Find the Best Mobile RV Repair Techs [by RV Experts]
Imagine this: You’re cruising down the highway, your RV or tow vehicle is humming smoothly as the miles roll by. The open road stretches ahead, filled with promise and adventure and no RV repair places for miles! Whether you’re towing a travel trailer, maneuvering a fifth wheel, or enjoying the luxury of a motorhome, the journey is as exhilarating as the destination.
What happens when the unexpected strikes? A strange noise, a flickering light, or worse—an engine that suddenly refuses to cooperate. The joy of the journey quickly turns into a race to find a reliable RV repair place that won’t break the bank.
Last weekend, this situation became our reality! We stopped for fuel and walked around our Keystone Courgar Fifth-Wheel and noticed it was leaning like a ship on rough seas!
WTH is wrong!?!
I crawled under to discover a broken equalizer which could have caused a catastrophic failure at 70mph! WOW talk about getting lucky we stopped for fuel and because Finn was barking at us.
Four LOOONGGGG hours later we tracked down the parts and best mobile repair tech from Frankfort, KY and coordinated the fix for our beloved Cougar.
Needless to say on Saturday morning I woke up with a range of emotions from we’re selling this to we’re only staying in hotels to I’m going to learn to fix RVs. Over the last 4 years we have fallen in love with the RV lifestyle and thinking of walking away from this way of life was emotionally draining.
In that moment, Sara and I decided we would get educated on RV repair, maintenance, AND building out a trusted network of the best mobile RV techs across the country!
When RV Trouble Strikes: Our Close Call on the Road
Our reality is all too familiar to seasoned RVers. RVs are complex machines that require regular upkeep to stay roadworthy. Even the most diligent maintenance can’t always prevent mechanical hiccups.
When problems cause a bump in the road, knowing where to find quality RV repair services can mean the difference between a quick fix and a ruined trip. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about finding the best RV repair places, from routine maintenance tips to choosing the right service provider.
TL;DR: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best RV Repair Places
- RVs need regular maintenance and repairs to stay roadworthy.
- Find trusted RV repair places through service centers or mobile RV techs.
- Routine maintenance includes oil changes, tire checks, and engine inspections.
- Preventive maintenance helps catch small issues before they become costly repairs.
- Common RV repairs include chassis, electrical systems, and structural issues.
- Choose between mobile RV services and traditional service centers based on your needs.
- Look for RVTAA-certified technicians for quality, expert service.
- Consider customer reviews, BBB ratings, and transparent pricing when selecting a repair place.
- Stay prepared with a trusted list of RV repair options on your travel routes.
Routine RV Maintenance: Why It’s Essential
RVs, just like cars, need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. The rough roads across America mean our RVs take a beating on every trip. The tires, suspension, and even the components inside our rigs get bounced around.
Unfortunately, routine maintenance is something many RV owners overlook—until they’re faced with a costly repair that could have been prevented. Let’s dive into why routine maintenance is so critical and how it can save you time, money, and the stress of a breakdown on the road!
Routine Maintenance
First things first: routine maintenance is your RV’s best friend.
Think of it as giving your RV the TLC it deserves. Regular maintenance tasks include everything from oil changes and tire checks to inspecting the engine and brakes. These might seem like minor tasks, but they’re crucial in keeping your RV roadworthy and safe.
Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to bigger, more expensive problems. For example, failing to change the oil regularly can result in engine damage, while ignoring tire maintenance can lead to blowouts on the highway. Or, in our case, a rusty equalizer could mean the difference between life and death!
Pro Tip: Many RV repair places offer routine maintenance services like oil changes, tire checks, and brake inspections.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance goes further by addressing potential issues before they become major headaches. This includes checking your RV’s electrical system, inspecting the water heater, and ensuring the air conditioning unit is in good working order.
