Campervan Maintenance: Simple Steps to Keep Your Motorhome Happy

If you love hitting the road in a campervan, the last thing you want is a breakdown that spoils the fun. Good maintenance doesn’t have to be a nightmare. A few easy habits can keep your motorhome running smooth for years. Let’s look at the basics you can do yourself.

Weekly Checks

Spend ten minutes each week looking over the most important parts. Check tyre pressure and tread; low pressure can wear tyres fast and affect fuel use. Test the lights, brakes, and battery voltage. Make sure the water pump fires and the toilet seals are tight. Write down anything odd so you can fix it later.

Seasonal Care

Before winter or summer trips, give the van a deeper look. Drain extra water from tanks to avoid freezing, and add antifreeze to the engine coolant if needed. Clean the roof and check seams for cracks that could leak when rain hits. Store the propane tank upright and check the expiration date.

Tyres are the only part that touches the road, so they deserve regular attention. Inspect them for nails, cuts, or side‑wall damage before every long drive. Keep them inflated to the level the manufacturer recommends – you’ll see better mileage and a smoother ride.

The battery is the heart of your van’s electrical system. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and tighten any loose cables. If you store the camper for weeks, connect a trickle charger or disconnect the battery to prevent it from dying. Replace a battery that no longer holds a charge.

Check oil every two weeks and add if low. Look at transmission fluid; low level makes shifting hard. Brake fluid should be clear, not dark. Change dirty fluid at the next service.

After rain, walk around the roof and feel seams for wet spots. Any water inside means a seal is failing. Use silicone sealant or replace the gasket to stop drips.

Keep the water system clean to avoid smells. Run a vinegar‑water mix through the fresh tank every few months and flush the grey tank fully. Check the hot‑water heater for corrosion and replace the anode if worn.

Propane safety is simple but vital. Check the regulator and hose for cracks before each trip. Make sure the tank’s safety valve isn’t blocked and the ON/OFF knob works. Never store the tank inside the cabin while it’s connected.

A tidy interior helps you spot problems early. Keep the floor dry, wipe spills, and vacuum regularly to avoid mold. Store tools and spare parts in a dedicated box so you can grab what you need fast. When something feels off, trust your gut and fix it before it becomes a bigger issue.

Finally, use a simple maintenance checklist to stay on track. Write down dates for tyre rotation, oil change, battery check, and roof inspection. Review the list before each holiday and tick off each item as you finish it. A quick glance at your checklist can save you hours of trouble on the road.