., fiberglass, rubber, metal). Different materials have different maintenance requirements and may be more susceptible to certain types of damage. 

Windows and Doors

  • Inspect the seals around windows and doors for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Ensure they are tight and prevent water or air infiltration. 
  • Also, test the functionality of each window and door. 
  • Make sure there are no signs of water damage like mold, mildew, or discoloration.

Tires

Tires that are in good condition will have the following. 

  • Minimum legal required tread depth (you can measure it using tread depth gauge).
  • Age less than 10 years.

Additional things

Check for the Recreational Vehicle:

  • Undercarriage (if any): It should be free from rust, leaks, or damage.
  • Exterior lights: This includes all exterior lights, plus the headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and backup lights. All should be working. 
  • Exterior accessories: Things like awnings, ladders, or solar panels should be functional and damage-free. 
  • Specific features: If the RV says to have features like slide-outs, leveling jacks, or a generator, ensure all are in good working condition. 

Interior Inspection

Here's what you should check for the interiors:

  • Floors and Walls: Look for signs of water damage, like soft spots, discoloration, or mold, especially around windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures.
  • Cabinetry and Furniture: Inspect cabinets, drawers, and furniture for any wear and tear, damage, or loose components. For a new RV, look for scratches, dents, or peeling finishes.
  • Electrical Systems: Test all lights, outlets, and appliances to ensure they are functioning properly. Check for any loose wires, frayed cords, or tripped circuit breakers.
  • Plumbing Systems: Inspect sinks, showers, toilets, and faucets for leaks, blockages, or low water pressure. Run the water to check for any unusual noises or discoloration.
  • Heating and Cooling Systems: Test the heating and cooling systems to ensure they are working effectively. Check for any unusual noises, odors, or temperature fluctuations.
  • Ventilation: Inspect the ventilation system, including vents, fans, and roof vents, to ensure proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Insulation: If possible, check the insulation in the walls, ceiling, and floor for any signs of damage or deterioration.

Mechanical and Safety Checks

Now, this part can get tricky if you're not technically sound with motors and vehicle mechanics... But if you are, here's what you should check.

Engine and Transmission (for motorized RVs)

  • Oil level and any signs of oil leaks or discoloration
  • Coolant level between "full" and "low" marks and any signs of leakage.
  • Any kind of leaks around the engine, transmission, and other mechanical components.

Brakes and Suspension

  • The brake pads should be thick enough 
  • Break lines should be free from any signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage.
  • The suspension components, including shocks, struts, springs, and bushings, should be free from wear, damage, or leaks for new RVs. 

Gas & Safety Systems

  • Check for leaks around the LP gas tank, regulator, and connections.
  • The smoke detector and CO detector should be functioning. 
  • Fire extinguishers should be fully charged
  • Emergency exits should be functioning properly. 

Test Drive and Functionality Check

  • Drive Quality: Take the RV for a test drive to learn about its handling and performance. The acceleration, braking, steering, and overall ride should be comfortable. 
  • Onboard Systems: Test the water pump, heating, air conditioning, and entertainment systems to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • Towing and Hitch Setup (if applicable): If the RV has a hitch, ensure it is properly installed and secure. Test the towing system to ensure it operates smoothly and safely.

Documentation and History Review

For both brand-new and preowned RVs, reviewing documentation and history is a must. It can save you a lot of legal troubles.

Here's what you should check:

  • Title and Registration: Verify that the RV has a clean title and is registered in the appropriate state or province. Check for any liens or encumbrances on the title.
  • Maintenance Records: Review the vehicle's service history for signs of regular upkeep. Look for records of oil changes, tire rotations, inspections, and repairs.
  • Warranty and Insurance: Check for any remaining warranty coverage, including any transferable warranties. Verify the RV's insurance coverage and ensure it meets your specific needs.

For complete RV inspection and repair, contact Sturgeon Woods RV

While this checklist covers the major things to look for when buying a used RV, doing a thorough inspection yourself can be pretty tricky. If you really want to make sure you're getting a reliable, safe RV, it's a good idea to call in the pros for RV Service at Sturgeon Woods RV!! 




Our team can handle the entire inspection for you. We've got the know-how to spot any potential issues and make sure everything's in top shape. So contact us today!