By Jimmy Gerhold | RV Specialist at Riverside Camping Center
📞 Call or text me anytime at 252-404-9207
Buying a used RV can save you a ton of money — but only if you know what to look for. The last thing you want is to hit the road and discover that your “deal” came with hidden problems that cost thousands to fix.
Here’s a no-nonsense guide to inspecting a used RV like a pro — with a checklist you can use whether you’re buying from a dealer, a private seller, or just browsing the lot.
🧰 Start with the Big Stuff
Before you fall in love with the floorplan or the interior colors, take a look at the essentials. If these aren’t solid, nothing else matters.
✅ Exterior Walkaround:
- Roof condition: Look for soft spots, bubbles, or cracked sealant
- Sidewalls: Check for delamination (waves or bubbles in fiberglass)
- Tires: Look at tread depth, sidewall cracks, and the DOT date (older than 5 years? Budget for replacements)
- Awnings: Extend them fully and inspect for tears, mold, or mechanical issues
- Windows & doors: Open, close, and check seals for cracks or leaks
✅ Check for Water Damage:
Water is the enemy of RVs. Look everywhere for signs of it.
- Inside cabinets, especially in corners
- Under the sinks and around windows
- Around slide-outs
- Ceiling and wall discoloration or soft spots
Pro tip: Bring a flashlight and press gently on suspect areas. If it feels soft, spongy, or smells musty, be cautious.
🔌 Test All the Systems
A great-looking RV is worthless if nothing works. Take the time to test everything.
✅ Electrical & Appliances:
- Plug it in and check outlets, lights, and switches
- Test the A/C and furnace (they should kick on quickly and blow hot/cold)
- Run the fridge, microwave, stove, oven, and water heater
- Try the slide-outs — do they move smoothly?
- Look at the fuse panel for signs of burning or excessive wear
✅ Plumbing:
- Turn on every faucet and flush the toilet
- Check for leaks under the sinks and around the toilet
- Fill the freshwater tank and run the water pump
- Drain the gray and black tanks to make sure the valves work
✅ Generator (if equipped):
- Start it cold. It should fire up without struggle
- Plug something in and check for output
- Check oil level and service records
🚐 Test Drive It
If it’s a motorhome, drive it. If it’s a travel trailer or fifth wheel, ask to tow it or at least hook it up to your tow vehicle to test the brakes and lights.
Look for:
- Smooth steering and braking
- Transmission shifts properly
- No weird smells, clunks, or warning lights
- Stability when towing (no swaying)
📋 Bonus: Ask the Right Questions
- Do you have maintenance records?
- Has it ever been winterized or stored indoors?
- Any accidents, roof damage, or major repairs?
- Are there any known issues right now?
✅ FREE Printable Checklist
Want a downloadable PDF checklist you can use when walking through RVs? Text me and I’ll send it over — no strings attached.
📞 252-404-9207 – just say “Send me the checklist!”
Final Thought
Used RVs can be an amazing value, but only when you take the time to inspect them properly. I’ve seen too many good people get burned by flashy listings with hidden problems.
When you work with me, I’ll walk you through everything — personally. No pressure, no BS — just good, honest advice from someone who knows the ins and outs.
Call or text me at 252-404-9207 and I’ll help you find the right RV — and make sure it’s road-ready and solid.
See you soon,
– Jimmy
Riverside Camping Center
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