RV FEATURE
WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR MONEY
New versus used. It’s a question that could
mean the difference in a reliable rig and a
complete money pit, such as a caravan that
needs unexpected – and expensive – frame
repairs due to water rot.
The point is, like with every purchase, buying
a new or used van involves a list of pros
and cons. Get it right, it’s happy travels. But
getting it wrong could mean spending money
hand over fist to finally get it right.
BUYING NEW
Shiny. New. Everything is in its place and it smells good, too. Is there anything better than
that new-van feeling?
Warranty: New caravans will come with a
warranty to cover defects anywhere from 12
months to 10 years; however, it’s important
to check the fine print. For example, a 10-year
warranty might refer only to water ingress,
with the structure itself covered only for five
years. The shortest warranty period on a new
caravan is about one year. Two to five years
seems to be the norm.
Furthermore, the van’s individual appliances,
from the fridge to the toilet, will have their
own warranties.
Roadside assistance: More and more
manufacturers offer a period of roadside
assistance, should you find yourself on
the side of the Bruce Highway with, say,
uncooperative wheel bearings. Of course, this
kind of service is available in many insurance
policies, too.
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