Last Updated on March 20, 2025
Walking into an RV dealership can often feel like stepping into a lion's den blindfolded, holding a steak. The thrill of potentially getting ripped off can make anyone madder than a three-legged dog trying to bury a turd on an icy pond. But fear not! Today, we're diving into the dirty little secrets that dealerships don't want you to know, and the common mistakes you need to avoid when buying an RV. We found a great video from the Camping Loop channel that breaks down these pitfalls perfectly. Below, we've highlighted the key points from their video, and we encourage you to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for more insights.
1. Trusting the Dealership's Financing
Many RV dealerships are not just in the business of selling RVs; they're in the finance business. They want you to fill out a credit application so they can bounce it around from bank to bank, adding as much APR as possible while still keeping your monthly payment within reach. Trusting the dealership to give you the best loan is like trusting a raccoon to babysit your sandwich—it's not going to end well. Always secure your own financing or get pre-approved from your bank to stay in control.
2. Buying a New RV
New RVs can be tempting with their shiny exteriors and the allure of being the first owner. However, buying new can mean dealing with all the initial kinks and problems that come with mass-produced units. It's like buying a car that’s still in its beta phase. Instead, consider purchasing a one or two-year-old RV. Let someone else handle the headaches of the first year, and you'll save a significant amount on depreciation. Plus, you can laugh at your neighbor's brand-new RV problems while you enjoy your well-broken-in rig.
3. Falling for Extended Warranties
Once you've negotiated your deal, the finance manager will likely try to sell you extended warranties, high gloss protection, or Scotchgard for the interior. These add-ons are often presented as only adding a small amount to your monthly payment, but they can cost thousands in the long run. Most of these warranties have fine print that limits their usefulness—like a chocolate teapot. Always read the fine print and consider if the peace of mind is worth the extra cost.
4. The Bait and Switch
Be wary of the classic bait and switch tactic. You might find the perfect RV online, only to be told it's "just sold" when you arrive at the dealership. Conveniently, they have another model they think you'll love. Don't fall for it. Always inspect the exact unit you're buying, and don't settle for a floor model or one that's been sitting out in the elements. Inspect it thoroughly or have someone knowledgeable do it for you.
5. Pressure Tactics
Dealerships often use high-pressure tactics to get you to sign on the dotted line. They might tell you that you need to put down a deposit immediately or risk losing the RV. Remember, most service contracts or purchase orders can be canceled within 72 hours, so don't be pressured into making a hasty decision. Make sure it's definitely the unit you want before committing to anything.
By avoiding these common RV buying mistakes, you'll be better equipped to make a smart purchase. For a more detailed breakdown, check out the video:
