MH Novice thinking of buying a AutoSleeper Eton - advice please

[JessieT]

Hi all, single female 60 plus, never had a van before and thinking of buying a AS Eton 2007 . It's a Ford Transit with the 2.4 engine, BHP 100 and 5 gears. Small van 5.7m long by 2.21m wide but as on my own I don't need anything bigger, would have preferred longer bench seats to just sleep on a single rather than make up the double. I am only 5.3 ft but bench seats are pretty smaller though I can turn one of the cab swivel chairs to make it longer but doesn't look as comfy as a full bench seat.

Got what appears to be a good deal from a main dealer as they took £500 off their asking price and fitting a solar panel and cruise control (they had mistakenly advertised as having cruise ) as well as tiding up a few bits on the van and will come with service, hab check, and 12 months mot. Van has a already has a rear camera, TV aerial and tow bar fitted. Will need to get propane, hook up lead, water hose levelling blocks, chemicals etc as none with the van.

Hoping someone others on the site may have or previously owned an Eton and can share their thoughts on the van, the good and the bad points.

Looking at the price elsewhere and price I they have agreed on with the extra fittings it seems a good deal. Also comes with 12 month warranty though it only covers up to £1000 per claim which isn't a lot but better than nothing.

The BIG concern of mine is that there is NO service book or any receipts in the documents wallet provided by previous owner. I find this astonishing and a little concerning. It has had a number of different owners ( 7, I think ). If van had had only only one previous owner who was a mechanic so just did the work himself it would be different. Seems very odd to m as a full or good SH always helps when selling and usually always gets passed on because of that. The previous MOT's all look okay with no major issues to raise concerns so that settles my mind a bit, just this total lack of service history ?

Thoughts and advice would be greatly welcomed, many thanks and warm wishes

Many thanks

JessieT

 

[Burge]

I understand it's a 2007 but have another look around don't rush into anything as I think people do as exited about getting their 1st Van. 7 owners is a lot as you say no History ??? You are in a great position now as a Buyers Market this time of Yr plenty out there to choose from TAKE YOUR TIME & Good Luck ,Chris.

 

[Clivefog]

Check the mot history - you just need the reg no

Check the MOT history of a vehicle

Check the MOT history of a vehicle from 2005 onwards, including if it passed or failed, its mileage and why it failed, download MOT test certificate

www.gov.uk

 

[JessieT]

I understand it's a 2007 but have another look around don't rush into anything as I think people do as exited about getting their 1st Van. 7 owners is a lot as you say no History ??? You are in a great position now as a Buyers Market this time of Yr plenty out there to choose from TAKE YOUR TIME & Good Luck ,Chris.

Many thanks Chris. It is a lot of owners I agree. I have found it very difficult though as looking for a van up to £26K and want one under 6 mtrs which has been very hard to find especially where I am in North Ayrshire, Scotland. It is very slim pickings up here unfortunately and I can't keep travelling a long distances to view. To be honest was originally looking for something cheaper as a first van but have had no success, not bothered if doesn't look modern and glam just that it is comfortable and reliable. It's been a couple of years now and all the internet searching is so draining

Your advise is good and I know I shouldn't rush though feel like it is never going to happen. The van ticks all the boxes but the no SH is nagging at me. They have agreed to replace the cambelt so at least I would know that was okay if I did decided to buy. Many thanks JessieT

 

[JessieT]

Check the mot history - you just need the reg no

Check the MOT history of a vehicle

Check the MOT history of a vehicle from 2005 onwards, including if it passed or failed, its mileage and why it failed, download MOT test certificate

www.gov.uk

Many thanks, I have already done this and there was nothing to worry about just no SH which seems odd.

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[The Wino]

I think I'd definitely have an independent check on the habitation side especially a damp check. Also worth looking at tyre age etc

 

[Burge]

Have a look at "The Motorhome Man" on YouTube he has some cheaper Models on offer all the time , I understand it's a good Distance from you but he could look out for a Van for you he's very helpfull not bought off him but been over his place a couple of times to have a look around, give him a call you got nothing to lose, Chris.

 

[buzz1]

Hi
Do you know anybody who mechanical minded who could have a good look over it for you,

 

[AndyPK]

Looks similar to AS Nuevo…..are there any of those for sale near you, JessieT ?

 

[Janine]

I have a 2006 Autosleeper Nuevo.

As it’s just me, I leave the passenger seat turned round, with the back lowered so I can still see through the wing mirror, and use the bench seat to sleep on.

I have manuals for all the appliances, which will probably be similar to yours so if you need anything explaining, send me a message.

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[Northernraider]

The lack of service history isn't overly concerning, it will have had work done its just very likely that one of those previous owners didn't keep the paperwork in the van and then lost it or didn't include it when he sold it. 7 owners on a 17 year old motorhome isn't unusual either as some are bought and sold after a year or 2 as people buy them for one year then change vans.

