The 2004 Prevost Bus represents a pinnacle of luxury motorcoach engineering, built by the renowned Canadian manufacturer Prevost Car Inc. Known for its robust, commercial-grade chassis, it typically features a sleek, aerodynamic intercity motorcoach body style. While "trims" aren't standard like cars, popular chassis models for conversion include the H3-45 and X3-45. Originally commanding prices from $400,000 to over $1.5 million for converted luxury RVs, its standout features are unparalleled ride comfort, superior durability, and immense customizability, making it a favorite for high-end RV conversions.
The Good
The 2004 Prevost Bus offers exceptional advantages: powerful, smooth performance for effortless highway cruising, unmatched commercial-grade reliability built for millions of miles, and superior comfort thanks to its advanced air-ride suspension. Its iconic, aerodynamic design exudes prestige. For practical buyers, it's a long-term value investment with impressive durability. Emotionally, it provides a sense of commanding luxury and unparalleled freedom on the open road.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2004 Prevost Bus include its very high initial purchase price, even on the used market, and substantial operating costs associated with fuel, insurance, and specialized maintenance. Its large size can be challenging to maneuver and park, and complex integrated systems may require expert diagnostics and expensive parts, making it a vehicle not for the faint of heart financially.
2004 Prevost Bus: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2004 Prevost Bus chassis primarily utilized robust, high-performance commercial diesel engines. Common options included the Detroit Diesel Series 60 (12.7L or 14L) and various Cummins engines like the ISM (10.8L) or ISX (15L). These engines are renowned for their longevity and power in heavy-duty applications.
- Horsepower: Depending on the specific engine and tuning, horsepower typically ranged from 400 to 550 hp, with torque figures often exceeding 1,500 lb-ft, providing ample power for sustained highway speeds and hauling.
- Fuel Economy: Given its size and weight, fuel economy is not a primary strength. Owners generally report figures between 5 to 8 miles per gallon (MPG), heavily influenced by load, terrain, and driving style.
- 0-60 Times: Not designed for rapid acceleration, 0-60 mph times are not typically published or relevant for a heavy motorcoach. Acceleration is deliberate, focused on smooth, sustained power rather than quick sprints.
- Towing Capacity: The Prevost chassis is inherently built for heavy loads. While specific "towing capacity" for RV conversions varies based on the hitch installed, the chassis itself is capable of towing upwards of 10,000 to 15,000 pounds with appropriate modifications, making it suitable for towing a car or trailer.
- Trim-Level Features: Prevost coaches don't have traditional "trim levels" like passenger cars. Instead, features are inherent to the chassis design and custom conversions. Key chassis features include:
- High-strength stainless steel monocoque chassis for unmatched durability.
- Prevost 'AAR' Advanced Air Ride suspension system providing superior ride quality and stability.
- Independent Front Suspension (IFS) for enhanced handling.
- Integrated multi-plex electrical system for simplified wiring and diagnostics.
- Large, deep under-bay storage compartments, often with pass-through capabilities.
- Full air braking system with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ATC (Automatic Traction Control).
- Power steering, cruise control, and powerful climate control systems.
- Automatic air leveling system for stability when parked.
- Dual-stage engine brakes (Jake brake) for enhanced stopping power on descents.
- Typically equipped with large capacity fuel tanks (150-300 gallons) for extended range.
2004 Prevost Bus Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Prevost |
| Model | Bus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Bus |
| Category | Bus |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | STE-CLAIRE |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 33000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 12.7L L6 |
| Engine Size | 12.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Prevost Bus Have?
The 2004 Prevost Bus is widely regarded for its exceptional long-term reliability due to its commercial-grade construction, designed to run for millions of miles. However, like any complex machine, particularly one of this age and type, certain issues can arise over time. Frequently reported problems often relate to the extensive air system, which includes the air-ride suspension, air brakes, and various pneumatic components. Leaks in air lines, worn-out air bags, or failing air dryers are common wear items that require attention. Electrical gremlins, particularly in the multi-plex wiring system, can be challenging to diagnose without specialized equipment and knowledge, leading to intermittent failures in lighting, sensors, or auxiliary systems.
Component-specific failures, such as alternators, starters, or A/C compressors, are also possible, though the robust nature of the commercial parts means they typically have a long service life. Owners should also watch for wear in the hydraulic steering system and potential leaks. Regarding the engine and transmission (e.g., Detroit Series 60, Allison automatic), these are extremely durable but will eventually require major overhauls or significant repairs (e.g., injector issues, transmission solenoid failures) as they accumulate hundreds of thousands of miles.
