
If your RV is totaled in an accident, you're likely to be left wondering what its salvage value is. This value can vary greatly depending on the age, condition, and make of your RV.
Typically, salvage value is around 10-20% of the RV's pre-accident value. This means if your RV was worth $50,000 before the accident, its salvage value would be around $5,000 to $10,000.
The salvage value is determined by various factors, including the RV's make, model, and year, as well as the extent of the damage.
What Does 'Totaled' Mean?
So, you're wondering what "totaled" means in the context of an RV? It's actually pretty straightforward: a vehicle is considered totaled when its repair costs exceed its actual cash value.
The key phrase here is "actual cash value", which is a crucial factor in determining whether an RV is totaled or not. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's clarify what we mean by "totaled": a vehicle is considered totaled when its repair costs exceed its actual cash value.
Understanding Total Loss
Several factors come into play when determining if an RV is a total loss. The total loss threshold varies by state and insurer but typically ranges from 70% to 100% of the ACV.
The insurer's total loss threshold is a crucial factor in determining if your RV is a total loss. Typically, it ranges from 70% to 100% of the ACV.
To calculate if your RV is a total loss, you need to determine the ACV of your RV, estimate the cost of repairs, and compare the repair cost as a percentage of ACV to the insurer's total loss threshold.
For example, if the ACV of your RV is $50,000 and the cost of repairs is $40,000, the repair cost as a percentage of ACV is 80%. If the insurer's total loss threshold is 75%, your RV would likely be declared a total loss.
Here's a breakdown of the total loss calculation process:
Calculating Value
Calculating the value of an RV can be a complex process, but it's essential to understand the factors that influence its worth. The insurance company's salvage value is the amount they can recoup by selling the damaged RV for parts or scrap.
To determine the total loss calculation, you'll need to know the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your RV, which is typically determined by its age, mileage, condition, and market demand. For example, if the ACV of your RV is $50,000 and the estimated cost of repairs is $40,000, the repair cost as a percentage of ACV would be 80%.
The insurer's total loss threshold varies by state and insurer but typically ranges from 70% to 100% of the ACV. If the repair cost exceeds this threshold, the RV would likely be declared a total loss.
Here are the key factors that determine the value of your RV:
- Age and Mileage: Newer RVs with lower mileage tend to have a higher market value.
- Make and Model: Different RV brands and models have varying popularity and perceived quality.
- Condition: Regular maintenance and care can positively affect the appraisal.
- Upgrades and Modifications: Enhancements or modifications can increase the value of your RV.
- Market Trends: The current state of the RV market can affect the resale value of your RV.
- Amenities and Features: RVs with sought-after amenities may command a higher value.
- Location: The region or area where you are selling your RV can influence its value.
- Documentation: Having thorough documentation can positively impact the perceived value of your RV.
Total Loss Calculation
Calculating the value of an RV can be a complex process, but it's essential to understand the total loss calculation to determine the fair market value.
The first step in calculating the total loss is to determine the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your RV. This is the amount the RV is worth in its current condition.
To calculate the ACV, you can use various methods, such as checking the RV's market value through tools like Kelley Blue Book or NADA Guides.
The total loss calculation involves comparing the cost of repairs to the ACV of the RV. If the repair costs exceed a certain percentage of the ACV, the RV may be declared a total loss.
Here's a simplified example of how the total loss calculation might work:
In the example, the RV's ACV is $50,000, and the repair costs are $40,000. The repair cost as a percentage of ACV is 80%, which exceeds the insurer's total loss threshold of 75%. Therefore, the RV would likely be declared a total loss.
Consistent Clicker Wins
As a consistent clicker, you'll know that patience is key when searching for a great deal on a salvage RV. You should always keep an eye out for a solid auction.

A solid auction can be a diamond in the rough, offering a great value for your money. Some salvage RVs may require more work than you're willing to put in, but waiting long enough and checking often enough will eventually yield a less risky deal.
