What to Do when your RV Needs Repairs
TL;DR: Dealing with an RV breakdown on the road can be stressful, but being prepared and knowing what steps to take can help ease the situation. Despite the challenges, being prepared and knowing your options can make dealing with an RV breakdown more manageable.
Traveling in an RV is one of the most relaxing, exciting, and unique ways to travel. It can also be very cost-effective in place of flights, hotels, and eating all meals at restaurants. After all, having a personal home-on-wheels with a kitchen and bathroom is one of the many perks of RVing. Because a motorhome is a hybrid between a car and a home, parts in both the home portion and the "car" portion are keen to breakdowns. When the worst happens, it’s important to have a game plan. What happens if you’re on your way to your next Harvest Hosts location but something on your RV breaks? Stay tuned as we discuss what to do next time you're on the road and your RV needs repairs.
Safety First!
If you’re unlucky enough to be driving your RV when it breaks down or requires repair, please put safety first. Slow the vehicle down as best as you can and signal to pull off the road as soon as possible. Ideally, this would be at an exit, parking lot, or wide emergency pull-off, but we aren’t always that lucky. Use your best judgement, and park in the safest place possible. Then break out your emergency kit to set up your hazard triangles or flares.
Roadside Assistance
Having roadside assistance for any vehicle is a lifesaver. Unexpected breakdowns or accidents can occur, leaving you stranded at best. Many auto insurance companies, such as Geico, Allstate, or Progressive, offer a roadside assistance add-on for a few extra dollars per month for your vehicles, including an RV. Check out your policy to see if you’re able to obtain roadside assistance. If not, then check out some third party options such as Good Sam Roadside Assistance, AAA, or Eagle Vision’s Roadside Assistance plans.
If your RV needs roadside assistance, contact your provider to get help as soon as possible, whether that be a battery jump, emergency fuel, or a tow. In the event of needing a tow, be sure to provide as much information as possible to receive the best help. This can include the RV class (A, B, or C), the height, the weight, the length, the drivetrain, and the location of your stranded vehicle. Large motorhome owners can sometimes need to wait longer than smaller RV owners, as it can be difficult (and expensive) to obtain a wrecker large enough to tow a large Class A motorhome.