Category: Auto-Sleeper Motorhomes

If you are thinking of buying an Auto-Sleeper motorhome, you are unlikely to find anything better when it comes to your choice of large or small, luxuriously spacious or nimbly manoeuvrable. Nor, for want of options when it comes to the layout of your ultimate leisure vehicle.

Indeed, you are likely to be so spoiled for choice that making a final decision seems overwhelming. So, why choose an Auto-Sleeper, and what do you need to consider when buying one?

Why choose an Auto-Sleeper?

This might be summed up in just three words – quality, design, and variety:

Quality

  • the whole point of a
    motorhome is to provide comfortable accommodation while you are out and about
    exploring the world at large;
  • as a result, you will
    typically want the accommodation component of your motorhome to offer the
    height of comfort, and be well equipped and spacious;
  • while no motorhome is
    likely to offer the same space and luxury as a penthouse suite in a top-class
    hotel, even so, Auto-Sleepers come close to achieving
    this in the vehicles they have constructed or customised;
  • this is partly about the
    quality of the materials used internally, partly about the design approach and
    most importantly, about the overall build quality;
  • it’s perfectly possible to
    have a great design using superb materials, but if they are poorly put
    together, the end result will be sub-optimal – that is not a mistake made by
    Auto-Sleepers, who consistently turn out widely praised interiors;

Design

  • there are certainly cases
    where it is evident the design of a motorhome has perhaps not been entirely
    well thought-through;
  • although the materials and
    build quality may be fine, that doesn’t count for much if you have to climb
    over a table to reach the WC or can’t easily open a cupboard door when sitting
    in the lounge because it jams against a piece of furniture;
  • Auto-Sleepers have clearly
    been impeccably designed with an emphasis on practical functionality – and the
    importance of that often becomes crystal clear during the first 24 hours of
    using your new motorhome;

Variety

  • not only do they vary
    based on chassis and engine but also in terms of their internal configuration –
    you could, for example, have near identical chassis and engines but with the
    accommodation configured for two, three or four-berth use;
  • the company also doesn’t
    restrict its activities to larger flagship motorhomes;
  • the manufacturer’s van conversions
    are innovative and display genius in terms of the utilisation of available
    space;
  • this means that
    recreational vehicle users of all types and budgets can usually find an
    Auto-Sleeper to meet their needs.

Meeting your needs and requirements

These three excellent reasons for choosing an Auto-Sleeper come to nothing, of course, unless the motorhome can meet your particular needs and requirements. However brilliant the motorhomes are, you will still want to exercise personal tastes and preferences to your own specification.

Whether you will be happy with a van conversion or a full-sized motorhome is very much a matter of personal choice. The same is true in terms of things such as the size of the shower room and the total number of berths. For example, some people may prefer to trade a berth if it means they have a larger shower and WC area.

These things need to be considered, and a general requirements list produced before you start searching the Auto-Sleepers range. It will help focus your attention on what’s important to you.

So, let’s take a closer look at what might appear on your list of sought-after qualities and features.

Size

Who is likely to be travelling with you on your adventures in an Auto-Sleeper motorhome? Is it just you and your partner or do you have children or maybe an extended family to think of?

The answer governs the number of beds you need in your motorhome and, of course, this determines, in turn, the overall size of the vehicle that may comfortably accommodate your travelling companions.

Weight

Closely related to the question of size is the overall weight and laden weight of your motorhome.

This may become more critical as you consider the largest of the motorhomes you might have an eye on. For the great majority of motorhomes, your standard driving licence allows you to drive vehicles of up to 3,500kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM), explains the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). For motorhomes above this weigh, however, you may need to pass and hold a supplementary Category C1 licence.

To complicate things a little further, your precise driving licence qualifications also depend on whether you took your test before or after the 1st of January 1997.

Where are you going?

Your choice of the size and weight of your motorhome might also be influenced by where it is you are likely to be going and how you intend to use the vehicle:

  • if you are planning to use it mainly for touring, with just overnight stops along the way, a smaller vehicle is likely to be more manoeuvrable along narrow winding lanes or congested city streets;
  • if you have a particular destination in mind and plan to use your Auto-Sleeper as a – somewhat luxurious – home away from home, then the extra spaciousness and higher standard of fittings and furniture of a larger, heavier vehicle may be more appropriate.

Seeing is believing

As you begin to lock onto the motorhome of your choice, there is nothing to beat the experience of ditching the brochures and magazines and getting up close and personal to the real thing.

Why not stop by our Auto-Sleeper exhibition centre and view the whole range on offer? Settle down in one of the comfortable seats in the cockpit or lounge area, bounce up and down on a bed or two, and get hands-on with the galley.

Your budget

As with so many things, your final decision may come down to the hard realities of your bank balance.

Once again, though, Auto-Sleeper build motorhomes to suit many a pocket – and reputable dealers such as ourselves here at Derby Motorhomes offer access to finance specialists who may advise on the ways to finance your purchase – including the Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) similar to the deal with which you might have bought your last motor car.

