Community Forums

Taarnac · 02-18-2016, 09:23 PM

Hey IRV’rs. I’ve seen a lot of good advice here and given a little myself, but now I’m in need of some in an area I’m not too familiar with. I’ve been fulltiming for about 15 years and have a second RV that I had in storage until my daughter needed a place. Now, she is moving and I think I may have a golden opportunity to trade in both units for a new or better one. What is your experience? Will I get dragged over the coals with trade-ins, or is it easier than trying to sell them myself? One is older – 1996 Serengeti, and my home is a 2003 Expedition with engine issues due to raccoons. Is it better to get the issues fixed, or ask a dealer to take them on just to move on? Any advice would be appreciated.

FunGus · 02-18-2016, 09:32 PM

If a dealer has to estimate on repairs they will estimate HIGH (they have to protect themselves in a worst-case scenario). If it is a simple fix the estimate may be more straight forward, but since you're asking I'm assuming it's not an easy fix. You'll probably do better to have it fixed unless the dealer is inept and makes a mistake.

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barmcd · 02-19-2016, 06:19 AM

You are going to be able to sell them for much more than the dealer is going to give you on trade. It's been my experience that I can sell a vehicle pretty quickly--if it's in good condition, about half way between average retail and average trade. You get more than you would have on trade and it sells pretty quick. Best of both worlds.

Arch Hoagland · 02-19-2016, 06:25 AM

A friend of mine had engine issues on his class C due to squirrels. His insurance covered the cost of repairs.

Have you checked with your insurance company yet?

OLYLEN · 02-19-2016, 08:34 AM

Sell them yourself at $5000 each below what they are worth, not what you THINK they are worth and you will be Mon e y ahead. Get a mechanic to do the motor fix and you will be Money ahead. A dealer needs to make money and this will rip your shorts off. JMO

LEN

Big Dude · 02-19-2016, 08:45 AM

We had a 1996 to trade in and the dealer wasn't much interested in it as they don't put the older coaches on their lot, which will likely be the case with both of yours. I got $10,000 more selling it myself.

Taarnac · 02-19-2016, 08:56 AM

I appreciate the quick replies. Based on this, I think I will get a local RV repair guy to read the engine fault code just to give me a ballpark idea of what the issue is. I hadn't thought of contacting the insurance company but I'm almost certain it has something to do with the raccoons. After trying 5 or 6 unsuccessful remedies to get rid of them, I've McGuyvered a spike strip out of chicken wire that I lay on the ground under the unit. Again, thanks for the help - you guys are great.

malexander · 02-19-2016, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Taarnac

I appreciate the quick replies. Based on this, I think I will get a local RV repair guy to read the engine fault code just to give me a ballpark idea of what the issue is. I hadn't thought of contacting the insurance company but I'm almost certain it has something to do with the raccoons. After trying 5 or 6 unsuccessful remedies to get rid of them, I've McGuyvered a spike strip out of chicken wire that I lay on the ground under the unit. Again, thanks for the help - you guys are great.

Sent you a PM