FAQ - RV SHOPPING, FINANCE AND ASSET PROTECTION

Should I buy a new RV or a pre-owned RV?

Both new and pre-owned RVs have their advantages, it really depends on your budget, preferences, and how you plan to use the RV.

Buying new:

• Full factory warranty

• Latest technology, features, and floorplans

• No wear-and-tear from previous owners

• Higher upfront cost, but peace of mind knowing it’s never been used
  
  

Buying pre-owned:

• More budget-friendly

• Slower depreciation

• May already have upgrades or accessories installed

• Risk of hidden issues if not properly inspected

Tip: If you're considering a pre-owned RV that’s not from Tri City RV, we strongly recommend getting a third-party inspection. Not all dealers or private sellers have the same quality standards as we do. At Tri City RV, all our pre-owned units are certified—we do not retail anything with known water damage or structural concerns.

What is the best time of the year to buy a new RV?

While there are seasonal sales and promotional periods—like end-of-year clearance events or early spring show specials, the best time to buy is when you’re fully ready, financially prepared, and focused on making memories.

The truth is that the perfect moment isn’t always about timing the market. It’s about when you're ready to unplug, explore, and give your family experiences they’ll never forget.

Tip: If you’re looking for deals, late fall and winter can bring discounts on current-year models, while RV shows in early spring often come with limited-time offers and incentives.

How much money do I need to get an RV Loan?

Depending on your credit and the lender, you may be able to qualify for an RV loan with little or even no money down. However, most buyers should expect to put down around 10% to 20% of the purchase price.

Some lenders offer low down payment programs, especially for newer RVs and well-qualified buyers. Others may require more upfront if you’re financing a pre-owned unit or have less-than-perfect credit.

What lenders look at:

• Credit score and history

• Total loan amount

• Type and age of the RV

• Income and debt-to-income ratio
  

Tip: Even if a low or zero-down option is available, putting money down can reduce your monthly payment and lower your long-term interest costs.

What are the hidden costs when buying an RV?

At Tri City RV, we believe in transparent pricing with no surprise fees. Unfortunately, that’s not the case everywhere.

Some large dealerships advertise ultra-low prices to get you in the door, then tack on thousands in hidden charges like “$3,000 camp-ready fees,” prep fees, or other vague add-ons that were never discussed up front.

We don’t believe in that kind of bait-and-switch. If a dealer isn’t upfront during the sale, it’s worth asking yourself, will they be honest when you need help with service or warranty work later?

Tip: Always ask for an out-the-door price in writing and compare what’s included—not just the advertised sticker.

How is RV trade in value determined?

RV trade-in value is based on several key factors, with one of the main tools being the NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) guide, which provides a general book value based on year, make, model, and options.

Other things that affect trade value include:

• Overall condition (interior, exterior, roof, tires, etc.)

• Mileage or usage hours (for motorhomes)

• Signs of damage, leaks, or water exposure

• Market demand and seasonality

• Service history and maintenance
  
  

Tip: Clean, well-maintained RVs with detailed service records usually bring higher trade-in values. If your unit is clean and ready to sell, it’s worth more to a dealer.

What’s the difference between aluminum and wood construction?

The main difference comes down to the framing material used to build the RV’s structure. Aluminum-framed RVs use lightweight metal tubing, while wood-framed RVs use traditional wood studs.

Aluminum frame construction:

• Lighter in weight, which can improve towability and fuel efficiency

• Typically used with laminated fiberglass walls

• Often found in higher-end or modern RVs

Wood frame construction:

• Usually more affordable

• Heavier, which can provide a more solid feel

• Easier to repair in the event of damage

• Typically paired with aluminum siding
  
  

Tip: Neither option is automatically better—it depends on your budget, usage, and towing vehicle. Aluminum frames are great for those who prioritize weight and longevity, while wood frames are often preferred for value and ease of repair.

What kind of roof material are on RV’s?