Further reading: Getting a suitable finance deal on your new motorhome and Picking the right motorhome for you.

We are proud of our long association with Auto-Sleepers and make no secret of our admiration for their vehicles.

In what follows, we’ll outline some of the reasons for that and why Derby Motorhomes is proud to offer them to our customers for their consideration.

Quality

The first thing we have to mention is, of course, the very highly regarded reputation of Auto-Sleepers for build quality.  This covers every element of their coachbuilding and van transformation services, as well as their commitment to no compromise on getting it right.

Unsurprisingly, that has a direct relationship to how often you, as a potential buyer, will need to get things looked at and attended to after purchase.  From our lengthy experience, we know that these vehicles typically don’t cause post-sales issues for our customers and that means we are protecting the interests of those same customers when we recommend Auto-Sleepers to them.

Excellence in design

Of course, important as build quality is, nobody wants it to result in a rather Spartan motorhome that looks fit for purpose in a utilitarian sense but which also manages not to catch the eye!

The Auto-Sleepers range sets the bar high in terms of innovative design and attractiveness.  Their interiors are stunningly modern and also offer a range of options that will allow you to select the décor you feel suits your personality.  There is no question here of you having to put up with a single option by way of what their designer thought you should appreciate.

Looks are not the only consideration though and the functional quality of these designs is fantastic.  When you are inside an Auto-Sleepers motorhome, it’s almost like being in a small boutique hotel where everything not only looks good but performs excellently too.

For example, some of the kitchen and cooking equipment is simply stunning and of a type and quality you might normally associate with a luxury apartment rather than a motorhome.

Financial sense

A combination of the things mentioned above leads to a situation whereby Auto-Sleepers vehicles are highly sought after and that includes within the pre-used motorhome marketplace.

The result of that is that they tend to have an excellent residual value model, depreciating less than numbers of other models.

This Cotswold based company doesn’t target the bottom end of the marketplace in terms of its pricing model and nobody is pretending that they are the cheapest motorhomes around.  However, if you’re looking at the financial position from a balanced perspective, taking into account depreciation, Auto-Sleepers might make sound common sense.

Customer feedback

As you might expect and even demand, we take the feedback that we receive from our customers very seriously.

We know from many years of after-sales discussions with our customers, just how happy they are with Auto-Sleepers.  That gives us on-going confidence in terms of our recommendations.

Power plant

Having a superb piece of coachbuilding isn’t necessarily going to be massively impressive if it sits on a middle-of-the-road and decidedly average power plant and chassis.

Auto-Sleepers only use prestige plants from Peugeot and Mercedes-Benz.  Yet again, there is no compromise on quality there either.

Summary

We recognise that there are many factors to take into consideration when you are purchasing a motorhome.  We will be only too happy to look at those objectively with you and to see whether or not there is an Auto-Sleepers model that will be ideal for your requirements.

Further reading:

Why choose Auto-Sleepers?

Auto-Sleeper

Financing your Auto-Sleeper purchase

Who are Auto-Sleepers?

A new motorhome won’t come cheap – but, in that case, you might want to consider the economically attractive option of a motorhome part-exchange. This can be an excellent solution even when buying a model as luxurious as Auto-Sleepers – and without the hassle, of course, of having to arrange your own private sale.

The principles of part-exchange are especially well-established in the markets for motor vehicles. Part-exchange (P/X) is simply a question of trading one vehicle for another where the value of the one you currently own is used as part payment against the new one.

That ability to stretch your budget to a quality motorhome you might otherwise not be able to afford is one of the principal attractions of part-exchanging an Auto-Sleeper. Whatever vehicle you are trading in, the part-exchange value offers you an immediate discount on the new motorhome you are buying.

Part-exchanging one Auto-Sleeper for another offers the enticing prospect of a double bonus. Auto-Sleepers hold their price especially well. As a result, you are likely to enjoy an attractive trade-in price for your old vehicle – and, at a stroke, you’ll typically achieve a sizeable discount on your new Auto-Sleeper.

Why part-exchange your motorhome?

Convenience

Streamlined process: Part-exchange allows you to trade in your existing motorhome while purchasing a new one from the same dealer. This means you can handle both transactions in one place, saving time and effort.

Hassle-free: You avoid the hassle of selling your motorhome privately, which can involve advertising, negotiating with potential buyers, and dealing with no-shows.

Financial benefits

Reduction in purchase price: The value of your part-exchanged motorhome is deducted from the price of the new motorhome, reducing the amount you need to finance or pay out of pocket. (Don’t forget to use our motorhome finance calculator to get an idea of costs).

Guaranteed sale

Immediate sale: When part-exchanging, in most cases the dealer guarantees to buy your old motorhome. This eliminates the uncertainty and waiting period associated with selling privately.

No marketing required: You don’t need to spend money or time on marketing your motorhome, such as listing fees, photos, and time-consuming viewings.

Dealer expertise

Accurate valuation: Dealers can provide an accurate and fair valuation of your motorhome based on market conditions and their experience.

Professional appraisal: Dealers often have the expertise to identify and price additional features or modifications accurately, potentially giving you a more competitive deal.

