The Most Common RV Repairs: And Who to Call When You Need Help

Maintaining your RV involves many common repairs. It's not rare to deal with some of these issues in the first year of ownership, so don't freak out! We've talked to the top techs, warranty companies and insurance agents to help you understand how to offest the out of pocket costs when it comes to the most frequent issues and their estimated repair expenses:

Roof Leaks

• Common Cause: Age, weather damage, poor maintenance.
• Repair Cost: $300 - $1,000 for patching; full roof replacement can cost $5,000 - $10,000.

Remedy: Bi annual roof inspections will pay off in the long run. And some insurance companies will cover the roof on a new unit.

Slide-Out Issues

• Common Cause: Mechanical or electrical failures.
• Repair Cost: $500 - $2,500 depending on the extent of the issue.

Remedy: Occasional greasing and re-alignment is a great idea. And extendended warranty companies cover the motors and control boards on these systems.

Frozen pipes, leaks, faulty fixtures.

• Common Cause: Frozen pipes, leaks, faulty fixtures.
• Repair Cost: $200 - $1,500 depending on the complexity of the repair.

Remedy: For cold climates, winterization is a must. Inspect hoses and pipes often, before any major damage can occur.

Electrical System Failures

• Common Cause: Faulty wiring, blown fuses, battery issues.
• Repair Cost: $150 - $1,500 depending on whether it's a simple fix or a major electrical overhaul.

Remedy: Pray for the best, unfortunately these failures are unpredictable, and often expensive due to labor costs.

Tire Replacement

• Common Cause: Wear and tear, blowouts.
• Repair Cost: $200 - $1,000 for a set of tires.

Remedy: Buy from a reputable brand. Most all extended warranty companies offer a tire and wheel package.

Brake Repairs

• Common Cause: Wear and tear, lack of maintenance.
• Repair Cost: $300 - $1000.

Remedy: Add brakepads to your pre-trip inspection checklist.

Air Conditioner Repairs

• Common Cause: Faulty compressors, refrigerant leaks.
• Repair Cost: $400 - $2200.

Remedy: It's best to have a pro clean the coil and check the amp draw seasonally. Warranty companies replace hundreds if not thousands of these a year.

Generator Issues

• Common Cause: Lack of maintenance, fuel problems.
• Repair Cost: $250 - $2,000 depending on whether it's a minor fix or a major component replacement.

Remedy: Change the oil and filter periodically and any major failure would be covered with extended warranty.

Awning Replacement

• Common Cause: Weather damage, mechanical failure.
• Repair Cost: $$350 - $2,800.

Remedy: Keep an eye out for wind, but with the right insurance you'll be covered. Let the warranty company take care of the motors.

Water Heater Repairs

• Common Cause: Malfunctioning elements, leaks.
• Repair Cost: $250 - $1,200.

Remedy: It always tends to be the control board. The warranty company fixes these every day.

Refrigerator Repairs

• Common Cause: Cooling unit failure, electrical issues.
• Repair Cost: $800 - $2100.

Remedy: It's just a matter of when...check with the warranty company.

Interior Repairs (Cabinets, Flooring, Upholstery)

• Common Cause: Wear and tear, water damage.
• Repair Cost: $100 - $10,000 depending on the extent of the damage.

Remedy: With comprehensive coverage, the insurance company will handle the water damage.