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Tortiemctortiep's avatar
Tortiemctortiep
Explorer
Nov 14, 2020

Reliability of older Class C’s?

I posted this as a question within another thread/topic, but thought that it may make more sense to post it as it’s own specific topic in the Class C section...

I am considering a Class C for a cross country trip from VA to WA, but most that I am finding in my price range are older (1980s/90s/early 2000s)... Given low miles and no major current issues upon inspection, are these generally reliable enough to be trusted for a cross country trip? I am feeling the need to be extra careful as I will be traveling as a lone woman (not including the several pets along for the ride).

Are there any makes/models that have a particularly good reputation for longevity? Or conversely any that I should avoid?

Would it be better to absolutely find a newer model? And if so, from what year on would be best?

Thank you so much!! I welcome any and all advice!!
Class C

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  • rjstractor's avatar
    rjstractor
    Nomad
    Nov 14, 2020
    The newer, the better. The late '90s and early 2000s Ford chassis were and still are very reliable. The GM chassis are equally so but not quite as common. Of course, this is predicated on wear items like tires, brakes, belts, hoses, fluids, etc being thoroughly checked and replaced as needed. For RVs this old, however, the condition of the "house" portion is probably more important to consider than mileage on the vehicle. Most motorhomes this old will have leaked at some point, which is not a deal killer as long as the leak was properly fixed and any water damage addressed. But major water damage issues are very common and easily hidden from the untrained eye. Buyer beware.

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