Reduced risk

Secure transaction: Selling your motorhome privately involves risks, such as dealing with fraudulent buyers or payment issues. Part-exchanging through a reputable dealer ensures a secure and straightforward transaction.

Condition assurance: Dealers typically accept motorhomes in various conditions, saving you the cost and effort of making major repairs or improvements before selling.

One-stop solution

Financing options: Dealers can often provide financing options for the new motorhome, making it easier to manage your budget and payments.

Post-sale support: By part-exchanging with a dealer, you can benefit from their after-sales services, such as warranties, servicing, and support, ensuring your new motorhome is well-maintained.

In short, part-exchange avoids the whole fraught and time-consuming business of first arranging a private sale and then negotiating the purchase of the replacement motorhome you want to buy.

Preparing for part-exchange

Although you will be negotiating a price for the motorhome you currently own with an experienced dealer who will have already calculated a trade-in value for the make, model, and age of your vehicle, it is still worth making sure to present it in its finest colours.

That means attending to any outstanding maintenance and repairs that might be required and giving your motorhome a thorough and final clean.

If there is still outstanding finance on the vehicle you want to offer in part-exchange, or you are currently buying your present motorhome on a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) agreement, it is important you let us know.

Why not contact us today?

Here at Derby Motorhomes, we are specialists in Auto-Sleeper part-exchange options. You can read more about our Auto-Sleepers P/X service here.

Whether or not your current motorhome is an Auto-Sleeper, we are still interested in considering the vehicle for part-exchange and take pride in our ability to offer what we believe is an attractive trade-in price against the cost of the motorhome you want to buy.

So, why not start the ball rolling by talking to us about motorhome part-exchange today?

Further reading: Motorhomes wanted

Yes, it’s a Ford Transit van – but definitely not as you know it.

The new Ford Custom Air Campervan from Auto-Sleepers is a complete remodelling of the ubiquitous workhorse that transforms it into a reliable but incredibly comfortable and well-appointed holiday home on wheels.

So let’s take a closer look at a current pride in the fleet of motorhomes and campervans on offer at main dealers Derby Motorhomes.

Familiarity – with a difference

The Ford Custom Air immediately showcases its origins as a Transit van – but a high-specification one at that. There is something familiar in its appearance, lending the vehicle a sense that you’re bound to feel at home behind the wheel. And that’s just what it does, from the moment you fire up the ignition and get underway.

The technical specification from Auto-Sleepers quotes an engine capacity of 170PS – a metric measure used in the EU and equivalent to a more familiar 167.7 bhp – the standard Transit powertrain and certainly enough to drive the 3,200kg gross weight of the vehicle and a maximum payload of 800kg.

The difference comes the instant you glance over your shoulder and see the spacious and well-equipped interior that easily converts into a comfortable living space during the day and sleeping quarters at night.

Accommodation

Thanks to the cleverly designed pop-up roof, maximum use is made of the available space that offers a full double bed on the main platform and two further berths above.

There is seating for five passengers – your fifth person might want to put up a one-man tent alongside the campervan when you are all travelling together.

The Air has a Webasto diesel habitation heating system, refillable gas tank (as opposed to bottled gas) and variable-position rear seating (seat fitted on runners to maximise load space or to have rear seat passengers closer to the front seats).

All the comforts of home …

It’s amazing what Auto-Sleepers have managed to pack into the relatively limited dimensions of a Ford Transit.

In addition to the four comfortable berths and front seat captains’ chairs that can be spun around alongside the stowable dining table, there is a fully equipped galley comprising a twin-burner hob and grill, a built-in fridge and connection point for a gas-fired BBQ, and a portable toilet from the leading supplier Dometic.

A nice touch is the provision of an external cold water showerhead that you can use for hosing down muddy boots or even trail bikes, together with a 40-litre fresh water storage tank and a 40-litre waste water tank.

In a nod to the digital world we live in, the Ford Air comes with its own mobile phone charging point and enough USB sockets to plug in however many digital devices you can imagine.

… and more

Thanks to the innovative and imaginative interior design of the Ford Air, roomy living accommodation is offered. But if that is not enough, every model comes with a Thule Omnistor awning as standard. It increases the usable living area of your campervan and provides shelter from the storm when the elements are proving their worst.

Your on-road driving experience is enhanced and made safer thanks to still further gadgetry including parking sensors, alerts to lane changes, rearview cameras, cruise control, speed restriction recognition software, and satnav.

When you’ve come to a rest, you can be entertained in comfort with the onboard Bluetooth capability, MP3 compatibility, and DAB radio – all controlled from an 8-inch colour touchscreen.

Whether you are looking to buy your first motorhome or wanting to trade-in, renew and upgrade your existing leisure vehicle, one name is likely to crop up time and again. And that name is Auto-Sleeper.

Whether you see it in the magazines for motorhomes or hear it from the lips of motorhome owners, the name crops up because of the status and reputation established by Auto-Sleeper. It is a reputation for building high-quality, luxurious and artfully designed motorhomes that are built to last.

