RV Repair: Don’t Get Stuck in the Middle of Nowhere!
If you have a recreational vehicle, then it’s safe to say you’re a veteran of the great outdoors. While some people might think that an RV is just another toy for your leisure time, they couldn’t be more wrong.
After all, an RV is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s a mobile home and one of the most versatile modes of transportation. And it’s unfortunate if something goes wrong with such an investment.
With thousands of companies repairing RVs, getting one that meets your needs is no easy task. That’s because there is only a handful qualified for the job. As such, you should always double-check the credentials of a repair company before hiring them.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common RV problems, as well as maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in good shape while on the road.
Let’s get started.
RV Slide Out Problems
An RV slide out provides some extra space for storage and relaxation. However, many things can go wrong with RV slides, and diagnosing these issues may sometimes be difficult.
Some common RV slide-out problems include lubrication, motor burn out, leaks, power shortages, and foreign objects.
If you notice your RV Slide out mechanisms are becoming loose and falling while in motion, there is an issue. Another issue to note is parts getting stuck and unusual noises when you open and close your slide out.
Maintenance tips:
- Check your RV slide out on a regular basis when it’s retracted and when extended
- If you notice any leaks, seal them out with sealants
- Remove any foreign objects that are obstructing the slide’s smooth movement
- Always oil the RV slide out to keep the moving parts in good working order.
Electrical Problems
Typically, RVs have a complex electrical system that incorporates a 12V system(current from a battery) and a 120V system(current from a generator or power outlet).
The 120 volts system provides power for refrigerators, microwaves, and bathwater. On the other hand, the 12V power system runs the thermostats, lights, switches, and slides.
One of the most prevalent electrical issues with RVs is a tripped circuit breaker. When a circuit breaker trips, it means you’ve overloaded a system component. Additionally, faults with the external power supply may cause your electrical system to malfunction.
Maintenance tips:
- Avoid using multiple appliances that consume a lot of electricity
- Reset the circuit breaker by replacing the fuse or manually resetting the relay switch
- If you can’t handle the situation, seek professionals to resolve an electrical issue for your own safety
- If the problem is with the outside power, connect your RV to a different power source
Roof Leaks
Many factors can lead to a leaky roof, be it manufacturer design mistakes, exposure to elements, or poor maintenance. If you don’t properly winterize your RV throughout the cold weather, you risk damaging its exterior components.
A leaking roof can pose both health and safety risks. For instance, water draining in the interior of your RV can lead to the formation of mold and mildew, which causes health problems as well as fire hazards due to short circuits.
Maintenance Tips:
- Protect your RV from harsh weather with a UV resistant and waterproof cover
- Seal cracks or vents using a sealing tape while you’re on the road or apply a sealant on your roof yearly to prevent leaks
Tire Blowout
RV tires often experience blowouts on heavy-duty straightaways and highways. The thin rubber on the sidewall is subject to tearing and rupturing due to excess heat and abrasion from loose rocks and gravel on the road.
Tire blowouts are inconvenient because they require you to pull over or, in the worst-case scenario, cause your RV to run off the road.
Maintenance Tips:
- Always monitor your tire pressure before embarking on a journey
- Do not overload your RV because it causes the tires to overheat
- Replace your RV tires every 3-6 years to keep them in good condition
- Cover tour tires to protect them from UV radiation
RV Engine Issues
The engine is an integral part of any vehicle that you shouldn’t overlook. Typical engine issues include a leaking engine coolant, clogged fuel filter, faulty oxygen sensors, among others.
Have your engine inspected by a professional to ensure it’s in good working order. However, if you suspect an issue with your engine, there are things you can do before you call for assistance:
- Clean and check the engine’s cooling system
- Replace the engine’s fuel filter
- Remove and clean the oxygen sensors
Got Stuck? We’re Here to help!
It’s okay to feel stranded whenever your RV breaks down or experiences problems while you’re on the road.
But there is no need to panic: Just pull over to the side of the road and call our RV repair professionals at Leisure Coachworks for immediate assistance.
