RV Pre-Trip Maintenance Checklist: Don't Leave Without It

Nothing derails a road trip faster than a preventable breakdown. The good news: most RV problems are predictable, and a thorough pre-trip inspection catches the majority of them before they become emergencies.

Whether you're renting or own your rig, run through this checklist before every trip.

Tires are the most critical safety component on any RV, and they're also the most commonly neglected.

• Check tire pressure: Use a quality gauge and inflate to the manufacturer's recommended PSI (found on the tire sidewall or in the owner's manual). Do this when tires are cold.
• Inspect for wear: Look for uneven wear patterns, cracks in the sidewall, or any visible damage. If a tire looks questionable, don't risk it.
• Check the spare: Make sure it's properly inflated and accessible.
• Lug nuts: Verify they're properly torqued, especially if the tires were recently rotated or replaced.

RV-specific note: RV tires age out even if they have tread remaining. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 5–7 years regardless of mileage. Check the manufacture date (DOT code on the sidewall) before a long trip.

• Engine oil: Check level and condition. Change if due.
• Coolant: Check level in the overflow reservoir. Low coolant is a serious issue.
• Transmission fluid: Check level and color. Dark or burnt-smelling fluid needs attention.
• Power steering fluid: Check level.
• Brake fluid: Check level.
• Windshield washer fluid: Fill it up — you'll use more than you think.
• Air filter: Inspect and replace if dirty.
• Belts and hoses: Look for cracks, fraying, or soft spots.

• Listen for squealing or grinding when you apply the brakes. Either sound means it's time for an inspection.
• Check brake pad thickness if you have access.
• Test the brakes at low speed before you leave the driveway.

Walk around the entire vehicle and check:

• Headlights (high and low beam)
• Taillights and brake lights
• Turn signals (front and rear)
• Reverse lights
• Running lights
• Interior lights

Replace any burned-out bulbs before you leave.

• Inspect the seals around each slide-out for cracks or gaps that could let in water.
• Lubricate the slide mechanism if it's been a while.
• Test each slide — extend and retract fully before you leave.

• Inspect the roof seals around vents, skylights, and any roof penetrations. Cracked sealant is the number one cause of water damage in RVs.
• Check the awning for tears, bent arms, or damage.
• Inspect all exterior compartment latches — make sure they close and lock securely.
• Look under the RV for any fluid leaks, loose components, or damage.

• Sanitize the fresh water tank if the RV has been sitting for more than a few weeks.
• Check all faucets and connections for leaks.
• Test the water heater — make sure it heats properly on both electric and propane.
• Inspect the water pump — it should run quietly and maintain pressure.

• Check propane levels in all tanks.
• Inspect propane hoses and connections for cracks or leaks. Use soapy water — bubbles indicate a leak.
• Test all propane appliances: stove burners, oven, furnace, water heater.
• Check the CO and propane detector — test it and replace the battery if needed.

• Test all interior outlets with a small appliance.
• Check the battery charge — both house batteries and chassis battery.
• Inspect the shore power cord for damage.
• Test the generator (if equipped) — run it under load for 15–20 minutes.

• Fire extinguisher: Check the pressure gauge and make sure it's accessible.
• Smoke detector: Test it and replace the battery.
• CO detector: Test it.
• First aid kit: Restock anything that's been used.
• Emergency roadside kit: Flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, flashlight.

• Retract all slide-outs
• Disconnect shore power and water
• Close and latch all exterior compartments
• Secure all interior items — anything that can slide or fall will
• Check clearance — antennas down, awning retracted
• Walk around the vehicle one more time

Taking 30–45 minutes to run through this checklist before every trip is the best investment you can make in a trouble-free journey. Most problems are easy to fix at home — and expensive to fix on the side of the road.