How to Find RV History - "Carfax" for RV's?

[Summit1]

After reading some posts from several RV/TT'ers who bought used units - many were urged to do so as a price savings - I have seen several posts from some folks who have questions about the history of the unit. This made me curious... is there something like Carfax that applies to RV's and TT's that would show the initial and subsequent sale dates and if the unit has had any major repairs. It seems these folks and those considering a used RV/TT may benefit from such a service.

I bought a very slightly used V-Lite, and so far, it has been great; no doubts or concerns here. Based on this, I would recommend to other that they at least consider something like this when buying. A means of verifying the above information would be helpful to them.

[asquared]

I have never seen or heard of an RV database like carfax.

[B47]

Originally Posted by asquared

I have never seen or heard of an RV database like carfax.

X2. Goggle might help.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by asquared

I have never seen or heard of an RV database like carfax.

x3

[Summit1]

Originally Posted by B47

X2. Goggle might help.

I will have to get a pair.

[eye95]

Originally Posted by asquared

I have never seen or heard of an RV database like carfax.

Probably because RVs don't change hands to the same extent that cars do and because RVs probably don't survive accidents at the same rate that cars do.

[Oaklevel]

There is no data base that I am aware of, cars are a different animal all together. Many small RV dealers barely have web sites let alone have a desire to be tied into a reporting data base. When I go to my RV dealer for repairs nothing goes in a computer for a trail.........

Carfax is only as good as the data that is in a national data base. I know of a car or should I say two cars married into to one that car carfax reported as no accidents.....

[Summit1]

Originally Posted by Oaklevel

There is no data base that I am aware of, cars are a different animal all together. Many small RV dealers barely have web sites let alone have a desire to be tied into a reporting data base. [emoji106] When I go to my RV dealer for repairs nothing goes in a computer for a trail.........

Carfax is only as good as the data that is in a national data base. I know of a car or should I say two cars married into to one that car carfax reported as no accidents.....

Exactly. Carfax has always been very basic, and with data of dubious integrity. I am surprised an effective and more accurate competitor has not shown up yet.

[TeachTexas]

As long as the data reporting is mainly voluntary there will never be a truly good site but at least it is something.

[poppytoymaker]

I would think any major damage would be reported by the insurance companies to the state motor vehicle bureau's and be picked up by car-fax or what ever other company offers the same service. Major physical damage is probably the only info you could get.

[TeachTexas]

Originally Posted by poppytoymaker

I would think any major damage would be reported by the insurance companies to the state motor vehicle bureau's and be picked up by car-fax or what ever other company offers the same service. Major physical damage is probably the only info you could get.

I think the only time they report it is if it changes the title(i.e. salvage, etc.)

[Supersprink]

When I bought my MH solera 24R I googled the vin number and found that I was the third title holder. I also checked Kelly Blue book to make sure I was paying a fair price. Alas No Carfax on MH

[Oaklevel]

Originally Posted by poppytoymaker

I would think any major damage would be reported by the insurance companies to the state motor vehicle bureau's and be picked up by car-fax or what ever other company offers the same service. Major physical damage is probably the only info you could get.

Only if it is a total loss would it be reported to the DMV, here anyway, major vehicle damage is not reported to DMV .

[jkoenig24]

Carfax is really NOT that reliable for cars. Reporting problems is NOT mandatory. Many problems are either delayed in hitting Carfax or, not reported at all.

[LannyCox]

Given that there apparently is no database similar to CarFax for RVs, what are the Pros and Cons regarding the purchase of a "Preowned" motorhome from the Owner versus a Dealer?

[rsdata]

what are the Pros and Cons regarding the purchase of a "Preowned" motorhome from the Owner versus a Dealer

Unless you are buying the used RV from your parents, probably none...

[Delco Bobby]

I used www.instavin.com to get reports on several used units I was considering. Better than nothing and more than the dealer may say.

That was a few years ago.

[updhaul]

First a more universal title and registration process would have to be established and maintained in all of the states. Only larger insurance and warranty claims would dependably show along with registration changes and pending recall completions. Its surprising insurance, manufacturers and dealers have not created a better system.