Maintaining Your RV

An RV is a not only a major investment, it can be the key to the lifestyle that you’ve always dreamed about. An RV can give you the freedom to hit the open road, on your own terms. That’s why it’s important to protect the long term value of your RV by ongoing maintenance and upkeep. The better you maintain it now, the longer it will be on the road…and the more it will be worth if you decide to sell or trade it in. We’ve put together some maintenance tips to extend the life of your RV and keep you safe on the road. Oil and filter changes – just like other vehicles, your RV oil and filter should be changed regularly to keep your engine running smoothly. Check the owner’s manual to find out how often is recommended. Tires – always be sure to check pressure and lug nuts before each trip, especially if you haven’t driven your RV in a while. Tires are critical to safety on the road. Generator – check your manufacturer’s suggestions on how often to change your generator oil and filter and be sure to run the generator regularly to prevent build-up and corrosion. Cooling system – thoroughly flush and drain your cooling system at least every two years to prevent rust and scale build-up. Brakes – these are important! Maintain air brakes by draining air regularly (see owner’s manual) to prevent water from accumulating and rusting the tank. Battery – harsh weather conditions can shorten the life of your battery. Make sure to check fluid levels regularly and always inspect the battery before a trip. If you’re storing your RV someplace cold, be sure to take out the battery and store somewhere warm in the winter. Roof – inspect roof seals often and reseal when necessary to prevent leaks. If you have a rubber roof, look at having the rubber treated regularly. Holding tank – use a natural enzyme-based product to regularly flush your tank – frequency depending on the tank. Whenever possible, try to use special biodegradable toilet paper designed for RVs to help with breakdown. Exterior – wash and wax your RV’s exterior frequently, especially after returning from a trip and before storing for extended periods. Special commercial products can be used to remove black steaks from fiberglass and metal sidewalls. Be sure to use a cover while storing to minimize exposure from sun and other weather elements. And remember – when in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or with your manufacturer. Safe travels! Ready to sell? Tell us more about your RV!