Summer is almost here, and that means road trips in your RV! As excited as you are to hit the open road and see the country in the comfort of your RV, it’s important to thoroughly check your vehicle first. Taking care of your basic RV repair needs before setting out on your trip will give you safety and peace of mind that your RV can take you as far as you want to go. At Timbucktu RV, we have all the parts you’ll need to ensure you are your camper are ready for your next adventure.
Everything on your RV repair checklist fits into one of three categories: engine and vehicle, exterior, and interior. Here’s a closer look.
Engine & Vehicle Checks
First things first, you need to make sure your RV will get you where you want to go. Have the engine serviced: get the oil and filter changed, and check the fluid levels, belts, and hoses. You also need to check your brakes are working properly. An RV is a heavy vehicle, and you need to be confident that it will come to a stop when you need it to. Because you’ll be traveling in the summer, service the A/C to keep yourself cool. Finally, check the tires for wear, cracks, or dry rot, especially if the RV has been sitting for a while.
Exterior Checks
On the outside of your RV, you’ll want to have a look at the roof, lights, and awning. Check the roof for cracks, leaks, or loose seals, and repair them before setting out. Test your headlights, brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals, and replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs. Your RV may be your home away from home, but it still needs to obey the rules of the road! If your RV has an awning, ensure it expands and retracts easily and that there are no tears in the fabric.
Interior Checks
Last but not least, check that all your interior systems are working. Replace any burnt-out light bulbs and confirm all the fittings and fixtures work. Inspect the water lines and plumbing fixtures and connections for leaks or damage. If you find any leaks, look for water damage inside the RV. Next up is the propane system. Check the tanks, lines, and fittings, then test the appliances that run on propane, including the water heater, stove, oven, and refrigerator. Lastly, but crucially, check the smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Replace any dead batteries or expired fire extinguishers.