Preventive maintenance is all about catching minor problems early, so they don’t turn into big, costly repairs later on. It’s a proactive approach that can extend the life of your RV and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Pro Tip: Consult trusted RV repair places regularly (at least each RV season) for preventive maintenance—catching issues early keeps your RV running smoothly and safely!
Certified Technicians
When it comes to routine and preventive maintenance, it’s important to use certified RV technicians. Certified RV technicians undergo specialized training to understand the unique needs of RVs.
Whether it’s a simple oil change or a more complex repair, a certified technician will ensure the job is done right. They’re familiar with the ins and outs of various RV systems, from electrical to plumbing, and they know how to spot potential issues before they become serious problems.
Types of RV Repairs: What to Expect
No matter how well you maintain your RV, there will likely come a time when you need repairs. Understanding the types of repairs you might encounter can help you be better prepared and make informed decisions.
Motorhome Service
Motorhomes are some of the most complex RVs on the road, and as a result, they often require more frequent and detailed repairs.
Common motorhome issues include problems with the chassis, electrical system, and engine.
- Chassis—a critical component that supports the entire vehicle—can suffer from wear and tear over time, leading to issues like misalignment or even structural damage.
- Electrical problems are another common issue in motorhomes, especially given the number of systems that rely on a steady flow of electricity.
- Engine repairs can be some of the most expensive, so it’s crucial to keep up with routine maintenance to avoid costly breakdowns.
Travel Trailers & Fifth Wheels
Travel trailers and fifth wheels (like our Keystone Cougar), while less complex than motorhomes, have their own set of common repair needs.
- Structural repairs are a significant concern, particularly for those who frequently travel on rough roads. Over time, the constant bouncing and jostling can cause cracks or other structural issues.
- Fifth wheels, with their unique hitching mechanism, may also require specific maintenance to ensure the connection between the truck and trailer remains secure.
Mobile RV Techs are especially useful for travel trailers and fifth wheels since they allow for on-site repairs without the hassle of towing the vehicle to a service center.
Mobile RV Service
Speaking of mobile RV services, these have become increasingly popular among RVers—and for a good reason. Some RV repair places offer mobile services that bring the technician right to you.
Mobile RV techs bring the repair shop to you, whether you’re at a campground, in a parking lot, or even at home. This is incredibly convenient for minor repairs or routine maintenance that doesn’t require specialized equipment. Mobile RV services are also a lifesaver when you’re dealing with road hazards or other unexpected issues while traveling.
Instead of trying to limp your RV to the nearest service center, you can have a skilled technician come directly to you, saving time and reducing stress.
Pro Tip: The best Mobile RV Techs are busy, so it may be a few days before they can service your rig.
Choosing the Right RV Repair Place
Finding the right RV repair place is crucial to ensuring your RV gets the best care possible. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? Here’s what to consider when selecting an RV repair place.
Service Center vs. Mobile Service
We have used a mix of stationary service centers and mobile repair services. When we have a choice we prefer mobile service because of the convenience of the mobile RV tech coming to our site. Unfortunately, our storage facility does not have power, which means it’s not the ideal place for all of our repairs.
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to take your RV to a traditional service center or opt for a mobile RV service. Each option has its pros and cons.
Service Centers
Traditional service centers are equipped with all the tools and equipment necessary for extensive repairs. They’re ideal for major issues that require specialized equipment or diagnostics. High-quality RV repair places should have certified technicians and a range of services to meet your needs. However, the downside is that you’ll need to bring your RV to the service center, which can be inconvenient, especially if your RV isn’t drivable. And often times Service Centers have a long backlog of work which may further delay techs working on your RV.
Mobile RV Services
Mobile RV services offer the convenience of on-site repairs. They’re perfect for minor repairs or maintenance tasks that don’t require a fully-equipped shop. The downside is that they might not be able to handle more complex repairs that require specialized tools or facilities.
Pro Tip: Most Mobile RV Techs were employed at a large service center before starting their own service. So, they know many of the tricks to get the job done!