Avoid projects that will get you in over your head and hold out for the less risky deals. Even the most mechanically-deficient vehicle owner will have an inexpensive option for visiting Mother Nature in comfort and style.
Here are some popular RV brands to look out for in salvage auctions:
- Airstream
- Alfa Romeo
- Coachmen
- Dodge
- Dutchmen
- Fleetwood
- Ford
- Forest River
- Gulf Stream
- Jayco
- Keystone RV
- R-Vision
- Roadmaster
- Skyline
- Spartan
- Starcraft
- Sunnybrook RV
- Toyota
- Winnebago
- Workhorse Custom Chassis
- Yamaha
Selling a Totaled Vehicle
Selling a totaled vehicle can be a daunting task, but understanding the process can make it more manageable.
The total loss threshold varies by state and insurer, but typically ranges from 70% to 100% of the ACV.
To determine if your RV is a total loss, several factors come into play. The total loss calculation involves determining the ACV of your RV, estimating the cost of repairs, and comparing this to the insurer's total loss threshold.
Here's a simplified example of how the total loss calculation might work:
- Determine the ACV of your RV ($50,000)
- Estimate the cost of repairs ($40,000)
- Calculate the repair cost as a percentage of ACV (80%)
- Compare this percentage to the insurer's total loss threshold (75%)
If the repair costs exceed the insurer's threshold, your RV will likely be declared a total loss.
One option for disposing of a totaled RV is to sell it to a junk RV buyer or salvage yard. These businesses specialize in dismantling vehicles to recover scrap metal, RV parts, and other materials.
Before selling your totaled RV to a salvage yard, consider the following:
- Look up the vehicle's value in a valuation guide like NADA.
- Assess what still works in the RV and what the salvage yard could sell at auction.
- Use this information to set your price expectations.
Keep in mind that salvage yards have narrow margins and need to pay someone to dismantle or sell your RV.
Determining Your Vehicle's Worth
Determining your RV's worth is a crucial step in understanding its value. Several factors come into play when determining if an RV is a total loss.
The actual cash value (ACV) of your RV is the current market value, considering depreciation. It's not what you paid for it or what a new model would cost. This value can be influenced by the RV's age and mileage, with newer RVs and lower mileage typically having a higher market value.
The salvage value of your RV is the amount the insurance company could recoup by selling the damaged RV for parts or scrap. This value is also affected by the RV's make and model, with some brands holding their value better than others.
To determine your RV's value, you can use our RV price calculator, which helps you quickly determine the value of various types of vehicles, including Class A RVs, Class B RVs, and travel trailers. Our calculator takes into account various factors, including the RV's condition, upgrades, and modifications.
Understanding what influences the value of your RV is important. Key factors that play a significant role in determining the worth of your recreational vehicle include age and mileage, make and model, condition, upgrades and modifications, market trends, amenities and features, location, and documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions About My Value
We determine the cash value of your RV by considering its type, year, actual condition, special features, and more.
The value of your RV is essential for making informed decisions about buying, selling, or maintaining it. Knowing its current market worth allows you to set realistic prices when selling or trading it in, ensuring you get a fair deal.
Our RV value estimator takes into account real-time market data and market trends regarding used, junk, or salvage RVs. We also consider the year, make, model, condition, and more when determining the cash value of your RV.
You can learn the value of your RV by using our calculator or sending us the information required for a quick appraisal. We work with local and national databases regarding used RVs, wreckage, salvage, junk campers, travel trailers, and fifth wheelers' market trends and prices.
We offer a free and no-obligation valuation service for your RV, and we'll consider its unique features too - even if it's customized but old and unusable.
Some brands keep their worth much better and longer than others, so manufacturer, age, and model are important criteria when determining the value of your RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a scrap yard take a camper?
Yes, scrap yards typically accept camper trailers for scrapping, allowing you to sell them for their metal value. If you're considering scrapping your camper, learn more about the process and what to expect.
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