Whether you and your spouse use a recreational vehicle (RV) to travel around the country in retirement or prefer to take a few long, relaxing RV vacations with your family each summer, you may put your RV through its paces. Like other types of vehicles, an RV requires regular mechanical maintenance and may even need an engine or transmission overhaul once it has traveled a certain number of miles. In addition, the electrical components within the RV itself to control air temperature, lighting, and the other features you enjoy can also require periodic maintenance and repair. If you feel your RV has spent more time in the shop than on the road lately, you may be wondering whether it's time to trade it in for a newer model. Read on to learn more about some of the factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your family's RV.

When is repair the best option?

There are some clear advantages to repairing (rather than replacing) an RV you've had for years, particularly if you are the original owner. Knowing how an RV has been treated and maintained over the years can give you a good window into potential future costs, and purchasing a used RV that has been "broken in" by someone else may simply be trading your own known mechanical problems for another's unknown ones. You'll often also have the peace of mind of dealing with a single mechanic or shop (if you're able to have your RV serviced in town rather than on the road) who knows your RV's past and is in a good position to predict the need for any future repairs. 

When may trading in your RV and purchasing a new (or used) model be a better choice? 

While repair can often make sense, in some cases it may be less aggravation (and money) for you to trade in your existing RV and put its trade-in value toward the purchase of a newer one. This is especially true if recent changes in your family size or vacation structure means you no longer need a full-sized RV and may be able to get by with a slide-in or pop-up camper instead. If you've recently had a pricey repair (like an engine or transmission replacement) and see nothing but more of the same down the road, it may be time to bid "bon voyage" to your trusty RV and look at your purchase options. Contact a company like Auto-Truck Services Inc to learn more.

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