Hello! I've been doing lots of research into buying a campervan and it's frying my brain! My budget is pretty small so I'd rather get a van that's in good knick that is basic but liveable (I.e. already insulated, electrics done) that I can do up as I go. I would like the option to sell it eventually and upgrade.
My question is, how old is too old and how much mileage is too much mileage?
I've seen some that I like within my budget, for example a 2010 Fiat Ducato, 110 miles for 5.5k. Most others I've seen that I like and are in my price range are 2007 and under, roughly same amount of mileage.
I have considered buying a more recent, less driven van that's not converted and trying to do it myself but to be honest I think its more than I can handle at the moment.
Does anyone have any advice? Much appreciated!
Hi
I would say if you're budget is around £5k and you can get a van with around 100k miles on the clock that would be fine. You'll find most "modern" diesel engines can go way above 100k miles as long as they have been looked after. Ideally you'd want a good service history with plenty of receipts to show previous work done. If possible try and take someone with you that knows what to look for, things like rust, leaks, clutch and gearbox etc
I wouldn't say any van is too old as long as it's been looked after, ours is a 1999 and is perfect for us.
If you find a van you're happy with and it's a bit older with higher mileage get it checked over and if it's all good go for it.
Personally I'd rather have an older van that's been well looked after than a newer one with Very high mileage but that's just me.
Take a look here for some tips: https://www.vanlife.uk/post/buyers-guide-to-buying-a-used-campervan