Recalls for the 2004 Prevost Bus, if any, are generally component-specific, issued by the supplier of a part (e.g., brakes, steering column, specific engine components) rather than systemic design flaws of the Prevost chassis itself. Owners should check the NHTSA database using their specific VIN for any outstanding recalls. Overall, long-term reliability is outstanding, but it demands diligent and often specialized maintenance to keep its complex systems in top condition. There aren't typically "model year specific" pervasive problems for 2004 as Prevost chassis designs are very stable and evolve slowly, incorporating proven technologies rather than experimental ones.
Component-specific failures, such as alternators, starters, or A/C compressors, are also possible, though the robust nature of the commercial parts means they typically have a long service life. Owners should also watch for wear in the hydraulic steering system and potential leaks. Regarding the engine and transmission (e.g., Detroit Series 60, Allison automatic), these are extremely durable but will eventually require major overhauls or significant repairs (e.g., injector issues, transmission solenoid failures) as they accumulate hundreds of thousands of miles.
Recalls for the 2004 Prevost Bus, if any, are generally component-specific, issued by the supplier of a part (e.g., brakes, steering column, specific engine components) rather than systemic design flaws of the Prevost chassis itself. Owners should check the NHTSA database using their specific VIN for any outstanding recalls. Overall, long-term reliability is outstanding, but it demands diligent and often specialized maintenance to keep its complex systems in top condition. There aren't typically "model year specific" pervasive problems for 2004 as Prevost chassis designs are very stable and evolve slowly, incorporating proven technologies rather than experimental ones.
How long will the 2004 Prevost Bus last?
The 2004 Prevost Bus is built for extreme long-term service. Commercially, these chassis often achieve well over 1,000,000 miles, with many reaching 2,000,000+ miles with proper maintenance. For RV conversions, average mileage is significantly lower, perhaps 200,000-500,000 miles for a vehicle of this age, indicating much less stress on the drivetrain.
Years of service easily span 20-30+ years, with many older Prevost coaches from the 80s and 90s still actively on the road. This highlights exceptional long-term durability, primarily due to their stainless steel chassis and heavy-duty components. Weaknesses over time mostly involve age-related degradation of rubber and plastic components (airbags, hoses, seals, wiring insulation) and potential for corrosion in specific unprotected areas, not the core chassis. Consistent, professional maintenance is paramount to achieving these incredible lifespans.
Years of service easily span 20-30+ years, with many older Prevost coaches from the 80s and 90s still actively on the road. This highlights exceptional long-term durability, primarily due to their stainless steel chassis and heavy-duty components. Weaknesses over time mostly involve age-related degradation of rubber and plastic components (airbags, hoses, seals, wiring insulation) and potential for corrosion in specific unprotected areas, not the core chassis. Consistent, professional maintenance is paramount to achieving these incredible lifespans.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Prevost Bus, while a commercial vehicle, incorporates a range of built-in technologies focused on operational efficiency and safety. Its core tech features a sophisticated multi-plex electrical system, which simplifies wiring and allows for advanced diagnostics of various onboard systems, from lighting to HVAC. The dashboard typically includes comprehensive analog gauges supplemented by basic digital displays for essential vehicle parameters, diagnostics, and warning indicators.
For commercial passenger coaches, entertainment systems often comprised multiple overhead CRT or LCD monitors, a robust public address (PA) system, and sometimes individual audio controls for passengers. In luxury RV conversions, the entertainment features are extensively customized, often including high-end home theater systems, multiple large-screen TVs, satellite television, premium audio, and advanced internet connectivity.
Driver-assistance features for a 2004 model were primarily focused on fundamental safety and control. These included standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Traction Control (ATC), and cruise control for highway driving. The advanced air-ride suspension itself functions as a stability aid, and an automatic air leveling system assists with setting up camp. More advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not common in commercial coaches of this vintage.
Safety features are robust, anchored by the Prevost's exceptionally strong, integral stainless steel "roll-cage" chassis design, offering superior occupant protection. Standard safety equipment includes a full air braking system with ABS and ATC, numerous emergency exits, and often an engine bay fire suppression system. Large, often heated, exterior mirrors provide excellent visibility. For RV conversions, optional safety enhancements frequently included backup cameras, 360-degree camera systems, and enhanced interior lighting. Crash-test ratings, as typically understood for passenger cars, are not applicable to heavy-duty commercial buses, which are subject to different regulatory safety standards focusing on structural integrity, emergency egress, and passenger protection in roll-over and frontal impact scenarios.
