Signs That it’s Time for a New RV

If you’re a homeowner, you understand that as your life evolves, so do your requirements for a home. The same calculus applies to your RV — and to the practical questions you’d ask about a car: fuel economy, manoeuvrability, maintenance.

More campers in your crew

When the group grows, the RV usually has to. The classes run from a modest teardrop trailer up to a Class A motorhome, and family-focused options like bunk models add the sleeping space. Come and talk to us about the options.

Just the two of us?

Empty nesters and solo travellers often go the other way. It’s OK to admit you’re not as gung ho crawling up a ladder to bed — a Class B might get you a nice queen size bed instead. It is also worth asking what kind of camping you want: campground community, or off-grid solitude.

Rising fuel costs

High fuel bills often point to an older, inefficient motorized RV, or an ageing tow vehicle you might replace with a more fuel efficient SUV. RVs come in all shapes and sizes, not to mention budgets.

Repair and maintenance

Like a car, some repairs cost more than the vehicle is worth. Motorized RVs get the usual engine and transmission wear; the living quarters have their own depreciation problems.

Warning signs

• Water damage — an RV’s worst enemy; a roof leak can run into thousands
• Worn out appliances — the refrigerator especially, which is expensive to replace
• Water heaters
• Wheel bearings, trailer brakes and tires

Any one of these on its own is not a reason to replace an RV. The cumulative effect of having to do several smaller repairs at once might make you question if it’s really worth the expense.

Recognise any of that? See what’s on the lot.