Prepping Your RV For Trade-In

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Presentation Is Everything

The better your RV looks, the better deal you’ll get for your trade-in. Nobody wants a trailer that looks like it wasn’t properly taken care of. A simple cleaning can go a long way. You want your unit to look as close to brand new as possible. In order to achieve this, you can do the following

Remove all of your personal items
Wash the exterior of the camper
Fix any minor chips and scratches
Wash all windows
Clean cabinets, wardrobes, and storage compartments
Empty and clean the fridge
Clean the kitchen (microwave, stovetop, sinks, and faucets)
Eliminate odors by washing and cleaning carpets and linens
Replace stained or damaged upholstery
Clean and disinfect the toilet and shower
Make sure the mattress are clean and odor-free
Spray air freshener inside the rig (a mild but welcoming scent)

Fix Maintenance issues

Another important factor when trading in your RV is maintenance issues. Make sure to conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle and check that everything is running properly and ready for the road. See if there’s any minor repairs you can make to enhance the camper. Even small fixes can make a big impact on the value of your rig.

Check awnings for stains or tears
Check the tires: what’s the condition and age? If they’re damaged, you’ll lose some value
Make sure the stairs to get into the RV are stable
Check if the appliances are working properly
Replace burnt out light bulbs
Make sure there are no leaks in the roof or windows
Check the water inlet, water pump, water holding tank, water heater, sinks, showers, and faucets
Make sure the battery is free of corrosion

These simple steps can drastically change the appearance and value of your RV and make it feel brand new even if it’s not. If you want to get the best deal for your RV trade-in, it’s worth doing some maintenance and basic repairs.

Gather Your Documents

Lastly, you’ll want to gather all of your RV’s documents before you go to trade-in. This includes your registration, service records, and anything else a prospective buyer would want to see before purchasing. If there’s proof that your camper was well-maintained, the value will increase. Keep the vehicle history report updated by filling in service and maintenance details.

We hope this guide was helpful and you feel prepared to trade-in your RV. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff at Lone Star RV. We are here to help you with all of your recreational vehicle needs. Whether you want to learn more about trading in your camper or you’re looking to buy a brand new rig, you’ll find everything you’re looking for at our location in Houston, Texas near Katy. We’ll get you on the road and ready for your next adventure!