If you want to get the best out of your motorhome, you need to make sure it is in the best condition possible. As part of the general maintenance of your vehicle, arrange an annual MOT (if it is three years old or more), and a mechanical service in line with your manufacturer’s service scheduling, which can vary according to manufacturer. At Motorsave, we complete a full vehicle health check when servicing your motorhome to ensure your vehicle is running at its best. We believe in looking after our customers, sourcing the best possible parts so that you can relax and enjoy your motorhome holidays.
So you can enjoy travelling in your motorhome without the worry of unexpected problems, we have put together a motorhome checklist, so that you can have peace of mind when you go on holiday.
Annual Checks
As we mentioned in the introduction, your motorhome may need an MOT. You should also check your road tax and when the insurance is due to be renewed to give yourself time to shop around for the best quote. It is a good idea to keep copies of all the relevant paperwork in a folder in the vehicle, just in case you need it. You should check all tyres, including the spare. If you use your motorhome regularly throughout the summer you can quickly clock up the miles, so checking your tyres (including the spare!), annually, plus before every trip will ensure they are safe. If you travel during the winter, consider swapping to winter tyres to ensure your motorhome can travel in all weathers.
Before every trip
Outside
Check your motorhome externally for signs of wear and tear. Vehicles that have stood unused over winter may have tree sap, leaves or dead insects on the roof, as well as debris that could have blown there during bad weather. Check rubber seals around windows, doors and wiper blades for signs of perishing. Are external fittings like TV aerials or satellite dishes positioned correctly for travel?
Tyres
Check tyres for signs of uneven wear or damage such as nails and that the pressure is correct.
Lights
Check they are all working correctly, clean the covers and make sure you have spare bulbs should you need them.
Brakes
Check that the brakes and the handbrake are working as they should and not sticking, especially if your motorhome has been stationary for a period of time.
Under the bonnet
Check oil, coolant, brake, Adblue and washer bottle levels and top up where necessary. Check the hoses to make sure they are fitting properly and not perished or split.
Electricals
Check that the disconnect switch is working and if it makes a clicking noise or seems to be sticking, it may need replacing.
Check that your battery is functioning properly and holding charge as well as for signs of corrosion. You may need to hook the battery up if you haven’t started your motorhome for a few weeks. We would always recommend starting regularly even when not is use, so the battery holds its charge.
Water systems
Flush out the water systems before use, both fresh and grey. Sanitise tanks with the appropriate cleaner or steriliser. Check chemical levels for the toilet.
Safety Equipment
Test emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers/blankets, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, torches, spare keys, chargers etc.
Gas
Check gas bottle contents and LPG appliances, making sure you will have enough gas and that the system is clean and free from debris.
Awning
Check the awning is working correctly and lubricate any slides and hinges so they operate smoothly and don’t stick.
Generator
Run the generator and clean the air conditioning vents and intake to make sure there is no debris that could cause a malfunction.
It is also a good idea to give the interior a good spring clean and wash and wax the exterior, especially before going on your first trip since last autumn.
If all this looks a bit daunting, or you don’t feel confident with motorhome maintenance, Motorsave offers summer-ready vehicle health checks for when you take your motorhome out of storage for summer trips. We can make sure that everything is ship-shape so you have peace of mind and can concentrate on enjoying your holiday. Get in touch with our friendly team by calling 0161 794 9997 or email sam.s@mslg.co.uk today to find out more about our motorhome maintenance services.
