Let’s face it, buying a motorhome is a big deal. Reliability is everything when planning coastal cruises, Outback adventures or just getting away from it all. The last thing you want is to break down out in the middle of nowhere, miles away from the next servo after all. What does this mean for you, and how do you know which motorhomes are truly dependable? I will explain to you what makes a motorhome reliable talk about a few top brands and, finally, provide you with a couple of tips to make the right decision.
What Makes a Motorhome Reliable?
Reliability isn’t just about having an engine that won’t cough and splutter halfway up a hill. It’s about every part of your motorhome pulling its weight – from the chassis to the toaster (yes, even the toaster matters on a long trip). Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Build quality: It takes a well built motorhome – I mean, sturdy materials that can take potholes and corrugated roads without falling apart.
- Engine performance: The engine plays a big part in any motorhome, one that must be efficient on fuel and able to cover long distances.
- Durability: Every part, from the upholstery to the cabinetry must be able to handle wear and tear.
- Serviceability: Do you easily find replacement parts or service centres? This is especially important when you’re exploring remote parts of Australia.
- Manufacturer’s reputation: It’s always good to bet on a brand that delivers consistently good motorhomes with glowing reviews.
Common Features of Reliable Motorhomes
What separates the reliable motorhomes from the “why-is-this-leaking-again” crowd? A few universal traits stand out:
- Solid chassis and drivetrain: This is the foundation of your motorhome – if it’s weak, everything else is in trouble.
- Dependable electrical systems: Flickering lights or temperamental appliances in a motorhome will soon try your patience.
- Safety tech: Stability control, airbags and reversing cameras make a world of difference. In fact, motorhomes built for Australian conditions – rugged terrain and variable climates – are worth particularly considering.
Top Brands Known for Reliability
There are a couple of reliable motorhome brands out there. Globally, you’ll find names like Winnebago, Airstream, and Hymer cropping up in discussions. Auto-Trail is a very popular brand of motorhomes in Australia, and for good reason; these new motorhomes are of exceptional build quality, and are designed to suit Australia’s unique conditions.
If you are entering the Australia market then you can also depend on brands like Jayco, Avan or Avida. These Australian motorhome names have long been a staple of motorhome culture in Australia and their reputation for durability assures that it will often hold true over periods of time.
Class-Specific Reliability
Not all motorhomes are created equal, and reliability can vary depending on the type:
- Class A: Luxurious but complex. More systems mean more maintenance, but they’re great for comfort.
- Class B: Campervans with simplicity on their side. Fewer moving parts usually mean fewer headaches.
- Class C: The sweet spot. With the reasonable features, size, and durability, these motorhomes prove to be a good value for money for families as well as long term travellers.
The Class C motorhome world is full of excellent examples of a model that strikes this balance just right, and Auto-Trail’s Delaware and Scout are stellar examples.
Real-World Examples
Speaking of Class C, let’s take a closer look at the Auto-Trail Delaware and Scout:
- Auto-Trail Delaware: The Delaware has been engineered for comfort and durability and works great for families. It’s got space, a full kitchen, and enough storage for everything – even that inflatable flamingo you probably don’t need but will definitely bring.
- Auto-Trail Scout: The Scout is your best mate for big adventures. With plenty of room and a design that’s both practical and stylish, it’s a motorhome you can depend on.
You can get models from Jayco, Avan or Avida for most budgets and they are versatile and reliable. These brands deliver great value, whether you’re after a basic campervan or one with plenty of features.
When you need to select a reliable motor home there are some important things to consider.
Picking the right motorhome doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Do your homework: Look up reviews and reliability scores of the models you’re thinking about.
- Inspect the build: Take a look at the materials, at the finish, and how solid everything feels. Walk away.
- Think about parts and service: Are repairs easy to get done if necessary? Availability matters, especially in Australia.
- Take it for a spin: You’ll learn a lot about how the motorhome handles and if it feels like ‘the one’ on a test drive.
Long Term Reliability Tips for Maintenance
Even the most reliable motorhome will require a little TLC now and again. A few maintenance habits can go a long way:
- Make it a habit to check your tyres, fluids and batteries before any big trip.
- To avoid wear and tear keep the interior clean and well ventilated.
- Regular servicing is a must – it’s far better to prevent the problems rather than fix them on the road.
Why Reliability Matters in Australia
Australia’s vast and varied landscape is a motorhome lover’s dream – but it’s also a challenge. Whether you are venturing out along long stretches of remote highways or across the corrugated tracks of the Outback, you are going to need a vehicle that can cope.
These challenges are what reliable motorhomes, such as those from Auto Trail, take into consideration, when developing their products. Built to move you in the adventure of life.
Final Thoughts
The unsung hero of motorhome travel is reliability. Without it, you have it all in your head – you’re stressed and keyed up… you’re not taking the time to relax and simply enjoy the journey knowing your vehicle is capable to the task. Whether you’re looking at a sleek Class B, a roomy Class C, or a luxury Class A, reliability matters.
Our motorhomes are designed with reliability and comfort in mind, and at EliteRV we’re proud to offer a range of models. If it’s a brand new Auto-Trail, a reliable used motorhome from Jayco, Avan or Avida, we’ve got it.
Ready to Find Your Reliable Motorhome?
Here you can explore our range of new Auto-Trail motorhomes or browse our trusted used models. Whatever way you choose to spend your time in a motorhome, we’ll be able to assist you in finding the ideal home for your requirements.
