Our inspection or the Dealers?

[chrisandoctavia]

We are on the verge of buying a 2007 Itasca Impulse R31C from a very reputable local RV Dealership

They have told us that they thoroughly inspected the vehicle when it came in, and have given us a copy of the worksheet showing the work they undertook following that inspection

The vehicle looks to be in very good condition

We had previously been thinking of having our OWN independant inspection done - and although we haven't pressed this with the dealer, they have been emphasizing the inspections that THEY undertook (also saying that there would be a further inspection prior to our actually taking delivery should we go ahaed with the purchase)

What do any of ypou who have bought used RVs from a dealer think?

If we found an RV inspector - are they usually able to inspect vehicles on the dealer's premises?

Are dealers generally OK with prospective buyers bringing in their own inspector?

Thanks fopr any advice or help you can give

Chris and Octavia

[chrisandoctavia]

In the interests of completeness I wanted to tell you all that we had a 113 point thorough inspection done yesterday

initial feedback from the inspector (who spoke to Octavia) was good, and the few things he said he found he passed on to the dealer...

We are due to get the full report on Monday, and will study it very carefully prior to making our decision

[VA-Apraisr]

The RESULTS of your inspection and how it affected your purchase, or non-purchase, would be appreciated! Always nice to see how "the story ends".

[chrisandoctavia]

Again - thanks to all for your contributions

We have booked an RV Inspector who is having to come from out of state (local outfits had a two week waiting list) to do a thorough inspection on Thursday

[qtla9111]

Your own inspection and leak test. It's peace of mind. You don't want of those :S moments somewhere down the road.

[wolfe10]

I disagree. There is not "the dealer must warranty it". This is price dependent.

At some price, it is quite reasonable for you to verify all is working at time of purchase and assume responsibility for things that go wrong in the first three months (or whatever time period).

Another option would be to purchase an extended service contract.

We purchased our last two coaches from dealers "as is" after a very complete mechanical inspection.

[Fastpaddler]

This is how I handled my purchase. The dealer had the RV sent to the local service centre which is authorized to service the Sprinter. It had new brakes all round fitted and full service including oil and filter. I took the report, read it carefully and had it noted that if anything went wrong in the first 3 months I would be back for free service. The reason for this was because there are all the interior systems: stove/microwave, pump, genset, lighting, heating, aircon and the rest plus the inverter/converter can go wonky too.
2. Just taking the rv to an independent garage for a vehicle checkup is therefore INADEQUATE. The dealer must be prepared to warrantee the vehicle.
3. I have had no problems. Most garages know nothing about rv plumbing, heating, aircon etc. You could have it examined by ANOTHER rv dealer if you feel really concerned, IMHO

[Bordercollie]

Maybe there is a good mobile RV repair guy locally that can inspect/test the housebox part. You'll probably have to take it to a truck mechanic for the chassis part. Call around to reputable RV repair places and ask about how to get a good pre-purchase inspection and what it will cost you.

[The_Logans]

We had an RV service technician check out the used unit that we had previously ($ 80.00), although the dealer said that they had inspected it thoroughly.

Things that he caught that the dealer missed were:

The date code on the tires showed that they were 8 years old.
The chassis AC was low on freon.
It needed a front brake job.
The water system filter had green "stuff" growing in it.
The oil pan gasket needed to be replaced.

The dealer wouldn't fix the brakes or replace the tires, so we walked away from the "deal".

Eighty dollars was a cheap price to pay to find out how much was wrong.

[FrankShore]

Do your own PDI (Pre Delivery Inspection) before you sign any paperwork. Google "PDI" and go from there! It's a major purchase and you shouldn't be left flapping in the wind at a later date!

[Campincarters]

I recently purchased a pre-owned class c. I fully understood that I would have to put some money into the rv based on the age. I planned my funds that way. It is correct that basics like running the generator and fridge and water pump are easy and can be done at walk-thru. I anticipated needing or should I say planned getting new tires and having the brakes checked. I also did a vin# check and was able to get a vehicle history. Also I am a former rv sales person. I would say this that many people do not take good care of their rv's. That was not my fault. I did everything I could to be honest and explain many things to my customers. If it is always about the lowest price than you will get what you paid for. If a salesman is to quick to sell you than you should walk away. Good Luck on your purchase and budget planned maintenance or replacing items. Microwaves are easy to replace and inexpensive. Refrigerators are costly. Always look for water damage or even streaks and plan to reseal your unit.

[chrisandoctavia]

Thanks very much to all of you who have chipped in with replies

They are very much appreciated

[gbopp]

Bzeitham wrote:
Being a newbie, how and where does one find a qualified inspector?

Thanks....

Do a Google search for mobile RV techs in your area. Call local Campgrounds, maybe the owners know of a good mobile tech.

Remember the dealers inspector works for the dealer.
A private inspector works for you.

[Bordercollie]

Inspection Points: Make sure to run the fridge overnight, before you take it for inspection, to verify that it cools properly. It should operate properly in propane or electric mode and switch from propane to electric automatically in "auto" mode. Start generator and then turn on roof air conditioner to make sure it cools properly by thermostat setting. While air conditioner is running, heat a cup of water in the microwave to verify that it works and that generator can run both air conditioner and microwave together. Run dash A/C to verify that it cools properly. Run furnace using thermostat and make sure it starts and heats properly. Make sure that all six tires are less than 4 years old by date codes and if older, and showing any sidewall cracks, replace before driving. Have the engine cooling system and brake system checked during the drive train inspection. Have brake fluid flushed/replaced. Have the awning set up, fabric and mechanicals inspected, and stowed as part of inspection. Have house batteries and converter charger inspected and tested as well as engine starting battery. Test all interior lights and vehicle lights. Check all faucets and plumbing including toilet and shower and fresh water pump for proper operation. Is there a spare tire mounted in the rear? Look for any evidence of water leak damage. Basics but important cost and safety items.

[Bzeitham]

Being a newbie, how and where does one find a qualified inspector?

Thanks....