Buying an RV is a significant investment, and like most people about to make a big purchase, you may want to understand how long they last before making a decision. While we can’t give you an exact answer, several factors can influence the longevity of your RV. The typical motorhome will last about 20 years, but there are several things you can do to help increase its lifespan.
What Are the Differences Between Motorhome Classes?
The class of motorhome you are thinking of buying can have a significant impact on how long you can use and drive it before you need to start thinking about replacement. These motorhome classes include:
- Class A: This class represents the largest and costliest type of motorhome available for purchase today. Class A RVs typically last up to 20 years if you routinely perform preventive maintenance and repair operating issues as soon as you notice them.
- Class B: The Class B motorhome is a campervan model and the smallest of the three types. Class B motorhome manufacturers built them on cargo van chassis, extending their lifespan at least a few years beyond the average with timely maintenance and repairs.
- Class C: This type of motorhome has a bed over the cab. The Class C model has more size variations than the other two and is easier to maintain and drive than Class A due to its smaller size. The lifespan is about average, with the caveat that you must perform routine maintenance and timely repairs.
Now that you know the three main classes of RVs, here are some lifestyle factors that significantly impact how many years you can expect to enjoy your new camper on wheels.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider When Estimating Motorhome Longevity
The number of kilometres you plan to travel in a year is one of the most apparent factors determining how long your RV will last. Like any vehicle, your motorhome will wear out faster the more you drive it. Consider whether you’re a light or occasional traveller or plan to be on the road extensively before making a purchase.
How Many People Will You Typically Transport in Your Motorhome?
A family with several young children will spend more on RV fuel than a retired couple who usually do not have other riders. Weight wears on the suspension of your motorhome, which in turn requires more gasoline power to keep the vehicle moving. Large families may consider purchasing a Class A motorhome, while smaller families or couples would do well with a Class C motorhome.
Where Do You Plan to Travel?
How you use your RV will also inform how long you can expect it to last. Do you plan to spend most of your time on the freeway, at a campground, or in one of Canada’s national parks? The less often you start the engine, the longer you can expect it to last.
Are You Willing to Spend Time Maintaining Your New Motorhome?
Motorhomes don’t get good gas mileage compared to standard vehicles and require significant maintenance to keep running smoothly. We recommend establishing a schedule for preventive maintenance that includes these tasks at a minimum:
-
- Change or replace brake pads
- Check the suspension
- Engine cleaning
- Fuel injection
- Fluid replacement
- General tune-up
- Oil change
- Re-alignment
- Tire rotation
Two decades is a long time to own any vehicle. The higher cost of RVs compared to standard cars makes it unrealistic to expect to trade them in for a newer model after just a few years. Knowing your travel patterns, who will travel with you, and committing to regular maintenance and timely repairs will help you get the most out of your investment.
Don’t forget that RVs need insurance like any other vehicle. Contact Wayfarer Insurance for a personalized quote today.