Buying a ‘van is an exciting step towards achieving one of your long-awaited dreams, but a big question looms: should you buy a new or used motorhome? The decision boils down to priorities – your budget, your preferences and what you’re looking for in your ideal vehicle.
Some of you will know that I have owned an embarrassing number of motorhomes. I have bought brand new as well as used. Here, I will explore the pros and cons of each to help you decide which route is the right one for you so you can choose the best motorhome.
Buying a new motorhome
There’s nothing quite like driving away from the dealership in your own brand-new motorhome. Everything gleams, smells fresh, and is tailored to your personal specifications. But there is an upside and a downside to consider.
Pros of buying new
Latest features: When you’re looking a newer leisure vehicles, such as the Benimar Tessoro 840 or WildAx Meteor, will come with the very latest gear. This cutting-edge technology could range from solar panels and intelligent control and monitoring systems to improved insulation and eco-friendly engines.
Customisation: When you buy new, you can usually specify exterior colours and interior finishes, layouts, and even technical features to suit your exact requirements. You can trawl through the manufacturer’s option list and tick all of the items that you want.
Warranty: New ‘vans come with peace of mind. Motorhome manufacturers usually covers the repair costs for the first few years if something does happen to go wrong.
Reliability: You’re starting fresh with your ’van, so that you won’t find yourself inheriting any hidden problems from previous owners.
Cons of buying new
Higher cost: New motorhomes are a significant investment. You’re paying for the latest features and the prestige of being the first owner.
Depreciation: Yes, depreciation is back, unlike a few years ago when you could buy a motorhome and sell it six months later for a profit. Sadly, or thankfully, those days have gone. Like new cars, motorhomes depreciate more quickly in their first few years. Selling a motorhome soon after buying it will likely result in a financial hit.
Delivery delays: Custom orders can mean waiting months or longer for your motorhome to arrive.
First owner blues: As the first owner of the new motorhome, you will probably discover issues that require a warranty claim as you drive and use it. Resolving these teething problems can be time-consuming and require a trip back to your supplying dealer or nominated service centre.
Buying a used motorhome
On the other hand, buying a used motorhome can be a brilliant way to stretch your budget and find a motorhome that has already been road-tested or shaken down. The previous owner should have rectified any problems under warranty, and it has potentially been accessorised, too.
Pros of buying used
Cost savings: A pre-owned leisure vehicle can often be significantly cheaper than a new one, even if it’s just a few years old. That depreciation? The first owner has already absorbed it.
Reliable performance: Here’s the hidden gem: the first owner of the vehicle has likely worked through any initial problems or warranty fixes, meaning that you get a motorhome with all of those wrinkles ironed out.
Quick availability: Used motorhomes are usually ready to go immediately. There are no long lead times or factory queues. The dealer might want to inspect or apply a new MoT as part of the deal, but lead times are typically days or weeks.
Character: Used motorhomes will often have upgrades or extras added by the previous owner, such as awnings, parking sensors, or improved storage solutions, saving you time and money.
Cons of buying used
Wear and tear: Subject to the level of previous use, age and mileage, a used motorhome might have a few battle scars. Seats, appliances and fittings might show signs of use.
Limited choice: You are restricted to what’s available on the market, which could mean compromising on the motorhome layout or features.
Potential repairs: Although a used motorhome might have had its initial build issues resolved, wear-related repairs are always possible.
Key considerations
Whether you are planning to buy new or used, there are a few golden rules for motorhome customers to bear in mind:
- 1 Set your budget: Be realistic about what you can afford, remembering to factor in the insurance, maintenance and running costs.
- 2 Do your research: Read reviews, visit dealerships and talk to current leisure vehicle owners to get a feel for the models that suit your needs.
- 3 Inspect thoroughly: Always check the service history for used motorhomes, and have an independent inspection if you’re unsure.
- 4 Think long-term: When you’re choosing a motorhome, it’s important to ask yourself how long do you plan to keep the ’van, and how do you plan to use it? If you believe this is your ‘forever motorhome,’ then buying something as new as your budget allows is a sensible approach. The same logic applies if you are planning to use it for longer trips.
The verdict on buying a new or used motorhome
So, should you buy new or used? It all depends on your priorities. If you crave the latest tech, want to customise every detail, and can stretch your budget, a new motorhome can offer you unparalleled peace of mind.
But the best secondhand motorhomes can be a savvy choice if you’re looking for better value, immediate availability, and the reassurance that someone else has worked through the initial snags.
Ultimately, both options have their merits. Whichever path you choose, the joy comes from what lies beyond the windscreen – the freedom to explore, unwind and make lifelong memories.
Something else to consider when you’re choosing a ‘van is making sure you have the right licence to drive it – if you’re not sure, check out our guide to “what driving licence do I need to drive a motorhome?” where we explain what you need to know.
You can find out more about me and listen to my podcast at motorhomematt.co.uk
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