You may be in a position to buy your motorhome new or you might be looking to buy a pre-loved leisure vehicle.

Like any other vehicle – and even though an Auto-Sleeper holds its price better than any other motorhome – its depreciation over the years means that buying second-hand is a cheaper option than buying brand new.

But how do you go about finding an Auto-Sleeper for sale?

Use the internet

This is the age of the internet. Most of us are more than accustomed to browsing for the things we need, doing the appropriate background research, and making a final purchase online. It’s a way of viewing probably the widest possible market for whatever it is we want to buy.

And that goes for motorhomes, too. Tap into your web-browser “motorhomes for sale” or even refine your search by specifying “Auto-Sleepers for sale” and you are likely to come up with countless online listings from both dealers and private individuals.

Join online forums and groups

 Join online forums, social media groups, and communities dedicated to motorhome enthusiasts. Members often share information about motorhomes for sale, including Auto-Sleepers, and may offer recommendations or insights based on their own experiences.

Check classified ads

Keep an eye on classified ads in local newspapers, magazines, and motorhome publications. Sellers sometimes advertise their Auto-Sleepers for sale in print media, so it’s worth checking these sources regularly for listings in your area.

Contact Auto-Sleeper owners’ clubs

Auto-Sleeper owners’ clubs and associations may have members looking to sell their motorhomes or know of other owners who are selling. Reach out to these clubs, attend meetings or events, and network with fellow enthusiasts to inquire about any Auto-Sleepers available for sale.

What to consider when buying an Auto-Sleeper privately

If you press ahead through an advertised private sale, of course, there is a whole list of checks you need to make before buying any motorhome this way, such as:

  • making sure it’s not stolen;
  • ensuring no one has tampered with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or weight-plate;
  • checking the registration details and the existence of any outstanding finance;
  • checking carefully for damp or the ingress of water into the interior; and
  • asking for proof of the motorhome’s service history – both mechanical and habitation servicing.

Even though you have taken every reasonable care and conducted the most rigorous checks on the motorhome, you have little come-back on any private sale if you subsequently discover something wrong with it.

Visit a specialist Auto-Sleeper dealer

For an investment likely to be quite as important as the purchase of an Auto-Sleeper motorhome, you might prefer to sidestep the convenience of the internet and instead rely on the more immediate and convincing satisfaction of seeing for yourself.

That means visiting a specialist Auto-Sleeper dealer – such as DerbyMotorhomes – getting up close and personal with the model or models of your choice, and seeing for yourself why this is the marque that tends to be on everyone’s lips when finding an Auto-Sleeper for sale.

When it comes to checking the motorhome – whether you are buying new or second-hand – a specialist dealer will have done all the work for you.

You can be certain that ownership is not in dispute, that there is no outstanding finance, and that your motorhome has been thoroughly checked, serviced, and delivered to you in tiptop condition. And in the unlikely event of your finding fault with the motorhome you’ve just bought, you know just where to go to get it put right.

What’s not to love and admire about motorhomes made by Auto-Sleepers? Although it’s likely to be a long list of attributes and features, we are still sometimes asked why we so clearly approve of these motorhomes.

If we were pressed and had to sum it all up in just one word, we’d probably say “experience” – the sheer lived experience of the Auto-Sleepers brand.

Let’s expand a little upon what here at Derby Motorhomes we mean by that.

Pulling everything together

Thanks to our extensive experience in the marketplace, we know that it’s possible to identify many motorhomes that:

  • are brilliantly designed in terms of their internal layouts – with innovative features such as the flexibility of their accommodation;
  • offer designer-quality internal décor, fixtures, fittings, and colour schemes;
  • contain state of the art technology in terms of appliances and recreational-support activities;
  • demonstrate unparalleled build quality – resulting in an experience that is not only tactile but very much “good in the hand”;
  • use only the best and proven power trains – so that you can be assured of superb on the road driving performance;
  • implement the best ergonomic design to provide a safe and comfortable driving experience;
  • offer an excellent value for money proposition;
  • deliver exceptional reliability in day after day performance; and
  • come with great external looks, bodywork, and a superlative quality finish.

However, while we have seen many motorhomes that deliver some of or perhaps even several of those defining features, what we like about Auto-Sleepers is that you can put a tick in all the boxes for motorhomes constructed by this now very famous and highly esteemed Cotswolds company.

Unsurprisingly, of course, it goes without saying that all of these qualities are important.

Reliable and luxurious

A motorhome can offer incredibly comfortable accommodation and some great facilities. But none of that will count for much if the vehicle has broken down and is constantly under repair in your local garage.

Similarly, being out on a trip and finding, shortly after you have parked up, that something simply “doesn’t work” is a frustrating experience and one that might spoil the whole experience of your precious leisure activity.

For all these reasons – and others like them – we naturally incline towards Auto-Sleepers when we are discussing quality solutions for motorhome recreational needs.

Of course, even within the Auto-Sleepers range, there will be many choices to make and not every model will necessarily be equally suitable for a prospective buyer or suit an individual’s particular needs and circumstances.

