If You Can't Afford an RV Inspection Then You Can't Afford to Buy an RV

Buying an RV without inspection is a gamble—here’s why:

Buying an RV of any kind is exciting: vacations, freedom, adventure. But many buyers are tempted to skip the pre-purchase inspection to save money OR they truly can’t afford the inspection cost. If you can’t afford the cost of a proper inspection, that’s a red flag: you probably don’t have the budget cushion required to maintain or repair the RV.

If you have the money and you don’t want to pay for the inspection- then get ready to spend that money and then some very shortly down the road. 

Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Matters

A pre-purchase inspection- similar to a house inspection but way more thorough finds and identifies issues with the following: 

• Roof leaks, delamination, water damage

• Slide-out mechanisms, awnings

• Mechanical systems: engine, transmission (for motorhomes), generator

• House-systems: plumbing, waste, fresh water, water heater

• Chassis and suspension red flags (for towables)

• Electrical and HVAC systems

• Tires

• Signs of prior damage, poor maintenance, deferred repairs

In many cases these are expensive to fix. The inspection cost is small compared to the alternative. 

How Much Does an RV Inspection Cost in 2025?

The cost of an RV inspection in 2025 varies depending on the RV type, inspection depth, and the inspector’s credentials.

• Travel trailers & fifth wheels: $400–$900

• Motorhomes (Class A, B, C): $700–$1,500+ for full inspections

• Fluid analysis (engine, generator, transmission): $55–$150 per sample

• Travel fees: May apply if the inspector travels outside their regular service area

High-end inspections—especially for large diesel pushers—can exceed $2,000, but this level of detail can uncover issues that would cost far more down the road.

Common Repairs and Estimated Cost:

• The engine or transmission in a Class A motorhome can cost $1,400 to $30,000+ depending on extent.

• Roof-mounted A/C units: expect $1,500 to $8,400+ for serious issues.

• Roof replacement or major roof leak repair ranks among the most expensive: roof replacement costs often $3,000 to $8,000+.

• Common “medium” issues: Slide-out seals or motor/gearbox: $600 to $1,200 or more.

If You Can’t Pay for the Inspection — Step Back

If the inspection fee—even though modest relative to overall cost—is something you can’t or won’t spend, consider this:

• You don’t have room in your budget for contingencies → risk of being underwater right away.

• You may not be ready for RV ownership. The lifestyle comes with hidden costs, not just purchase price.

• So if you can’t afford the inspection, the likelier scenario is you’ll be “stretching” your finances from day one—and that’s a bad place.

If you can’t afford that inspection cost, be honest: you probably can’t afford the RV. We recommend you set your budget properly:

purchase price + inspection + reserve for repairs + ongoing maintenance + insurance + campsite/storage/travel costs.

Take action today:

• Schedule a certified RV inspector for any used/new-used RV you’re considering.

• Get the inspection report, use it to negotiate or walk away.

• Build a repair/maintenance reserve fund.

• If you’re not in a position to afford inspection/repairs, wait, save, plan — when you’re ready, you’ll enjoy the RV lifestyle rather than be stressed by it.

Before you sign on the dotted line and take delivery of your dream RV, spend the money for a thorough pre-purchase inspection. We recommend going to RV Help to find a certified inspector in your area or if you’re in Texas call us 866-46-5264 and we’d love to help you out! 

Learn more about RV Inspections here