Getting your Motorhome Ready for Winter

31 May 2019

While most of us only think about our motorhomes while we use them, they actually spend most of their time just sitting around. To avoid potentially costly damage and even vacation-ruining breakdowns, prevention is key.

How winter damages your motorhome
While your motorhome might seem perfectly safe sitting in your driveway, it’s actually under near-constant assault from changing temperatures, weather, sunlight, animals, and its own weight.

• Freezing and thawing allows any moisture in or on your RV to expand and contract, potentially damaging pipes and water tanks.
• Rain, snow, and any salt that might get on the vehicle will promote the development of rust.
• Exposure to direct sunlight will slowly bleach and destroy paint, and cause rubber seals to crack and crumble.
• Insects and rodents might nest in any accessible nooks and crannies, especially if they can reach any food in the motorhome.
• Allowing a heavy vehicle to sit in the same position for months will eventually stress the tyres. Combined with natural weathering, this can cause them to crack, and weaken them enough to increase the likelihood of a blowout on the road.

A well maintained and protected motorhome is key. Here are some pointers to get you started:

• Clean your motorhome completely
• Wax the vehicle to provide a protective layer
• Cover windows, tyres, and vents
• Move the motorhome regularly
• Block out moisture
• Drain all water
• Add a fuel stabiliser
• Protect your batteries