OK, for those of you who might not want to read the novel I just wrote, I'll cut to the chase with the brief version:
Generally speaking, could I expect to pay about the same for repairs to an older (mid 1990s to early 2000s) Dodge based Class B as I would for a 2003 or newer Chevy based Class B? Or a Ford of either of those vintages? Or am I wrong... are the newer Chevys (and Fords) less likely to need the amount of repairs a 1990s Dodge van would need? Let's say that all vans being considered are in what appear to be similar mechanical condition at the time they are offered for sale, and high or low mileage may or may not be a factor. When looking at a used Class B for under $20,000 most seem to be mid 90s to early 2000s Dodge based, with many being Roadtreks, and a few Pleasureways.
My theory is that if they all would cost about the same to repair, I might as well save some money and get the older Dodge based van. Why pay $40,000 for a 2006 Chevy Roadtrek 190 when I could get a 1998 Dodge Roadtrek for about $20,000. Assuming similar mileage and condition, if the repairs and maintenance would cost about the same, why pay more upfront? The only benefit I see is that I'd get a newer looking unit with a more modern interior, and more modern drivetrain. But if the ownership cost on a yearly basis is about the same, it makes me wonder...
Every used vehicle I ever had always needed some repairs soon after purchase, so I'm planning on it being no different with a used Class B motorhome. The lower the purchase price, the more I will have to spend on repairs and upgrades. I'm thinking $5000 for immediate repairs and another $5000 over the course of the next 12 months. And then once its it good condition, hopefully a lot less than that for the next few years. Thanks! :)