RV roofs are typically made from one of the following materials:

Rubber (EPDM or TPO):

• Common on many travel trailers and motorhomes

• Lightweight and flexible

• Requires regular inspection and resealing around seams and fixtures

• Can be cleaned and treated with RV-safe products to extend life
  

Fiberglass:

• More rigid and durable

• Often found on higher-end or molded units

• Less prone to punctures but can be heavier

• Easier to clean but may oxidize over time

Aluminum:

• Less common today, but still found on certain models

• Very durable and resistant to UV damage

• Can be noisy in rain and may require more caulking maintenance

Tip: No matter the material, routine roof inspections and proper sealing are key to preventing water damage and extending the life of your RV.

Do you offer a walk through when I purchase an new RV?

Yes, and we go a step further than most. When you purchase a new RV from us, you’ll receive a complete delivery walk-through and something you won’t find at most dealerships in Michigan—a test drive.

Here’s what we include:

• A full, in-person walk-through of your RV at delivery.

• Hands-on instruction for using appliances, hookups, slides, awnings, and more.

• Tips for safe towing, setup, and basic maintenance.

• A chance to ask questions and get real answers from experienced staff.

• A guided test drive, so you can feel how your RV handles before heading out on your own.
  
  

Tip: Before purchasing, ask the dealer if they offer a test drive. If the answer is no, you might want to ask why not. At Tri City RV, it's not optional, it's the standard.

Do you offer a test drive with every RV you sell?

Yes, Tri City RV, a test drive is required with every RV purchase.

Whether you're buying a motorhome or a towable unit, we believe it’s essential that you know how it feels, how it handles, and how it tows before you finalize the deal. It's one of the biggest differences between us and many large dealerships that skip this step entirely.

You’ll be able to:

• Tow the RV with your own vehicle (for travel trailers or fifth wheels)

• Drive the motor home on real roads—not just around the lot

• Ask questions and get honest feedback during the drive

• Confirm you're 100% confident before completing your purchase

Tip: If you're shopping elsewhere, be sure to ask if they allow test drives. If they don’t, ask why. You deserve to know what you're getting into before you sign.

Are the interest rates you offer fixed rates?

Yes, in most cases we use fixed interest rates, meaning your monthly payment stays the same for the life of the loan. This gives you predictability and peace of mind.

The only time we may consider a different structure is if you specifically tell us you plan to pay the loan off early, and the timeline makes sense for a short-term option. In those cases, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed choice.

We never put customers into risky financing just to increase profit. Our goal is to make sure your loan fits your budget, your plans, and your long-term comfort.

What are the interest rates on camper?

RV loan interest rates can vary based on your credit score, loan amount, loan term, and the age of the RV. As of now, most customers can expect rates to range from around 6% to 8% for new units, and slightly higher for pre-owned.

What affects your rate:

• Credit score and credit history

• Down payment amount

• New vs. used camper

• Length of loan (shorter terms usually have lower rates)

• Current national lending rates
  
  

Tip: The better your credit and the more you put down, the lower your interest rate is likely to be. Also, if interest rates fall in the future, you can refinance your RV loan—just like you would with a home or auto loan. We work with multiple lenders to help you get the most competitive rate available based on your situation.

What is the minimum credit score to finance an RV?

While requirements vary by lender, here’s a general breakdown:

• Many lenders prefer a credit score of 660–700 or higher

• A score of 600–650 may still qualify you for an RV loan but often at higher interest rates or with a larger down payment.

• Some lenders accept scores as low as 550, though terms will typically be less favorable

• Elite rates and best terms are usually reserved for scores of 700 and up.

What else lenders consider:

• Down payment amount

• Your credit history and debt-to-income ratio

• Whether the RV is new or used

• Loan term and vehicle age
  

Tip: If your score is under 660, a higher down payment or pre-approval through a credit union can help you secure better terms.

Can I use my own bank for RV financing?

Yes, you’re welcome to use your own bank or credit union to finance your RV.

That said, we work with many of the same major lenders and often offer the exact same rates you get going to them directly. The advantage of financing through us is that we can often waive certain fees, handle all the paperwork in-house, and save you time and hassle.

