Recreational vehicles are built to last for the long haul, but that doesn’t mean they’ll get there on their own. The thousands of miles of road can take a heavy toll on RVs, so be sure to follow our maintenance tips to keep your RV running for longer.
Keep It Clean
Things run better when they’re clean, and we all know that applies especially to cars. Keeping an RV sparkling clean can be a challenge—it’s just so much to clean! But if you stay diligent about keeping your RV shining inside and out, your recreational vehicle will reward you with a longer lifespan.
Plus, while you’re cleaning inside and out, it gives you a chance to thoroughly inspect for minor flaws that can turn into significant problems down the road, like cracks in your windshield or leaks under your engine.
Check Door and Window Seals
The last thing you want coming into your RV is water. Water leaking through windows or doors can cause structural damage to wooden materials or, of course, lead to mold. Leaks can be disastrous on your vehicle, so be sure that your door and windows are sealed tight and aren’t letting in anything from the outside.
Service the Wheels and Tires
The tires and wheels are crucial to your RV and can be the difference between a bumpy and noisy ride or a smooth and relaxing cruise. Be sure to monitor tire pressure and keep a portable tire inflater in your RV for emergencies and when the pressure gets a little low. Also, rotate, clean, and keep your tires covered when you can to preserve them longer.
As far as your wheels go, make sure your wheel bearings are operating correctly—it’s a good idea to have some wheel bearing grease on board just in case.
Drain and Flush the Fluids
An RV operates as a second home for many, so you also have to maintain other functions, like the water heater. At least once a year, you should drain and flush your water heater, as it’s the best way to keep it clean. A water heater failure can lead to severe damage to your RV if not adequately maintained.
Follow Routine Maintenance
It’s simple and obvious but undeniably important. Your RV is like any other car, and you should regularly get it serviced according to its service schedule. That means regular oil changes and check-ups to ensure your RV is operating correctly. Don’t wait until the next state on your road trip to get an oil change; best always to do it sooner rather than later.
An RV can travel hundreds of thousands of miles and last decades, but like any car, it can fall into disarray if not correctly maintained. Follow our maintenance tips for keeping your RV running longer so you can tackle your next big road trip behind the wheel of your RV!
