Recommended Services for Your RV

RVs, just like any vehicle, require routine and ongoing maintenance to ensure the longest lifespan and best reliability. After all, nothing puts a kibosh on your trip quite like a roadside breakdown.

The good news is that when you stay on top of routine services, you can keep your RV running smoothly and can prevent costly repairs. If you aren’t sure what services your RV might need, this is the list for you. We will cover the top ten recommended services for your motorhome.

#1: Schedule Regular Oil Changes

In the same way that you should never skip your routine car oil change, you should never put off regular oil changes for your RV.

It is recommended that you change your oil on your RV every 3,000 to 4,500 miles. The exact distance between oil changes will depend on a couple of factors.

1. RV make and model: Some RVs require more frequent oil changes, while others can go longer distances. Check your owner’s manual to confirm your RV’s oil change mileage.
2. Type of oil: When you change the oil in your RV, you’ll have a few options on the type of oil used. Standard oil has to be changed the most frequently, whereas synthetic oil can last longer between service visits. Make sure to ask your service center what oil is used and when you’re due for your next change.

It is also worth noting that if your RV sat for a long period of time, perhaps over the winter months, you will most likely need to change the oil prior to the mileage being reached. Oil will deteriorate over time as your RV sits, making it a good idea to have your oil checked before getting back on the road.

#2: Roof Maintenance

While it might not be something you naturally think of on your maintenance list, be sure to schedule annual roof maintenance for your RV.

Your roof needs to be professionally cleaned with specially designed cleaning agents. Additionally, during the annual roof maintenance service, your technician can apply a UV-blocking treatment to protect the rubber membrane.

Annual roof maintenance can also help prevent cracking and leaking, ensuring the longest lifespan possible from your RV’s roof.

#3: Inspect Tires

One of the most important aspects of safety on the road is the condition of your RV’s tires. Even if you are driving a relatively new RV, it is worthwhile to have your tires inspected at least once a year.

In addition to having your tires professionally serviced, take time before every trip to check the tire pressure and to look over your tread. If you notice that your tires are cracking, losing air, or have low tread, take them in to be serviced prior to hitting the road.

#4: Service Brakes

Right next to tires on the list of important safety features are your brakes.

Brakes should be inspected at the beginning of every year. For those who spend more than a few months out of the year using their RV, a more frequent inspection is recommended. As a good rule of thumb, when you take your RV in for an oil change, ask your mechanic to give your brakes a once-over.

At the first sign of your brake pads wearing down or of excessive squeaking when in use, schedule brake repairs.

#5: Check Your Batteries

Each year, you should take your RV into the dealership or your local service center to have the batteries serviced. This can help prolong battery life and prevent frustrating failures.

During an annual inspection, your mechanic should check your battery voltage, remove the cables, and clean the terminals.

Flooded batteries should be topped off as needed, and the entire system should be tested to ensure there is plenty of life left.

#6: Water Heater Maintenance

If your RV is equipped with a water heater, it is recommended that you have the water heater serviced once a year.

During service, your technician should check the anode rod, relief valve, thermocouple, module board, complete operation, and burner assembly. Additionally, they can remove nests, bugs, and other pests that can cause damage to your wiring.

#7: Slide Maintenance

If your RV has slideouts, you need to have the slides inspected and serviced annually.

During inspection, your technician will check for proper gasket compression when the slides are opened and closed. They will lubricate the slide tracks, apply UV treatment, and adjust the movement of the slides as needed.

#8: Furnace Service

For RVs equipped with a heating system, it is important to have the furnace serviced every year to ensure it is operating safely and efficiently.

During an annual service, your technician will clean, inspect, and adjust the main burner, orifice, blower wheel, electrode assembly, board contacts, combustion changers, fan motor, vent tubes, and outer casing.

#9: RV Hail Damage Inspection & Repair

Often, during the spring and summer months, strong storms bring hail to the area. If your RV was out in the elements during a hail storm, it is a good idea to take it in to a professional for inspections and repairs.

Most service centers will offer a courtesy roof and unit inspection for hail damage and potential water leaks. Make sure the team you choose will work directly with your insurance company.

Tackling hail damage right away allows you to file in a timely manner with your insurance company and prevents further damage to your roof due to leaks and cracks.

#10: Winterize for Storage

For those living in a cold climate who plan to store their RV for the season, it is important to have the vehicle winterized prior to the first hard freeze of the season.

During the winterization process, the water heater, drain, and water filter will be bypassed to pump antifreeze through the water lines. The icemaker, dishwasher, and washing machine, as applicable, will also be winterized to prevent pipes from freezing.

When you have to store your RV for an extended period of time, be sure to find a secure place to keep it safe from the elements.

Visit Transwest for RV Services

If you need to schedule routine RV services, we are here to help. At Transwest, we offer quality RV services including routine maintenance and repairs. Additionally, our team will be more than happy to help you create the perfect yearly schedule for recommended services, and we can answer any questions you have about the current condition of your RV.

Stop by one of our locations to learn more.