Tips for Servicing Your RV and Keeping it in Great Shape

Because of their size and versatility, RVs are great vehicles to own. And it’s important to maintain your RV so that it can stay in great shape for years to come!

Finding a service center for your RV, such as specialized Newmar Service Centers, can help. But before you head over to your service technician, here’s what you should know about servicing and maintaining your motorhome!

General Maintenance

Regular maintenance is required for any vehicle, and RVs are no exception. While RVs tend to have longer lifespans than traditional vehicles, they are still mechanical, so there are bound to be instances of wear and tear. The key to making the most out of your RV and extending its life is to do scheduled maintenance on a regular basis. Building a relationship with a Newmar motorhome service center in Orlando is a great way to avoid missing out on any essential servicing.

Unlike a car, an RV is both a home and an automobile, so you need to maintain all the systems: plumbing, electrical, mechanical, etc. The following is a list of things you should check on your next walk-through:

• Check all fluid levels – brake fluid, transmission fluid, and oil levels (if applicable). Note if any fluids are leaking or low.
• Check tires for tread wear. The tires should also be rotated regularly and pressure checked often, especially before any long trips.
• Test all appliances – stovetop burners, microwave, refrigerator(s), etc. Check the generator periodically as well to ensure that it’s working properly. A good way to remember this is every 100 hours of generator use or every three months for those who use their generators less frequently.

Exterior Repairs

Awnings: Awnings are susceptible to breaks and failure over time. If you haven't upgraded your awning recently, or if you've bought an older model RV, it's probably time for an upgrade. The same goes for the fabric on your awning: If it's getting brittle and worn, replace it immediately.

Slide-out Seals: These seals provide waterproofing and weatherproofing for your RV's slide-outs. They should be checked every year and replaced as necessary — especially if you live in a rough climate with extreme temperatures or strong winds.

Interior Repairs

Interior RV repairs are going to be the most common repairs that you will face in the life of your motorhome, camper, or travel trailer. This isn’t anything to cause alarm, but happens because you are constantly using the inside of your RV, just like you would a regular home.

Here are a few repairs that you might encounter over time:

• Wall damage. Depending on what type of walls your RV has (aluminum, wood paneling, fiberglass) your repair options vary slightly. You can usually patch small holes with drywall or fiberglass compound. Larger areas should be replaced or covered with a trim piece. It's usually best to replace rather than repair aluminum walls.
• Cabinet door hinges and latches. These will go out on you from time to time and need replacement. A good RV dealer can supply new parts, but it's also possible to find them in any hardware store. Just take the broken part with you when you go shopping for a new one!
• Cushion covers. After a while, it's not unusual for the cushion covers on your couch and dinette to get a little ratty or stained. Replacing these can go a long way toward improving the appearance of an older rig. Replacement covers can be found at most major fabric stores.
• Light bulbs. RV light bulbs are just like the ones in your house, so replacing them is easy. Keep a few spare bulbs on hand, and make sure they fit your specific fixtures.
• Faucets and valves. The water lines in an RV can be exposed to extreme temperatures, so the seals may wear out over time and start to leak. You can easily replace faucet seals yourself, which involves disassembling the faucet and installing new parts.

Technology Repairs

RV technology repairs include things like satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and other forms of entertainment technology that are common in RVs. It can also include things like security cameras, solar panels, and other electronics that you may have added to your RV after purchasing it.

HVAC Systems

It is important to keep your RV's air conditioner in good repair. A good rule of thumb is to have your air conditioner serviced every spring. This will help you avoid having to replace your RV's air conditioner before its time. Having the correct parts is vital and Newmar RV parts specialists know exactly what you will need.

Slide Maintenance

RV slide maintenance repairs are often necessary for RVs that have slide-out sections. These sections are used to increase the amount of internal space when parked at a campsite. They may be on one or both sides of an RV, and they can also be on the front or back of some vehicles. As you might expect, there are more parts involved with an RV that has slide-out sections, and they all need regular care and maintenance.

Most RV owners use these sections frequently, so it is important to perform regular maintenance checks to ensure everything works as it should. If an issue is found, it can usually be repaired fairly easily before it becomes a bigger problem.

Window, Roof, and Sealant Repair

The roof of your RV will take more damage than any other part of the vehicle during travel. Before you go on vacation, it is important that you check for cracks or leaks. Any damaged areas should be repaired as necessary. You should also use a tarp to cover your RV while it is sitting in storage.

How often do you need to clean and maintain the roof of your RV? The answer depends on how often you use your vehicle and how much time it spends outside in inclement weather. When you do decide to clean the roof, scrub it with a soft-bristled brush and soapy water before rinsing it with fresh water. After cleaning, apply a sealant that contains UV protection to prevent premature wear and tear.

RV windows and seals are subject to the same damaging elements as the rest of your vehicle, and need regular maintenance to avoid expensive damage. Proper RV window maintenance should include cleaning the windows inside and out on a regular basis. This will help maintain visibility while driving, and also help prevent premature aging of the windows themselves. It is important to clean the outside of your RV windows from time to time, especially after driving in inclement weather. Dirt can cause scratches in your RV windshield or other windows if left to accumulate for long periods of time.

In addition to cleaning your RV's exterior glass regularly, you should also inspect the seals around all of your exterior glass on a regular basis (perhaps every six months). The sealant around most RV glass is designed to keep water out while still allowing it to expand and contract with changing temperatures. But over time, this sealant can crack and break down. If you notice that it has failed or become compromised in any areas, you may need to replace or reseal it. Failing to do so can lead to leaks in your RV's interior walls or ceiling, which could result in mold or other damage.

Winterization and De-Winterization

Winterization and de-winterization are essential processes for any RVer that is going to be leaving your RV unattended for a period of time. Winterization typically involves preparing the plumbing system for freezing temperatures. De-winterization is the process of undoing what you did in winterizing.

RV winterizing refers to taking steps to prevent damage to the plumbing system due to freezing temperatures. Freezing temperatures can cause damage to the RV's water lines and/or water heater. Damage may also occur while you are traveling if there is a chance of freezing temperatures during transit.

For RVs that have an onboard water pump, it is recommended that you winterize your RV by blowing out the lines using compressed air. If your RV does not have an onboard water pump, you can winterize by filling your freshwater tank with non-toxic antifreeze and allowing the pump to force it through the lines. It is easiest to have Newmar Service Centers perform these tasks. If you don’t winterize properly, you may have a very unpleasant surprise when you return to your RV in the Spring. 

Turn to the Best Newmar RV Service Center in Florida

Here at Independence RV, we are committed to making sure you get the most use and happiness out of your motorhome. Our service department is here to help you keep your RV in tip-top shape all year round! 

Independence RV is one of the top five Newmar dealerships, and the only dealership in the southeast to receive the coveted Newmar Diamond Award for excellence in sales, delivery, and service. Whether this is your first motorhome or your fifth, trust Independence RV to provide the level of customer experience that you deserve. To find the perfect RV for your Florida excursion, you can check Newmar Dutch Star motorhomes for sale, or book a service appointment today!