Finding the right RV dealer is just as important as finding the right motorhome. You want experts that you can trust with the right responsiveness and services you need. There are good reasons people believe the negative stereotypes out there! It can be hard to find a dealer that inspires trust and also has a wide selection of models and the services you need.
So what are the most important things to look for in choosing an RV dealer? Here are critical questions you should ask while checking out and selecting a dealership.
What’s the RV Dealer’s History?
Usually, RV dealers with a long history have stayed in business because they’ve earned customers’ trust and have a lot of experience to answer all of your questions. Also be sure to check how long the owner has had the business—dealerships that are under new management or ownership could have a history of trouble that you’ll want to avoid.
An additional thing to consider is how the business is run. Are the owners in the store every day, or are they an absentee owner pulling strings from a vacation home? Owners that are in the dealership every day have a tremendous impact on the way that they do business and the customer service that you’ll receive.
Will They Service Your RV?
Routine maintenance is a must, but not every motorhome dealer has the capacity to provide service. They’re limited by the number of technicians and service stalls they have onsite. Make sure the dealership staffs top-quality professionals to fully service your RV. How many service days does the dealer have, and will you be able to get in during the busy season?
Another consideration is whether you can get service while you’re on the road. If you’re traveling and you’re not near your local dealership, how will you get serviced if something happens? Find out if the dealership is affiliated with any other dealers. Colton RV is part of a dealer group similar to a co-op, called the Priority RV Network. There are over 150 locations in North America, so you can travel nearly anywhere in the country and get service support from this network of private dealers. It can provide great peace of mind to know you’re covered while you’re far from home.
Does the Dealership Care About You, or the Sale?
Sales staff should help you find the right RV to fit your needs and lifestyle, not try to sell you on the priciest model. They should act as consultants.
Motorhomes are a lot different than other vehicles, and newbie RVers need to know how to operate and care for their new home away from home. Look for a dealer that will take the time to educate you—during your decision stage and while you’re buying.
You should also get a thorough, customized orientation that’s based on your knowledge and experience with RVs.
One way we help ensure our customers get the most out of their RV is by providing them with a year’s subscription to Coach-Net for free. Coach-Net is a lot like OnStar for RVs, and it provides an extra assurance that our customers are always within reach of help if they need it.
What’s the Word on the Street?
Find out which dealerships are being talked about most and which ones get the most love from their customers. RVers love passing on tips and advice to anyone who’s interested, so you’re sure to get the scoop on all your local RV dealers.
What’s Your Own Experience With Them Like?
Check out the website—you’ll get a good feel for the business there. Also visit the business in person and ask the staff lots of questions—not just salespeople, but reception and service staff as well. Check your pressure gauge—are you feeling pressured into purchasing before you’re ready? Are they trying to upsell, or to educate you on what you really need?
Trust your gut. A good, well-kept store is a reflection of the dealership. It should look bright and clean and you should see smiling faces. That says something about how the ownership cares about your experience with them.
Finding the right RV dealer is just as important as finding the right RV. If you’re happy with the dealer, you’ll always be happy with the RV you drive off in.
Next Steps
- Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.
- Make your RV dreams a reality—download the RV Resource Guide.
- Shopping for an RV? Check out our inventory!
