Is the open road and spending some quality time in your campervan calling your name? If you’re planning an upcoming campervan adventure, or you’re thinking of investing in a custom vehicle of your own, we’d recommend getting clued up on some of the most common campervan repairs before embarking on your road trip.
Don’t let a minor mechanical hiccup derail your travel plans. By knowing some of the most common repairs that campervans require (and how to fix them!) you can start your holiday with confidence.
Ah, the dreaded flat tire - we’ve all been there. But unfortunately, when embarking on a road trip in your car or campervan, the chance of these things happening is never going to be zero.
Fortunately, changing a tire on a campervan is much like changing one on a car. However, the tire may be much larger and heavier due to the difference in the vehicle’s size. To prepare for tire issues, always carry a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench, and familiarise yourself with their locations and operation before you hit the road.
If you are unsure about changing the tire yourself, do not struggle alone. Instead, contact a reputable roadside assistance provider to assist you with your tire change. To help prevent flats where possible, make sure to complete regular tire pressure checks and visual inspections before setting off on long journeys.
Again, a problem that can affect a wide range of vehicles - battery issues.
Van life relies heavily on a functioning electrical system, powering everything from your lights to your onboard fridge, so you want to be sure to look after your campervan’s battery life and electrics.
A dead battery is a common culprit when things go dark, which is never ideal when you need to set off for your next stop. Always carry jumper cables and learn how to use these ahead of time. But, if you’re finding your battery is going flat more often than not, it might be time for a replacement.
Other electrical issues can include faulty wiring, blown fuses, or tripped circuit breakers, but having a basic understanding of your van's electrical system can help you troubleshoot these issues.
We’d also recommend keeping a multimeter handy to test circuits and fuses. If the problem is beyond your comfort level, do not hesitate to consult a mechanic who can help with the issue.
If you have a campervan conversion with an onboard bathroom and kitchen, you’ll know that water system malfunctions are quite frustrating.
Leaks are a common issue, often stemming from loose connections or cracked pipes. Regularly inspect your water lines, paying close attention to joints and fittings, especially before longer trips where you’ll be spending lots of time in your camper.
You should also carry some basic plumbing tools like a wrench and pliers, and consider packing some sealant tape for quick fixes. If your water pump fails, check the fuse and ensure it's receiving power. If the pump itself is the issue, a replacement might be necessary. Keeping your water system running ensures you'll have fresh water for cooking, cleaning, and showers.
Looking for a campervan conversion that has an onboard bathroom and kitchen, or need an upgrade from your current vehicle? Discover our AddVenture Camper today.
Arguably the best part about having a campervan is that it allows you to take your home comforts on the road, including appliances that make you more comfortable.
But just like household appliances, these can act up occasionally. If you notice that your fridge isn’t cooling, check the power source, ventilation, and door seals. For oven troubles, ensure the gas supply is connected and the igniter is functioning. If your heater isn't warming things up, inspect the fuel source, ventilation, and thermostat.
Many appliance issues can be easily resolved, but for more complex problems, seeking professional help is always a good idea. After all, you don’t want to miss out on having a hot meal and a warm campervan at the end of a long day exploring!
Keeping the elements outside is an absolutely necessary part of having a comfortable van to sleep in. Roof and window leaks can be a real pain, leading to water damage and dampness of your vehicle and belongings inside.
A good quality camper conversion will keep water at bay, but you should regularly inspect your van’s seals and seams, especially after extreme weather such as heavy rain or strong winds.
Sealant can be used to repair minor leaks, but larger issues may need further assistance from a professional. To prevent issues, consider purchasing a seam sealer, and always address leaks promptly to avoid more extensive damage.
As with any vehicle, safe travels and fully functioning brakes are of the utmost importance.
Pay close attention to your brakes, and address any issues as soon as you notice them. If you hear squeaking, feel grinding or notice reduced braking performance, you will need to get those checked as soon as you can.
Brake pads and rotors wear down over time and will need replacing. Brake fluid leaks can also occur, compromising braking ability. While some brake maintenance can be done DIY, it's often best to leave brake repairs to qualified mechanics.
While campervan repairs are sometimes inevitable, you shouldn’t let them deter you from planning a roadtrip. With preparation, basic knowledge and the right tools, you can handle many common issues and keep your van running smoothly.
If your current campervan conversion is experiencing a few too many technical and mechanical issues, it might be time to look at an upgrade. Designed and built in the UK by our team of specialists, our AddVenture Camper is suitable for those new and experienced in van life. Complete with a full bathroom, double bed, living space and kitchen, the AddVenture Camper sleeps two people in comfort, and is easy to both drive and park due its innovative slide-out back.
We build vans to sleep in, designed for comfort, durability, and, most importantly, adventures. If you’d like to find out more, check out our AddVenture Camper here or enquire today.
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