ServiceNomad RV · Knowledge
RV Maintenance Schedule Explained
RVs require regular maintenance to stay safe and functional. Unlike a car, which mostly needs oil changes and tire rotations, an RV has plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and appliance systems that all need periodic attention. Understanding the maintenance schedule for your RV helps you budget for upkeep, avoid expensive repairs, and keep your rig in good shape for years to come.
Annual Maintenance Tasks
Every year, you should have the roof inspected and resealed as needed. Even if you don't see leaks, the sealant around vents, AC units, and skylights can crack and allow water intrusion. Check the awning fabric and hardware for wear and tear. Inspect the tires and replace them if they're more than 6 years old, even if the tread looks good. Have the generator serviced—change the oil and air filter, and run it under load to ensure it's ready for the season. Check the water heater anode rod and replace it if it's deteriorated. Inspect the refrigerator vents and clean them if they're clogged with dust or debris. Test all safety detectors (smoke, CO, propane) and replace batteries. These tasks don't all need to be done at once, but spreading them throughout the year ensures you stay on top of maintenance.
Seasonal Maintenance Tasks
At the start of each camping season, flush the plumbing system and check for leaks. Test the AC, furnace, and water heater to ensure they're working properly. Inspect the exterior for damage and touch up any paint or sealant. Check the battery and charge it if needed. Before winter storage (or any long-term storage), drain the plumbing system and add RV antifreeze if you're storing in freezing temperatures. Wash and wax the exterior to protect the finish. During the season, check tire pressure before every trip and inspect the roof periodically for damage or debris buildup. Seasonal maintenance helps you catch issues early and ensures your RV is ready when you are.
Mileage-Based Maintenance (Motorhomes)
If you have a motorhome, you'll also need to follow the chassis manufacturer's maintenance schedule. This typically includes oil changes every 5,000–10,000 miles (depending on the engine), coolant flushes, transmission service, and brake inspections. Check the owner's manual for the specific intervals. Don't skip these—engine and transmission repairs on a motorhome can be extremely expensive, and regular maintenance is much cheaper than major repairs. If you're a weekend warrior and don't put many miles on your motorhome each year, you might follow a time-based schedule instead (e.g., oil change once a year regardless of mileage).
Tracking and Scheduling Maintenance
Keep a simple log of all maintenance tasks with dates and receipts. You can use a notebook, a spreadsheet, or an app designed for RV maintenance tracking. Set reminders for annual tasks like roof inspection and tire replacement. If you use your RV seasonally, create a pre-season and post-season checklist so you don't forget anything. Some RV owners prefer to handle maintenance themselves, while others hire a mobile tech for annual inspections. Either way, staying organized and proactive helps you avoid costly surprises and keeps your RV in good condition.
💡 Prevention Tips
- Schedule a roof inspection and resealing every year, even if you don't see leaks.
- Replace tires every 6 years, even if the tread looks good.
- Service the generator annually—change oil and filters and run it under load.
- Check and replace the water heater anode rod every 1–2 years.
- Keep a maintenance log with dates and receipts so you know when tasks were last completed.
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