For commercial passenger coaches, entertainment systems often comprised multiple overhead CRT or LCD monitors, a robust public address (PA) system, and sometimes individual audio controls for passengers. In luxury RV conversions, the entertainment features are extensively customized, often including high-end home theater systems, multiple large-screen TVs, satellite television, premium audio, and advanced internet connectivity.
Driver-assistance features for a 2004 model were primarily focused on fundamental safety and control. These included standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Traction Control (ATC), and cruise control for highway driving. The advanced air-ride suspension itself functions as a stability aid, and an automatic air leveling system assists with setting up camp. More advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not common in commercial coaches of this vintage.
Safety features are robust, anchored by the Prevost's exceptionally strong, integral stainless steel "roll-cage" chassis design, offering superior occupant protection. Standard safety equipment includes a full air braking system with ABS and ATC, numerous emergency exits, and often an engine bay fire suppression system. Large, often heated, exterior mirrors provide excellent visibility. For RV conversions, optional safety enhancements frequently included backup cameras, 360-degree camera systems, and enhanced interior lighting. Crash-test ratings, as typically understood for passenger cars, are not applicable to heavy-duty commercial buses, which are subject to different regulatory safety standards focusing on structural integrity, emergency egress, and passenger protection in roll-over and frontal impact scenarios.
What Colors Options are Available?
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2004 Prevost Bus Prices and Market Value
When new, a bare 2004 Prevost H3-45 or X3-45 chassis would typically cost between $350,000 and $500,000. Completed luxury RV conversions by reputable builders often ranged from $800,000 to over $1.5 million. Today, the used market prices vary drastically. A former commercial passenger coach or a basic unconverted chassis might be found for $50,000 - $150,000, depending on mileage and condition.
However, a well-maintained, high-quality luxury RV conversion from 2004 can still command prices from $200,000 to $600,000+, or even more for exceptionally upgraded models. Depreciation is significant from its new luxury RV price, but a Prevost chassis holds its value remarkably well for a nearly two-decade-old vehicle, especially compared to typical RVs. Factors affecting resale value include the quality of the conversion, overall condition, engine/transmission type, maintenance records, and any modern upgrades (e.g., solar, electronics, interior refurbishment).
However, a well-maintained, high-quality luxury RV conversion from 2004 can still command prices from $200,000 to $600,000+, or even more for exceptionally upgraded models. Depreciation is significant from its new luxury RV price, but a Prevost chassis holds its value remarkably well for a nearly two-decade-old vehicle, especially compared to typical RVs. Factors affecting resale value include the quality of the conversion, overall condition, engine/transmission type, maintenance records, and any modern upgrades (e.g., solar, electronics, interior refurbishment).
2004 Prevost Bus Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2004 Prevost Bus, especially a converted RV, is a premium endeavor with substantial long-term costs. Insurance can range from $3,000 to $10,000+ annually due to its high value and specialized nature. Fuel costs are significant, with 5-8 MPG and large tank capacities leading to high bills. Maintenance is costly, requiring specialized shops and expensive commercial-grade parts for routine services like oil changes, tire replacements, and brake jobs. Major repairs, such as engine or transmission work, can easily run into five figures. Overall, the 2004 Prevost Bus is a costly vehicle to own, requiring a significant financial commitment beyond the purchase price, making it far from economical for the average owner.
2004 Prevost Bus Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2004 Prevost Bus Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Prevost Bus Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Prevost Bus is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Bus with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Prevost Bus Compare to Other Bus?
When stacking the 2004 Prevost Bus against its rivals, it largely stands in a class of its own for heavy-duty luxury conversions. Its primary competitors for chassis conversions include Motor Coach Industries (MCI) coaches and, less commonly, European brands like Setra. For integrated luxury RVs, high-end Class A manufacturers like Newell Coach and Foretravel are direct rivals.
In terms of performance, the Prevost excels with its powerful commercial diesel engines and sophisticated air-ride suspension, offering an exceptionally smooth, stable, and quiet ride superior to most other options. MCI coaches (e.g., D-Series) are very capable but often lack the same level of ride refinement and modern chassis architecture. High-end Class A motorhomes, while luxurious, typically don't match the sheer robustness or highway prowess of a true commercial coach chassis.
