The Complete RV / Motorhome Maintenance Guide
Your RV is a house and a vehicle in one, and both sides need regular maintenance. This guide covers Class A, B, and C motorhomes as well as camper vans. We include engine oil and filter changes, transmission service, brake inspections, tire care and rotation, generator maintenance, roof inspection and sealant, plumbing and water system sanitization, HVAC and furnace service, slide-out mechanism lubrication, LP gas system checks, battery bank maintenance (house and chassis batteries), and seasonal de-winterization and winterization procedures. Select your usage pattern below for a schedule that fits weekend trips, full-time living, or seasonal travel.
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Intervals Based on Manufacturer Recommendations
These intervals are compiled from major chassis and coach manufacturers. Full-time RVers should trend toward shorter intervals. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual for model-specific requirements. For personalized reminders, download LookOver free on iOS and Android.
| Service Task | 3,000 Miles ~3 months | 6,000 Miles ~6 months | 15,000 Miles ~12 months | 30,000 Miles ~2 years | Seasonal Spring/Fall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Check engine oil level | - | - | - | ||
Check tire pressure | - | - | - | ||
Check generator oil level | - | - | - | ||
Inspect for fluid leaks | - | - | - | ||
Check battery voltage (house and chassis) | - | - | - | ||
Change engine oil and filter | - | - | |||
Change generator oil | - | - | |||
Inspect brakes (pads, rotors, drums) | - | - | |||
Check coolant level and condition | - | - | - | ||
Inspect belts and hoses | - | - | |||
Check roof seals and caulking | - | - | |||
Sanitize fresh water system | - | - | - | ||
Transmission service (fluid and filter) | - | - | - | ||
Replace engine air filter | - | - | - | ||
Flush brake fluid | - | - | - | ||
Inspect suspension components | - | - | - | ||
Generator full service (spark plug, air filter) | - | - | - | ||
Inspect and lubricate slide-out mechanisms | - | - | - | ||
HVAC and furnace service | - | - | - | ||
LP gas system check | - | - | - | ||
Coolant flush and replace | - | - | - | - | |
Replace spark plugs (gas engines) | - | - | - | - | |
Inspect exhaust system | - | - | - | - | |
Deep roof inspection and reseal | - | - | - | - | |
Replace fuel filter | - | - | - | - | |
Service wheel bearings | - | - | - | - | |
Winterize plumbing system | - | - | - | - | |
De-winterize in spring | - | - | - | - | |
Battery storage and conditioning | - | - | - | - | |
Full systems check (pre-season) | - | - | - | - |
Track Your RV Maintenance
Chassis, generator, roof, plumbing: track it all in one app. LookOver works offline on the road.
Engine & Drivetrain
Your motorhome chassis is hauling a house. Engine and drivetrain maintenance is critical for safe, reliable travel.
Generator Maintenance
Your onboard generator powers the living side of your RV. Regular maintenance keeps it reliable when you need it most.
Living Systems (Roof, Plumbing, HVAC)
The coach side of your RV needs just as much attention as the engine. Water damage, plumbing failures, and HVAC problems are the most expensive repairs to ignore.
Never Forget Roof Inspection
Set seasonal reminders for roof seals, water system sanitization, and slide-out lubrication.
Battery Systems
RVs have two separate battery systems: chassis and house. Both need maintenance to deliver reliable power on the road and at camp.
Seasonal Preparation
Proper seasonal care prevents the most expensive RV repairs. A few hours of prep each spring and fall saves thousands in damage.
Winterize
- Drain and bypass the water heater
- Blow out all water lines with compressed air
- Add non-toxic RV antifreeze to all drains and toilet
- Remove inline water filters before adding antifreeze
- Cover exterior vents and A/C shrouds to keep out moisture and pests
De-Winterize
- Flush antifreeze from all lines and water heater
- Sanitize the entire fresh water system with bleach solution
- Check all faucets, toilet, and outdoor shower for leaks
- Reinstall any removed water filters
- Test water pump operation and check for air locks
Storage Prep
- Clean interior thoroughly. Crumbs attract mice and insects
- Place moisture absorbers and mouse deterrents throughout
- Cover tires or move RV periodically to prevent flat spots
- Disconnect and maintain all batteries with smart chargers
- Close all blinds to reduce UV damage to interior surfaces
Trip Prep
- Walk the roof and inspect all seals before departure
- Test all running lights, turn signals, and brake lights
- Check tire pressure and tread condition including spare
- Verify all appliances operate on LP and electric
- Test smoke detector, CO detector, and LP detector batteries
Go Deeper
Track all your service intervals in one place. LookOver handles hours, miles, and dates so you never miss a service. Download free on iOS and Android.
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