What Kind of Maintenance Do RVs Need?

As per research, tracking the fuel consumption patterns of your RV every 100 miles can tell you a lot about its condition and whether it needs maintenance or not. However, you may already know that your motorhome needs some servicing, or maybe you’re not looking for RV service in Central Texas right now and just want to know the maintenance responsibility and costs before purchasing an RV. Whatever the case, this blog is put together to help you find all that:

Monthly Maintenance (DIY-friendly)

You've invested in your home on wheels; keeping it in tip-top shape doesn't have to be rocket science. Let's break down the monthly maintenance tasks you can handle yourself to keep your RV adventure-ready and avoid costly repairs down the road (no pun intended).

Exterior Inspections

Carefully inspect your RV's exterior. Walk around the vehicle and notice any scratches, dents, and rust signs. You want to catch any potential issues on your RV before they become problems.

Your roof deserves special attention because it takes the most beating from sun, rain, and tree branches. Grab your ladder and inspect that roof membrane. You're looking for anything that seems off: cracks, bubbles, or places where it's starting to peel away.

Now, let's talk about seals and caulking. Pay extra attention to:

Systems Check

Regular checkups keep every component running smoothly. Let's start with the generator. You want to run it for a couple of hours each month, kind of like taking your car for a spin to keep the battery charged. While it's running, listen for any weird noises. They are usually your first clue that something's not right.

The HVAC system particularly needs professional inspection annually, though monthly filter checks can be done yourself. For best results, ensure your RV is using a MERV 6 rated system. Many experienced RV technicians recommend having a certified HVAC specialist examine the system before long trips.

Battery maintenance is also essential. Clean terminals are happy terminals. If you see white crusty stuff or green gunk, that's your cue to break out the cleaning supplies.

Interior Maintenance

Your AC system needs regular TLC. Dirty filters are like trying to breathe through a stuffy nose. Pop those filters out and give them a good wash. When it comes to moisture control, you're playing defense against mold. Nobody wants to find fuzzy surprises under their mattress or in their closets.

For your mechanical systems, your door locks and hinges need regular movement and occasional lubrication. But here's a tip that might save you some headaches: skip the WD-40 on your locks. Instead, go for a dry lubricant - it won't attract dirt and grime.

Moisture control presents an ongoing challenge in RVs. High humidity levels create perfect conditions for mold growth. Using a hygrometer helps monitor interior moisture levels - aim for 30-50% relative humidity. Many RV enthusiasts use Turkish towels for moisture management - their quick-drying properties and compact size make them perfect for RV living.

Remember, these monthly checks might seem like a lot, but they're way easier than dealing with a major repair on the road. Plus, you'll get to know your RV so well that you'll notice when something's off before it becomes a real problem. It's kind of like getting to know all your home's quirks - just on wheels!

Quarterly Maintenance (Requires Basic Technical Skills)

Quarterly maintenance tasks require more time and technical knowledge. These checks help prevent major system failures and maintain your RV's value. Many RV owners partner with real estate storage facilities that offer covered storage options between trips, protecting their investment from weather damage.

But even if the RV is parked for months, every three months, it still needs some attention to keep its more complex systems running smoothly. While these tasks require a bit more know-how than monthly checks, you don't need to be a certified mechanic to handle them. Let's dive into what needs checking and why it matters.

Electrical Systems

Start by thoroughly inspecting all visible wiring. Look for any wires that seem cracked, discolored, or have damaged insulation. These could be warning signs of bigger problems down the road.

The transfer switch deserves special attention. This device manages power flow between shore power, your generator, and batteries. When it's not working properly, you might notice flickering lights or inconsistent power—definitely not what you want during a horror movie night in your RV!

Here's a breakdown of essential electrical checks:

Safety Systems

Safety equipment is about meeting regulations and protecting you and your family. Every quarter, test all your detectors. Don't just push the test button and call it done. Listen for the alarm volume and watch for proper indicator lights. Many RVers don't realize that detectors have expiration dates, so check those, too.

The emergency exit window might not be something you think about often, but when you need it, you really need it. Ensure it opens smoothly and everyone in your RV knows how to use it. 

Pro tip: apply a bit of dry lubricant to the window seals to prevent sticking.

Mechanical Systems

Your RV has plenty of hinges, latches, and mechanisms that work hard to keep things secure and comfortable. Here's what experienced RVers check every quarter:

Let's talk structure - the backbone of your RV. Get underneath (safely, with proper supports) and check the frame. Any rust spots need immediate attention. Small rust patches can turn into big problems if left unchecked. Paint or treat any bare metal you find.

Tire maintenance isn't just about pressure - though that's super important. Look for uneven wear patterns, which might signal alignment issues. Check those lug nuts with a torque wrench - don't just give them a kick. Proper torque (90 to 120 lbs usually) prevents wheel separation, something nobody wants to experience on the highway. Here’s a chart shared on the etrailer forum that can give you the correct torque specs:

Remember, these quarterly checks take a bit more time than your monthly once-over, but they're crucial for preventing those dream-crushing breakdowns that can turn your vacation into a nightmare. Take notes of what you find - keeping a maintenance log helps track changes over time and spots developing issues before they become problems.

