Anyone who owns an RV known just how fun they can be. They also know how much work goes into making sure they run properly and safely. Unfortunately, not many new RV owners know where to find repair shops that specialize in motorhome repair. Most shops are overrun with insurance work, don’t have the qualified technicians, or simply don’t have the space to work on RVs. Coach Specialists was established to provide that specialized, quality care our consumers can trust. We know breakdowns are frustrating and finding answers on what to look for and how to prevent future damage can be difficult. That is why today, we’ve decided to do the research for you. Below, you find a list of the most common RV breakdowns you will see over the years.
Nothing great can last forever, and sadly that includes your RV. Almost half of RVs will need some type of major repair by just their second year. And as the years go on, the problems will only get worse with consistent use. So, why not stay on top of the most common breakdowns to get the most out of your RV seasons.
The Most Common RV Breakdowns You Need to Know
Listed below are some of the most common RV breakdown you should know about as an RV owner in Waco, TX. Accompanied with each breakdown description are some ways to avoid and possibly repair breakdowns to lengthen the life of your RV.
Exterior Damage
One of the most common RV breakdowns or issues deals with the exterior of the vehicle. Many RV owners bring their trailers in when they start noticing changes in the siding or after an intense storm. Hail storms are one of the biggest culprits when looking into exterior RV damage. Hail season in Texas can cause serious denting, tears, and leaks to roofing, siding, and windows. Another naturally occurring enemy to RV is the sun. Harmful UV rays from the sun can bring damage to the clear coat on an RV causing peeling and delamination. Campgrounds, small lots, and other tight parking spaces can cause damage to the rood and exterior of an RV.
Some of the best ways to prevent these issues are with RV covers. While it is not the perfect solution to either naturally occurring or man-made nuisances, covers are a great way to help lessen the blow over time. They can keep the sun away during the summer and protect the roof and sides from trees and low-hanging branches at campgrounds. They can also help deter the impact of hail during storms, though parking in a garage or in an RV port is best in this situation.
Dead Batteries
Is an RV without power even an RV? Batteries in any vehicle need to be well-maintained. One of the most common RV breakdowns is battery failure simply because owners forget to charge or replace their batteries throughout the seasons. When your RV motor won’t start, the lights won’t turn on and no outlets work, it most likely means there is something wrong with the battery. No matter where an RV is stored, it is important to consistently monitor the fluid levels in a battery. Owners should also test the charge to ensure proper function. One way to lengthen an RV’s battery life is to disconnect the battery cables while the RV is not running. This helps stop electrical devices from using battery power, even if they are off.
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts are one of the most common RV breakdowns Coach Specialists sees from our consumers. With consistent wear and tear out on the road, tire blowout is a real concern for RV owners. RV tires carry a lot of weight and are often taken on trips over bumpy and ill-maintained roads. Repairing or replacing blown tires can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000 and keep your vehicle in the shop longer than you would like. At Coach, however, we want to get you back on the road as soon as possible. To prevent tire blowouts, keep a proper maintenance schedule for your RV. Consistently check the tire pressure and check for any punctures or tears every time you get gas. It is also healthy to have your tires rotated regularly to ensure even wear across all four tires.
Roof and Window Leaks
For many, RV’s are like a second a home. One of the main differences, however, is that a home is much more structurally sound. The roof of an RV is much more susceptible to damage from harsh weather, the sun, tree branches, and just everyday use of the vehicle. As mentioned earlier with protecting the exterior of an RV, covers can be a great source of protection for roofs. It may also be a good idea to invest in a storage space or RV parking garage to store the vehicle during storms or in extreme heat. Keeping up with the care of a gel coat is another way to help with this break down as well.
While inspecting the roof it is also important to check all of the RV’s windows. Making sure sealing has not broken down will deter any leaks. At the first sign of a leak, a window’s sealing should be replaced. Coach Specialists can help inspect for leaks in the roof, windows, or siding of an RV by using SealTech, a system designed specifically for finding leaks in an RV.
Toilet Malfunctions
Having a toilet malfunction in an RV is the absolute last thing anyone wants to happen. This type of breakdown is not only unpleasant, it can cause health problems if not taken care of correctly. The water in an RV’s toilet bowl needs to stay in the toilet bowl. And, just like in a house, if the water is constantly running, problems will arise much faster than expected.
Rubber seals around the large valve should be regularly inspected and replaced if it looks worn down. The same is true for the water valve; If it doesn’t close properly and completely, that too will need to be replaced. These fixes are relatively cheap and don’t require too much RV downtime. But staying on top of these repairs can mean the difference between successfully using the bathroom and cleaning up a dirty mess during your vacation.
Staying Up-to-Date
As we mentioned earlier, nothing lasts forever. But with consistent, proper care, your RV can last for years and years. Be mindful of your surroundings and where you choose to park. Look for the different warning signs of use across your RV. At Coach, we know RV’s inside and out and want to help you do the same. Bring your RV in for regular service and inspections so you never have to worry about your RV! Do you have questions about the damage done to your trailer? Or would you just like to learn more about Coach and what we can offer? Then reach out to us; we’d love to hear from you!