RV Maintenance Tips

There is an old saying that’s attributed to Benjamin Franklin: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” While he may originally have been talking about fire prevention, we’ve found in our years of experience that it holds equally true when it comes to RV maintenance.

With a little bit of preventative care now, you'll not only ensure that your RV will last longer, but also avoid potentially massive maintenance costs. Here are some RV maintenance tips that will help you better care for your vehicle.

Check Your Roof Often

Your RV roof can take a fair amount of punishment from the elements so it’s vital to ensure that it is in good condition. You should be giving your roof a lookover at least twice a year.

One of the most important things to look for is any possible water leaks by inspecting the roof seams and seals. A little bit of water can cause a fair amount of damage over time, resulting in costly bills for you.

Another large cause of damage is UV rays. Storing your RV out of direct sunlight will help. You should also be waxing the exterior of your vehicle at least twice a year for UV protection and to repel moisture and dirt. If you have a rubber roof, be sure to get it treated annually. 

Change ALL Oil and Filters

This may sound like a no-brainer, yet this is incredibly important to do. Your RV will obviously need oil changes and new filters every so often, the exact amount of time depends on your specific vehicle, but you also need to maintain any generators you may have to ensure they run properly when you need them.

The manufacturer’s recommendations will let you know when to change the oil and filters on your generator. You should run your generator regularly, even when it’s stored, or you may get buildup on your carburetor that could be costly to remove. 

Proper Airflow is Key

Any seasoned RV owner can tell you that a small amount of water can cause a big headache when it comes to RV maintenance. This includes humidity, which is unfortunate since many of the best RV parks are in hot, humid locations. 

When using your RV, be sure to utilize your roof vents and fans, while making sure to open doors and windows when possible. This will help prevent a buildup of humidity within your vehicle. It also can be a good idea to invest in a RV dehumidifier as well for added prevention.

Routinely Inspect RV Tires

The one part of your RV that you should be checking most often are your tires. You should be inspecting your tires daily while traveling.

Here are some things you can do to help maintain your tires and keep your maintenance costs to a minimum:

• Visually check for uneven tread wear
• Check your tire pressure and lug nuts before every trip (carry a portable tire inflator with you while traveling)
• Consider using a UV tire treatment to help protect your rubber
• Always heed the recommended speed and load rating of your tires
• Ensure that your wheel bearing grease are in good condition as it can break down over time

Stay at Patagonia RV Park

To get the most out of your RV trip, you should stay at an RV park that has the amenities you need.

At Patagonia RV Park, We have a total of 28 full hookup sites that include water, sewer, and electricity, many of which are shaded by Pecan and Oak trees. We also offer:

• 24 hour Laundry Room
• Rec Room
• Bathroom Facilities with showers
• Wifi
• Convenient location that walking distance from town attractions

Browse our listings and book your adventure today!