The choice between a service center and a mobile RV service will depend on the nature of the repair and your specific needs. A service center is likely the better option if you’re dealing with a major issue. But a mobile RV service can save you time and hassle for minor repairs or routine maintenance.
Service Department
When choosing a service center, it’s important to consider the range of services they offer. A comprehensive service department should be able to handle everything from routine maintenance to major repairs. This includes engine repairs, chassis service, electrical work, and even specialized services like ceramic coatings.
Before choosing a service center, ask about their service department. Do they have certified technicians? What kind of repairs do they specialize in? How long have they been in business? The answers to these questions can give you a good sense of the quality of service you can expect.
BBB Business Profiles
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an excellent resource for researching potential service providers. BBB business profiles offer insight into a company’s reputation, including customer reviews, complaints, and ratings. A high BBB rating is a good indicator of a reliable service provider, while a low rating or a history of unresolved complaints should be a red flag.
Before choosing an RV repair place, take the time to check their BBB profile. Look for a service provider with a strong track record of customer satisfaction and a commitment to resolving any issues that arise.
Years of Experience
When it comes to RV repairs, experience matters. A repair center with years of experience is more likely to provide reliable service and have the expertise needed to handle a wide range of RV issues. Experienced technicians have seen it all—they know how to diagnose problems quickly and accurately, and they’re familiar with the quirks and nuances of different RV models.
When researching RV repair places, don’t hesitate to ask about the experience levels of their technicians and the center itself. How long have they been in business? How many RVs do they service each year? What kinds of repairs do they specialize in? The more experience a repair center has, the more confident you can be in their ability to take care of your RV.
How to Find Reliable RV Repair Technicians
Finding a reliable RV repair technician is crucial to ensuring your RV gets the care it needs. Here are some tips for identifying skilled technicians who can provide quality service.
RV Inspection
Before any major trip, it’s a good idea to get a comprehensive RV inspection. An inspection can identify potential issues before they become major problems, giving you peace of mind as you hit the road. A reliable RV technician will perform a thorough inspection, checking everything from the engine and chassis to the electrical system and plumbing. If they find any issues, they can address them before they turn into costly repairs.
Before our EPIC summer road trips we like to have the wheel bearings re-packed and our trusted mobile RV tech give the cougar a good look over! The last thing I want is to be broken down in the middle of South Dakota or on the Kancamangus Highway without a cell signal!
Skilled Technicians
Not all technicians are created equal. When it comes to RV repairs, you want to work with skilled technicians who have the expertise and experience to handle your specific needs.
Look for technicians who are certified and have experience working with your type of RV. Ask about their training and qualifications—skilled technicians should have a deep understanding of RV systems and be able to troubleshoot and repair a wide range of issues.
User Experience
One of the best ways to gauge the reliability of an RV repair place is by looking at customer reviews and testimonials. Hearing about others’ experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of service you can expect.
Look for patterns in the feedback—consistently good or bad reviews can be telling. If a repair place has a strong track record of satisfied customers, it’s a good sign that you’ll receive quality service as well.
RVTAA Technicians: Why They Matter
In recent years, the Recreational Vehicle Technical Institute (RVTAA) has emerged as a leading certification body for RV technicians, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge needed to maintain and repair RVs to the highest standards. When searching for an RV repair place, seeking out RVTAA-certified technicians can make a significant difference in the quality of service you receive.
What is the RVTAA? The RVTAA, or Recreational Vehicle Technical Association of America, is an organization that focuses on training and certifying RV technicians.
Their certification program is comprehensive, covering all aspects of RV repair and maintenance, from electrical systems and plumbing to engine repairs and chassis work. Technicians who earn RVTAA certification have undergone rigorous training and testing to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Why Choose RVTAA-Certified Technicians?
