Buying a recreational vehicle is a major decision—whether it’s for weekend camping, extended road trips, or full-time RV living. While new RVs come with that shiny appeal, more and more buyers are turning to used RV dealerships to find better deals and more value for their money.
But not all RV dealerships are created equal. Choosing the right used RV dealership can mean the difference between years of happy travels and unexpected breakdowns on the highway. So, what exactly should you expect from a quality used RV dealer?
Let’s break it down.
The Benefits of Buying from a Used RV Dealership
When buying used, you have two main options: private sellers or licensed dealerships. While private sales might seem cheaper upfront, dealerships offer a host of advantages that often save you money and stress in the long run.
1. Rigorous Inspections and Reconditioning
A trusted used RV dealership doesn’t just clean the RV and put it on the lot—they perform full inspections, test systems, and repair any major issues. This ensures you’re not inheriting problems like:
Roof leaks
Electrical malfunctions
Faulty plumbing
Engine or transmission problems (for motorhomes)
In many cases, these dealers also offer warranty options or certified pre-owned RVs, giving you extra peace of mind.
2. Wider Inventory
Private sellers have one unit. A dealership may have dozens of makes and models, from lightweight pop-up campers to luxury Class A motorhomes. This lets you compare different styles and features—all in one place—without running around town.
3. Financing and Trade-In Options
Most used RV dealerships work with multiple lenders to offer competitive RV financing—even for buyers with less-than-perfect credit. You may also be able to trade in your old RV to lower your purchase price or monthly payments.
What a Reputable Used RV Dealership Should Offer
Here are some key things you should expect during your experience with a trustworthy dealer:
✅ Transparent Pricing
There should be no hidden fees or gimmicks. A good Used RV Dealership will give you a clear breakdown of the total cost, including:
Base price
Taxes
Fees (title, registration, prep, etc.)
Optional warranties or service plans
✅ Honest, No-Pressure Salespeople
You want a dealership where the staff educates you, not pressures you. Their goal should be to help you find the right RV—not just make a sale. They should answer your questions thoroughly and guide you based on your needs, budget, and travel style.
✅ In-House RV Experts
A quality used RV dealership will have trained technicians who know the ins and outs of RV systems, including propane, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural components. This is especially helpful if you need service later on.
✅ Test Drives and Walkthroughs
Before committing, you should be able to:
Test drive any drivable RV
Walk through and test the appliances, water systems, lights, and slide-outs
Look under cabinets, in storage bays, and behind access panels
A good dealership will even encourage a pre-purchase inspection if you want to hire a third-party RV technician.
Questions to Ask Before Buying
To ensure you're getting a solid deal from the dealership, be sure to ask:
Has the RV been fully inspected and serviced?
Is there a warranty or return policy?
Are there service records or a history report?
What fees are included in the final price?
What are my financing and trade-in options?
Final Thoughts
Buying from a used RV dealership is a smart move—if you choose the right one. It offers more inventory, better support, and peace of mind that a private sale simply can’t match.
So take your time, ask questions, read reviews, and trust your instincts. A reliable dealership will help you find the right RV, at the right price, for the adventures ahead.
