Grand California purchase

[SCO63]

Hi,
I’m looking at buying a Grand California. With my budget probably up to about a 2021 plate which would also if I’m correct not incur the extra Road tax fee? Also looking for the extra high level bed.
Anyways what should I be looking out for and are there any accessories which are a must.
New to camper/motorhomes so any advice appreciated. May not be an instant purchase as there ain’t a lot for sale.
I’d rather have it as my only vehicle but can always buy a small runaround if needed.
Thanks

 

[Up10]

Hi,
I’m looking at buying a Grand California. With my budget probably up to about a 2021 plate which would also if I’m correct not incur the extra Road tax fee? Also looking for the extra high level bed.
Anyways what should I be looking out for and are there any accessories which are a must.
New to camper/motorhomes so any advice appreciated. May not be an instant purchase as there ain’t a lot for sale.
I’d rather have it as my only vehicle but can always buy a small runaround if needed.
Thanks

Is there a specific reason for choosing a GC? I just wondered as maybe a T6 or T6.1 California may suit you better if you want a single vehicle for camping and for daily use. It might help to understand your needs a little better.

 

[SCO63]

Ideally i’d have camper and a car but prices dictate that with GC that ain't viable. The bathroom aspect with it being self contained is the attraction and apart from some parking issues i enjoy driving that size of vehicle ok. I just thought the GC ticked most boxes. Though have seen a fiat ducato conversion that would be affordable and Keep my car. Just looking to utilise my time to tour UK as with circumstances holidays abroad ain’t an option.

 

[Up10]

Ideally i’d have camper and a car but prices dictate that with GC that ain't viable. The bathroom aspect with it being self contained is the attraction and apart from some parking issues i enjoy driving that size of vehicle ok. I just thought the GC ticked most boxes. Though have seen a fiat ducato conversion that would be affordable and Keep my car. Just looking to utilise my time to tour UK as with circumstances holidays abroad ain’t an option.

Sorry to keep following up with more questions (I'm sort of hoping someone else will chip in and answer your original questions) but do you intend to wild camp or would you prefer to stay on serviced campsites when away?

 

[SCO63]

Prob more sites id imagine but would do some wild camping.

 

[andyinluton]

Hi,
I’m looking at buying a Grand California. With my budget probably up to about a 2021 plate which would also if I’m correct not incur the extra Road tax fee?

all GCs fit into one of two tax bands , ordinary PLG for those under 3.5tnne at £360 yr and those over 3.5tnne as Private Heavy Goods at £171 YR registration year doesn't make a difference

 

[SCO63]

all GCs fit into one of two tax bands , ordinary PLG for those under 3.5tnne at £360 yr and those over 3.5tnne as Private Heavy Goods at £171 YR registration year doesn't make a difference

I was referring to the extra circa £400 for first 6 years? Of registration part for vehicles over £40,000. So after this period it would be £360?

 

[andyinluton]

If registered correctly as a motor home it doesn’t attract the luxury car tax.

 

[SCO63]

Ok, thanks. I was under impression it was. Cheers!

 

[Christopher Thomas]

Hi,
I’m looking at buying a Grand California. With my budget probably up to about a 2021 plate which would also if I’m correct not incur the extra Road tax fee? Also looking for the extra high level bed.
Anyways what should I be looking out for and are there any accessories which are a must.
New to camper/motorhomes so any advice appreciated. May not be an instant purchase as there ain’t a lot for sale.
I’d rather have it as my only vehicle but can always buy a small runaround if needed.
Thanks

We use ours on a daily basis. It’s perfect for parking in Supermarkets etc. but a little tricky with roadside parking. It drives fantastic and the all round view especially on motorways and in traffic is a huge advantage.

 

[SCO63]

Thank you

 

[Lolaontour]

Hi we purchased our GC600 two years ago. She is plated at 3.88t and the tax is £171. She is great to drive and quite responsive for a 3t + vehicle. When we were looking for her we noticed that this time of year is quite barren for GC's for sale. The GC'S for sale picked up in March/April, but so did the prices. Ours is a 4 berth and when the top bed is in use you do need to do a bit of maneuvering when the ladder is there and watch your head. Hope you find a GC to purchase.

 

[SCO63]

Presumably at 3.88t you’ll need the C1 to drive it? That works ok for me but not for rest of family shoe be driving it. Think the lighter vehicle is bit dearer on Road tax. As you say certainly not a lot about that fit what I’m looking for. May be have to Wa it until end of season or next year. No real rush as long as get right vehicle. Thanks for Input

 

[Deise13]

Our GC is nearly fully loaded (it was specked by the dealer not me), but I just have four options I would insist on when purchase a GC. 1. the awning (very difficult to retrofit). 2. Solar (AGM 95Ah battery on its own is only good for 24hrs use). Table and chairs in the back door (expensive, they don't suit everyone, but they are a real space saver in a compact camper). Everything else I could take or leave as they don't do anything to my day to day enjoyment of the camper...sorry...one extra....4. The reversing camera, just to keep you out of trouble, especially if you are using it daily.

 

[Razor Crest]

I would agree with Deise13 and probably add diesel heating. Gas is okay but I found I went through it when camping in winter. Things to look out for include latest software update on the control panel (currently software version 110) make sure that the step has a cleaning sticker on it, that means it’s also been upgraded. The taps should have been replaced for the new version and the rear brake light should have had the adhesive changed. If it’s a white roof van, check the join between the roof and van for decaying silicone. Last thing I would check is the weight. If it’s 3.5t and it has the top bed, awning and towbar , one of you may need to cycle behind if you fill the fridge with beer and the water tank to the top.

 

[SCO63]

Thanks, I’ll get the electric bike looked out for the better half.

 

[stoobthealien]

Re the rear camera - if you find the right van without it most of the specialist VW retrofit people can easily add a factory spec one

 

[SCO63]

ta, I’ve got a friend who fits this sort of stuff for Halfords so that may be an option ‍