A Guide to Viewing, Inspecting, and Buying a Campervan with Confidence

A step-by-step guide to viewing, inspecting, and buying your campervan with confidence.

** This guide covers inspection of the vehicle, not the camper interior (electrical/plumbing/safety) which we cover in our Free Campervan Buyers Guide.

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Buying the right van (or campervan) is the most important step in your camper journey. A solid, reliable van will save you time, money, and headaches during your build and for years to come.

In this section, we’ll cover what to inspect when viewing a van in person, what questions to ask, and how to spot common issues before you commit.

Step 1: Visual Inspection of the Bodywork

Rust is the #1 enemy of second-hand vans, especially in Ireland’s damp climate.

Key areas to check for rust or damage:

• Wheel arches and sills: These get wet from road spray and salt. Look for bubbling paint, holes, or flaking metal.

• Door bottoms and hinges: Check inside and out for rust or damage.

• Floor and chassis: If possible, look under the van or get a mechanic to inspect the chassis rails.

• Around the windscreen and windows: Rust can start here and cause leaks.

• Roof and gutters: Check for dents, signs of leaks, or corrosion around roof racks or vents.

Step 2: Listen to the Engine and Test Drive

Ask to start the van from cold (feel the engine when you arrive on the test drive to ensure it hasn't been running for a while). If the van has a starter problem, the seller could start the engine before you arrive, to prevent the issue happening during your viewing.

• Does the engine start easily?

• Are there any strange noises (knocking, ticking, rattling)?

• Is the idle smooth or uneven?

• Check for exhaust smoke colour: blue or black smoke can indicate engine problems.

During the test drive:

• Does the van pull evenly and accelerate smoothly?

• Are the brakes responsive without squealing or pulling to one side?

• Does the steering feel tight and responsive?

• Listen for clunks or rattles over bumps.

• Test all gears and the clutch for smooth engagement.

• Leave the van running for a while in idle, check for overheating.

Step 3: Check the Paperwork

• Service history: Is there a full or partial service history?

• CVRT: Check the expiry date and if any advisories were noted.

• VRT receipts: If imported, verify customs clearance.

• Ownership: Confirm the seller’s identity and that the van isn’t stolen or has outstanding finance.

Step 4: Watch for Common Red Flags

• Van smells strongly of damp or mildew — could mean water leaks.

• Very strong smells of air freshener - could be trying to mask smells.

• Odd smells (fuel, burnt oil) — could mean engine or fuel issues.

• Multiple owners in a short time — seller might be hiding problems.

• Salvage or insurance write-off status.

• Missing or replaced VIN plates.

• Signs of welding or patch repairs without paperwork.

Step 5: Mechanical & Electrical Checks

If you’re not confident inspecting mechanicals, bring a trusted mechanic or knowledgeable friend.

Ask about:

• Timing belt history

• Brake condition and fluid levels

• Battery age and condition

• Lights, indicators, and dashboard warning lights

• Suspension and shocks condition

Check the Vin on the vehicle matches the Vin on the log book. The Vin is also known as the Chassis number.

Top Tip - Anyone can grab a bottle of Tippex and write a number on the engine. It does NOT mean the timing belt has been changed. You need to see receipts for work carried out and call the garage to check.

Top Tip - Heavy grooves on the brake discs can be an indication that they will soon need replacing.

We know buying a second-hand van can be overwhelming - rust, dodgy paperwork, hidden engine issues, and sellers who aren’t telling the full story.

That’s exactly why we do things differently. At Trekvana, we source clean, reliable vans and carry out full conversions ourselves in our Galway workshop. Every van is professionally inspected, fully serviced, and built to handle Irish weather, rough roads, and real adventures.

If you want to skip the stress and start your camper journey with confidence, we’ve got ready-to-go vans that tick all the boxes - no guesswork, no nasty surprises.

See our current vans for sale and take the first step toward your dream campervan - the right way.