Are you ready for your next big adventure? Well, not if you haven’t had your van serviced yet!

Any caravan owners must make sure the van has had all the periodic services and proper maintenance done before you head out, otherwise you could end up in a spot of bother.

Servicing can differ depending on where you go—dealers or repair shops—but the goal is always the same: to fix any wear and tear. Regular servicing keeps everything that should be moving, moving, and makes sure anything that needs fixing gets sorted out.

It’s all about keeping your van running smoothly and making sure everything works like it should.

The main reason of course is safety, you don’t want to end up in the middle of nowhere, stuck because something broke down, or worse, end up in an accident.

At a minimum, your van should undergo a comprehensive service once a year but we also recommend having a check-up before embarking on long trips and after returning from rough trips (eg. your last adventure involved rough terrain or extreme weather conditions).

Here at Network RV, this is our first three services schedule we suggest you follow to keep you warranty in check:

• First service – Three months or 1,000km
• Second service – 12 months or 10,000km
• Third service – 24 months or 20,000km

TIP: Use a logbook to keep track of dates and kilometres travelled. New vans come with a dealer’s logbook, otherwise you can buy one yourself. If a physical book isn’t your thing, try a logbook app.            

There are more than a few reasons you should book your van in for servicing:

1. Safety first

Your caravan is your home on wheels, and like any home, it needs some TLC to keep you safe and sound.

A well-maintained caravan is way less likely to break down on the road, which keeps things safe for you and everyone else out there.

Regular servicing can catch potential issues like worn brakes or loose connections before they turn into bigger problems.

2. Preventative maintenance saves money

Skipping regular servicing can turn small issues into big, expensive problems.

Regular checks and maintenance catch things early, often before they lead to a breakdown.

Think of it as investing in your caravan’s long-term health – spending a bit on servicing now can save you a ton of money down the road.

3. Optimised performance:

A well-maintained caravan runs a lot better – regular servicing keeps the engine running smoothly and the tires at the right pressure, which means a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency.

Plus, you’ll save some cash on those long trips.

It also means less hassle and stress on the road. So, you can just relax and enjoy the journey!

4. Longevity

Keeping your van in top shape means it stays in great condition for years, keeping its value intact.

When or if you eventually decide to sell or upgrade, having a solid service history makes it more appealing to buyers and could mean a better price for you.

5. Avoiding unplanned interruptions

There’s nothing worse than a road trip getting derailed by an unexpected breakdown.

Regular servicing is your best bet to nip potential issues in the bud before they turn into major headaches. It’s all about dodging those last-minute breakdowns that could leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

So, keep up with the servicing to ensure your adventures roll on smoothly, hassle-free and without any sudden repair dramas ruining the vibe.

6. Things you can check yourself

It’s also important for you to be familiar with the parts of your van and know how to check the vehicle yourself from time to time.

Here’s a breakdown of key checks you can do yourself:

• Tyres: Regularly check tyre pressure to suit different terrains. Look for signs of damage, cracks, or uneven wear, even during periods of non-use.
• Lights: Ensure all lights are functioning properly for a safe journey. Test them before each trip and replace bulbs as needed.
• Seals (doors, windows, roof): Inspect seals for cracks to prevent dirt and moisture from entering your caravan. Replace any damaged seals promptly.
• Awning: Keep the awning fabric clean and stored properly. Before setting off, test its functionality to avoid surprises.
• Appliances: Test all appliances to ensure proper connections and functionality inside your caravan.
• Vents: Check vents for blockages from debris. If you notice any unusual odours, investigate and address promptly.