Buying an RV in Goshen
Goshen is the county seat of Elkhart County, where many of the country's RV manufacturers build their travel trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes. That means a lot of dealer inventory within a short drive, and plenty of competition on price.
New or used?
A new RV comes with a manufacturer's warranty and the latest floorplans, but it loses value quickly in the first few years. A well-kept used RV that's two to five years old can save a lot of money. Just budget for an inspection and any deferred maintenance.
Before you sign
- Check the weights. Compare the RV's GVWR and hitch weight to your tow vehicle's towing and payload capacity, not only its advertised tow rating.
- Get an independent inspection. A certified RV inspector can find roof leaks, delamination and electrical problems before you buy.
- Attend the walkthrough (PDI). Test every slide, appliance, pump and light at the dealership and get problems written down before you take delivery.
- Ask about warranty service. Find out who will do warranty repairs near your home, not just near the dealer.
- Shop the off-season. Late fall and winter often bring better prices on the outgoing model year.
RV service & repair
Even a new RV needs regular upkeep, and northern Indiana's weather makes some jobs more urgent. Plan for these every year:
- Roof and seal inspection. Most RV water damage starts at the roof, windows or seams. Check sealant twice a year and reseal as needed.
- Winterizing and de-winterizing. Blow out or antifreeze the plumbing before the first hard freeze, and flush and sanitize it in spring.
- Brakes, bearings and tires. Repack wheel bearings and check brakes regularly. Replace tires by age, not just by tread.
- Appliances and LP system. Have the furnace, water heater, fridge and propane lines checked for leaks and proper operation.
Choosing a service shop
Ask whether the shop is authorized for your brand's warranty work, how long the current wait is, and whether they offer mobile service. In busy spring months, booking early can save weeks.
RV storage in Goshen
Many neighborhoods and HOAs limit RV parking, so most owners store off-site. Your three main choices:
Outdoor
Lowest cost. Exposed to sun, snow and ice, so use a breathable cover and tire covers.
Covered
A roof overhead keeps off snow load and UV. A good middle ground on price.
Indoor
Best protection from freeze-thaw cycles and pests. Costs the most and fills up early in fall.
Questions to ask a storage facility
- Is the lot gated, lit and on camera?
- Can I get to my RV any time, or only during office hours?
- Are there electric hookups for battery maintainers?
- Is there a dump station and fresh water on site?
Renting an RV
Renting is the best way to find out which type of RV you like before spending tens of thousands of dollars. Try a travel trailer one weekend and a motorhome the next.
- Check what's included. Ask about mileage and generator-hour limits, kitchen kits, linens and cleaning fees.
- Confirm insurance. Your auto policy may not cover a rented motorhome. Ask the rental company what their coverage includes.
- Book early for summer. Rentals go fast for summer weekends and the county fair season.
- Ask about towables. If you have a capable truck, renting a trailer can cost much less than a motorhome.
Visiting RV country
If you're coming to Goshen to shop for an RV, make a trip of it:
- RV/MH Hall of Fame in nearby Elkhart has vintage RVs and exhibits on the industry's history.
- Factory tours. Several area manufacturers offer tours. Check schedules ahead of time, as they change seasonally.
- Pumpkinvine Nature Trail connects Goshen with Middlebury and Shipshewana through farm country.
- Elkhart County 4-H Fair is held in Goshen every summer and is one of the largest county fairs in the country.
- Downtown Goshen has local restaurants, shops and a farmers market.
Common questions
Can I buy an RV directly from the factory in Goshen?
Generally no. Most RV manufacturers in Elkhart County sell through authorized dealers, so you'll buy from a dealership even if the RV was built a few miles away. Some manufacturers offer factory tours, which are a good way to compare build quality before you shop.
When is the best time to buy an RV in northern Indiana?
Late fall and winter are often the best times to negotiate, because dealers want to clear out the previous model year's stock and fewer shoppers are on the lots.
Should I get an independent RV inspection?
Yes, especially for a used RV. A certified independent inspector checks the roof, seals, frame, appliances and electrical systems and can find water damage or problems that aren't visible on a walkthrough.
Do I need indoor RV storage in Goshen?
Northern Indiana winters bring snow, ice and freeze-thaw cycles that are hard on roofs, seals and tires. Indoor or covered storage costs more but protects the RV better. If you store outdoors, winterize the plumbing and use a breathable cover.