Here are 10 essential tips to help you maintain your RV and protect your investment.

1. Inspect the Roof Seals and Seams Regularly
Every three months, check your RV’s roof for leaks. Water can seep through open seams around the roof edges, vents, skylights, or air conditioning unit. If left unchecked, water damage can spread to the inner ceiling panels. Use the right sealant for your RV’s roof material—whether it’s fiberglass, metal, EPDM (rubber), TPO, or ALFA—to patch any leaks.

2. Tighten Wheel Lug Nuts and Check Tire Pressure
Before every trip, ensure your RV’s wheel lug nuts are tight and tire pressure is correct. Loose lug nuts can be dangerous, and improper tire pressure—whether too high or low—can affect your safety, control, and fuel efficiency. Be especially mindful of tire pressure after the RV has been sitting for a while, as temperature changes can cause pressure fluctuations.

3. Check Your RV’s Batteries
Keep your RV’s batteries charged and maintained. Depending on the type of battery, AGM batteries generally last 3-5 years. After three years, deep-cycle batteries (in towable RVs) begin to lose capacity, while after five years, starting batteries (in drivable RVs) show signs of decline. Lithium batteries can last longer for more than 10 years.

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4. Maintain the Wastewater System
Regularly check your RV’s wastewater system to avoid clogs and failures. Use chemicals designed for gray or black water systems, flush the system frequently, and ensure proper fluid levels to prevent excessive buildup and keep your system running smoothly.

5. Keep Your RV’s Brakes in Top Condition
Brake maintenance is critical for your safety. Make sure the wheel bearings are properly lubricated and check the brake pads for wear. Brake replacements can be costly, ranging from $300-$500, but keeping the system in good shape can prevent costly repairs and ensure safety on the road.

6. Clean and Treat Slide-Outs and Seals
Keep your RV’s slide-outs clean to prevent dirt buildup that could compromise the seals. Lubricate the mechanisms to ensure smooth operation and treat window seals with appropriate lubricants to keep them pliable. This will help maintain proper sealing and prevent wear on the window tracks.

7. Change Your RV’s Oil
Unlike regular car maintenance, RVs often sit for extended periods, so it’s crucial to change the oil at least seasonally. Changing the oil every 3,000-4,000 miles or annually (ideally in the spring) ensures the engine stays lubricated and runs efficiently, reducing the risk of engine damage and expensive repairs.

8. Replace Air, Fuel, Coolant, and Hydraulic Filters
Just like oil changes, regularly inspect and replace the air, fuel, coolant, and hydraulic filters. These filters should be checked every time you change the oil to prevent engine wear and tear and keep the drivetrain running smoothly.

9. Maintain Your RV’s Awning
Regularly clean your RV’s awning to avoid mold and mildew buildup. Inspect for tears or damage and make repairs early to prevent further issues. A torn awning can cost up to $600 to repair, while full replacements can run around $1,300-$1,400.

10. Ensure Proper Electrical Connections
The electrical connection between your RV and tow vehicle is crucial for safety. It activates your RV’s brake lights, powers the battery, and ensures all lighting functions correctly. Check this connection before every trip to make sure everything is working properly, ensuring you stay safe both during the day and night.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your RV in great shape and enjoy many worry-free trips on the road.