RVs are a great way to travel. You can take your family and friends with you. You can load it up with gear, bikes, kayaks, fishing poles, clothes, favorite stuffed animals and more. You don’t have to lug your bags through the airport, or worry about anything going missing.

But when it comes to taking care of your RV you have to treat it like any vehicle. Follow the manufacture recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle and you’ll typically avoid the majority of common issues. But there are times when “things” will pop up.

You might find at one point after you’ve purchased a RV that you are just not getting the gas mileage that you are supposed to get when you’re on the road. Manufacturers typically provide a basis that you can aim for regarding miles per gallon on the highway and miles per gallon in the city (they differ due to frequent stops and starts in the city, of course).

A couple quick checks might resolve the problem. Take the time to look over your RV before you head out on the road. This means all aspects of it. Most problems are easy to take care of without the help of a mechanic. To improve fuel efficiency:

- check tire pressure

- check the condition of your tires

- visual wheel alignment

-The engine should be looked after at regular intervals. Check your car’s maintenance schedule to find out when to take it in.

-Change your oil regularly. Dirty oil isn’t dangerous but it isn’t good for your car. If you run out of oil, your engine will seize, so be sure to keep levels from running low.

-Tires should be rotated and balanced once a year. This helps keep wear patterns even on your vehicle.

-If you have an older vehicle, make sure the gas cap seal is still in good condition so gas doesn’t evaporate.

-Brakes not only stop your car, but if your brakes aren’t working properly, they can cause a ‘drag’ and eat away at your fuel. Replace brake pads and brakes as needed.

-Make sure your fuel injection system is running properly.

Hopefully you’ll see a dramatic difference in your vehicle’s fuel economy after the above list is completed. You might be able to shave a few off your list if you’ve recently purchased a used RV. Just look through the documents you received or that came with the vehicle. You should find a maintenance record. And if you’re lucky…some of these services may have been performed recently. Then you’ve got one less item on your to do list!

Learn more about RVs and motorhomes. Stop by Beaudry RV where you can find out all about new and used RVs and what they can do for you.

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