A1ARealtorRick wrote:
Speaking of warranties, my wife and I are in the market for a used Class A. We're not in a huge hurry to purchase, but was wondering if anyone could give us some insight on how dealer's warranties work.
Several months ago we purchased a 3-year old Volvo from a Volvo dealer. It was a CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) car, and came with a 4-year, unlimited mileage, bumper-to-bumper warranty. Naturally, a BTB warranty excludes wear items, such as brake pads, wiper blades, and so forth, which is fine. It has no deductible. I know we paid a little more for the car buying from a Volvo dealer, but the peace of mind is definitely worth it to us.
Are there any RV dealers that offer such a warranty on what might be a 2, 3, or 4-year old unit? I know I can always 'buy' an aftermarket warranty (technically a service contract, and not a warranty). Just curious what I should expect if I buy from a big dealer?
I haven't purchased from a dealer on my used vehicles and here is why.
Dealers get their stock from auctions, trade-ins or repossessions. In my opinion if a vehicle is repossessed or maybe an accident rebuild etc, where are the service records. If an owner was going to give up their rig do you think they are giving it or have given it any love. When was the last service done? Sure, the dealer can say we changed the oil, serviced the transmission but what happened before that? Adding new oil to an abused component is like painting a turd.
I buy used vehicles from original owners only.period.
I buy vehicles with service records like i do service records.
I live in California, I purchased my 09 Cambria in Minnesota from the original owner .it had 19K miles, the owner had access to the factory and did some major upgrades, stored it inside during the winter. I flew there after viewing documents and photos/videos for about a month with a big check in my hand. I have never regretted that decision.
Could I have purchased locally? well, none that met My criteria were local.
My advice, not to you just general advice I give to family. Find what you like, pay a mechanic or RV mechanic to inspect the unit and decide from there. IF they say walk away, then walk away. There are many out there.The money you spend for an inspection can save you a bundle in the long run especially dealing with class c with the overhead bunk which tend to leak. My Cambria does not have a front bunk but a streamline nose that houses the entertainment center. Perfect. Roof leaks can be heartbreaking.
Take your time, ask for advise and inspect,inspect inspect especially roof areas.