This is another big advantage of Auto-Sleepers though. Nobody wants to face Hobson’s Choice of a limited range of options when contemplating an expensive purchase. Auto-Sleepers have an incredibly flexible range of vehicles and configurations to choose from. It is highly likely, therefore, that there will be one to suit the requirements of the overwhelming majority of motorhome purchasers.

More reasons why you may wish to choose Auto-Sleepers

Auto-Sleepers stands out as a premier choice for motorhome enthusiasts seeking quality, innovation, and reliability in their recreational vehicles. With a rich heritage spanning over six decades, Auto-Sleepers has earned a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Here are some more compelling reasons why Auto-Sleepers should be at the top of your list when considering your next motorhome purchase:

  • Heritage and experience

With over 60 years’ of experience in designing and manufacturing motorhomes, Auto-Sleepers UK brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the industry. Each motorhome is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and built to the highest standards of quality and durability.

  • Innovative design

Auto-Sleepers takes pride in its innovative approach to motorhome design, incorporating cutting-edge technology and ergonomic features to enhance comfort, convenience, and functionality on the road. From clever space-saving solutions to luxurious interiors, Auto-Sleepers motorhomes are designed to elevate the travel experience.

  • Versatility and customisation

Auto-Sleepers offers a diverse range of motorhome models to suit every lifestyle and travel preference. Whether you’re seeking a compact campervan for weekend getaways or a spacious coachbuilt motorhome for extended adventures, Auto-Sleepers provides versatile options to meet your needs.

Additionally, many models offer customisable features and layouts, allowing you to tailor your motorhome to suit your individual requirements.

  • Trusted

Auto-Sleepers UK stands as a trusted leader in the motorhome industry, renowned for its heritage, innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, choosing an Auto-Sleepers motorhome ensures a journey of unparalleled comfort, reliability, and enjoyment on the open road.

How can we prove this to you?

Don’t just take our word for it but treat yourself to a first-hand experience by getting up close and personal with the full range of Auto-Sleepers. Under the year-round cover of our indoor exhibition hall, you’ll find both new and pre-loved models to inspect both inside and out.

We remain only too pleased to offer further advice and guidance on any models in the Auto-Sleepers range. We have all the required technical information and can share with you the many and varied layout configurations that are open to you when you buy an Auto-Sleepers motorhome.

We look forward to showing you around and if you’d like to contact us beforehand, our telephone number is 01332 360222.

Further reading: Who are Auto-Sleepers? and Buying an Auto-Sleeper

When someone has owned an Auto-Sleeper motorhome they’re rarely likely to look back – when it comes the time to change or upgrade the leisure vehicle, therefore, they invariably buy Auto-Sleeper again.

If you’re in the market for buying a top-quality, pre-loved motorhome, therefore, you might want to take more than a second look at any Auto-Sleeper for sale.

Why buy a used Auto-Sleeper?

Auto-Sleepers are famed for their quality, luxury and level of finish. The design and craftsmanship that goes into every model to emerge from the factory in the Cotswolds ensures a level of comfort that is second to none among British-built motorhomes.

So, an Auto-Sleeper is built to last. Even when the first owner decides it is time to renew or upgrade, therefore, there is still likely to be plenty of life left in the original model.

Motorhomes tend to hold their price much better than an average car – and an Auto-Sleeper holds its price better than an average motorhome. But all vehicles inevitably depreciate in value over time. That means you may be able to make appreciable savings on the price of a used Auto-Sleeper compared with one that is brand new.

Here we discuss what you need to consider when buying a preloved Auto-Sleeper motorhome.

Budget and financing

Determine your budget for the purchase, considering not only the initial price but also potential ongoing costs like insurance, maintenance, fuel, and camping fees.

Explore financing options if needed, such as personal loans or motorhome-specific financing from reputable lenders or a dealership. You can use our motorhome finance calculator here to get an idea of costs.

Research and model selection

Conduct thorough research on Auto-Sleeper models available in the used market, considering your specific needs and preferences regarding size, layout, features, and amenities.

Check online reviews, forums, and user experiences to understand the strengths and weaknesses of different models.

Once you have a budget and idea of what is the best Auto-Sleeper for you, then you have two options as to where to buy your motorhome from.

Where to buy a used Auto-Sleeper

Private sale

You might see an Auto-Sleeper for sale when it’s advertised in a magazine or online listing site.

As you might have discovered when attempting to buy any vehicle through such a private sale, however, the transaction can be fraught with frustration and danger. You need something of an expert eye to check that the vehicle is everything it’s cracked up to be, you have to negotiate a fair price with the vendor, and it’s your responsibility to check that the vendor has title to the motorhome and that it is not subject to any outstanding finance.

You need to check the service history – to ensure that servicing and maintenance has been carried out by approved dealers – and it is down to you to check that everything is clean and has been well cared for.

Most worrying of all when buying through a private sale, perhaps, comes if anything goes wrong with the motorhome you have just bought. You have no come-back if the motorhome is bought “as seen”.

