Your RV is a significant investment, and regular maintenance is one of the best ways to protect it. Whether you own a motorhome, fifth wheel, travel trailer, or camper, staying on top of routine maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, improve reliability, and keep your RV ready for your next adventure.
From checking fluids to choosing the right RV storage, these simple maintenance tips can help extend your RV's lifespan for years to come.
Low coolant levels or damaged hoses can lead to serious engine problems.
Before every trip:
Check coolant levels.
Inspect hoses for cracks or leaks.
Repair damaged hoses immediately.
Watch for signs of overheating.
A few minutes of preventative maintenance can save you from expensive engine repairs later.
Your dashboard gauges provide early warning signs when something isn't right.
Keep an eye on:
Engine temperature
Oil pressure
Battery voltage
Brake warning lights
Fuel levels
Never ignore warning lights or unusual gauge readings. Addressing small problems early often prevents much larger repairs down the road.
Routine oil changes are one of the easiest ways to keep your RV running smoothly.
Don't forget to replace:
Engine oil
Oil filter
Air filter
Fuel filter (when recommended)
A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel efficiency while reducing unnecessary engine wear.
Your RV depends on several different fluids to operate safely.
Before heading out, inspect:
Transmission fluid
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windshield washer fluid
Engine coolant
Keeping all fluids at the proper levels helps your RV perform reliably throughout the camping season.
Your tires carry thousands of pounds and deserve regular attention.
Inspect them for:
Proper tire pressure
Uneven wear
Cracks
Cuts
Bulges
When storing your RV for an extended period, keep it level and use leveling blocks or supports to help reduce stress on the tires. Tire covers are also recommended to protect against UV damage during long-term outdoor storage.
Your RV is constantly exposed to dirt, road salt, rain, UV rays, and changing weather conditions.
Regularly:
Wash the exterior.
Inspect roof and window seals.
Touch up paint chips.
Remove tree sap and bird droppings.
Wax the exterior when appropriate.
Checking seals regularly can help prevent costly water damage before it starts.
Proper storage is just as important as regular maintenance.
Before storing your RV for an extended period:
Lower your stabilizers or supports to reduce stress on the tires.
Change the engine oil.
Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank.
Check tire pressure before parking.
Remove your RV battery and keep it in a dry place, off the concrete floor. For more information on other winterization tips, you can review our guide on how to winterize your RV for storage or mistakes to avoid when storing your RV.
During the summer, if your RV will be sitting for an extended period, running the engine until it reaches operating temperature once a month can help keep mechanical components lubricated.
Many RV owners focus on maintenance during camping season but overlook how important proper storage is during the off-season. Leaving an RV parked in an unsecured location or without proper preparation can lead to premature tire wear, battery issues, weather damage, fading, moisture buildup, and even pest problems.
Choosing a secure storage facility helps protect your investment while freeing up valuable space at home. Whether you're storing your RV for a few weeks or several months, proper preparation and a secure storage location can help ensure it's ready for your next trip.
Storing your RV at a dedicated storage facility offers several advantages over parking it in your driveway or on the street.
Benefits include:
Additional security with controlled gate access and video surveillance.
More space at home for everyday vehicles.
Protection from neighbourhood parking restrictions.
Reduced risk of accidental damage.
Convenient access when you're ready for your next adventure.
Flexible month-to-month storage options.
If your RV sits unused for much of the year, storing it in a secure facility provides peace of mind while helping preserve its condition.
The interior deserves just as much attention as the exterior before storage.
Before parking your RV:
Remove all food to discourage rodents and insects.
Empty and clean the refrigerator.
Open interior cabinet doors to improve airflow.
Vacuum thoroughly.
Wash bedding before storing it.
Leave moisture absorbers inside to help reduce humidity.
Close blinds to protect fabrics from UV exposure.
Taking a few extra minutes now can help prevent unpleasant surprises when camping season returns.
When camping season ends, choosing the right storage facility helps protect your investment.
Elite Self Storage offers secure RV storage in St. Albert and South Edmonton with features designed to give you peace of mind, including:
Fully fenced storage facilities
Controlled gate access with individual access codes
Video surveillance
Well-lit properties
Spacious outdoor RV parking
Convenient access hours
Whether you need motorhome storage, travel trailer storage, camper storage, or boat storage, our secure storage facilities provide an excellent place to keep your recreational vehicles between trips.
Whether you're looking for seasonal RV storage or year-round parking, Elite Self Storage offers convenient locations to serve RV owners throughout the Edmonton area.
RV Storage in St. Albert
RV Storage in South Edmonton
Our friendly team can help you choose the right storage solution for your motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, camper, or boat.
Elite Self Storage also offers secure vehicle storage for boats, trailers, utility trailers, collector vehicles, and seasonal vehicles. If you need extra parking space or want to free up room at home, our secure outdoor storage compounds in St. Albert and South Edmonton provide a convenient solution for a variety of recreational and seasonal vehicles.
Inspect your RV before every trip and perform a more detailed inspection several times throughout the year. Regularly checking fluids, tires, seals, and batteries helps prevent unexpected repairs.
Yes. An RV cover can help protect the exterior from UV rays, dirt, and weather, helping preserve paint, seals, and finishes during long-term storage.
Before storing your RV, change the oil, add fuel stabilizer, inspect tire pressure, lower the stabilizers, remove the battery, and complete any recommended winterization procedures if storing through the winter.
Yes. Choosing a secure storage facility with controlled gate access, video surveillance, fencing, and good lighting helps protect your RV while it's not in use.
Proper RV storage helps protect your investment from weather, theft, unnecessary wear, and damage while extending the life of your motorhome or travel trailer.
