Shopping for a used RV? It’s a little like dating. You’re excited, hopeful, and trying to spot red flags before making a long-term commitment. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or gearing up for your very first road trip, buying a second-hand RV can be a smart way to stretch your budget. But it can also turn into a bumpy ride if you miss key warning signs. And more likely than not, if you’re inspecting a used RV, you can spot them.
After years on the road and plenty of conversations with fellow RVers over campfires and coffee, we’ve heard plenty of “I should have seen” stories. And almost of them could have been spotted with some simple, standard checks.
So, here are the top 10 things you should always, always look for when inspecting a used RV.
1. Water Damage (Especially in the Roof, Ceiling, and Corners)
Water intrusion is one of the most common and costly problems in used RVs. Leaks can come from roof seams, window seals, or improperly maintained slide-outs — and often go unnoticed until mold or soft spots appear.
How to Check: Press gently on walls and ceilings, especially in corners and around vents and windows. Look for staining, bubbling, warping, or musty smells. If you see signs of previous patch jobs on the roof, ask when and how it was repaired.
Pro Tip: Bring a moisture meter (they’re inexpensive online) to detect hidden water damage beneath the surface. They are fairly simple to use, but you can do a quick YouTube search to see how they work.
2. Roof Condition (Look for Signs of Neglect)
Even if no water damage is visible inside, the roof may still be at risk. RV roofs should be resealed every few years, and neglected ones are easy to spot — cracked caulking, sun damage, or bubbling membranes are all red flags.
How to Check: Climb up if it’s safe (or ask the seller to) and inspect all seams, skylights, vents, and antennas. Feel for soft spots underfoot.
Pro Tip: If the RV has been stored uncovered in harsh climates, the roof likely needs maintenance. Budget for resealing or even a roof replacement depending on age.
3. Tires (Age Matters More Than Tread)
RVs often sit for long stretches, and tires degrade over time — even if they look brand new.
How to Check: Check the DOT date code stamped on the tire sidewall. If the tires are more than five to seven years old, plan on replacing them — regardless of tread depth.
Pro Tip: Factor tire replacement into your offer — motorhome tires, especially on Class A motorhomes, can be pricey.
4. Signs of Rodents or Pests (Bring a Flashlight)
Mice love RVs. So do ants and wasps. From chewed wires and shredded insulation to nests in corners, signs of past or current infestations are not uncommon.
How to Check: Open every compartment. Check under beds, in storage bays, and around the engine or generator area. Look for droppings, nests, or chewed materials.
Pro Tip: RVs stored near fields or barns are more prone to critters. Don’t be shy — bring a flashlight and get hands-on with your inspection.
5. Slide-Out Function and Seals (Test and Listen)
Slide-outs add space but can also be trouble spots. Poor maintenance can lead to leaks, sagging, or failure to retract properly.
How to Check: Extend and retract all slides fully. Listen for grinding noises and watch for hesitation. Inspect the seals for cracking, mold, or separation.
Pro Tip: Watch how the interior trim moves with the slide. It can reveal structural shifts.
6. Electrical and Battery Health (Test Function and Check Age)
From lights and outlets to the water pump and fridge, the RV’s electrical system needs to be in working order. Batteries are often overlooked and can fail early if neglected.
How to Check: Test all 12-volt and 120-volt systems. Plug the RV into shore power and also test battery-powered functions. Ask when the batteries were last replaced.
Pro Tip: Look for corrosion on battery terminals and ask if the RV has a solar charging system. It can help preserve battery life.
7. Plumbing and Tanks (Run the System)
Leaks, cracks, or improperly winterized systems can lead to big problems. You want to ensure the plumbing is clean, functional, and undamaged.
How to Check: Run water through every faucet, flush the toilet, and test the water pump. Inspect the fresh, gray, and black tanks for cracks or odors.
Pro Tip: If the RV smells heavily of air fresheners, it might be hiding sewer odors or mold. Trust your nose.
8. Appliances and HVAC (Give It a Go)
Test the fridge, stove, microwave, furnace, and A/C. Repairs or replacements can be expensive—especially for RV-specific appliances.
How to Check: Turn on the fridge (both propane and electric settings), check the oven and burners, and let the A/C run for several minutes.
Pro Tip: Check the fridge vent outside. If it smells of ammonia or you see yellow residue, the cooling unit may be failing.
9. Title, Registration, and Vehicle History (Walk Away Without Them)
No one wants to buy an RV only to discover it has a salvage title or unpaid lien.
How to Check: Verify the VIN, ask for a clean title, and check service records. If you’re buying a motorized RV, consider running a Carfax or similar report.
Pro Tip: Walk away if the seller refuses to show the title or is vague about the RV’s history. Transparency matters.
10. Overall Fit and Feel (It Matters)
Beyond technical checklists, ask yourself: Does this RV feel right? Does it meet your travel needs, lifestyle, and comfort expectations?
How to Check: Sit in the driver’s seat. Walk through the living space. Pretend you’re making coffee or walking the dog. Imagine rainy days and travel days.
Pro Tip: Bring someone with RV experience if it’s your first rig. A second set of eyes (and questions) can save you from emotional purchases.
Bonus: Schedule an Independent Inspection
Even seasoned RVers can miss things when inspecting a used RV. Before handing over your hard-earned cash, consider hiring a certified independent RV technician to do a full inspection.
What to Do: Search for highly rated NRVIA or RVTAA-certified inspectors in your area, especially if buying from a private party. Many offer mobile service and will meet you at the lot.
Pro Tip: An inspection can cost a few hundred dollars — but it can save you thousands in repairs and give you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts on Inspecting a Used RV
Buying a second-hand RV can be one of the best decisions you make — if you go in informed. It’s an opportunity to score a great deal, customize your rig from the start, and maybe even skip that steep depreciation curve that comes with brand-new models.
But the key is to treat the process like a home inspection and not a casual browse. When inspecting a used RV, bring your checklist. Ask tough questions. And take your time.
The open road may be calling, but first, make sure the rig you’re about to take it on is ready to go the distance.
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