Safety Checks for Used Motorhomes

Staying on top of minor DIY maintenance for your used motorhomes especially the seatbelts can prove to be a lifesaver.

Motorhome Sales provide all of the checks required to ensure the safe working of the seatbelts, but this does not mean they will always be working correctly.  It is imperative to make regular checks yourself.

Drivers seatbelts are more obvious to detect than passengers seatbelts. Signs to look out for, are wear to the belt seams and the locking mechanism.  Whilst the motorhome is on flat ground extend the seatbelt to its limit ensuring a smooth mechanism.  Once the seatbelt has retracted fully try pulling on it sharply to see if it locks instantly.

If you find any faults make sure they are corrected immediately.

Keep Warm in your Used Motorhome

Keeping Used Motorhomes Warm

It is always a good idea to know how your heating system works, the British weather changes all the time and even summer nights can make you feel the chill.

A suitable heating system along with good insulation will keep you warm whatever time of year it is. Being correctly insulated will ensure that all of the heat created stays in your motorhome.

Good manufacturers include Truma and Alde and both work with gas and electric systems.

Snap Up Bargain Used Motorhomes Part 2

Knowing where to buy used motorhomes

In the same way you would buy a car or a house, buying a used motorhome is a huge commitment.  It is best to try out as many as you can from all makes and models to give you a good understanding a feel for the vehicles available.

Main dealers are good places to start, although they may be expensive, they will let you have a good look around without pressuring you too much.  This may be your first thought when looking for used motorhomes these aren't the only places to look.

Motorhomes Shows

Throughout the year there are several used motorhome shows to visit all over the country below is a few to look out for:

27th - 29th April 2012

The National Motorhome Show
East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE

18th - 20th May 2012

The Southern Motorcaravan Show
Newbury Showground, Chieveley, Berkshire RG18 9QZ

17th - 17th June 2012

The Midsummer Motorhome and Caravan Show
Kelmarsh Hall, Northampton, NN6 9LY

13th - 15th July 2012

Northern Motorcaravan Show Cheshire Showground, Clay House Farm, Flittogate Lane
Tabley, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 0HJ

17th - 19th August 2012

The Western Motorhome Show Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcs WR13 6NW

21st  - 23rd September 2012

The Motorhome Show, Season FinaleLincolnshire Showground, Lincoln LN2 2NA

Private Sales

Like buying a secondhand car, you will always get a better deal buying private, but you do not get the same security as you would get from a dealer.  when buying from a private seller you will need to give the motorhome a thorough inspection, preferably from a specialist.

Buy from a dealer

Although it some instances it can be a little more expensive, there are many benefits from buying used motorhomes from dealers.  A dealer has a duty to inform you of any defects that they know of.  You should also look for dealers who offer a pre delivery inspection or PDI.  Motorhome Sales offer PDI as standard.

Another advantage is that even on used motorhomes you will be offered something in the way of a warranty. At Motorhome sales all of our used motorhomes for sale over £9995 receive an AutoDealer six month mechanical breakdown warranty. This is administered by MB & G Insurance Services Ltd, who are specialists in supplying our used motorhomes warranties.

Snap Up Bargain Used Motorhomes Part 1

Those with a keen eye for a bargain know exactly what to look for in a used motorhome, however it is not the same as buying a used car. Before purchasing used motorhomes it is a good idea to follow the next few steps.

Know your budget

Research the market and understand both scales of prices available from the cheapest to the most expensive to give you an idea of what used motorhomes go for in the market.  With this in mind you will be able to decide on your budget.  It is important to not stray from your budget.

Facilities, gadgets and layouts

Obviously your budget will restrict you to certain extras and fittings.  You should decide exactly what you are after and what your budget will ultimately allow.

The more extras you want the more you will pay.  There are many trade offs to consider too, sometimes you can get the extras and layout you want, within your budget at the expense of many more miles on the clock.  This also works the other way round, used motorhomes with less miles will cost more with fewer extras and facilities.

Choosing the right base

Well you've decided on your topping, now its time to choose your base.  Used motorhomes come on many different bases.  The most popular type is the turbo-diesel. A turbo-diesel is way ahead when it comes to enhanced torque and improved performance but this is at the expense of poor fuel economy.

With the price of petrol around the same as diesel it has proved to have had an effect on the petrol motorhome sales.  This does not mean you should rule them out completely. Petrol used motorhomes are cheaper to buy than diesels and run as well but quieter.

A little tip for a used motorhome bargain is to search for a model that is built on the Renault Master Base, these are quite rare but prove to be much cheaper.

Maintaining Used Motorhomes

It is essential to keep your lights in perfect condition whatever the time of year.

Although your used motorhome probably has less use in the winter months, there is always that time when you may need to use it.  It is in these darker nights and shorter days that you need your lights in tip top condition.

Light failure or light defects can be very dangerous, especially if your lights fail at night or they begin to flicker and imitate an indicator.

So for a few minutes of your time, regular checks can be made before most journeys, especially long distance trips.

