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Getting RV Service While “On the Road”

The majority of RV travelers do not fall into the category of being one of the “gifted” few who can troubleshoot and/or fix anything – especially when it comes to mechanical-related items.  Yet, as an RV owner, you will (at some point) be faced with a situation that does require someone “in the know”.  This could be anything from new tires or brakes to a plumbing issue to a major mechanical failure.

To help minimize any pain and suffering associated with these bothersome tasks, here are a few tips:

KNOW WHAT YOUR WARRANTY COVERS

If you have an RV that is still under warranty, read the warranty from cover to cover.  In some cases, you may find that if a problem arises (mechanical, not cosmetic), you may be emergency road service thrown in.  Understand if the covered items change from year to year; e.g., some warranties cover everything the year 1, only mechanical in year 2, and only chassis in year 3.  Be sure you know where all approved facilities are for journey.  If your chassis and body happen to be covered by 2 different companies, make sure that you know if a service facility can do work on both or just one or the other.

ASK A FELLOW RV’ER

There is a very good chance that in every good size campground you stay in, there is someone who is mechanically inclined.  Look around and see if you see anyone who always seems to be working outside on his/her RV.  Also ask the people at the office if they know of anyone – either in the park or nearby.  Often, there’s a nearby gas station who has a relationship with the park and has a good idea as to where to find parts and get them quickly.

BELONG TO A TRAVEL CLUB.

Most clubs either include or offer for additional purchase emergency road side service plans.  For those people who had had to use them, they tell you they are worth the small amount of money you pay per year.  Thus, it’s worth the investment to buy one. 

KEEP A LIST OF FACILITIES ON HAND FOR YOUR DESTINATION

This was somewhat mentioned above when it comes to knowing where you can get warranty work completed.  However, if you are not covered under warranty, compile a list of places that you would most likely be able to get service.  This includes service locations such as RV dealerships if you cannot make the repair yourself, and stores with parts (such as Pep Boys, AutoZone, etc.) if you can do the repair yourself.  This is where the internet is your friend.  Simply use a search engine (e.g., MSN or Google), go to the stores web site, and locate all the stores on your route.  You may also want to call ahead to your planned destinations and ask the park owner what the closest locations are. 

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Having an emergency while on the road is no fun.  But being prepared can help minimize the amount of curves and obstacles you may encounter!  Happy traveling!.....

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