Motorhomes are a popular choice for travellers who want the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace without the inconvenience of towing, unhitching and going in and out of a caravan.
Like any vehicle, motorhomes require regular servicing to keep them in tip top condition.
This blog will cover everything you need to know about motorhome servicing, including:
- Why is motorhome servicing important?
- What types of motorhome servicing are there?
- How often should you have your motorhome serviced?
- What happens during a motorhome service?
- How to find a good motorhome service centre
- Tips for preparing your motorhome for a service
Why is motorhome servicing important?
There are a number of reasons why it is important to have your motorhome serviced regularly. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved safety: A well-serviced motorhome is less likely to break down, which can help to keep you and your passengers safe.
- Extended lifespan: Regular servicing can help to prolong the lifespan of your motorhome and keep it in A1 mechanical condition.
- Reduced repair costs: Identifying and fixing minor problems during a service can help to prevent more serious and expensive problems from developing in the future.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your motorhome has been serviced by a qualified technician can give you peace of mind when you are on the road.
What types of motorhome servicing are there?
There are two main types of motorhome servicing: habitation servicing and chassis servicing.
- Habitation servicing: Habitation servicing covers all of the living areas of the vehicle, such as the plumbing, electrical systems, gas appliances, and furniture. This type of servicing is typically performed annually.
- Chassis servicing: Chassis servicing covers the mechanical aspects of the vehicle, such as the engine, brakes, and tyres. This type of servicing is typically performed every two years, or more often depending on the age and condition of the vehicle.
How often should you have your motorhome serviced?
The manufacturer of your motorhome caravan will recommend a servicing schedule (refer to the logbook).
If you use your motorhome frequently, or if you drive it in challenging conditions, you may need to have it serviced more often. It is also a good idea to have your motorhome serviced before and after any long trips.
What happens during a motorhome service?
The specific services that are performed during a motorhome caravan service will vary depending on the type of service and the make and model of your vehicle. However, some of the common services that are performed during a motorhome caravan service include:
- Habitation service:
- Checking the plumbing system for leaks
- Testing the electrical system
- Servicing the gas appliances
- Inspecting the furniture for damage
- Testing the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Chassis service:
- Changing the oil and filter
- Inspecting the brakes
- Checking the tyre pressure and condition
- Inspecting the engine and other mechanical components
How to find a good motorhome caravan service centre?
When choosing a motorhome service centre, it is important to find a reputable company that has experience servicing the make and model of your vehicle. It is also a good idea to read reviews from other customers before making a decision.
Here are some tips for finding a good motorhome service centre:
- Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other motorhome caravan owners.
- Check online reviews of local service centres or online motorhome groups.
- Make sure the service centre is qualified to service your make and model of vehicle.
- Ask about the service centre’s warranty on their work.
- Get a written estimate before any work is done.
Tips for preparing your motorhome for a service
There are a few things you can do to prepare your motorhome caravan for a service:
- Clean the interior and exterior of the vehicle.
- Empty the water tanks and waste tanks.
- Turn off the gas appliances.
- Gather any paperwork related to your motorhome caravan, such as the service schedule and warranty information.
- Prepare a list of any issues or concerns you have.
- It can be an idea to take a video of any issues you have been the service in case the issue isn’t happening at the time of the service.
When you drop off your caravan for a service, be sure to discuss any issues or concerns you have with the technician. This will help them to identify and fix any potential problems.
