Caravan maintenance basics

For safety reasons, it's important to keep your caravan well maintained.

Additionally, insurance companies typically require you to maintain your caravan to a certain standard. This is generally outlined in the 'Your Responsibilities' section of your insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). Of course, if you need to make a claim, this is assessed on an individual basis and can be hard to define... however, here are some tips for basic caravan maintenance.

Checks to perform yourself

1. Check road electrics Every time you hook up your caravan you should check indicators, brake lights and tail lights are all working correctly.

2. Maintain your tyres Regularly check tyre pressure, tread and condition. The tyre pressure for your caravan depends on its weight, size and load but should be specified on the plate (usually on the drawbar or just inside the door). Tyres greater than 5 years old should also be replaced, even if their tread is still good, as tyres of this age are considered in danger of failure. TIP: How to tell the age of a tyre? Look for the 10-12 digit serial tyre identification number of the tyre's sidewall. This identification number is usually preceded by the acronym "DOT". The last two digits of the identification number give the year of manufacture.

3. Wheel rims & wheel nuts Look for any damage, and tighten wheel nuts before, during and after trips. After a visit to any tyre dealer, make sure you can undo the wheel nuts yourself in the event of a flat or failure. Don't forget the spare also!

4. Seals Sels can be found on your caravan's doors, windows, and roof and help prevent moisture and dirt from entering. Over time these can start to crack and may need replacing.

5. Awning Inspect the awning regularly, including whether it is extending and contracting smoothly, and that the fabric is clean and free of damage.

6. Gas hoses and connections Visually inspect your gas hoses and connections to ensure there are no cracks or leaks.

7. Rust Look over your bodywork, coupling, chains and under you caravan for signs of rust.

8. Hot Water System Anode If you caravan has a hot water system, you should check the anode regularly and replace as necessary.

9. Windows Check windows for any cracks or chips.

10. Tanks Flush water tanks and gray water tanks regularly.

11. Roof Inspect regularly for any damage or wear & tear.

12. Detectors Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working and batteries are in good condition.

13. Toilet If you have a toilet, clean and lubricate the cassette seal.

Performed by a professional

If you have purchased a new caravan, there will be a manufacturer's service plan that you are required to meet for warranty purposes.

If you caravan is out of warranty or you purchased your caravan second-hand, you can either take your caravan to its manufacturer for regularly recommended servicing or utilise the services of an independent caravan mechanic (some of whom are mobile and will come to you). These professionals may do tasks such as

• inspect coupling and handbrake

• inspect chassis for signs of fatigue

• clean & repack wheel bearings

• check/refit brake drums

• inspect bodywork

• perform a damp test

• check tyres and brakes

• check suspension for wear and damage

• check jockey wheel

• test and lubricate drop down legs

• check condition of any batteries

We recommend servicing every 10,000kms or 12 months (whichever comes first). This will allow you to prove to your insurance company, if required, that your caravan has been 'well maintained'.

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