RV Repair 101 - How to Fix Common RV Problems

As an RV owner, it's important to understand the most common repairs you might need to consider, as well as how to maintain your RV to prevent the worst repairs from ever being needed. While certain parts of an RV, like the engine and transmission, require the same care and repair as any vehicle’s mechanical parts do, there are also some 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 those that require the help of 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 greenest or 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. Many modern RVs also utilize LED lighting. Keeping spare 12V LED bulbs ensures you're prepared for quick replacements, maintaining optimal visibility and safety.

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. Lithium batteries, such as those from Battle Born or RELiON, are becoming popular due to their longer lifespan and efficiency. Make sure you understand the maintenance requirements specific to your battery type.

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 the 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. Regular roof inspections, recommended every six months, can catch potential leaks early. Products like Dicor Self-Leveling Lap Sealant or EternaBond tape are effective for sealing and repairs. 

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

With the rise of solar panels and inverter systems in RVs, electrical issues can be multifaceted. Consulting a professional ensures safe and accurate diagnostics and repairs. 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. For RVs built on specific chassis like Freightliner® or Spartan®, seeking service centers familiar with these systems can provide specialized care and maintain warranty compliance 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 helps avoid 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. Diesel engines often have different maintenance schedules compared to gasoline engines. Refer to your manufacturer's guidelines to ensure timely servicing.

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, your oil might still be reaching the expiration date based on the time that has passed. 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. Installing a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can provide real-time alerts on tire conditions, helping prevent blowouts and extend tire life.  

Store carefully

How you store your RV will dictate a lot about 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. Consider using a solar battery maintainer during storage periods to keep your RV's battery charged, especially if it's stored without access to shore power.

Find your next adventure

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