When considering the cost of owning an RV, you must include the cost of service, maintenance, repair and refurbishing. The cost of maintenance and service will rise as a unit gets older. Repair and refurbishing needs will also begin to increase when an RV gets to be more than 8 years old. Repair costs can be pretty significant depending on the type of RV you buy. V8 gas engines, like the Chevrolet 454 or Ford 460 for example, will typically need to be rebuilt after 50,000 to 70,000 miles. Based on average RV use, that will be at about 10 years. An engine rebuild can cost more than $4,000. On the other hand, at 50,000 miles most Diesel Engines and heavy-duty transmissions are just getting broken in. Most diesel motor homes will go several hundred thousand miles before major repairs are required. Tires, brakes and filters are directly proportional to mileage and the cost of batteries depends on usage.
Now, unless you are buying a fairly old, inexpensive RV or have more cash on hand than most of us do, you will likely be financing your RV purchase. That means you will be making regular payments. When you start shopping, you will likely have a price range in mind based on what you can afford in a payment. That is a great start! But remember repair and maintenance. You will not be a happy camper if you stretch your budget to its limits for your payment and end up with an RV that is no more than a very expensive yard ornament because you can’t afford to make the payments and set aside money for repairs. You will be wise to set your budget to include setting aside a few dollars each month for repairs and maintenance. You will also need to figure into your budget things like licensing and insurance and for some RVers, there will be regular storage fees and camping association dues. Keeping all of these costs in mind when it comes time to deal with making your RV purchase decision, will be the best way to get what you want AND enjoy it for many years.
Now remember, there MANY factors to consider when deciding which is the best RV for you. If you are serious about purchasing an RV, you MUST read the RV Comparison Guide from J R Consumer Resources. There is no other reference on the market today that will better educate you on choosing the best RV for you!