Features on a Prevost chassis are unparalleled in terms of storage capacity, structural integrity, and commercial-grade componentry. Interior features are largely determined by the custom converter. Newell Coach, however, offers a completely integrated, factory-designed luxury experience with advanced systems built from the ground up, often exceeding what a custom Prevost conversion can achieve in terms of seamless integration.
Reliability is a Prevost hallmark. Built for commercial million-mile service, its stainless steel chassis and heavy-duty drivetrain are legendary. MCI coaches also share a reputation for extreme durability. While Newell and Foretravel are also very reliable for RVs, they don't have the same high-mileage commercial pedigree as Prevost. Maintenance, however, is specialized and costly for all these high-end options.
Price-wise, a Prevost chassis for conversion is typically the most expensive starting point, leading to the highest final luxury RV prices, both new and used. MCI coaches often represent a slightly more budget-friendly alternative for a similar level of heavy-duty durability. Newell Coach, when new, can sometimes exceed Prevost conversion prices due to its integrated, bespoke luxury.
Recommended alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Prevost excels with its powerful commercial diesel engines and sophisticated air-ride suspension, offering an exceptionally smooth, stable, and quiet ride superior to most other options. MCI coaches (e.g., D-Series) are very capable but often lack the same level of ride refinement and modern chassis architecture. High-end Class A motorhomes, while luxurious, typically don't match the sheer robustness or highway prowess of a true commercial coach chassis.
Features on a Prevost chassis are unparalleled in terms of storage capacity, structural integrity, and commercial-grade componentry. Interior features are largely determined by the custom converter. Newell Coach, however, offers a completely integrated, factory-designed luxury experience with advanced systems built from the ground up, often exceeding what a custom Prevost conversion can achieve in terms of seamless integration.
Reliability is a Prevost hallmark. Built for commercial million-mile service, its stainless steel chassis and heavy-duty drivetrain are legendary. MCI coaches also share a reputation for extreme durability. While Newell and Foretravel are also very reliable for RVs, they don't have the same high-mileage commercial pedigree as Prevost. Maintenance, however, is specialized and costly for all these high-end options.
Price-wise, a Prevost chassis for conversion is typically the most expensive starting point, leading to the highest final luxury RV prices, both new and used. MCI coaches often represent a slightly more budget-friendly alternative for a similar level of heavy-duty durability. Newell Coach, when new, can sometimes exceed Prevost conversion prices due to its integrated, bespoke luxury.
Recommended alternatives:
- For similar durability and a slightly lower cost: An MCI motorcoach (e.g., MCI 102DL3, D4500) offers robust commercial construction suitable for conversions.
- For integrated, ultimate luxury without the conversion process: A Newell Coach (even an older model) or a Foretravel provides a factory-finished, high-end RV experience that can rival or exceed the luxury of a Prevost conversion.
- For more modern amenities and a broader dealer network: A high-end Class A motorhome from manufacturers like Newmar (e.g., King Aire, Essex) or Tiffin (e.g., Zephyr) built on a Spartan or Freightliner chassis offers extensive luxury, though with a different ride dynamic and overall chassis philosophy.
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Prevost Bus a Good Bus?
The 2004 Prevost Bus is ideal for experienced, dedicated RV enthusiasts or luxury travelers who demand the absolute pinnacle of ride quality, durability, and customization potential. It's perfect for those planning extensive, full-time travel and who appreciate robust commercial-grade engineering over typical RV construction.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but only if the buyer fully understands and is prepared for the substantial financial commitment involved in its high purchase price (even used), costly specialized maintenance, and significant operating expenses. It's not an economical vehicle, but a lifestyle investment.
This vehicle is almost exclusively purchased used for conversion or as an already-converted luxury motorhome. Focus on well-maintained examples, preferably the H3-45 (for its "tall" interior) or X3-45 chassis, with comprehensive service records. Buyers should also ensure any existing conversion quality meets their standards or budget for a new custom build. Under these conditions, a 2004 Prevost offers an unmatched luxury RV experience.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but only if the buyer fully understands and is prepared for the substantial financial commitment involved in its high purchase price (even used), costly specialized maintenance, and significant operating expenses. It's not an economical vehicle, but a lifestyle investment.
This vehicle is almost exclusively purchased used for conversion or as an already-converted luxury motorhome. Focus on well-maintained examples, preferably the H3-45 (for its "tall" interior) or X3-45 chassis, with comprehensive service records. Buyers should also ensure any existing conversion quality meets their standards or budget for a new custom build. Under these conditions, a 2004 Prevost offers an unmatched luxury RV experience.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma