RVs are fantastic recreational vehicles that allow you to explore the country while enjoying the luxuries of your own home. However, they also require diligent maintenance. Without it, they run the risk of breaking down. Regular upkeep will help you avoid these common problems that leave drivers waiting on a towing service.

Common Reasons for RV Breakdowns

1. Tire Blowouts

Most RVs are only used seasonally and spend much of the year in storage. When they’re stored on flat surfaces or in areas exposed to sunlight, the rubber material on the tires becomes compromised.

The weight of the RV creates flat spots where the tires come into contact with the ground. If they’re also left in the sun, the UV rays dry out the tires’ rubber, making them more brittle. This ruins the structural integrity of the tires and makes blowouts while driving more likely. Before any trip, inspect the tires for exterior cracks on the tread and sidewall, and check that the tire pressure is between 40 and 65 psi.

2. Dead Batteries

Another problem with extended storage is that it can allow the engine’s battery to drain. Most batteries maintain a charge for 2 to 3 months. If it’s left untouched for longer than that, the RV won’t start up the next time you try to drive. An easy way to avoid this is by running the engine for a few minutes once a week to recharge the battery.

3. Engine Problems

RVs require regular maintenance to protect the engine, and without it, the entire vehicle can break down. This includes changing the oil and filters every 3,000 to 4,500 miles, monitoring the coolant levels, and replacing the air filter after 40,000 miles. 

When the oil isn’t replaced, or the coolant levels drop, the moving parts within the vehicle lose their lubrication and create excessive friction, leading to overheating, which can cause the entire engine to seize up. When an air filter is too old, it blocks the flow of air in the engine, which prevents the gas from igniting and the RV from turning on.

4. Broken Brakes

Since RVs are such large vehicles, they put extra stress on the brakes, which can cause failure. This is especially true on trips that have steep declines in the road.

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep them in good condition. While driving, avoid slamming on the brake pedal or riding the brakes when going down hills. You will help prolong the lifespan of your brakes and prevent them from failing.

 

If your RV experiences a breakdown, then schedule towing services with the experts at Goldbeck Towing Service. Based in La Crosse, WI, their team has provided professional auto towing for over 60 years. They have the trucks needed to safely handle large RVs and operate 24/7, so you’re always covered when you need a tow. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or schedule immediate assistance by calling (608) 781-4869.