Inspecting your lights

First and foremost make sure the engine is ticking over while you are testing the lights, check for dim lights or faulty bulbs.  Dim lights signal that the battery is not powering them correctly and this could be down to faulty or dirty battery terminals. If by checking the terminals they are clean and tightened correctly, your next task is to get a car electric specialist to test the battery and the alternator.

Using a second person in the motorhome check every light, including indicators and break lights.  Whilst checking the break lights and indicators make sure they both have equal brightness.  If you find that some lights are brighter than others this could be down to a faulty earth which can be easily fixed by cleaning the connection points.

On occasion you will see an indicator flashing faster than the other, this is usually due to a faulty or blown bulb.

Used Motorhomes are prone to electrical problems as they are usually left for long periods of time unused.

If you find actual damage to the light casings they must be fixed as soon as possible to prevent moisture entering the fixing, which will short out the lights.

It is a legal requirement to have all of your number plate lights working.  If you have two lights and only one works this would fail the MOT.

One area that would need a specialist is checking the headlights positioning.  Although many can be adjusted up and down automatically it is essential that they are pointing at the correct height and position to prevent danger to other drivers.

Always try these simple maintenance jobs before paying for a specialist to look at the used motorhome.

Is Now The Time To Buy Used Motorhomes?

With Autumn now well and truly upon us, if you are in the market to replace or purchase a used motorhome there is no better time of the year to shop around, look, test and purchase a used motorhome. At this time of the year potential buyers have more choice available to them and various models to chose from, as the market can slow down a little to a gentle pace and not the fast gallop we in the trade all know when full season is in swing, where a decisions needs to be made instantly or one can loose your ideal used motorhome to another happy buyer.

Our advice would still be to make your mind up as soon as possible when you spot the ideal used motorhome for you, because only too often we are told by customers that they had found just the right used motorhome only to lose it to another purchaser because they took a little too long to make the decision and agree a sale.

So now is the time to buy.
View our used motorhomes here

Used Motorhomes Buying Advice

Whether you are buying used motorhomes from a private seller or a dealer there are several points to consider before making your purchase.

Buying used motorhomes follows the sample principles as when purchasing a used car.

Check for:

A Valid Logbook

Previous and Current MOT's (if older than 3 years old)

Dealer Stamped Service History

It is true that used motorhomes are used far less than other vehicles using the same chassis i.e. delivery vans.  With this in mind it is good practice to inspect the motorhome for corroded or seized parts due to lack of use.  

Remember, although motorhomes probably travel long distances, this is generally only a few times a year, so spend much of the year parked or in storage. This same principle also applies to the tyres as deterioration is more likely than actual tyre wear.  Look for sign of deterioration on the tyre walls.

Checking the body for damage

Motorhomes are constructed from plastic and fibreglass.  This makes them susceptible to damage.  Always check all of the lower corners of the used motorhomes and look for any scratches to panels and windows.

At Motorhome Sales we always check our used motorhomes for any damage, scratches or defects and correct them prior to selling.  All of our used motorhomes are rigorously tested for faults.

Used Motorhomes Buying Tips

Used motorhomes are a great way for the the enthusiast on a budget to venture into the motorhome holidays.

Pros and Cons to buying Used Motorhomes

Cost

The cost implication is probably the biggest factor when comparing to a new motorhome.  Used motorhomes depreciate slower than new motorhomes.

Optional Extras
When buying new motorhomes, it can cost 1000's of pounds more to add extras and add-ons to the motorhome prior to purchase.  Such facilities as Sat Nav Systems, DVD TV Systems, Awnings, Parking Sensors or Cycle Racks are all features that do not generally come as standard on motorhomes but do not add value when selling.

So when purchasing used motorhomes always look for the models with extra features.

Knowing what you want.

When first time buyers purchase a motorhome whether it is a new or used motorhome, it isn't long before they begin to compare the facilities they have to motorhomes with different layouts or extra features.

Now if you have purchased a new motorhome, you will realise the amount of depreciation that has occurred due to it now being a used motorhome, so changing at this stage could be a costly choice.

By purchasing used motorhomes, the depreciation is much less if you decide to sell it on after a short period.

Check for Guarantee's

Even used motorhomes will still carry a guarantee if they are less than 3 years old. Some used motorhomes will even have a long guarantee. Ensure that all remaining guarantees are transferred over the new owner on purchase.

Check the Plumbing
It is always best to make sure to check the internal plumbing as faults are not so obvious to the buyer initially. This is one of the many areas we always check before a customer takes delivery of their new motorhome.

See our used motorhomes for sale

Used Motorhomes : NEW Arrival

NEW ARRIVAL

Auto Sleeper's famous one piece monocoque body shell based on the ever popular Ford Transit turbo diesel chassis, it must be an Amethyst, the jewel in the crown!

Yes, we have a fine example of an Auto Sleeper Amethyst just arrived in stock, complete with fine soft furnishings and quality cabinetry. The way only Auto Sleeper could make them

See more used motorhomes here

Used Motorhomes Autumn Tip

Used Motorhomes Autumn Tip:

With  the colder nights upon us, now is the time to drain down all fresh and waste water from your used motorhome, and leave the taps open to protect against frost damage. Remember also to drain the water heater and cassette toilet.

