Dreaming about van life but not ready to splurge on a brand-new rig? Buying a used van can be a smart way to save money and still get the perfect platform for your adventures. That said, a van is a big investment and the wrong buy can turn your dream into a headache. Here are our top tips for buying a used van with confidence.

1. Know Your Needs First

Before you start scrolling classifieds or marketplace listings, ask yourself:

How many miles are you comfortable with?
Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or with pets?
Will you be going off-grid for days at a time?
Do you need AWD to access places you want to go?

Having clarity on your must-haves will help narrow your search and keep you from overbuying (or underbuying).

2. Check for Rust

Rust is one of the biggest deal-breakers when it comes to vans. Pay special attention to:

Wheel wells
Undercarriage
Door frames and seals
Roof seams

A little surface rust can be managed, but structural rust is expensive and difficult to repair.

3. Review Service Records

A van with a solid service history is worth more than one with shiny rims and a new paint job. Look for:

Regular oil changes
Transmission service
Timing belt replacements (if applicable)
Any records of major repairs

This gives you a better sense of how the van was cared for, and what surprises might lie ahead.

4. Consider Mileage in Context

High mileage isn’t always a red flag if the van has been well-maintained. For example, a Sprinter with 100k highway miles and full service records may be a safer bet than one with 80k miles and spotty maintenance. But also remember that you are going to be putting a lot of $$$ inside this van so the chassis needs to last. Don’t do a $80k build on a vehicle that is going to be broken down in a month. And consider extended warranty options if available.

5. Budget Beyond the Purchase

Don’t blow your entire budget on the van itself. Set aside funds for:

Immediate repairs/maintenance
Insurance and registration
Your upfit and custom adjustments

A van in good condition plus a thoughtful upfit = years of adventure ahead.

Final Thoughts

Buying a used van can be the first step to building your dream rig, if you take the time to do it right. Look past shiny exteriors and focus on maintenance, condition, and how the van fits your needs. With the right buy, you’ll have a solid foundation to create a build that’s safe, comfortable, and ready for the road ahead.

Ready to upfit your van? Book a consult with us today, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life.

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