The condition it's in now is whats most important so having it independently checked if you yourself aren't knowledgeable enough is probably a good idea. Without knowing the price you're paying its hard to advise whether it is a bargain or not. There are a lot of good vans out there for sale at present though so ny advise is if it isn't EXACTLY what you want then I'd keep looking for a bit longer. Travelling to view can be a pain at times but it's better than buying the wrong van as if you get it wrong it may well have 8 former keepers.


Don't rush in

 

[JessieT]

I think I'd definitely have an independent check on the habitation side especially a damp check. Also worth looking at tyre age etc

Many thanks, as it is a main dealer and it will come serviced and with a habitation check would I really need this doing independently ? I did do a damp check with my meter when I was in the van myself and all was okay, though whether I was using the meter in the right areas I don't know

I think I'd definitely have an independent check on the habitation side especially a damp check. Also worth looking at tyre age etc

 

[JessieT]

Hi
Do you know anybody who mechanical minded who could have a good look over it for you,

Unfortunately not, but as it is a main dealer and they are doing a service, hab check, etc, would I really need that doing. It did seem to run well and the past MOT seemed okay to me

 

[JessieT]

Looks similar to AS Nuevo…..are there any of those for sale near you, JessieT ?

I haven't seen any for sale near me. A few other vans have come up under 6 m so will arrange to go and see as soon as I can. They are being sold by a franchise broker "Motorhome Depot" and I would rather not dealer with a broker unless I really have to.

 

[JessieT]

I have a 2006 Autosleeper Nuevo.

As it’s just me, I leave the passenger seat turned round, with the back lowered so I can still see through the wing mirror, and use the bench seat to sleep on.

I have manuals for all the appliances, which will probably be similar to yours so if you need anything explaining, send me a message.

Hi Janine, thank for your advice on the bed and the offer of manuals. I am sure I would be fine doing this also. For some odd reason the previous owner had made a hole in the metal under the front of the seat and put a bolt through to stop it being swiveled round ? I said that would have to be removed and the seat working as I would want it to swivel as intended.

There was a wallet under the seat with the manuals and a couple of MOT but no service history or receipts? So I don't think I'll need to take you up on the over up I will be in touch if I buy and perhaps need a bit of guidance on their use and maintenance other than what is in the manuals.

Have you had your van for long ?

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[JessieT]

The lack of service history isn't overly concerning, it will have had work done its just very likely that one of those previous owners didn't keep the paperwork in the van and then lost it or didn't include it when he sold it. 7 owners on a 17 year old motorhome isn't unusual either as some are bought and sold after a year or 2 as people buy them for one year then change vans.

The condition it's in now is whats most important so having it independently checked if you yourself aren't knowledgeable enough is probably a good idea. Without knowing the price you're paying its hard to advise whether it is a bargain or not. There are a lot of good vans out there for sale at present though so ny advise is if it isn't EXACTLY what you want then I'd keep looking for a bit longer. Travelling to view can be a pain at times but it's better than buying the wrong van as if you get it wrong it may well have 8 former keepers.


Don't rush in

Thanks for your thoughts on the lack of service history, I was thinking the same but couldn't help getting a bit suspicious of it being missing. Yes, as it is a small van and likely to be a 1st van for many folk they likely do buy and upgrade or perhaps decide an MH is not for them after all.

As buying form a main dealer would I need to get it independently checked? They are servicing the van, replacing the cambelt as requested, and it will come with a full hab check, 12 months warranty (£1000 per claim limit), and 12 months MOT. It is setting me back £25,500, seem a lot of these vans around that age advertised at that price, being sold privately and through dealerships and with no cruise, and solar panels.

I felt the van drove okay, the ride felt a wee bit soft for me but as I am used to driving a Mini Cooper Roadster I think it would do and of course I was a lot higher up too

 

[Northernraider]

Thanks for your thoughts on the lack of service history, I was thinking the same but couldn't help getting a bit suspicious of it being missing. Yes, as it is a small van and likely to be a 1st van for many folk they likely do buy and upgrade or perhaps decide an MH is not for them after all.

As buying form a main dealer would I need to get it independently checked? They are servicing the van, replacing the cambelt as requested, and it will come with a full hab check, 12 months warranty (£1000 per claim limit), and 12 months MOT.

I felt the van drove okay, the ride felt a wee bit soft for me but as I am used to driving a Mini Cooper Roadster I think it would do and of course I was a lot higher up too

You don't have to get up independently checked. It was just for peace of mind if you had any doubts.

 

[AndyPK]

Are you looking to use your ‘van as a ‘day van’ JessieT , or only for trips away? If the former, have you considered any of the smaller campervans based on VW/ Ford/ Citroen chassis? We have a Devon Firefly, 4.9m in length which drives just like a car with a higher seat position (2 adults + 2 dogs). What ‘essentials do you need to have in your ‘van (shower, etc.)?
I understand that Motorhome Depot are one of the better brokers - I have not used them myself - but I’m sure other Funsters will have…….

