Care and Maintenance for Used Travel Trailers

The care and maintenance that goes into cleaning your used travel trailer is a critical part of keeping your travel trailer looking like new. Even if your trailer is used, you can still make it look presentable. Keeping your trailer clean also is critical for the longevity of use.

• The best way to clean your RV is to start at the top and work your way down. Since trailer roofs are made of rubber, you want to use a special cleaner that is made specifically for rubber roofs.  Your trailer will get dirty just as any other vehicle would. You want to wash it with a mild detergent. You should clean it after each use to get rid of road grime, dust and bug splatters. You want to check the screens on your trailer to be sure they are not torn. If your screens are torn, you want to replace them as soon as possible to be sure the bugs cannot get into the trailer.


• It is important to check all the fluid levels in your trailer. This includes the gas and water tanks and battery acid levels. You also want to check your fire extinguisher regularly. Your gas leak detector should be checked every three months as should smoke alarms and carbon monoxide batteries. Tires should be inspected before leaving for any trip. Check your mirrors to be sure that you can see around all aspects of the trailer.


• Check all your lights to be sure that the bulbs inside of them are working properly. You want to do a light inspection before each trip. Climb up onto the roof and look at the roof for any damages that may have been caused by limbs falling or sun damage. Since your awning is on the outside of your trailer, it does need to be opened and inspected for any tears.


• You need to be sure that the door hinges are secure because if they are not closed tightly, the doors may open during traveling. You also want to check the gasket that surrounds the refrigerator to be sure it creates a tight seal. You want to check the brake pads at least once a year and replace them as necessary.