Full-time RV living: it’s the dream of open roads, scenic views, and the freedom to roam wherever your heart desires. But like any dream, it comes with its own set of realities. One of the biggest challenges? Maintaining your rolling home when your house has wheels, repairs aren’t as simple as calling a local repair service.  They become a unique adventure, often filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Imagine this: you’re nestled in a beautiful National Park, miles from the nearest town, when your water pump decides to give out. Suddenly, basic necessities like showers, preparing food, and dishwashing become impossible. This is the reality of RV repairs on the road. Here are some of the hurdles full-time RVers face:

• The “home” factor: Unlike a house, you can’t just leave your RV at the shop and go home. Your entire life is contained within that vehicle, making repairs disruptive to your daily routine.
• Finding qualified technicians: Not every RV mechanic is familiar with the intricacies of each system. Finding someone with the specific skills for your RV repair can be overwhelming. 
• Limited availability: RV repair shops can be few and far between, and even when you find one, the shops with the best ratings and reputation are often booked weeks in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.
• Parts for your RV: Unlike cars with readily available standardized parts, or aftermarket parts, RVs often have unique components that need to be ordered from specific manufacturers. This can often add substantial time to the repair process, leaving you stranded while waiting for a crucial part.
• Mobile service limitations: While mobile RV repair services exist, their availability and capabilities can vary greatly. They might have limited service areas, higher rates, or not be equipped to handle complex repairs.

Your best option?: Become familiar with your RV and learn hands-on repairs. How do you do this?  

• Scour the Internet for repair tips, helpful hints, and shortcuts which can include YouTube, Facebook, and other sites.
• Reach out to the manufacturer of your RV. Many have hot lines that can guide you in the right direction 
• RV forums for repair and advice, such as, Good Sam, KOA, and specific RV manufacturers are also a great resource. 
• There are a few online chat rooms to assist with repairs, but they do charge a fee. We recommend using those as a last resort.
• TIP: Not everyone is up for the challenge of tackling hands-on RV repair.  So do what makes you feel most comfortable and safe. 

Every full-time RVer has his or her own dreaded breakdown story.  Here are a few common scenarios we too experienced.

• The mysterious leak: Water leaks, whether from plumbing, the roof, or windows, are a common enemy. They can cause significant damage if not caught early, leading to mold, rot, and future costly repairs.
• The appliance meltdown: Refrigerators, air conditioners, microwave, furnaces… these are essential appliances in an RV. When they break down, it can make living conditions uncomfortable or even unbearable, especially in extreme weather.

• The electrical gremlin: RV electrical systems can be complex, and a single short or faulty connection can cause a cascade of problems. Troubleshooting electrical issues often requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
• Towing a vehicle: if you have a large RV a tow vehicle can be a life saver. However, problems could arise such as, hitch problems and electrical connections creating its own set of challenges. Such as tire and mechanical problems with your tow vehicle. 

While breakdowns are inevitable, there are things you can do to minimize the stress:

• Preventive maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance can catch potential problems before they escalate.
• DIY skills: Learning basic RV maintenance and repair can save you time and money.
• Emergency fund: Set aside a dedicated fund for unexpected repairs.
• RV clubs and communities: Connect with other RVers for advice and recommendations on repair services.
• Roadside assistance: Invest in a good roadside assistance plan that covers RVs.
• Patience and flexibility: Accept that repairs are part of the RV lifestyle and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed.

So, if you’re considering full-time RV living, be prepared for the occasional bump in the road. With a little planning, patience, and a sense of humor, you can navigate the trials of RV repair.  We try to embrace the bumps in the road, and remember that with a little preparation and a positive attitude, you too can overcome any repair challenge that comes your way.