 

[JessieT]

Have a look at "The Motorhome Man" on YouTube he has some cheaper Models on offer all the time , I understand it's a good Distance from you but he could look out for a Van for you he's very helpfull not bought off him but been over his place a couple of times to have a look around, give him a call you got nothing to lose, Chris.

Great thanks Burge, hadn't heard of him, I'll take a look. I have looked at "Camper Nerd" and he seems good, sells on ebay and has video walk round on youtube.

 

[Jo-jo]

For some odd reason the previous owner had made a hole in the metal under the front of the seat and put a bolt through to stop it being swiveled round ? I said that would have to be removed and the seat working as I would want it to swivel as intended.

That will be for security, disabling the swivel function in the hope some 'low life' is unable to drive it away in the turned position if they gain access. The bolt might be a bike disc lock that is easily removed & refitted as required.

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[JessieT]

Are you looking to use your ‘van as a ‘day van’ JessieT , or only for trips away? If the former, have you considered any of the smaller campervans based on VW/ Ford/ Citroen chassis? We have a Devon Firefly, 4.9m in length which drives just like a car with a higher seat position (2 adults + 2 dogs). What ‘essentials do you need to have in your ‘van (shower, etc.)?
I understand that Motorhome Depot are one of the better brokers - I have not used them myself - but I’m sure other Funsters will have…….

Hi Andy, I was initially looking for a Nu Venture as I did want a smaller van and one that I could use as a second vehicle if need be. With it being only me should my Mini have an issue I would have another vehicle to fall back on, also handy if collecting something that may not fit in the mini. The nu ventures have everything I need as they have a wash room, some with showers some not but the main thing is having a loo on board should it be needed though a shower would be nice to have too. The nu ventures are very popular and pricey too, and don't hang about long especially if a good one. Would still like one but it is just taking so long to get one. Wow, 2 adults and 2 dogs in your 4.9 m van, you do brilliantly, must have it well planned out. When growing up we had an old VW caravanette, there were 5 of us and a dog, oddly never felt like a squeeze but now I think, good grief how was that possible

 

[Janine]

Hi Janine, thank for your advice on the bed and the offer of manuals. I am sure I would be fine doing this also. For some odd reason the previous owner had made a hole in the metal under the front of the seat and put a bolt through to stop it being swiveled round ? I said that would have to be removed and the seat working as I would want it to swivel as intended.

There was a wallet under the seat with the manuals and a couple of MOT but no service history or receipts? So I don't think I'll need to take you up on the over up I will be in touch if I buy and perhaps need a bit of guidance on their use and maintenance other than what is in the manuals.

Have you had your van for long ?

I have had the van for nearly 7 years with no problems. The build quality of Autosleepers is excellent.

 

[JessieT]

That will be for security, disabling the swivel function in the hope some 'low life' is unable to drive it away in the turned position if they gain access. The bolt might be a bike disc lock that is easily removed & refitted as required.

That is a good thought Jo-jo and a good security idea but I should have said it was the passenger side that had the bolt through the seat. Thinking about it didn't check to see if the same had been done to the drivers seat.

 

[JessieT]

I have had the van for nearly 7 years with no problems. The build quality of Autosleepers is excellent.

Yes, I have heard that. Is yours a ford? The Eton I am looking at is

 

[Janine]

Yes, I have heard that. Is yours a ford? The Eton I am looking at is

No, mine’s a Peugeot Boxer.

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[rolosroller]

Is it this one ?

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[JessieT]

Is it this one ?

Auto Trader Motorhomes - New and Used Motorhomes For Sale

Find your next motorhome with Auto Trader UK, the official #1 site to buy and sell new and used motorhomes. Over 7,000 motorhomes online. Simple, easy, quick!

www.autotrader.co.uk

Yes, why ? Do you know anything about this van ?

 

[Brize]

Jessie,

This is a great forum, but with older Autosleepers you ought to also go on the Autosleepers Owners forum, where there are likely to be other Eton owners (or of that ilk):

Auto-Sleeper Owners Forum (ASOF) The Auto Sleepers Motorhomes Forums

Welcome to The Auto-Sleeper Owners Forum (ASOF) A friendly online community with dedicated forums for Auto Sleeper motorhome owners. Get help and advice with motorhome problems, Learn tips, or just ch

www.autosleeper-ownersforum.com

I belong to both forums - best of both worlds.

 

[Janine]

Jessie,

This is a great forum, but with older Autosleepers you ought to also go on the Autosleepers Owners forum, where there are likely to be other Eton owners (or of that ilk):

Auto-Sleeper Owners Forum (ASOF) The Auto Sleepers Motorhomes Forums

Welcome to The Auto-Sleeper Owners Forum (ASOF) A friendly online community with dedicated forums for Auto Sleeper motorhome owners. Get help and advice with motorhome problems, Learn tips, or just ch

www.autosleeper-ownersforum.com

I belong to both forums - best of both worlds.

There are also very good Facebook groups where replies to questions are almost instant.

 

[AndyPK]

I second what Brize says about the AS forum, JessieT - our first ‘van was an AS Clubman GL, and we got no end of help and tips from there….!