Reliability of (newer) used motorhomes?

Question

My family (a wife, 4year old, 2 big dogs) is moving across the country, and the dogs are too old and big to go by airplane. My wife is suggesting either we motorhome across the usa in a class a or class c, or get a towing package for minivan and tow a pop up camper.

I'm trying to decide whether to go for the pop up or the rv.

My question is, are class a/class c motorhomes reliable? If I have one that is approved by a mechanic, can i assume it won't break down for a 2,800 mile trip? Or are they like boats, where anything and everything can go wrong on them at any time? Whatever we get, we're going to sell when we reach our destination. We have budgeted money for gas, but unexpected breakdowns would kill our budget and get us stuck. Thanks!

Answer 1

I have to assume that you already own the mini-van.  The first thing you need to find out, is how much it can tow, as it is equipped right now...and that can be a big difference between makes, models, engine sizes and if equipped with a factory tow package (if offered) or not.  That might settle the issue right there about the pop-up.

A factory tow package on the average vehicle includes much more than just the hitch and wiring.  It usually will also include:  larger tires, a larger radiator, a larger radiator fan blade, HD shocks & springs, HD wiring, a transmission cooler and an oil pump cooler...as well as the hitch and the electrical connection.  If you needed to add all of this, it would cost a fortune.

What I don't think you've put into your budget is the depreciation on the motorhome that you're going to experience...you're still going to probably sell it for less than what you paid for it...and don't forget that you're going to have to tag & title it and insure it.

Let me throw out a 3rd option.  Maybe consider renting a Class C from Cruise America,,,they're one of the biggest national RV Rental companies around...and it just might come out better just renting and not worrying about the buying & selling issue...and if it breaks down, then it's on them, not you...and they allow pets in their vehicles...and they are able to offer one-way rentals.

It's not a smart finanical decision to buy an RV for just one trip.

Answer 2

I would vote for a pop-up.  Your minivan will be a lot more reliable than any big rv would be.  We have used our pop-up, and love it.  But we only go on short weekend campouts.  Good Luck.