No matter what type of RV you have, you need to take care of it before each trip you go on. Your RV acts as your home away from home, so take good care of it. Even the most seasoned RV drivers needs the ultimate RV safety maintenance checklist to keep everything in order before hitting the road! Get started with a list of all the essentials, then put your vehicle to the test.
Check Your Engine
Preventative maintenance lessens the chance of problems popping up while you’re on the road. This mainly includes cleaning, lubricating, and keeping an eye on things. It’s much easier to make adjustments when problems arise, and by waiting, you risk it becoming a larger issue. Some things you should do include checking the engine and these areas:
- Oil levels: look for leaks and whether you need an oil change.
- Fluid levels: top off your wiper fluid, antifreeze, and transmission fluid.
- Change Filters: Either clean or replace your oil, air, and fuel filters.
- Battery: It should have a full charge, but pack jumper cables just in case.
Remember, fixing a problem is easier when you catch it early and at home. The last thing you want is for your RV to break down on the side of the road. So, when you go RVing, focus on what’s important: you, your travel companions, and nature!
Don’t Forget About Scheduled Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance is as important as preventative maintenance and lessens the risk of a breakdown. Know exactly what you need to take care of by reading through your RV’s owner manual. Regularly checking your brake controls lessens the risk of an accident. A checklist helps you know when to take care of each bit of maintenance.
Likewise, you should keep various areas of maintenance on a schedule. For example, always check your tire pressure before going on a road trip. And remember, part of scheduled maintenance is taking your RV into the shop so an expert can look it over. They may notice something you missed.
Pro-Tip
If you live a busy life, make maintenance easy. Add dates and notes to your calendar for taking care of specific RV-centric tasks. Write down when you last took it to the shop and when it should go back. This keeps you organized and creates simple reminders, so maintenance is a breeze!
Evaluate the RV Inside and Out
Don’t overlook the inside or outside of your RV. Many of these features are crucial to its ability to run and keep you comfortable while you’re on the road.
In the event you’re towing a vehicle, this is also the time to check the hitch system for any signs of rust or other wear, and you may need to lubricate it.
Outside the Vehicle
Next, check out the outside of the RV. Your tires should have proper air pressure and remain in tread—bald tires are dangerous. Also, all exterior lights should work. Remember, headlights and turn signals are important to you and other drivers. Experts also say to check weight and balance, awnings, and windows. Other areas of the RV to add to your checklist include:
- Windshield wipers: They shouldn’t leave the windshield streaked.
- Metal framing: Search for rust or signs of aging.
- Pipe connection: Hoses and pipes should be properly connected and working.
- Wheel bearings: Lubricate all necessary parts.
By tracking what needs repair or replacement, you ensure a comfortable trip. Driving in a downpour with inadequate windshield wipers or dim headlights isn’t just stressful but dangerous. A checklist keeps you organized and helps you enjoy your time on the road.
As you inspect the exterior, don’t forget to check all seals and seams for cracking and signs of leakage. While you do this, also check your roof for signs of damage and surface condition since poor condition or holes could lead to leaks.
Inside the Vehicle
Taking the proper safety measures inside the vehicle is as important as doing so on the outside. Whenever you’re in your RV, you should know you’re safe, so do an in-house inspection before loading up your vehicle. Most importantly, check to see the following are in operation:
- Alarms: Test the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Appliances: All appliances should have a proper connection.
- Emergency kit: Should be fully stocked; flashlights should have batteries.
- Water tank: Flush this out after each use.
The inside of your vehicle is where you’ll temporarily live during your travels, so keep it comfortable. You may need to clean your appliances or refrigerator vents when you start inspecting the interior. By taking care of your RV, you ensure it lasts longer.
During your inspection of the interior, check to see that the interior lights and water system still work. A faulty water system could affect your access to clean water on the road.
Inspect Additional Features
You’ll also want to check and see any additional features that need repair or replacement. Crucial elements to check are:
- Generator: Check energy levels and that it’s working properly.
- Mirrors: They should be securely attached to the RV, not loose.
- Antennas: It should properly receive a signal.
This is easy to overlook, but it’s crucial to the ultimate RV safety maintenance checklist. Your antennas – specifically cellular – keep you connected to the outside world.
Likewise, your mirror needs to function so you can adjust them to help you see other cars. If you notice you need an RV mirror replacement, RV Parts Center sells mirrors for various RVs. While driving, you need to regularly check your mirror, but also when you’re making lane changes, parking, and navigating corners. Safety is not something to mess around with— don’t wait on this repair.
Go through this checklist well before your trip in the event you need to order parts or take your RV into the shop for a repair. As the nice weather rolls in, you’ll want to be out RVing, and when you go through this checklist early on, you won’t have to wait!
If you’ve gone through and noticed your RV needs new locks, mirrors, or other similar features, buy new parts at RV Parts Center. We have 50 years of experience and expert knowledge, so you can rest assured knowing you’re getting the best equipment for your RV. Get your RV ready and start planning the perfect road trip!
