DIY or Don’t? When to Leave RV Maintenance to the Professionals

RVs are complex machines with countless parts, and any one of them can fail when you least expect it. Staying on top of maintenance is the key to ensuring a trouble-free trip, which is why many RV owners stick to a consistent upkeep routine. But that raises an important question: How much of the maintenance can you handle yourself—and when is it best to call in a pro?

It’s no secret that owning an RV and embarking on long road trips can be an investment. Performing as much of the maintenance as possible yourself is a cost-effective strategy. While those with limited mechanical skills may prefer to leave every item on their RV maintenance checklist to a trusted professional, many owners are comfortable addressing the following tasks:

• Sealant Inspection and Reapplication
  The roofs of RVs are notorious for leaking, but you can get ahead of moisture issues by getting on your roof and inspecting the entire roofing area for cracks and applying new sealant.
• Batteries
  From your battery in the engine to the batteries associated with your solar unit, test them with a multimeter, clean your terminals and replace batteries that are past their prime.
• Tires
  Inspect your tires for worn tread, cracks, dry rot, uneven wear and punctures. Is it time to replace them or do they still have plenty of life left?
• Slide Outs
  Don’t risk getting jammed up – clean and lube your slide outs. There are many silicone lube products on the market specifically for this RV maintenance task.
• Look for Leaks
  From your faucet to your sewer system, most RV owners are confident checking and making small repairs to these items.

When to Outsource

Even the most dedicated DIY enthusiasts recognize when it’s time to rely on a professional. The following are some of the most common RV maintenance tasks best left to a qualified mechanic.

• Brake System
  Your brakes are one of your most vital pieces of equipment on your RV and you don’t want to risk making a mistake repairing them on your own. They often involve electrical controllers, hydraulic system and other complexities.
• Electrical System
  Poke around in the wrong place and you could fry your appliances. For bad breakers, converter/inverter and shore power issues, have your mechanic do the work.
• Generators
  Generators are highly complex, involving fuel, oil and electrical components. Sure, you can change the oil, but leave any major issue to your local pro.
• Appliances
  Refrigerators are particularly tricky to work on, which is why professionals complete a certification process. They often involve sealed components, gas lines and electrical components, all of which are difficult to diagnose and fix.

At Gray Diesel & Equipment Services, we assist RV owners with their maintenance needs. Let us tackle your complex maintenance issues and rest assured that your next road trip will be a complete success.