Can my motorhome or campervan have breakdowns due to disuse?

One of the most common breakdowns in vehicles that are not used regularly is a dead battery. The batteries of motorhomes usually discharge over time and from the use of electrical systems while the vehicle is stationary. If your motorhome or campervan has not been started for a long time, it is advisable to check the battery before using it again. If the battery is too discharged or does not hold charge, it may need to be replaced. To prevent this, it is advisable to disconnect the battery if your motorhome or campervan will be unused for a long time or to use a maintenance charger (if you need one, ask us and we will be happy to advise you on which one is best suited for your vehicle).

Tires are one of the most important parts of any vehicle, but they are also very susceptible to disuse. When a motorhome or campervan remains parked for a long period, the tires can deform due to the weight of the vehicle. This can cause uncomfortable driving, vibrations, or even irregular wear.
It is advisable to move the vehicle from time to time to prevent the tires from losing their original shape and wearing out excessively. You can also use wheel supports, which you can find in our store, to lift the wheels.

The refrigeration system of your motorhome, which includes the fridge and other devices, can suffer damage if not used for a long time. If not connected and operated periodically, faults can appear in the fridge burner or blockages in the pipes. It is also possible that the gas will evaporate or deteriorate, which could affect the performance of the refrigeration system.
Try to check the level and quality of the refrigerant before starting your motorhome or campervan after a long period of inactivity.

Mold and moisture are enemies of motorhomes and campers, especially when left in damp or closed environments. If your vehicle has been parked for a long time without proper ventilation, the accumulation of moisture can cause mold to appear on upholstery, walls, and furniture.
Additionally, constant humidity can damage electrical systems and upholstery, among others. Ventilate your camper or motorhome well and consider using dehumidifiers from time to time. And if you know it will be idle for a while, leave a bowl of salt in the corners to absorb any moisture that may build up.

Contact with moisture can also cause corrosion and rust, especially on the metal parts of your motorhome or caravan. If you leave the vehicle parked in areas where water or snow accumulates, metal parts can rust over time. This corrosion can weaken important components such as the chassis, door hinges, or connections.
Regularly inspect the camper and apply anti-corrosive products to the most "dangerous" areas.

The gas and plumbing systems of motorhomes can also be affected by disuse. If not used for prolonged periods, leaks can occur in the pipes, blockages or sediment buildup can form in the faucets and spouts. Additionally, the gas can lose its effectiveness or even evaporate, putting your safety at risk.
Check the gas and plumbing system before using your camper again and don't forget to perform annual maintenance.

The importance of regular check-ups. Although the mentioned problems are common in vehicles that are not used regularly, the good news is that most of them can be avoided with regular check-ups and proper maintenance. If you use your motorhome or campervan only occasionally, it is important to perform a complete check-up from time to time to ensure everything is working correctly.

At SOSCaravaning, we recommend that you have your camper or motorhome serviced at least once a year, even if you do not use it frequently.

Contact us today to schedule your check-up and enjoy your trips without worries!