Tips To Keep Your New RV In Tip-Top Shape

Owning an RV can be a fantastic way to see the sites and have a home away from home. However, Costhelper says that small campers can be thousands of dollars while the largest motorhomes can be about $800,000 or more! Because these vehicles are such big investments — and start depreciating when you buy one — it's important to take preventative measures and keep them in good repair.

Invest in Some Good Collision Insurance

Collision policies are great because regardless of who's at fault, your RV will usually be covered for accidents involving other vehicles. Your policy will specify which auto body shops or dealerships will accept your insurance plan. It's important to contact these services first so that you aren't completely paying out of pocket.

Some auto services may replace your RV with aftermarket parts while others may replace them with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. It depends on what your coverage allows and what you prefer. Aftermarket parts can be just as good as OEM parts — the main downside is that they may not seamlessly match the rest of your bodywork.

Besides investing in collision insurance, it's worth it to look into roadside assistance and towing policies. Since RVs are so large and require special towing methods, it's better to have coverage than to pay out of pocket.

Get Damages Checked Out Right Away, Even if It Seems Minor

Even if your RV just has exterior damage, it's a good idea to get it checked out. While RVs are sturdy, there are rare cases where the framing can be split at critical joints, which can make the vehicle unsafe to drive.

If just the exterior bodywork and paneling was destroyed, you should still have it checked out. Exposed areas can rust and degrade more quickly. However, many auto shops have computerized paint matching systems, so they can easily fix these external damages.

Remember That You Are Not Covered for Owner Neglect

RVs need regular maintenance like any other vehicle. Like a regular car, you need to change oil and filters regularly — usually after about 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Your RV's roofing and exterior panels can receive a lot of wear and tear from branches, signage, and any other protruding obstacles. It's important to plan your routes, so your vehicle doesn't interfere with size limits of bridges.  

Because your RV is outside a lot, it can also take sun damage and rain damage. Water damage can cost you thousands of dollars of repair, so it's a good idea to assess your vehicle for damages after each trip and use a rubberized sealant.

Talk with an auto shop in your area for more tips on keeping your new RV in tip-top shape. For more information, contact a company like Chehalis Collision Center.


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