Why Buying a High Mileage Motorhome is Worth It

Remember being told when you were younger that buying a secondhand car with high mileage was a bad idea? That may still be the case for pre-owned cars — but it doesn’t ring true for used motorhomes.

A recreational vehicle with a few miles on the clock can actually be a smart investment. In this blog, we explain how — by discussing what’s considered to be a high mileage motorhome, the advantages of buying one and the challenges of owning one.

We also look at factors that will mitigate your high mileage concerns, what to consider when evaluating and inspecting a high mileage RV — and how to finance one. Finally, we offer some tips when browsing used motorhomes with high mileage.

Let’s flip the script and uncover some myth busting truths about high mileage motorhomes that may save you a bundle and get you on the fast road to camping freedom.

What's considered high mileage for a motorhome

The word odometer is derived from two old Greek words that mean path and measure — and still today, we place a huge emphasis on how many kilometres we’ve travelled. As for motorhomes in New Zealand, anything over 160,000km may be considered high mileage.

This figure is equal to 100,000 miles, marking a psychological point in the minds of many RV buyers in the United States. It’s where the perception of a motorhome changes from being thought of as well-used to high mileage. This perception can also lead to a significant drop in RV resale value — even if the motorhome is in excellent condition.

While 160,000km is technically considered high mileage, the true psychological barrier for many New Zealand buyers may be closer to 200,000 — a rounder number that could carry greater significance.

But it’s important to remember that 160,000km is just a number. The genuine value of any used motorhome is found in its condition, maintenance upkeep and service history — along with the future experiences it can offer you.

Look beyond the odometer and you may find a motorhome with an unbeatable combo of affordability and excellent health.

The pros of buying a high mileage motorhome

Purchasing any significant new asset comes with a hefty price tag — and a motorhome is no different. So, from a price perspective, a high mileage recreational vehicle is immediately enticing because it offers plenty of advantages if you’re budget-conscious.

Buying a motorhome with a few extra kilometres on the odometer has some clear benefits.

Opportunity to buy at the optimal depreciation point

Motorhomes tend to depreciate at a slower rate than most cars, making them an attractive long term asset. However, a new motorhome will still depreciate most in its first year of ownership — normally around 10-15 percent as it essentially transitions from new to used.

Subsequent years will see the once-new motorhome depreciate at a slower rate — typically about 5-8 percent each year. So, the longer you own the motorhome, the less it will depreciate annually.

By the time a motorhome reaches 160,000km, most of its depreciation will likely have occurred already. As a buyer, you may get substantially more motorhome for your money by purchasing it — compared to buying a newer RV with lower mileage.

Learn more in our guide to motorhome and campervan depreciation. Then, use our motorhome depreciation calculator to understand how depreciation affects an RV’s value.

A lower price

A high mileage RV will cost significantly less than a new motorhome. You can allocate a portion of your savings towards immediate travel and keep some in reserve for maintenance, servicing and unexpected repairs.

When shopping for high mileage motorhomes from rental operators, there are opportunities to get deals. Dealers have to constantly move stock — meaning that as new RVs come onto their fleets, older campervans and motorhomes must be sold off the yard.

It's essential to check the rental operator's reputation for maintaining its fleet. Some operators sell their vehicles at around two to four years of age — with up to 140,000km on the clock. They maintain them well to retain their resale value.

Other dealers drive their rental campervans into the ground for eight to ten years. During that time, they do little maintenance — so their vehicles have almost completely depreciated when they’re finally sold.

Proven to be reliable

Just like contemporary cars, modern recreational vehicles are constructed to last. Motorhomes with considerable mileage on their odometers, near the 160,000km mark for instance, are already a testament to their reliability and durability.

Reaching that perceived high mileage kilometre count can indicate that the motorhome has been well looked after and maintained. Kiwis generally take good care of their vehicles — perhaps even more so when that automobile is a significant lifestyle investment like a motorhome.

Robust construction within the industry

Many motorhomes are built on strong commercial chassis and designed to keep going for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. The strength of construction is also evident from the long water tightness warranty periods offered on many new motorhomes — like Bürstner, Carado and HYMER.

Read our blog about how to prevent water damage in motorhomes.

Maintenance milestones complete

Major maintenance tasks are usually scheduled for motorhomes near 160,000km of use. If servicing the transmission or a replacement of the timing belt has been done recently, you’ll know that the motorhome will be in great shape in the coming years.

Challenges of owning a high mileage RV

It’s clear that high mileage motorhomes can offer many benefits. However, they also come with challenges — which you need to be aware of. Preparing for these challenges will help you have a smooth and enjoyable ownership experience.