It is easier to drain down and refill when using your motorhome than to repair and replace the damage caused by frozen components.

See our used motorhomes stock here

Used Motorhomes For Sale | VW Transporter Diesel Compact Coachbuilt

Here is a lovely package well put together with lots of thought. A VW 2.4 diesel Transporter Compass Navigator 310 RL used motorhome. Small and compact with a lovely 'U' shape rear lounge.

Only 33,000 miles and in sparkling condition all round. A very well equipped comprehensive interior specification all in beautiful original condition.

This has all the hall marks of a much sort after motorhome. Don't wait too long or you will miss this one!

Used motorhomes viewed here

Want a Small Compact Coachbuilt used motorhome? Look At This One

A Auto-Trail Cheyenne 544, small compact coachbuilt motorhome with the very popular rear 'U' shape lounge. Easy to park, drive and manouver.

Only 52,000 miles and two fomer keepers from new. Last owner has retired from motorhome ownership.

An ideal first time buyers used motorhome

More Used Motorhomes for Sale

Used Motorhomes For Sale | New Arrival VW Auto-Sleeper TDI Trident

Just arrived a beautiful example of the very popular VW Transporter Auto-Sleeper Trident TDI.

Only one owner from new. Fitted with the excellent VW TDI diesel engine.

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Used motorhomes from Motohome Sales are for all year round

With July looking to be another washout it's easy to be tempted to look further a field for your summer holiday.  Just remember, used motorhomes are not just for summer.

Our green and pleasant land has many places to visit all year round and there's no better way to discover it than in the comfort of your own motorhome.

With 100's of variations and sizes our huge stock of used motorhomes is always changing as they get snapped up very quickly, don't miss out on your dream motorhome, visit our site now

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Viewing only Saturday 3nd July

We are sorry but will only be open on Saturday 2nd July for unaccompanied viewing only. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.

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Auto-Sleeper High Top Used Motorhomes Like Buses ?

Well, well, how about this Auto-Sleepers high top used motorhomes are just like buses. You cannot find a good low mileage example, then two come along just at the same time! Arriving very soooon... a 1998 (R) Symphony only covered 19,000 miles from new, yes that is correct 19,000 miles only. Add this to our 2000(X) Symbol with only 22,000 miles and what a fine pair. Do not miss out.

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Rare Used Motorhomes Find At Motorhome Sales Studley

Well here is a rare find. A used Auto Sleeper Symbol motorhome 2000 (X) and only 22,000 miles, yes thats right only covered just 22,000 miles from new. This lovely used motorhome for sale is currently being valeted and will be available for viewing very soon. Watch this space....

Watch this space to see the low mileage Auto Sleeper Symbol soon

motorhomes for sale click here

Used Motorhomes Special Offer : £1000 OFF YES £1000 OFF

Look at this special offer on this motorhome: Autohomes Windfall 2001 X reg Turbo diesel only 44,000 miles, fully loaded, a  beautiful motorhome and we have reduced the selling price by a whole £1000 off. Selling price now is only £15995 for this exceptional motorhome. Come and see, but don't wait too long or you will miss it! 

£1000 off Autohomes Windfall motorhome

more motorhomes for sale here

Auto Sleeper LPG Symbol Motorhomes For Sale

Just arrived a Auto Sleeper Symbol LPG-petrol high top motorhome Year 2000 (W) reg and only 46,000 miles. LPG gas is only £0.74p a litre, YES only £0.74p a litre and widely available nationwide . Its got to be the only way to travel.

LPG Auto Sleeper Symbol motorhome for sale

The Various Types Of Motorhomes

There are generally four types of popular motorhomes:

• High Top or Van conversion Used Motorhomes
• Elevating roof or pop top Used Motorhomes
• Coachbuilt Used Motorhomes
• 'A' Class Used Motorhomes

Here is a brief summary of all four used motorhomes.

High top Used motorhomes or van conversion motorhomes

Starts life as a standard van, then the motorhome manufacturer converts the body adding windows, a high fixed roof, plus seating, cooking and washing facilities as appropriate for the model. This popular type of motorhomes can provide a good combination of usable space, storage and a comprehensive range of equipment which can include a shower and toilet compartment and a ready supply of hot water depending on the model.....

used high top motorhomes for sale here

Elevating Roof Used motorhomes

Again this vehicle starts life as a standard van. This time the motorhomes manufacturer removes the roof completely and replaces it with a folding roof or pop up top. These can have the roof sides of the elevating section either made from a solid material or canvas construction. These types of motorhomes are also very popular as they can be stored in a garage or car port and may be used in some multi story car parks.....

used elevating roof motorhomes for sale here

Used Motorhomes To Suit You

We always have a good range of used motorhomes, motorcaravans and campervans for sale, reasonably priced from around £9995. Our specialty is used motorhomes that are in the 10-15 year old age range.

This includes famous marques such as Auto-Sleepers, Auto-Trail, Elddis, Holdsworth, Pilote, Swift plus many other motorhomes.

View all of the our used motorhomes for sale here