Clearance on motorhomes and campervans
5 minutes well spent
The team at Maple Leisure are here to answer any questions or provide advice.
Making sure your motorhome stays in great condition is really important. This means a routine of regular motorhome maintenance so that is stays safely operational, doesn’t suffer unexpected breakdowns during your adventures, and lasts for many years to give you a return on your investment when the time comes to upgrade.
Making sure your motorhome stays in great condition is really important. This means a routine of regular maintenance so that is stays safely operational, doesn’t suffer unexpected breakdowns during your adventures, and lasts for many years to give you a return on your investment when the time comes to upgrade. This edition of the Maple Leisure blog features the ultimate maintenance checklist with our 20 top tasks.
Tyres are the only part of your motorhome that comes into constant contact with the road, so it’s important to do regular checks of them. Inspect the tread depth for even wear and make sure they meet the required legal standards. Always check the tyre pressure before you set off on a trip, as incorrect inflation will lead to poor fuel economy, reduced handling and a potential for blowouts.
Take a walk around your motorhome and inspect the bodywork for cracks, scratches or damage to seals. Small cracks or damaged seals can lead to water ingress, if it’s left untreated, can then cause significant structural damage to the motorhome. Make sure you repair or reseal any damaged areas as soon as possible.
The roof of your motorhome is especially vulnerable to damage and weathering. Inspect it for any signs of wear (cracks, punctures or broken seals) around vents and other openings. Although it is difficult to do so, make the effort to clean the roof regularly, especially after parking under trees, so that you prevent the build-up of debris.
The leisure battery in your motorhome powers many of the onboard systems when you’re not connected to mains electricity. Check its voltage regularly to make sure it’s holding its charge. Also inspect the terminals for corrosion as this can reduce efficiency.
Like any other vehicle, your motorhome relies on various fluids to operate smoothly. Regularly check engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and coolant levels – and top them up when its necessary. Keeping the fluids in your motorhome at the right levels helps to avoid unnecessary strain on the engine, prevents overheating and keeps things ‘ticking over’ just as they should.
Your motorhome’s engine is, in a sense, its beating heart. So routine servicing is essential, and you should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes, filter replacements and other maintenance tasks. Neglecting engine care could lead to mechanical problems that are very serious and costly to put right.
Brake performance is critical for the safe operation of your motorhome – especially since they tend to be larger and heavier than standard cars and therefore require different braking distances, etc. Your inspection should include the brake pads, discs and fluid levels, and you should do this inspection regularly. If you notice any squealing, grinding or reduced braking efficiency when you’re driving, seek the advice of a professional mechanic immediately.
Faulty lights are dangerous to be out on the road with but can also result in a fine if you happen to be stopped by the police. You should test all exterior lights on a regular basis – including headlights, brake lights, indicators and reversing lights. Get any faulty bulbs replaced and ensure the lenses are always clean so that your motorhome maintains visibility.
If your motorhome uses gas for cooking, heating or powering appliances, it’s vital to have the system inspected regularly. Check for leaks, ensure all of the necessary connections are secure and that the gas bottle itself is in good condition and stored properly. Get a qualified technician to perform an annual gas safety check.
Your motorhome’s water system includes the freshwater tank and waste tank, plus all the associated pipes and fittings. Ensure the freshwater tank is clean and free from algae, and that the wastewater tank is emptied regularly. Check for leaks in any of the pipes or taps and clean the water filter (if your motorhome has one).
Proper ventilation and heating are essentials for your comfort in a motorhome. Inspect the vents and make sure they’re not blocked by any debris, and service the heating system annually to make sure it works efficiently – especially if you plan to use your motorhome during the colder months.
Just like on human beings or any other mechanical items, moving parts on a motorhome (such as door hinges, awning mechanisms and slide-out extensions) can become stiff or rusty over time. You should regularly apply lubrication to make sure everything continues to operate smoothly.
The suspension system is very important as it’s responsible for ensuring a smooth ride and maintaining control of the motorhome. Inspect the shocks, springs and bushings for signs of wear or damage, and have them replaced if necessary. Well-maintained suspension will seriously improve both comfort and handling.
Check the windscreen of your motorhome for any chips or cracks. These can start small but worsen over time and end up seriously affecting your visibility. Make sure that the windscreen wipers are working properly and replace the blades in them if they’re worn out or leaving streaks on the windscreen.
Your motorhome’s electrical system powers everything from the lights to the appliances. You should check the fuses, wiring and connections on a regular basis, to see if there are any signs of wear or corrosion. Make sure all your appliances and systems are working correctly, especially if you are about to head out on a trip.
If your motorhome has a solar panel (or panels) fitted, then you should inspect them regularly for dirt and debris, as this can really reduce their efficiency. Test the output of the panels and make sure they’re charging your leisure battery correctly.
Fire safety in your motorhome is crucial, particularly with the presence of gas and electrical systems. Make sure that the fire extinguisher you have onboard is fully charged and easily accessible, and that the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are functioning properly. Make sure your packing list includes spare batteries when you’re off on a trip.
If your motorhome has an awning, check it for damage or wear. Make sure that the fabric is in good condition and free of mould, and that the mechanical components work smoothly. Clean it regularly and allow it to dry fully before retracting it.
The seals around your windows and doors of your motorhome are essential for keeping out moisture and preventing drafts. Check them regularly for any signs of wear, cracks or serious ageing. Reseal if necessary to mitigate against water ingress, which can lead to problems and costly damage.
An air con unit in a motorhome is a blessing in hot weather, but it needs to be serviced regularly to work at optimum efficiency all the time. Clean or replace air filters, check the refrigerant levels and ensure the system is functioning correctly. A poorly maintained air con unit will lose efficiency and eventually fail – probably when you need it the most!
Our 20-point checklist covers everything you need to keep your motorhome in top condition. But if it all feels a bit overwhelming, that’s where we come in. At Maple Leisure, we don’t just sell motorhomes—we keep them running smoothly too. From air con servicing to full MOTs and repairs, our experienced team has got you covered. Book in with us and hit the road with confidence.
The team at Maple Leisure are here to answer any questions or provide advice.
A selection of our best offers now on
Sign up to the Maple Leisure newsletter and stay up to date with news and offers.
For info on how we use your data see our Privacy Policy >