RVTAA-certified technicians are among the best in the industry. Their certification indicates they have the knowledge and expertise to handle a wide range of RV issues, whether you own a motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. Here’s why choosing an RVTAA-certified technician matters:
- Expertise Across All RV Systems: RVTAA-certified technicians are trained to work on all aspects of an RV, including electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, and structural repairs. Their broad expertise ensures that they can diagnose and fix problems efficiently, saving you time and money.
- Commitment to Quality and Safety: RVTAA certification is not a one-time achievement—it requires ongoing education and recertification. This means that RVTAA-certified technicians are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in RV technology and repair techniques. You can trust that they will adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety when working on your RV.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your RV is being serviced by an RVTAA-certified technician gives you peace of mind. You can be confident that the technician working on your RV is highly qualified and dedicated to providing top-notch service.
Finding RVTAA-Certified Technicians
When searching for an RV repair place, it’s worth asking if they employ RVTAA-certified technicians. Many service centers proudly display their RVTAA certification as a mark of excellence.
You can also search for RVTAA-certified technicians through the RVTAA website, which offers a directory of certified professionals across the country. Whether you need routine maintenance or a major repair, choosing an RVTAA-certified technician ensures your RV is in capable hands.
Special Offers and Services to Look For from the Best RV Repair Places
Finally, as you search for the best RV repair place, keep an eye out for special offers and value-added services that can enhance your experience.
Special Offers
Many RV repair centers offer discounts and promotions that can help you save on routine maintenance and repairs. For example, some service centers provide first-hour discounts, where the first hour of labor is offered at a reduced rate.
Others might offer packages that bundle multiple services together at a lower overall cost. Regular maintenance packages are particularly popular, as they allow you to schedule all your routine maintenance needs in advance, often at a discounted rate.
Reasonable Prices
Quality service doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Look for RV repair places that offer transparent pricing and reasonable rates for their services.
It’s a good idea to get estimates from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best option—focus on finding a balance between cost and quality to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Peace of Mind
At the end of the day, you want to know that your RV is in good hands. Choosing an RV repair place with a strong reputation for reliability, skilled technicians, and excellent customer service provides peace of mind. Whether planning a short weekend getaway or heading on a cross-country adventure, knowing that trusted professionals have serviced your RV ensures you can confidently hit the road.
FAQs
Does All RV Maintenance Require an RV Tech?
This depends on how handy you are. If you know how to use a screw driver, then you can most likely handle simple DIY maintenance on your RV. We created a FREE checklist to help RVers keep their rigs in great shape!
Can I Winterize My Camper or Travel Trailer Myself?
You bet! It’s super easy to winterize using either the compressed air method, RV anti-freeze method, or a combination! The fall is a great time to catch up on all seasonal maintenance for your travel trailer.
Conclusion: Finding the Best RV Repair Places
Owning an RV is all about freedom—the freedom to explore, create new adventures, and enjoy the open road. But with that freedom comes the responsibility of keeping your RV in good working order. Routine maintenance is the key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns, and when repairs are needed, knowing where to turn can make all the difference.
From choosing between a service center and a mobile RV service to finding skilled technicians who hold RVTAA certification, this guide has covered everything you need to know to keep your RV in tip-top shape. Remember to take advantage of special offers and focus on finding a repair place with a solid reputation and experienced technicians.
By following the tips in this guide, you’ll find the best RV repair places to keep your RV in excellent shape. Your RV will stay in excellent shape, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you have reliable repair options at your disposal. Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend or a cross-country journey, your RV will be ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.
About Us
We are Mike and Sara, and our kids and dog are exploring the US while camping in our fifth wheel! Since the late 90s we have been exploring the great outdoors one hiking trail at a time. We introduced our kids to hiking while they were young and they love exploring new places. We call Kentucky home and we find ourselves exploring the state parks, national parks, and other wildlands in our area as often as we can!
Our RV camping journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waking up close to the trails we love hiking was enough for us to get hooked on the camping lifestyle! Thanks for following our adventures!