Here we highlight what you need to do if buying an Auto-Sleeper via a private sale …

Inspect the motorhome

Inspect the motorhome thoroughly, both inside and outside, for any signs of wear and tear, water damage, leaks, rust, or structural issues.

Check the engine, brakes, tyres, suspension, and other mechanical components for their condition and any history of repairs or maintenance.

Habitation check

Ensure that the habitation area of the motorhome, including living, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping spaces, is in good condition and all systems are working properly.

Test gas appliances, electrical systems, water systems, heating, ventilation, and safety features during the inspection.

Service history and documentation

Request and review the motorhome’s service history, maintenance records, and any relevant documentation such as vehicle manuals, registration, and MOT certificates.

Check for a valid MOT certificate to confirm the motorhome’s roadworthiness and compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Ownership and previous use

Verify the number of previous owners and the type of usage the motorhome has had.

Ask about any accidents, damages, or repairs the motorhome may have undergone in the past.

Legal and financial checks

Ensure that the motorhome has a clear title and is not subject to any outstanding finance or legal issues.

Run an HPI (Hire Purchase Information) check or similar to confirm the vehicle’s history and ownership status.

Negotiate and finalise the purchase

Negotiate the price based on the condition of the motorhome, its features, market value, and any necessary repairs or improvements.

If you’re satisfied with the inspection and negotiations, finalise the purchase, ensuring all paperwork, payments, and transfer of ownership are completed accurately and legally.

Insurance and registration

Arrange motorhome insurance that meets your needs, considering factors like usage, value, and additional cover options.

Complete the registration process and ensure the necessary paperwork is filed with the appropriate authorities.

Post-purchase considerations

Plan for any immediate repairs or improvements that may be required based on the inspection.

Familiarise yourself with the motorhome’s features, systems, and maintenance requirements for a safe and enjoyable ownership experience.

Buying a used Auto-Sleeper from a dealer

You are in much safer hands, of course, if you buy a used Auto-Sleeper from a reputable dealer.

Owners of Auto-Sleepers tend to be loyal to the dealer from which they first bought the motorhome. They rely on the same specialist dealer for the servicing and maintenance of the motorhome and go there for the subsequent fitting of any extras or accessories.

When it comes time to renew or upgrade the vehicle, they are also likely to ask that dealer to handle its sale. So, the majority of Auto-Sleepers you see for sale are likely to be in the hands of specialist dealers, such as us here at Derbymotorhomes. They are likely to prove your most active market.

When buying from such a dealer, you may be assured that the motorhome has been thoroughly inspected and serviced, you have a full range of warranty options, and you have a contact through whom any post-sale snags or concerns may be resolved.

Things like HPI checks etc. would have been carried out, so you have no worries over the ownership of the Auto-Sleeper.

And if you have an existing motorhome that you are looking to sell, then your can look at motorhome part-exchange options too, with your dealership.

As you’ll know from our Derby Motorhomes site, we’re proud to offer a range of Auto-Sleepers motorhomes for sale.

However, we’re also regularly asked: “Who are Auto-Sleepers?”. So, we’d like to say a few words on the subject here.

Understanding motorhomes

There are many different types of motorhome – including the Auto-Sleepers motorhome.

Some of them have their origin in a power plant and chassis provided by a major manufacturer such as Mercedes-Benz. Once that power plant and chassis are to hand, there is then the very significant task of designing and building the accommodation unit to sit on top of it.

A slight variation on that theme is when a motor manufacturer produces what might be termed a standard van. That can then be taken and the internals can be entirely redesigned and converted so that the van becomes a smaller form of motorhome (these are often referred to as “van conversions”).

The challenge

The process described above is by no means as simple as it sounds.

It takes an extraordinary degree of design skill and engineering capability to undertake either of the above two tasks. Not only is this a technological issue but it also requires considerable imagination and design flair.

If you view the photographs on our website, you will see the stunning and stylish interiors of some of these splendid vehicles. You’ll be able to see at a glance that maximising the use of space while continuing to achieve a designer or boutique look to the finish, is something to be admired.

These skills take many years to develop and hone – and they aren’t something that can simply be output from a computer programme at the push of a button. In many cases, this requires human know-how and craftsman-like knowledge.

This is where Auto-Sleepers comes into the picture.

Auto-Sleepers, designers and builders par excellence

Auto-Sleepers is a British motorhome and campervan manufacturer based in the Cotswolds near the charming town of Broadway.

They specialise in designing, manufacturing, and selling a range of campervans, motorhomes, and van conversions. The company has been in operation for several decades and is well-known for producing high-quality, well-designed, and reliable vehicles for recreational travel.

Auto-Sleepers offers a variety of models and designs, catering to different preferences and needs of travellers. These can range from compact campervans to larger motorhomes with various layouts and features to suit different lifestyles and travel requirements.

Their vehicles typically include features such as living areas, sleeping accommodations, kitchens, bathrooms, and other amenities to provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Auto-Sleepers often incorporate innovative designs and technology to enhance the functionality and efficiency of their vehicles.

