Similar to new caravans, pre-loved vans also need to be cared for. Depending on the quality of the caravan, sometimes more attention is needed compared to those fresh off the factory floor.
- Regular Servicing
Depending on how meticulous the previous owners of the caravan were, even a quality second hand caravan needs regular servicing. We recommend servicing every year (if using the van regularly) or every 10,000km. Remember, even if you haven’t used your caravan often and it’s been sitting for an extended period, parts can rust and potentially break if they haven’t been maintained properly.
- Check The Caravan Seals
New Caravans and Used Caravans alike, seals should be replaced every 7 years according to caravan manufacturers. This means the seals on the roof, around the windows and doors, and around the access hatches and spare parts on the exterior of the van. Although this can be a somewhat ‘pricey’ expenditure, in the long run it extends the life of your caravan and potential buyers favour this additional maintenance. If a caravan isn’t watertight, it could be catastrophic.
- Clean Regularly
It sounds like something you’d regularly do, but cleaning a caravan takes time and can often be forgotten if the van isn’t being used. Wiping over surfaces eliminates dust and bacteria and also maintained the integrity of the exterior of the caravan. If you have a pop-top caravan, camper trailer or expander – regularly opening the caravan in the sun & allowing the fabric to breathe can help prevent mold and bad smells. You can also purchase special cleaners for camper trailers and pop-top socks.
- Check the Electrics
As well as servicing yearly, it’s important to inspect the caravans’ brakes, tyres and electrics every 6 months or so. The electrics include your battery charge status, 12V water pumps, tail lights and interior lights, as well as any additional accessories like airbags, chargers etc. If you encounter any issues with your 240V, be sure to contact a technical consultant immediately. All 240V wiring needs to be repaired by a licensed electrician.
- Store your Caravan Undercover
It’s not just the rain and windy weather we need to consider when caring for our new caravan, the Australian sun can be detrimental to a van. We’ve seen warped and half-melted hatch & Air conditioner lids, peeling decals, faded paintwork and brittle exterior accessories all thanks to the damaging UV rays and extreme heat here in QLD. The best option to extend the life of your caravan is storing it undercover in the shade. Obviously, this isn’t an option for everyone, but luckily there are several options around Brisbane where you can pay weekly / fortnightly / monthly for Caravan Storage – Aussie Escape Caravans being on of them.