How to Service Your Caravan Before a Trip

A caravan that sits in the yard for months between trips needs some attention before you hitch up and head out. A quick pre-trip service can prevent breakdowns, avoid safety issues, and save you from ruining your weekend with a problem that could have been caught at home.

Here’s a practical service checklist you can run through yourself.

Exterior Checks

Tyres

Tyres are the most overlooked and most important part of your caravan.

• Pressure: Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (check the plate on the caravan or the tyre sidewall). Under-inflated tyres overheat and blow out.
• Tread: Minimum 1.6mm legal depth, but replace well before that.
• Sidewalls: Look for cracks, bulges, or perishing. Old tyres can look fine on the tread but be dangerous on the sidewalls.
• Age: Tyres older than 5-6 years should be replaced regardless of tread, especially on a caravan that sits for long periods.
• Spare: Check it too. A flat spare is no help on the N1.

Wheel Bearings

Spin each wheel and listen for grinding or roughness. Grab the top and bottom of the tyre and rock it. Any play means the bearings need attention.

Bearings should be repacked with grease every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. If your caravan has been sitting, the grease may have dried out.

Coupling and A-Frame

• Check the coupling mechanism opens and closes smoothly
• Inspect the safety chain for wear or damage
• Test the jockey wheel raises and lowers properly
• Look for cracks or rust on the A-frame

Lights

Connect to your tow vehicle and test everything:

• Brake lights
• Indicators (both sides)
• Tail lights
• Number plate light
• Reverse light (if fitted)

Replace any blown bulbs before you leave. Carry spares.

Body and Seals

Walk around the caravan and check:

• Window seals for cracks or gaps
• Roof sealant condition
• Door seals and hinges
• Body panels for cracks or damage
• Grab handles secure

Any gaps in seals mean potential water ingress. A tube of caravan sealant costs R100 and takes 10 minutes to apply. A damp repair costs thousands.

Interior Checks

Gas System

• Check all gas lines for perishing or damage
• Make sure connections are tight
• Test the regulator by turning on a burner
• Look for the blue flame (yellow or orange means a problem)
• Check your Gas CoC is still valid

If you smell gas at any point, turn everything off, ventilate the caravan, and get the system checked by a qualified gas installer.

Water System

• Turn on the water pump and check for leaks
• Run water through all taps
• Check the geyser heats (if fitted)
• Inspect under the sink for damp or mould
• Drain and refill the water tank if the caravan has been sitting (stale water breeds bacteria)
• Check the toilet flushes and the cassette or holding tank is empty and clean

Electrical

• Test all 12V lights
• Test 220V outlets
• Check the battery is charged (if you have a leisure battery)
• Inspect wiring for any visible damage
• Test the battery charger works when connected to mains power

Appliances

• Fridge cools on gas and electric
• Stove burners all light
• Oven works (if fitted)
• Microwave works (if fitted)

Brakes

If your caravan has brakes:

• Engage and release the handbrake, check it holds
• Check the brake cables for fraying
• If the caravan has been standing for months, the brakes may need adjustment or the drums may need cleaning

Awning and Tent

If you’re taking the tent or awning:

• Set it up at home and check for tears, mould, or broken zips
• Check all poles and pegs are present
• Clean off any mould with a mild detergent and let it dry completely before packing

Setting up a mouldy tent at a campsite in the dark is a guaranteed way to ruin your Friday night.

Gas Bottles

• Check your gas bottles are full (weigh them or check the date of last refill)
• Inspect the valve and regulator connection
• Carry a spare bottle if you have the space

Final Steps

Before you hitch up:

1. Close all windows and roof vents
2. Secure all cupboard doors and drawers (they fly open while towing)
3. Remove any loose items from surfaces
4. Lower the TV aerial or satellite dish
5. Retract any steps
6. Switch off the gas at the bottle
7. Disconnect from mains power

Need a Professional Service?

If you’d prefer a professional to check your caravan, bring it to Caravan Center in Vereeniging. We can inspect, service, and get your caravan road-ready.

Contact us at caravancenter.co.za/contact.