RV Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Rig Running for Years

RV maintenance has a terrible reputation for complexity but the vast majority of it is straightforward tasks that anyone can learn. The key is doing them consistently rather than waiting for problems to appear.

The Roof: Your Most Important Inspection

Inspect the entire roof every 3 months and after any significant storm. Look for cracks in the membrane, lifted seams around vents and antennas, and any area where the sealant has cracked or separated. Water intrusion through the roof is the leading cause of catastrophic RV damage — caught early, a crack costs $20 in lap sealant. Caught late, it costs thousands in structural repairs and mould remediation.

Tyres: Safety First

RV tyres age out before they wear out. Replace all tyres at 5-6 years regardless of tread depth — the rubber compounds degrade with UV exposure and temperature cycling. Check pressure before every trip and after temperature changes — tyre pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 5 degree temperature drop. Never exceed the load rating of any tyre on the rig.

Seals and Slide-Outs

Apply silicone-based slide-out conditioner to all slide-out rubber seals every 3 months. Dry seals crack and fail, allowing water infiltration. Inspect every exterior seal, window frame, and door frame seal annually for cracking. Self-levelling lap sealant on EPDM roofs and dicor on other roof types are the standard repair products.

Propane System

Test all propane connections with soapy water annually — bubbles indicate a leak. Replace the propane regulator every 5-7 years regardless of apparent function. Carbon monoxide and propane detectors must be tested monthly and replaced per manufacturer schedule — typically every 5-7 years. These detectors save lives and their maintenance is non-negotiable.