Some of the key challenges to consider are:

• Rust — all vehicles age over time, and managing rust can become an issue, so it’s vital to proactively prevent corrosion and address it quickly when you notice it
  
  
• Ongoing motorhome maintenance costs — budget for more frequent maintenance and replacement parts compared to newer, low mileage motorhomes
  
  
• Sourcing parts — finding replacement parts for older RVs can be difficult and potentially lead to higher costs and longer repair times, particularly if your motorhome model is rare or discontinued
  
  
• Dated technology — high mileage motorhomes have a few years of on-road experience behind them, so may have less efficient appliances, outdated safety features and an older motorhome platform or engine
  
  
• Hidden problems — a lingering plumbing, electrical or transmission issue may not be immediately apparent, so it’s essential to get an experienced RV mechanic to inspect your prospective motorhome comprehensively.

It’s normal to face additional challenges with older vehicles, so ensure you research thoroughly, inspect meticulously and schedule maintenance work regularly.

Take a look at our blog on everything you need to know about buying a used motorhome.

Factors that mitigate high mileage concerns

It’s understandable to have concerns about buying a recreational vehicle with high mileage because it’s a significant investment.

The conventional view is that high mileage is associated with increased wear and tear, potential breakdowns and a greater likelihood of costly repairs. However, this negative perception is often established through anecdotal evidence — which creates a sense of uncertainty and exaggerated risk associated with buying a high mileage motorhome and reselling it.

Diesel engines are a key factor for high mileage motorhomes

Prioritising long term reliability and fuel savings on your adventures is wise — and diesel engines can offer that. High mileage diesel motorhomes are a testament to the enduring power and efficiency of the diesel engine under the hood.

Diesel engines are particularly relevant when discussing high mileage motorhomes for several reasons. They include:

• Being durable and long-lasting — diesel engines can withstand high mileage better than gas-fuelled RVs, making them perfect for driving long distances
  
  
• Offering better fuel efficiency than petrol engines — especially on highways and long road trips
  
  
• Having power and torque — diesel engines generate higher torque at lower revolutions per minute (RPM), so relatively heavy motorhomes have better pulling power and hill-climbing ability
  
  
• Providing lower maintenance costs — as they generally need maintenance and repairs less often than petrol engines.

Other factors that alleviate anxiety about high mileage motorhomes

Besides the benefits of having a motorhome with a diesel engine, several other factors can mitigate high mileage concerns, such as:

• A well-documented service history — timely repairs and regular maintenance, like evidence of recent oil changes, will show that the motorhome has been well looked after
  
  
• Recently completed upgrades or repairs — boosting your confidence that immediate issues are unlikely and longevity is probable
  
  
• Pre-purchase inspections — by a qualified motorhome technician who’s able to identify potential issues and provide you with peace of mind
  
  
• Only a few owners — the motorhome is more likely to have been consistently cared for and maintained, plus obtaining a complete service history is more likely.
  
  

If you’re shopping around reliable motorhome rental operators who regularly maintain and service their vehicles before selling them at a certain age, these mitigating factors should be relevant.

A high mileage motorhome can often represent exceptional value. By considering these reasons and conducting due diligence, you can find reliable and affordable high mileage RVs in New Zealand.

Download our motorhome due diligence checklist to help guide you through the pre-purchase process.

How to evaluate and inspect a high mileage motorhome

When assessing and inspecting a high mileage motorhome in New Zealand, there are several vital elements to investigate to ensure you're making a sound investment.

Examining the exterior

Regardless of your experience looking for trouble signs when buying used vehicles, it’s highly recommended that you get a reliable motorhome technician to also check over your prospective purchase.

Chassis and body

Meticulously inspect the exterior by searching for signs of rust or dents — and any past accidents or repairs. Be extra vigilant when checking around windows, doors and roof vents, as these areas can be susceptible to water damage.

Examine the chassis thoroughly, looking for cracks, bends and excessive rust — particularly if the motorhome has been exposed to road salt or coastal conditions.

Learn more about motorhome chassis and construction.

External features

Thoroughly test all exterior lights, windows, doors and awnings to ensure they function correctly. Carefully examine the seals around windows and doors — looking for any signs of leaks or damage.

If your prospective motorhome has slide-outs, make sure they extend and retract smoothly without any sticking or signs of water intrusion.

Tyres

Assess the tyres, paying close attention to their tread depth and overall condition. Uneven wear, cracks or bulges may suggest an alignment issue or hidden damage. Your motorhome’s tyres are absolutely critical for safety — so ensure they’re in excellent condition, or they may be your first replacement cost.

Learn about how to maintain the correct tyre pressure.

Inspecting the mechanics

Engage a qualified motorhome technician to take a closer look at the mechanical side of any motorhome you’re considering making an offer on.

Engine and transmission

A thorough examination of the engine and transmission will find any wear and other potential problems. There shouldn’t be any signs of oil or coolant leaks — such as rusty stains from the side of the engine or below the coolant pipes.

