10 Caravan Maintenance Tips to Keep You Rolling

G'day, caravan lovers! Steve here from Sunrise Caravans. A well maintained caravan is a happy caravan — and trust me, spending a little time on regular maintenance will save you a LOT of money and headaches down the track.

Here are our top 10 maintenance tips that every caravan owner should follow.

1. Check Your Tyres Regularly

Tyres are your caravan's only contact with the road. Check:

• Pressure before every trip (refer to the placard on your van)
• Tread depth — replace when worn
• Age — even if they look fine, replace tyres every 5 years. Rubber degrades over time, especially in the Queensland sun
• Spare tyre — make sure it's in good condition too!

2. Inspect Wheel Bearings

Have your wheel bearings checked and repacked at least every 12 months or 10,000km. Overheating wheel bearings are one of the most common causes of caravan fires. Give them a feel after driving — warm is normal, too hot to touch is not.

3. Check for Water Leaks

Water damage is the silent killer of caravans. Regularly:

• Inspect all seals around windows, hatches, and joins
• Check inside cupboards and under beds for any signs of moisture or mould
• Re seal any cracked or deteriorating sealant promptly
• After heavy rain, do a thorough interior check

4. Service Your Brakes

Electric brakes need servicing just like your car brakes:

• Have brake magnets and drums inspected annually
• Check wiring connections for corrosion
• Test the breakaway system regularly
• Replace worn brake components promptly

5. Battery Maintenance

Whether lithium or AGM:

• Keep terminals clean and free from corrosion
• Check electrolyte levels in flooded batteries
• Ensure your charging system is working correctly
• If storing long term, keep batteries on a maintenance charger

6. Gas System Checks

Your gas system should be:

• Inspected every 2 years by a licensed gas fitter
• Checked for leaks using soapy water on connections
• Regulators replaced every 10 years
• Hoses checked for cracks and deterioration

7. Roof and Exterior Care

• Wash your van regularly to remove road grime and salt
• Wax or polish the exterior to protect the finish
• Check roof mounted items (antennas, solar panels, air con) are secure
• Clean out gutters and check drainage paths

8. Awning Care

• Clean your awning fabric with mild soap and water
• Never roll up a wet awning for extended periods — mould will set in
• Check the roller mechanism and arms for smooth operation
• Retract in strong winds to avoid damage

9. Fridge Maintenance

• Clean the burner assembly annually
• Check the flue for blockages (wasps love to nest in there!)
• Ensure proper ventilation around the fridge
• Check door seals are intact

10. Suspension and Chassis

• Inspect shock absorbers for leaks or wear
• Check leaf springs for cracks or sagging
• Grease all grease points regularly
• Inspect the chassis for any signs of cracking or rust

Bonus: Keep a Maintenance Log

Note down every service, repair, and check. This helps you stay on top of schedules and adds value when you eventually sell.

Need a hand with maintenance or a pre trip check? Bring your van into Sunrise Caravans in Burpengary. We're always happy to give it a once over before your next adventure!

Steve and the Team at Sunrise Caravans