Common RV Repair Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Holiday Road Trip

If you have an RV, you know how many systems and components there are that could go wrong. And if you’ve mapped the route, stocked the fridge, and filled the tank, you might think your RV road trip is ready to roll. But what if one overlooked bolt, skipped inspection, or a quick-fix patch job sends your plans off the rails?

RVs are freedom machines, no doubt. But they’re also complex, rolling ecosystems—part home, part heavy-duty vehicle. One careless repair or ignored maintenance issue can turn your getaway into a tow-away. 

That’s why we wanted to break down the most common RV repair mistakes that we see that leave folks stranded on the side of I-75 instead of lounging by the coast.

1. Ignoring Your Roof Until It Leaks

In Florida, RV roofs see everything whether it’s blistering UV rays or punishing Florida storms. The biggest mistake? Not keeping up with minor repairs. If you’re letting minor cracks or seam issues go unchecked, you’re asking for trouble. Once water seeps in, you’re not just dealing with a leak. You’re dealing with mold, rotting insulation, and ruined interiors.

What to do instead:

• Inspect the roof every 90 days
  
• Reseal joints and seams with proper RV-grade sealant
  
• Don’t use hardware store caulk. It won’t flex with the movement of the RV

2. DIY Wiring Without Knowing the System

RV electrical systems are a unique blend of 12V DC, 120V AC, and sometimes solar inputs. If you think slapping on household wires or patching into circuits with zero-load calculations is a fast track to a fire or a blown inverter. Seriously, it’s best left up to the pros. 

Common fails:

• Mixing wire gauges
• Overloading circuits
• Using indoor extension cords as permanent wiring

Pro tip: Always use marine- or RV-rated wiring, and when in doubt, call in a certified tech. Electricity and trial-and-error do not mix well.

3. Forgetting to Flush the Water System

Heading out with stale, algae-ridden water in your tanks? Yeah, that’s a quick way to ruin breakfast and your stomach.

Biggest mistakes:

• Not sanitizing after long storage periods
• Skipping filter changes
• Reconnecting hoses without flushing the lines

What to do:

• Run a bleach-water solution through your system at least once a season
• Replace all freshwater filters every 3–6 months
• Always use a pressure regulator when connecting to external water

4. Underestimating Tire Health

Your RV tires carry thousands of pounds and often sit idle for months. Cracks, flat spots, and low pressure are common. Blowouts at 70 mph? Not a good time.

Common tire mistakes:

• Not checking the age of the tires
• Skipping pre-trip pressure checks
• Mismatched tires or wrong load ratings

Pro advice:

• Replace tires every 5–7 years, regardless of tread depth
• Check pressure cold, and inspect for sidewall cracks
• Use tire covers when parked for long periods, especially in Florida sun

5. Skipping Brake Maintenance

An RV’s braking system isn't just about stopping the vehicle. It’s about managing downhill weight, especially with a tow-behind. Letting pads wear too thin or letting air into hydraulic lines can be a fatal mistake.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Not adjusting trailer brake controllers
• Ignoring grinding or squealing
• Neglecting drum brake inspections on older models
  

Solution:  Have a tech inspect and adjust your brake system annually or before any long trip.

6. Overlooking the HVAC System

Florida summers are no joke. A failing AC unit or busted vent fan can turn your RV into a rolling sauna. Many RVers ignore small signs. That is until their unit dies on a 95°F day with no shade in sight.

HVAC mistakes:

• Dirty filters or coils
• Poor roof insulation
  Not cleaning the AC drain line (hello, mold!)

What you should do:

• Clean your filters monthly
• Check for debris in the rooftop condenser
• Use an AC soft start device to prevent tripping your power source

7. Not Weighing the RV After Modifications

Every tool, upgrade, and keepsake adds weight and RVs can become overweight fast. Driving an overloaded RV not only ruins fuel economy but also stresses suspension, brakes, and axles.

How this happens:

• Upgrading to heavier furniture
• Loading more gear than your GVWR allows
• Ignoring axle weight distribution

Avoid this trap:

• Weigh your RV at a CAT scale after major changes
• Use load balancing to distribute weight
• Know your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and tongue weight limits

8. Using the Wrong Fluids

Diesel RVs have unique requirements. Adding automotive oil, incorrect coolant, or skipping DEF top-offs can cost you, especially with modern after-treatment systems in play.

Fix this easily:

• Check your manual for exact fluid specs
• Never assume a gas station oil change has the right stuff
• Use only DEF that meets ISO 22241 specs
  

9. Skipping Routine Generator Maintenance

Your onboard generator is the lifeline for boondocking and emergency power. But just like your main engine, it needs oil changes, filter swaps, and run time.

Most common mistake: Letting it sit idle for months on end. That leads to gummed-up carburetors, dead batteries, or failed starts when you need it most.

Smart practices:

• Run your generator under load once a month
• Change the oil every 100 hours or annually
• Keep fuel stabilizer in the tank during off-season storage

10. Treating Pre-Trip Inspections Like a Chore

The last (and arguably worst) mistake? Skipping your pre-trip inspection altogether. A simple once-over can catch things before they become trip-enders.

Always check:

• Brake lights and turn signals
• Hitch connections and safety chains
• Fluid levels, leaks, and battery voltage
• Slide-outs and awnings

If it moves, powers up, or holds liquid, it needs a check.

Keeping Your RV Working Right

Your RV is a rolling ecosystem that demands attention, care, and the right expertise. Cutting corners or skipping steps might not seem like a big deal at home, but 300 miles from nowhere? That mistake could cost you comfort, time, or even your safety.

Before you roll out, make sure you’ve dodged these common RV repair mistakes. Your future self—cruising down the open highway with the AC humming and zero breakdowns—will thank you.

Ready to Hit the Road with Confidence?

If your RV’s due for service or you’re not sure whether it’s road-trip ready, don’t guess. Suncoast Fleet Services has your back—whether it’s troubleshooting electrical gremlins, inspecting brakes, or making sure your diesel engine’s in top shape.