Inspect the condition of the timing belt and vital hoses used for carrying fluid and maintaining the essential systems of the motorhome. The hoses shouldn’t have cracks at the ends by the clamp. If you can see the timing belt, it should be tight with no visible cracking.

Listen closely for unusual vibrations or noises when taking the motorhome on a test drive.

Brakes and suspension

Ensure the brakes are in good working order and not worn down to a concerning thickness — which your mechanic can measure. Check all suspension components for any signs of damage or excessive wear.

During your test drive, be mindful of any squeaks, rattles or unusual handling that may suggest underlying issues.

Checking the interior

You’ll spend a lot of time inside your motorhome’s habitation unit, so it’s essential to examine the interior meticulously.

Dining area

Take your time checking for signs of water damage, mould and mildew in the living space. Also, assess the overall condition of the motorhome’s furniture, upholstery and flooring — noting any significant wear or tear.

Test all the appliances — such as the freezer, fridge, oven, stove and water heater, to ensure they work correctly.

Electrical and plumbing systems

Check the electrical system for loose wiring, faulty outlets or malfunctioning lights. Then, test the batteries to ensure they're holding a charge.

Diligently inspect the plumbing system for leaks or evidence of water damage. Test the shower, toilet and each faucet — so you know they’re all working as they should.

The bedroom

Assess the condition of the mattress and bedding in the motorhome’s rear bedroom. Also, check the storage spaces and test all the lighting. Open roof vents and windows to confirm they’re functioning well.

Cab space

Evaluate the condition of the driver's and passenger seats, noting any wear or damage.  Examine the dashboard, verifying that all gauges and controls function correctly. Test the air conditioning and heating systems to ensure they operate as expected.

Financing a high mileage recreational vehicle

Researching and eventually buying a high mileage motorhome will save you money on your initial purchase — compared to buying a new RV or one with low mileage. But knowing what financing you’ll need after you get the keys is also essential.

Weigh up your initial purchase savings with future repair costs

Evaluating your original savings against potential future repair costs for a high mileage motorhome can be tricky — simply because it’s not easy to predict what may need repairing further down the road.

You’ll need a combination of research, financial planning and risk assessment. 

Use our motorhome cost of ownership calculator to help you determine how much it costs to maintain a motorhome.

Research and estimate your potential future costs

Look into the specific make, model, mileage and manufacturing year of the motorhome you’re thinking about buying. By doing so, you may discover common issues and their potential repair costs.

A few valuable resources are social media groups, online motorhome forums and talking to your trusted mechanic.

Begin financial planning and create a budget

A contingency fund is one of the most competent plans you can put in place. Set up a separate bank account for your future motorhome’s maintenance needs and repair work. Such a fund will help you cover unexpected expenses as they arise.

Add a budget for ongoing maintenance and routine servicing to your financial planning. Aim to be proactive — to try and prevent issues from coming about before they do.

Ask about extended warranties. Are there any available that you can consider purchasing to put your mind at ease? If so, review their terms and conditions to be sure they’ll provide your RV with adequate coverage.

Assess your risk

Consider your financial situation and how comfortable you feel about possible costly repairs. Then, come to a range of figures you’re prepared to accept for unexpected future repair costs — over and above your initial purchase savings.

If you have some vehicle mechanical skills, you may be able to save some labour costs on smaller tasks like:

• Topping up fluids and checking the engine oil
• Replacing air filters and wiper blades
• Changing internal and external lights
• Inspecting battery connections for signs of corrosion.

However, be realistic about your abilities so you don’t attempt complex repairs beyond your expertise. Factor into your budget routine servicing, like replacing tyres. Also, allow for significant repairs to the engine, transmission and appliances.

Look closely at insurance options

The cost of insurance is often perceived to be lower for high mileage motorhomes because of their lower perceived value. However, the reality is a little more complex.

As with insurance for your car, premiums can vary based on the motorhome’s age, condition, intended use and the insurer’s policies. Therefore, getting quotes from multiple insurers is essential. Compare what they each offer — then, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision.

See our guide to motorhome owners’ insurance in New Zealand.

Determine the potential RV resale value

While high mileage vehicles can depreciate faster than low mileage ones, motorhomes are more nuanced — especially those in the 160,000 to 200,000km range.

A motorhome’s highest amount of depreciation is in the first few years before the depreciation rate tends to slow down. For example, a high mileage motorhome that’s six years old may have already depreciated by more than 40% of its original value.

Because much of the initial depreciation has already happened, and the motorhome still has plenty of life left, there’s an opportunity to get some serious value for money.

The overall condition and regular maintenance of your prospective motorhome will also play a vital role in how quickly it depreciates.

