RV Repair 101 - How to Fix Common RV Problems

As an RV owner, it's important to understand what common repairs you might need to consider, as well as how to maintain your RV to prevent the worst repairs from occurring. While certain components of an RV, such as the engine and transmission, require the same care and repair as any vehicle’s mechanical parts do, there are extra features to upkeep on RVs.

The following guide will walk you through how to fix common RV problems, and break down which projects are good for DIY versus which require a professional. Additionally, you will learn more about preventative maintenance, which can help prevent costly repairs. 

Projects to tackle on your own

There are certain tasks that even the least handy among us can most likely tackle by ourselves. In fact, owning an RV often involves a little ingenuity on the roadside when small trouble arises. The following are all excellent DIY projects that will help maintain your RV without jeopardizing the safety and integrity of your ride.

Replace lights

Unlike a car or truck, which has a few cabin lights, headlights, taillights, and brake lights, an RV is often equipped with a large number of additional light bulbs. Before you take your RV out on your next trip, spend time checking all the lights on the RV and replace any light bulbs that have burned out.

In many ways, RVs are similar to owning a home, so having a box with extra light bulbs on hand in the RV is a good idea. This will allow you to quickly swap out a burned-out bulb, even if you’re on the road.

Swap out the old battery

If your RV sits unused for a large chunk of the year, it’s a good idea to test your battery before you take off on a long road trip. Like car batteries, RV batteries may last anywhere from two to seven years, depending on the level of care they receive.

If you notice that the engine in your RV isn’t turning over as consistently as it did before, it might be time to swap out the battery. Before replacing your battery, consider taking your RV to an auto store or mechanic to have it tested. This can help you determine if the battery is weakening and requiring a quick battery exchange.

Wastewater valve leaks

One fairly common RV issue is a leaking wastewater valve. When you connect your wastewater or sewer hose to your gray or black water tank, you should not see a large amount of fluid leaking out as you remove the valve connection cap.

If you do see fluid leaking, it is probably due to your slide valve. If this is the case, you’ll want to replace your wastewater valve. The valve is easily accessible from outside of your RV and can be quickly unbolted. Remove the old valve and seals then insert the new replacements. Reassemble the bolts, tighten them up, and your leak should be gone..

Add a seal to your roof

When you are on the road, your RV is your home away from home. Just like your stationary home, you want the roof over your head to protect you from the elements. When your RV roof starts to develop a leak, it is a little different than with a shingle roof home. Adding a seal to your RV roof can stop most leaks in their tracks.

You can purchase an RV roof sealant from a local home improvement store. A product that works well for most RV roofs is Henry Tropi-Cool, a white silicone-based sealant. As a bonus, this product will also reflect heat, saving you on cooling costs.  

When to call in the RV pros

While there are a lot of simple RV projects that you can tackle on your own, some bigger issues justify hiring a pro for RV repair. Whether you find a shop nearby, call a tow truck, or count on mobile RV services, some jobs just need the help of a professional. The following issues might require the help of a trained RV mechanic.

Electrical issues

RVs are equipped with complex electrical systems. Similar to the electrical system in your home, an RV is designed to provide lots of power, in many cases even off-grid, to various rooms in the RV. If you start to notice issues with your electrical system, it is best to visit a professional. They will be able to properly diagnose the root of the issue and safely repair the system. 

Due to the danger of electrical repairs, this one is best left to the pros. 

Mechanical problems

Depending on your level of comfort with mechanical repairs, a professional mechanic can best tackle many of the bigger issues your RV engine, transmission, and other components face. If you’ve started to notice mechanical issues with your RV, don’t be afraid to shop around for a mechanic who specializes in RV repairs. 

Maintenance staves away most repair needs

Proper maintenance can often avoid the worst repairs. To protect your RV from damage, be sure to add the following maintenance tasks to your list. 

Frequent Tune-Ups

Just like any vehicle you own, it is important to schedule frequent tune-ups for your RV. This is especially true if the RV sits for long periods of time. A tune-up will help ensure that your RV is running smoothly and that you get the best gas mileage possible.

Don’t forget to get your oil changed

Oil changes are part of routine vehicle maintenance. It is easy to forget that even though you haven't driven your RV in months or reached the suggested number of miles between oil changes. However, your oil might still be reaching the expiration date based on the time that has transpired.

Be sure you keep a clear record of oil changes and set up reminders when the suggested number of months has passed between oil changes. 

Replace worn tires before they blow

Similar to changing your oil, changing tires on an RV is often necessary sooner than the mileage would normally dictate. Over time, the rubber on your tires will begin to deteriorate. If your RV sits for long periods of time, dry rot can even set in.

It’s important to always do a thorough tire check before hitting the road and schedule tire replacement before you’re stuck on the side of the road with a blown-out tire.  

Store carefully

How you store your RV will dictate how well it holds up. If possible, store your RV in a covered location. Additionally, it is worth investing in an RV cover to add extra protection to the roof and tire covers to protect your tires 

Find Your Next Adventure

At Transwest, we help countless people find the right RV for their next adventure. From adventuring Class B RVs to 45-foot diesel pushers, we offer an extensive inventory of RVs backed by names you trust.

Shop Winnebago, Newmar, Renegade, Tiffin, and more. Come visit us today to learn more about our RVs for sale.