Tip: Even if you’re pre-approved through your bank, it’s worth comparing options—we may be able to match or beat your rate and make the process smoother.

Can I make extra payments or pay off my RV loan early?

Yes, in most cases you can make extra payments or pay off your RV loan early without any penalties.

Most of the lenders we work with do not charge prepayment penalties, so you’re free to pay down the balance faster, reduce interest over time, or pay it off completely whenever you're ready.

Tip: Making just one or two extra payments per year—or rounding up your monthly payment—can save you hundreds (or even thousands) in interest over the life of the loan.

Will apply for an RV loan affect my credit score?

Yes, applying for an RV loan typically involves a credit check, which may cause a small, temporary dip in your credit score. This is known as a hard inquiry, and it’s standard for any type of vehicle financing.

That said, the impact is usually minor—often just a few points—and short-lived if you're managing your credit responsibly overall.

Tip: We can often run a soft credit preview first, which gives us an idea of where you stand without affecting your score. This helps you shop with confidence before submitting a full application.

Can I get pre-approved before picking a camper?

Yes, absolutely. We can connect you with one of our financing specialists to help you get pre-approved and clear up any grey areas before you even step on the lot.

Getting pre-approved early:

• Gives you a clear budget to shop within

• Help you understand your loan options and estimated payments

• Speeds up the buying process once you find the right RV

• Avoids surprises or delays during final paperwork

Tip: Pre-approval doesn’t lock you into anything, it’s simply a smart way to be prepared and confident when you’re ready to buy.

Can I refinance my RV loan if rates adjust?

Yes, you can refinance your RV loan just like you would a car or home loan. If interest rates drop or your credit improves, refinancing can be a smart way to lower your monthly payment or reduce the total interest you pay overtime.

Reasons people refinance:

• Lower interest rates become available

• Improved credit score since the original loan

• Desire to shorten or extend the loan term

• Lower monthly payment or total cost of ownership

Tip: Even a small drop-in rate can make a big difference over a long-term RV loan. It’s worth checking in once a year to see if refinancing makes sense.

What happens when I want to trade in my RV before the loan is paid off?

You can trade in your RV even if you still owe money on it. When you trade it in, the remaining loan balance is factored into the transaction.

Here’s how it works:

• We’ll appraise your RV and determine its trade-in value

• We’ll contact your lender to get the exact payoff amount

• If your RV is worth more than you owe, the extra value goes toward your next purchase

• If you owe more than it’s worth, the difference can either be rolled into your new loan or covered with a down payment—whichever works best for your situation.
  

Tip: To avoid a big difference later, consider rounding up your monthly payments or making an extra payment when possible. Paying down the loan faster can help you stay ahead of depreciation and make upgrading in the future much easier.

Can I add to the financing extra warranty coverages or service plans?

Yes, you can. Most extended warranties, service contracts, and protection plans can be included in your RV financing. This allows you to roll the cost into your monthly payment instead of paying upfront.

Common add-ons include:

• Extended service contracts (coverage beyond the factory warranty)

• Tire and wheel protection

• Roadside assistance plans

• Interior and exterior protection packages

• Gap coverage (in case of total loss)
  

Tip: Adding coverage to the loan can be a convenient way to protect your investment without a large out-of-pocket cost. Just be sure it aligns with how long you plan to own the RV.

How does Tri City RV’s service department rank against the bigger dealership?

While larger dealerships may have more locations or staff, Tri City RV is focused on changing the standard for RV service.

As a family-owned business, we prioritize quality over volume—our goal is to deliver service that’s personal, consistent, and reliable. We know the frustrations that come with long wait times, poor communication, and lack of follow-through at big-chain dealers. That’s why we built our service department to be different.

What sets us apart:

• Personalized care and direct communication

• Priority scheduling for customers who purchased from us

• A+ satisfaction ratings and long-standing customer loyalty

• A team that takes pride in keeping RVers on the road—not waiting in line

We’re not trying to be the biggest,we’re working every day to be the most trusted. If you're tired of being just a number, we invite you to experience the difference at Tri City RV.