Its an exciting time to be purchasing an RV! They are a big commitment, and you absolutely want to ensure that you have a safe vehicle to be taking you on your much awaited adventures.
Let us help you with some top things to check before purchasing!
If you’re buying a new vehicle, you can be more assured that you are getting a vehicle that is adheres to relevant Australian Design Rules and Federal Compliance Regulations. You can look for the RVMAP Accreditation Key. RVMAP is a voluntary industry program run by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia who regularly inspects business for adherence to current compliance requirements.
However, if you are purchasing a used RV you need to be more thorough to ensure that you have a safe roadworthy vehicle.
When purchasing a used RV from a dealer, they have legal requirements to provide you with a roadworthy vehicle and usually you will get warranty, but it does not hurt to be cautious.
If you are buying a used RV from a private seller, then the onus is on you to ensure that you have a safe vehicle.
Of course, you have the usual things to check such as that the vehicle is registered, you are purchasing from the owner of the vehicle and that there isn’t any money owing on the vehicle (see: https://www.ppsr.gov.au/). You will also want to check for any unreasonable wear and tear and that the vehicle runs well.
A few additional items to check for an RV include:
Tyres
Check that the tyres have no visible damage or degradation. Tyres degrades with age. They may appear to have plenty of tread and even look new, but they may be old and still need replacing. This is a common issue with RVs that may have only been sparingly used.
The week and year the tyre was made is written on the side wall of the tyre, the last four digits after the wording DOT on the tyre (see H on the diagram). The first two numbers indicate which week it was made, and last two digits indicate the year. Therefore, 4918 is the 49th week of 2018.
If the tyres are over 5 years old, we recommend having them checked by a professional. If they are over 10 years old, they need replacing. This needs to be a consideration with your purchase.
And if you do decide to purchase the RV, check that the tyre pressure is per the manufacturer’s recommendations before driving away.
Service history
Check if the RV has a service history. Caravans and camper trailers need servicing just like a motorhome or campervan.
Weight
Check the RV’s compliance plates. Know the RV’s tare and GVM or ATM. If your towing, make sure that you have a suitable tow vehicle. If it is a motorhome, make sure you have the correct license to drive the vehicle.
Ask if the current owners have ever had the vehicle weighed, and if so, if they can provide the evidence. Check for items that have been added after manufacture. All of these add weight. It isn’t unusual to have a vehicle that is overweight just from added toolboxes, awnings, annexes, storage modifications and more. If you are concerned, ask to have the vehicle weighed.
DIY Modifications
Often owners will modify their RV, including adding toolboxes, bike racks or even solar panels. You need to check that these are all legal modifications and that they do not break any overhang or vehicle dimension rules. You also need to check that modifications have been done properly and a securely attached to the vehicle. No one wants to have a solar panel come flying off on the highway, endangering other road users.
Equipment
Make sure your vehicle comes with its standard tools including a jack and spare tyre. Make sure that spare tyre is in good condition and has correct pressure. Also check that you have a fire extinguisher – this is a legal requirement.
Final tip – don’t forget your insurance before you drive away!