Over time Auto-Sleepers have established an incomparable reputation for producing quality vehicles and interior design solutions that is the envy of many other people in the marketplace. You can see multiple examples of their work on our website, and we think the results speak for themselves!

Why we choose Auto-Sleepers

As a long-standing professional organisation, we take our responsibility to our customers extremely seriously.

From our vast experience, we know that an Auto-Sleepers motorhome offers exceptional quality and comforts though at a cost-effective price. We will never compromise on our selection of vehicles to offer our clients and this explains, in a nutshell, why we are proud to have had such a lengthy association with Auto-Sleepers.

We are confident that you will find an Auto-Sleepers motorhome that is to your satisfaction and which fits your budgetary requirements and invite you to use our online tools to inspect some of these magnificent vehicles yourself. Alternatively, please pop along to our showroom.

Further reading: Choosing the right Auto-Sleeper model and Why buy Auto-Sleepers?

When it comes to embarking on a memorable and comfortable camping adventure, Auto-Sleeper motorhomes have long been a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts in the United Kingdom. With a wide range of models and features available, selecting the most appropriate Auto-Sleeper for your needs can be an exciting yet challenging task. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the perfect Auto-Sleeper model to make your travel dreams come true.

Who are Auto-Sleeper?

When it comes to motorhomes, Auto-Sleeper has a reputation and standing second to none. From their factory at Willersey in the Cotswolds, they have been hand-crafting motorhomes of superlative quality and design since 1961.

From Peugeot campervans to coachbuilt motorhomes based on either Peugeot or Mercedes powertrains, there is almost certain to be an Auto-Sleeper that suits you and your family’s needs and circumstances. The difficulty is more likely to lie in choosing the appropriate model – there are plenty from which to choose and every year sees a refinement or make-over of still more.

The range

From the ever-popular – and constantly up-dated – Symbol and Symbol Plus to the more spacious Warwick XL, Peugeot-based campervans remain among the company’s best-sellers.

If you want to upgrade to a coachbuilt Peugeot-engined motorhome, there are several models from which to choose – from the stylish Nuevo EK up to the large and very spacious Broadway FB.

If you are looking for a motorhome that is specially engineered to provide a lightweight superstructure – capable of carrying a bigger payload – take a look at the Peugeot AL-KO range, in the shape of either the Corinium Duo or the Corinium FB.

For those in search of the ultimate in luxury and comfort, there is the range of Mercedes coachbuilt motorhomes – five in all, from the Bourton to the Burford Duo.

Here we give a quick overview of several Auto-Sleeper models to give you an idea of what motorhome may be the perfect fit for you.

Auto-Sleeper Symbol

If you are looking for a compact yet versatile motorhome, the Auto-Sleeper Symbol may be an ideal choice. With its compact size, it offers excellent manoeuvrability, making it suitable for both city adventures and countryside escapades. The Symbol boasts a well-designed interior with all the essential amenities, including a kitchenette, bathroom, and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

Auto-Sleeper Nuevo

For those seeking a spacious and luxurious option, the Auto-Sleeper Nuevo is worth considering. This model offers ample living space and a well-equipped kitchen, allowing you to prepare delicious meals on the road. The Nuevo also provides comfortable sleeping arrangements and a well-designed bathroom, ensuring a relaxing and convenient travel experience.

Auto-Sleeper Broadway

If you plan on extended trips, the Auto-Sleeper Broadway might be the perfect fit. This motorhome offers generous living and dining areas, and an incredibly spacious layout. It attractive storage space, perfect for long journeys or carrying extra equipment.

Auto-Sleeper Bourton

For the utmost luxury and comfort, the Auto-Sleeper Bourton is a top-tier option. This model features a spacious interior with a well-appointed kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, and plush sleeping arrangements. The Bourton combines elegance and functionality, providing an exceptional travel experience for those seeking a touch of luxury on their adventures.

Evolution

Auto-Sleepers do not make radical changes to their well-proven stable of vehicles. Instead, each year sees a steady evolution of the range through incremental improvements and refinements.

Some of those finishing touches may appear relatively minor – but all add up to the company’s constant search for improvements based on feedback from their customers. In recent years, introductions have included:

  • space heating and hot water systems from UK caravan heating specialists Whale;
  • microwaves made by the prestigious manufacturer Dometic;
  • Sargent EC700 electrical systems;
  • WiFi routers from Huawei;
  • Thatcham-approved Cat 6 vehicle tracking systems; and
  • registration with the National Caravan Council’s Central Registration & Identification Scheme (CRiS) and window etching – for still further vehicle security.

Some innovations pack a bigger punch, such as the changes to the Peugeot Broadway, which now has the latest engines meeting up to date European emission standards (6d-Temp). This is a 2.2-litre 165bhp engine generating 370Nm of torque.

Auto-Sleepers stay ahead of the competition by steadily improving and enhancing the specification of individual models throughout the whole range of models. This applies even to top of the range Mercedes coachbuilt vehicles, which somehow manage to take the level of comfort and luxury still further. In 2020, for example, these models incorporated many new features as standard, including Truma Aventa Comfort air-conditioning.

