Hi everyone.
Whats the consensus about buying a caravan at WeBuyCars?
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Hi everyone.
Whats the consensus about buying a caravan at WeBuyCars?
The engine may fail but the rest should be fine
Johan Groenewald
Oldish Wheeler
With more reasons to sing than to fear
Polo Pickup V6
Metalian Maxi
And a couple of quick Subarus
I bought my Conqueror caravan through WBC.
I knew what I wanted, what to look out for, common issues and what should be included, what are extras, what is acceptable in terms of condition and what fair pricing should be.
As others have said the salesman really dont know that much about caravans (in my experience) and in my case I knew what I wanted so the lack of the typical salesman "sales" talk and opinions was actually appreciated. The assistance provided after I made my decision was quick and effective.
Their prices are generally really good, but its important to do your homework beforehand. Some of the vans I saw at the dome I wouldn't touch let alone sleep in, but there are some great finds once in awhile.
From purchase to collection my experience was really good.
Its a jokeOriginally Posted by Nick83;533712[emoji2397
To me anything is suspect. Been there. a few times for trailers and campers and everything is suspect. Thats me.
Nobody can help you - caveat emptor.
If you need music in the bush or on the beach, you’re missing the point.
Some seriously good deals on caravans and trailers at WBC. Just do your due diligence - make sure tents and other accessories are all there and in good working order. Also for caravans, make sure there is no wood rot as this can be a wallet killer.
If numbers match and caravan is in great shape, why not? I have seen many a POS at "caravan dealers" that is beyond shite.
HENK
I went caravan viewing at WBC Dome branch the week before Christmas, sales person was arrogant and couldn't care less about the product he was selling, he had very little knowledge about the stock on floor arguing that he can't be expected to keep track of everything due to the turnaround rate of stock. Sales person / WBC doesn't have a detail list of what is included with each caravan thus you have to unpack and check what is included and what not. WBC business model allows them to not provide the 6 month guarantee required by the CPA and nobody at WBC Dome could tell me if one can buy an aftermarket guarantee on caravans or not (different people had conflicting ideas on this - no one had facts/documents on hand).
Neil
I would rather go to Gumtree or the forum and look there. Visit a dealer too to see what is on offer.
WBC nice to walk around kill time kicking tyres but the moment an ignoramus comes to "help" you leave.
2018 Hilux Dakar fully kitted.
2016 Metalian Parthian
2021 Suzuli Swift 1.2 GLX Swambo's shopping trolley.
Unfortunately due to the monopoly they have, and the amount of sales, they couldn't care less about customer service. The attitude is if you do not buy it, next guy probable will.
With that said, if you are willing to look past customer service, and are willing to put in some time and effort, some good bargains can be bought from them yes. Every now and then there is a real gem, clean, well looked after caravan for a good deal.
If however, you are interested in buying a solid caravan, with good service and backup, and willing to pay a little more for that peace of mind, than rather skip WBC, and have a look at the focused caravan dealers.
'21 Amarok v6
'24 Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5GL Auto
'66 Datsun Bluebird
Sprite Scout
I've had the same experience at WBC. The salesmen are typical nonsense used car salesmen, when you actually have one that gives you a second look! I actually prefer doing my own thing and only when I'm interested in something, would summon one to come and move or start, or open up a vehicle to inspect further. There are exceptions and once in a while, one would stand out above the rest! I've actually looked at a BMW 1200 GS and the salesman recommended me to pass on it, as he's checked it through and there were some hidden faults the buyers missed.
Having said that, you can pick up nice bargains if you know your story. I've bought, fixed up and sold a few vehicles like that. I would usually rather pay and take a technical person with me, to do a proper check and listen, but yes, you cannot always hear or see internal abuse or faults, so it remains a bit of a gamble. The same should go with caravans, rather pay someone to double check, before you pull the trigger and compare. Sometimes saving several thousand, gives a buffer when you have to do minor repairs and you still score. As they say, caveat emptor!
I very recently spoke to a sales manager at a big outdoor/caravan shop in GP.
He says that wbc are killing them by taking over the used caravan market.
Difference is wbc buy and sell immediately without even washing the van.
Caravan dealers buy then fix/revamp/replace/clean and then sell with a guarantee and good after sales service.
I know where i will buy.
Last edited by Damdan; 2025/01/06 at 09:46 AM.
Good day,
I bought a Conqueror Courage from one of the WBC branches in Cape Town (N7 branch) in Feb 2024. Like the others stated on the forum: They don't know much of caravans/trailers at all. Thus the prices are really cheap. Yup, they don't wash and do any maintenance on them. You get it as is. But the other score is that they don't empty the trailer either. I got loads of "extras" inside the trailer as it was never cleaned out. I did go and inspect myself and did set up the tent on the showroom floor to ensure that there were no glaring faults. There were electrical faults that I had to sort out. But with a trailer it is easy. A caravan maybe more difficult. The point made of buying a properly restored caravan/trailer from a formal caravan sales person is very valid.
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