Annual Maintenance

Your RV needs serious attention once a year to keep it roadworthy and comfortable. Some parts require a professional's touch, while others can be handled yourself. Here's everything you need to know about keeping your home on wheels in prime condition.

Professional Service Requirements

Some jobs are best left to the experts. These tasks require specialized tools and knowledge that most RV owners don't have in their toolbox. Let's break down what the pros should handle for you.

The chassis is your RV's foundation and needs expert eyes once a year. Wheel bearings are particularly critical—they keep your wheels spinning smoothly. A professional will pull them apart, clean out old grease, inspect them for wear, and repack them with fresh grease. Skipping this maintenance could lead to bearing failure on the road, and nobody wants that drama.

For motorized RVs, engine maintenance is non-negotiable. Your RV's engine works harder than a regular car engine - it's pushing a lot more weight. Professional oil changes use the right grade oil because even though 15W-40 is considered the overall best oil grade, if your climate is hot, your RV may need something heavier like 20W-50, or if it is too cold, lighter oil like 10W-30 might be required, so it depends on the circumstance. The pros also conduct important checks that DIYers might miss. They'll also spot potential issues with belts and hoses before they leave you stranded.

Generator service is another pro-level job. These units are like mini power plants, needing expert attention to stay reliable. A professional service includes:

DIY Annual Tasks

Now for the jobs you can tackle yourself. 

Water system maintenance is crucial for safe, clean water on the road. Start with a complete sanitization - this isn't just running some bleach through the lines. You'll want to:

1. Drain the entire system
2. Mix the right sanitizer solution (pros recommend 1/4 cup bleach per 15 gallons)
3. Fill and let it sit for the proper time
4. Flush until the bleach smell is gone

The water heater needs special attention too. That anode rod corrodes, so your tank doesn't have to. If it's more than 75% (or 6.5 inches out of 9.25 inches) gone, replace it. While you're there, flush out any sediment in the tank bottom.

Roof maintenance is your RV's first line of defense against the elements. You'll want to do the following:

When cleaning your RV's roof, use appropriate cleaners for your roof membrane type. Rubber roofs need different care than fiberglass roofs. Work in sections, and remember—if you find any questionable areas, it's better to reseal them now than deal with leaks later.

These annual maintenance tasks might seem overwhelming, but they are cheaper than repairs. Plus, staying on top of maintenance helps maintain your RV's resale value. Keep detailed records of what you do and when - future you (or future buyers) will thank you for it.

5-Year Major Maintenance

Your RV needs some serious updating every five years, especially regarding critical safety components. This isn't about being overly cautious—it's about preventing major issues and keeping everyone safe on the road. Let's explore what needs attention during this important maintenance milestone.

Required Replacements

The biggest thing on your 5-year checklist? Tires. Even if they look perfectly fine with plenty of treads, RV tires age differently than car tires. The rubber compounds break down over time, regardless of mileage. Most RV manufacturers and tire experts strongly recommend replacing tires every five to seven years. Here's what a complete tire replacement should include:

When it comes to safety equipment, five years is also a crucial milestone. Most safety devices have a limited lifespan and don't come with convenient warning lights telling you when they're getting too old. Your safety equipment replacement should include:

Cost Guidelines For Professional RV Service in Central Texas

Let's talk money—professional RV maintenance isn't cheap, but it's way cheaper than major repairs. The costs vary significantly between gas and diesel RVs, so let's break it down for both.

Gas RV Annual Costs

Gas RVs are generally cheaper to maintain than their diesel counterparts. Basic service costs around $500-700 annually and covers essential maintenance like oil changes and filter replacements. But don't let the lower cost fool you—skipping maintenance to save money usually backfires.

Major service visits hit $1,000-1,500 harder, but they're crucial. These visits include:

Diesel RV Annual Costs

Diesel RVs cost more to maintain, but they typically last longer with proper care. Basic service runs $2,000-3,000 annually, covering specialized diesel engine maintenance requirements. Major service visits can hit $3,000-5,000, but these powerhouses need expert attention to stay reliable.

Smart RV owners set aside money quarterly for repairs. That $1,000 monthly emergency fund might seem excessive, but one major repair can easily exceed $5,000. Consider it insurance against vacation-ruining breakdowns.

Remember, these costs are averages - your actual expenses might vary based on:

• How much you travel
• Where you get service done
• Your RV's age and condition
• Whether you do some maintenance yourself

The key is planning and budgeting appropriately. Regular maintenance might feel expensive, but it's nothing compared to major repairs or replacements caused by neglect.

Overland RVs Offers Proactive RV Maintenance and Priority Repairs:

Whether you need monthly RV servicing or comprehensive annual maintenance, Overland can offer top-notch RV Service in Central Texas without breaking the bank. 

Some things, such as electrical and plumbing system maintenance and repairs, cannot be DIYed. So make sure to call us, let us know what's happening, and we'll ensure your RV runs like a well-oiled machine.