How Many Miles Will an RV Last?
Before you invest in an RV, it’s probably best to see how long it will last. If a recreational vehicle doesn’t go the distance, then it could feel like a waste of money. Learn when a used RV has too many miles and what to look for.
How many miles will an RV last?
A lot goes into how long a motorhome will last. According to RV Share, an RV can last about 20 years or 200,000 miles, depending on which comes first. But how well the recreational vehicle is taken care of can impact its lifespan. Also, its longevity may differ based on class.
For example, a Class A motorhome is the largest option. These RVs are like the size of tour buses. Instead of towing a trailer behind, you drive the entire beast. This is also the most expensive option. But anyway, a Class A Motorhome should make it to 200,000 miles with proper care.
A Class B motorhome is the campervan type. They’re a little bigger than a regular van, and you still get to drive them instead of towing a travel trailer. They fit the needs of smaller families who don’t need as much space. A Class B motorhome should last about 200,000 miles but can last longer with proper care.
A Class C motorhome is the type of motorhome that you see built on the back of a truck. The living area is on top of the cab, and behind it, so the driving space is separated. This is the cheapest option. Class C motorhomes last about 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
But what is high mileage for a used RV?
According to Meta Camper, anywhere between 100,000 to 200,000 miles is considered to be a lot for a used RV. But the mileage isn’t the only thing that should be considered when shopping.
For example, a Class A motorhome that’s less than 10 years old with under 50,000 miles isn’t a good sign. The motorhome could have sat idle for a long time, causing all sorts of issues. Remember to ask for RV maintenance reports when evaluating its condition.
A Class B RV or camper van accrues about 4,000 to 5,000 miles of use per year. Take its age and history into account. Look at the hinges and pop-top seal to see if they’re disintegrating. This should help determine the amount of care the RV received.
A Class C RV can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles with the proper care and attention. If you find one that has been well maintained, it could bring you and your family members joy for years to come.
How can I make my RV last longer?
There are tons of ways to help your RV last longer. But the first step involves buying the right option to suit your personal needs.
An older RV can save you thousands if you know how to maintain it. Newer RV models may come with fewer headaches, though. Also, you will want to invest in an option that has enough space for your family.
To help your RV last longer, remember to give it regular professional maintenance checks. To keep your RV healthy, the brakes, tires, oil, water, engine, and more should be inspected on a regular basis.
Clean your RV before, during, and after trips. Make sure the interior is cleaned before storing it to avoid molds and funky smells. Also, the exterior should be waxed once a year to protect it from the elements.
Keep on everything that opens, swings, or slides. Door hinges may need some WD40 to prevent rust. Also, check that your accessories, such as bike racks and grills, are still in proper condition.
