Camping season is here and that means it’s time to make sure your RV is ready to handle the adventures ahead. Keeping up with your RV’s maintenance will not only help prolong the life of your vehicle but also make sure your camping experiences are as enjoyable as possible. From routine checks to preventive measures and troubleshooting advice, Great American RV is here to help. Get started with these 40 RV Maintenance Tips then head to our Hap’s Helpful Hacks section of our website or YouTube page for even more RV tips and tricks.
Check the air pressure in your tires and inspect the tread for even wear. Ensure it is not too worn for travel.
Rotate your tires according to mileage recommendations.
Check the grease in your bearings to ensure it hasn’t been exposed to water or dried up and make sure you don’t have a leak on the seals. If so you will need them repacked. It is recommended that you repack your bearings yearly.
Check for the proper operation of your brakes and make sure your brake controller is set for comfortable braking while traveling on the highway.
Change your wiper blades for clear visibility while driving.
Check all compartment door latches as well as interior travel latches for doors.
Lubricate the chassis on your motorhome. Some towable RVs also have lubrication points on the axle suspension.
Service your engine, air filter, and any other chassis recommendations according to mileage.
Service your generator according to manufacturer recommendations based on hours run.
Run your generator for at least an hour monthly with a load applied by having your a/c running. This helps exercise the generator and keep the carburetor clean of stagnant fuel.
Check your power cord for damage, frayed wires, bent prongs, or burnt connections. Replace it if necessary.
Check your 110 system for proper function: breakers, outlets, GFCI.
Maintain your battery and ensure the water level is above the plates.
Check all battery connections for corrosion and ensure they are tight.
Run all appliances for 24-48 hours and ensure they are working properly. Do this routinely, especially if your RV has been sitting in storage.
Clean your A/C filter and inspect the coils on the roof for cleaning or bent fins.
Blow out the exhausts on your gas-operated appliances to rid them of any insect nests.
If you have an access panel to inspect your fridge, remove it and clean out any debris or insect nests.
Flush the lines in your water system.
Flush your (tanked) water heater and ensure there is no buildup in the bottom of the tank. Replace your anode rod if necessary.
Test your water pump and pressurize your water system to check for any leaks.
Sanitize your fresh tank and change any filtration systems.
Check your CO/LP detector for power and test the alarm.
Check your smoke detector’s alarm and replace the battery.
Check to ensure your fire extinguisher is full and in proper operation.
Have a leak check performed on your propane system to ensure there are no gas leaks.
Check the rubber lines of your propane system for any cracking in the rubber or loose connections. If found, replace the lines with new ones.
Check the sealant on your roof and sidewalls every 90 days for any cracking, peeling, or openings. This is very important to prevent water damage.
Inspect your roof after trips for any cuts or scrapes in the rubber from low-lying tree limbs.
Check your roof accessories for proper attachment to the roof and clean your roof every 6 months.
Treat your black tank with recommended cleaners/chemicals to keep any lingering odors out and to keep it sanitized.
Roll your awning out after rain and let it air dry, this helps prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Check gaskets on doors and slide-outs for tears or deterioration of the adhesive.
Check doors and slides for any daylight gaps that can allow insect or rodent entry.
Lubricate doors and slide-outs and check for proper operation.
Make sure slide-outs are sealed properly when closed. If not, check for obstructions. If none are found, it may need an adjustment.
Lubricate stabilizer and leveling systems.
Lubricate door locks.
Check all signal lights on the exterior of the RV.
Keep a good record of all maintenance performed on your RV.
This content is not a legal standard or regulation, and does not create any new legal obligation. It is advisory in nature, informational in content, and is intended to assist and educate consumers in the use and enjoyment of their recreational vehicles. Great American RV Superstores does not hereby make any warranty, express or implied, and does not assume any liability with respect to the use of, or damages resulting from the use of any information, method or process included in this content.
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