Consider your travel needs

Before diving into the world of Auto-Sleeper models, it’s essential to evaluate your travel needs.

  • Are you planning solo trips or travelling with a group of friends or family?
  • How frequently do you plan on using the motorhome?

Answering these questions will help you determine the size, layout, and features you require in an Auto-Sleeper.

Consider budget and maintenance

While choosing an Auto-Sleeper model, it is crucial to consider your budget and ongoing maintenance costs. Set a realistic budget and determine what features are essential for your travel needs.

Keep in mind that larger models with additional amenities tend to have higher price tags.

Don’t forget to factor in maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and fuel consumption to have a comprehensive understanding of the long-term financial commitment.

Next steps

There is really only one way of taking your next step in choosing an Auto-Sleeper and that is to get along to a reputable dealer specialising in the sale of these iconic motorhomes and taking a closer inspection.

Visit our Auto-Sleeper dealership and request a test drive to get a feel for the motorhome’s handling and comfort. Additionally, conduct thorough research online, read customer reviews, and explore Auto-Sleeper forums to gather valuable insights from current owners.

This combination of hands-on experience and research will ensure that you make an informed decision. Of course, at DerbyMotorhomes, we will be delighted to help you choose the most appropriate Auto-Sleeper. Please get in touch today for a no-obligation chat!

Further reading: Motorhome Choosing And Using Tips

When it comes to the Auto-Sleepers marque, here at Derby Motorhomes we are among the biggest fans in the UK.

Personal preference and individual requirements, of course, play their part in your decision to buy and particular motorhome, but we are more than happy to set out just a few of our overriding enthusiasm for Auto-Sleepers.

Quality and craftsmanship

It’s quite difficult to define exactly what “quality” means. When you have the experience that we have in the motorhome marketplace though, you know immediately at a glance whether a given model has it or doesn’t. Quite simply: quality – you know it when you encounter it.

And there are no two ways about it, we put quality at the very top of our list of Auto-Sleepers’ winning characteristics.

Quality in the case of Auto-Sleepers also calls to mind the sheer craftsmanship that goes into the manufacture of every model. The fact is that this company doesn’t compromise on quality in any aspect of its work. From design through to build, everything is done with a quality end product in mind. That applies as much to the fittings as it does to things such as panelling and upholstery.

Couple that accommodation quality with a superb chassis and the power plant that drives all Auto-Sleepers, and you can understand why they get a big tick from us in this regard.

Imagination and range

We make no excuse for waxing lyrical about motorhomes in general and specifically Auto-Sleepers. For all that praise, though, nobody can pretend that there are acres of spare space inside a vehicle of this type. Motorhomes are not designed for their spaciousness alone.

For the layout designers, therefore, every ounce of imagination, innovation, and skill is demanded to get the best practicable use possible of the available space. Though we prefer to play up the positives of Auto-Sleepers rather than play down the negatives of other makes of motorhome, we think you’ll agree that Auto-Sleepers have pulled off successes in every department.

Auto-Sleepers offer a diverse range of motorhome models to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a compact campervan or a spacious luxury motorhome, there are options to suit every lifestyle.

This is important because few people wish to feel that their motorhome is cramped or demands extreme compromise when it comes to the comfort of the accommodation – we’d say that Auto-Sleepers tick another big box as far as we are concerned.

Tailored options

Not only is there a diverse range of different models, but your Auto-Sleepers can be made your very own by choosing from various customisation options.  That lets you personalise your motorhome to better suit your particular requirements.

Customisation options include your choice of upholstery materials, selecting the precise interior layout, and adding optional extras.

Track record

Auto-Sleepers have been around for a long time now and their design and build expertise is second to none – the marque boasts an established reputation

Auto-Sleepers have been manufacturing motorhomes for over 60 years. Their experience and longevity suggest a level of expertise and reliability that is immediately appealing to potential buyers – an important feature in our view.

While new faces are always welcome and the ideas and competition they bring can be stimulating, there is reassurance in the knowledge that you are purchasing from a company that has been there and done it over a period of many years rather than one which is using the motorhome concerned as a test platform for their novel ideas.

In fact, Auto-Sleepers are well-known for their innovation and out-of-the-box thinking – coupled with a practical approach that is based upon extensive background knowledge.

Your after-sales network

Auto-Sleepers have a network of dealerships and service centres across the UK – including ourselves here at Derby Motorhomes, of course – providing customers with convenient access to support and maintenance services.

This network exists to help and support both new buyers and existing owners who require assistance or servicing.

Resale values

Auto-Sleepers tend to retain their resale value relatively well compared to some other brands. That can be an attractive consideration if you regard your purchase as an investment and might want to think about selling or upgrading your motorhome in the future.

Summary

We’ve given just a thumbnail sketch of what makes Auto-Sleepers such a good buy.

We’d welcome your contact so we can give you a more in-depth explanation – but, better still, why not come along to our extensive indoor showrooms to view some of these motorhomes for yourself?