A well-maintained high mileage motorhome can retain its value better than a neglected low mileage one. It’s therefore a wise decision to buy this kind of motorhome at the right price — particularly if you:

• Intend to keep it for a long time 
• Prioritise the experiences you’ll have over its possible resale value.

In the end, the actual resale value of your motorhome will depend heavily on its condition, maintenance history and the market demand for that particular make and model at the time.

Use our motorhome depreciation calculator to determine potential resale value.

Tips when shopping for a high mileage used motorhome

Take note of these additional tips when looking into purchasing a high mileage recreational vehicle.

1. Research, research, research — take your time gathering knowledge on the internet, viewing motorhomes at dealers and talking to motorhome owners and RV mechanics
   
   
2. Find a reputable motorhome mechanic — who can give you independent assessments of any motorhomes you’re considering buying and can identify potential issues that your untrained eye may not
   
   
3. Focus on the overall condition of your prospective motorhome — rather than the kilometres on the clock
   
   
4. Test everything — personally try all functions and appliances to ensure you’re satisfied rather than taking the seller’s word
   
   
5. Examine the roof or get a professional to check it — as this area can be overlooked, and it’s critical for structural integrity and preventing leakage
   
   
6. Inspect the sidewall date codes of the motorhome’s tyres — which may look in good condition but should be replaced if they’re older than six years
   
   
7. See if you can hire a recreational vehicle like the one you’re thinking about purchasing. Try it for a few days before you buy to decide whether it’s right for you.

Owner story | The Dunseaths trust diesel motors to last

To consider a used motorhome with mileage of 150,000km or more, it’s important to understand how diesel RVs perform over the long term.

We chatted to Glen and Jenny Dunseath about their recent motorhome purchase with plenty of mileage on the clock — a 2018 Bürstner Lyseo IT744. As Glen explained, the kilometre count didn’t worry him.

The Bürstner we purchased was around 150,000km — which, from my work experience with diesel commercials, is minimal.

We chose the IT744 because we don’t intend to take a five year trip around New Zealand. The camper will probably do 10,000km a year on average. With current tech, I would expect this model to function comfortably to 300,000km — and then we may have to spend some money.

Change was in the air

The Dunseaths have owned caravans before. However, it was time for a change.

We’d previously owned caravans — but the towing and set up hassle always annoyed us. The move to a camper seemed logical given that we could afford it, preferred that type of experience and had hired them from Wilderness before.

This was our first motorhome purchase and we spent three to four months looking. Different brands have different benefits, but ultimately, we wanted:

• Seat belts for our grandkids
• Lots of space in case I’m working while we’re away, and
• Good-sized beds for comfort.

Several competitor brands offered good functionality, But in Jayco's case, for instance, a four berth camper had only two belts.

Similarly, we wanted surety that a slightly older vehicle had been serviced and maintained — as such rentals generally fit that criteria.

From a cost viewpoint, spending $25,000 on servicing and some repairs over the next ten years is money well spent — especially compared to another $100,000+ to buy new.

Diesel-powered motors are designed to work longer

We asked Glen for his thoughts on buying a diesel motorhome that’s already travelled 150,000 to 200,000km.

The decision and risks sit with the purchaser. People need to factor in:

• What they’re going to use their motorhome for
• How many kilometres they plan to travel, and
• What terrain they’ll use it on.

Commercial chassis will outlast the owner — and there may be higher maintenance costs as kilometres rise. However, you only have to look at how many motorhomes in campsites have done 300,000+ kilometres and are still going strong to realise that diesel motors are designed to work longer.

And 300,000km is my benchmark — not for complete replacement, but potentially some engine work.

Glen’s advice if you're considering a high mileage motorhome

We ended our discussion asking Glen and Jenny what tips they had for anyone looking at a used motorhome with a high kilometre count. Glen offers some sage advice.

Will older motorhomes need maintenance? Yes. But likewise, owning a new vehicle still requires maintenance — and scratching it for the first time hurts like hell.

If they’re worried about the motor and chassis, get them looked at by a mechanic. However, if they can get past the perceived motor issues, good quality German-built campers are hard to beat finish-wise — and look great visually.

The purchaser needs to understand the reason for buying their camper. In our case, it was as much about having two extra beds at our house when all of our kids and grandkids arrive.

Of course, we travel in our camper, but we’re not living in it on tour, so a higher-kilometre motorhome at a lower purchase price suits us — however, it may not suit everyone.

So, is it worth buying a high mileage motorhome? A motorhome's worth isn't solely measured by the numbers on its odometer. Its evidence of servicing and maintenance, recent upgrades or repairs and overall condition help determine its true value. The stories it holds, the journeys already taken and the memories yet to be created also come into the equation.

Buying a high mileage motorhome can unlock a world of possibilities — giving you access to the open road on a tighter budget and the proven reliability to explore with confidence.