The Ultimate RV Maintenance Checklist: Monthly, Quarterly & Annual
Regular maintenance is the difference between a trouble-free RV adventure and an expensive breakdown. Use this comprehensive maintenance checklist to keep your RV in top condition.
RVs are complex machines that combine a house and a vehicle into one — which means twice as much can go wrong. Regular maintenance prevents the most common and costly failures. This checklist covers everything you should be doing monthly, quarterly, and annually to keep your RV running smoothly.
Monthly Checks
Tyres: Check pressure in all tyres including the spare. RV tyres should be checked cold before driving. Inspect for cracks, bulges, and uneven wear. Batteries: Check charge level and terminals for corrosion. Clean terminals with baking soda and water if needed. Roof: Inspect all roof seals, vents, and skylights for cracks or separating sealant. Water damage from a failed roof seal is one of the most expensive RV repairs. Slide-outs: Run slides in and out and lubricate slide rails and seals.
Quarterly Checks
LP gas system: Check all gas connections with soapy water for bubbles indicating leaks. Test the LP detector. Water system: Sanitise fresh water tank with a bleach solution. Inspect all water connections for drips. Test water pump pressure. Brakes: For towable RVs check brake controller calibration and brake pad condition. Exterior: Wash and inspect the entire exterior. Reseal any areas where caulk is cracking or separating.
Annual Maintenance
Engine service: Change engine oil, filters, and check all fluids. Have a qualified mechanic inspect the chassis, brakes, and drivetrain. Generator: Change generator oil and filters. Run the generator under load for at least two hours monthly to prevent varnish buildup in the carburettor. Roof resealing: Reseal the entire roof annually with appropriate sealant for your roof type (rubber, fibreglass, or aluminium). Awning: Clean awning fabric and inspect arms and hardware. Lubricate all moving parts.
Before Every Trip
Check tyre pressure and condition, test all lights, verify hitch or fifth wheel connection, retract slide-outs and awnings, turn off water heater and LP if required, secure all loose items inside, and do a walkaround to ensure all compartments are locked and nothing is left behind.
Winterisation
If storing your RV in freezing temperatures you must winterise the water system to prevent pipes from bursting. Drain all water from tanks, lines, and the water heater. Use RV antifreeze or compressed air to purge all water lines. This is the single most important seasonal maintenance task for RV owners in cold climates.