A few of our favorite qualities about RVing? Freedom to travel, to have your home with you at all times, and to choose your own path. But what happens when that home (on wheels) breaks down? Packing up the campsite or finding a repair facility can be a big challenge. This is especially true for areas where repair shops have more work than skilled mechanics, and wait times for service are through the roof.
The hero of our story? Mobile RV mechanics! This growing section of the RV repair industry aligns perfectly with RVing itself. Mobile mechanics will come to you, meaning no cleaning up your campsite and hauling your family into a repair shop in the middle of a vacation. They’re skilled, qualified, and can even be used when filing claims with reputable RV warranty providers. This flexibility is ideal for travelers, but can a mobile mechanic fix everything?
In this article, we’ll discuss what mobile RV mechanics can fix, what they can’t, how to use them, and even detail utilizing this type of service with your RV warranty. Read on for all things mobile repair.
What Mobile RV Mechanics Can Do
Mobile RV mechanics offer a wide range of services designed to keep your RV running smoothly and efficiently, without the need for you to drive to a sticks-and-bricks repair shop. But what kind of repairs can they actually work on outside of a shop? Let’s dive in…
- General Maintenance
One of the primary services mobile RV mechanics provide is routine maintenance. This can encompass services like oil changes, filter replacements, or inspections to key components like your brakes. These maintenance tasks are crucial for a happy RV, and should not be overlooked amidst the hustle and bustle of RV travel. Mobile techs can also handle items like tire changes and repairs, which are crucial for safe driving.
- Plumbing and Electrical Services
Mobile RV repair is a great option for plumbing issues, which are some of the most common to face while in your RV according to our claims data at Wholesale Warranties. From identifying and fixing leaks, to unclogging drains, or repairing water pumps, many plumbing issues can be handled at your campsite. Similarly, they can troubleshoot and fix electrical problems, such as faulty wiring, malfunctioning outlets, and issues with your RV’s lighting system.
- Appliance Repairs
Another common category for mobile RV services is appliance repair. Your rig’s appliances, like the refrigerator, stove, microwave, air conditioning, and heating systems, are huge parts of what makes RV life so comfortable. Mobile mechanics can often diagnose and repair these appliances, ensuring they function correctly and efficiently. This service is particularly beneficial for RVers who rely heavily on their onboard amenities, such as full-timers.
- Specialized Services
Mobile RV mechanics also offer specialized services that cater to the unique needs of RVs. For instance, they can repair and maintain slide-outs, which are prone to mechanical issues and leaks. Additionally, they may specialize in roof repairs and resealing, which are key to preventing water damage and ensuring the continued structural integrity of your rig.
- Emergency Services
One benefit of mobile RV mechanics that we love is their ability to provide emergency and immediate service. If you experience an unexpected breakdown or other urgent issue while on the road or camping, a mobile mechanic can come to your location and offer much more immediate assistance than a standard repair shop. This service can save you from the inconvenience and potential danger of being stranded, allowing you to continue your journey with minimal disruption.
By offering a broad spectrum of services, mobile RV techs are a great option for aid while traveling. Their ability to perform repairs and maintenance on-site is convenient, and many times more time-sensitive, making them an invaluable resource for RV owners.
Limitations of Mobile RV Mechanics
Mobile mechanics can do a lot, but as with anything in life, there are limitations. For complex repairs that require lifting your rig and access to specialized equipment, as well location drawbacks based on just how remote you might when you break down, there are times when hauling your rig to a brick-and-mortar facility just makes sense.
- Engine, Transmission and Major Powertrain Failures
If you travel in a motorized RV and experience any major issues with your engine, it’s almost always going to be your best bet to get your rig towed into a shop. When we start looking at mechanical failure, internal damage, check engine lights and smoke, it’s time to admit the scope of repairs is likely best managed at a facility. And the unfortunate reality is that engine issues mean your trip is going to be delayed either way.
Now, if you’re just looking at something like changing a spark plug or diagnosing a minor issue, a mobile tech is still a great option. Additionally, if that tech comes out to you and diagnoses a larger failure than originally hoped, they’ll likely have a great referral for you and help you get into a shop you can trust.
- Overhauls, Structural Damage, and More
Again, this is going to come down to the severity of the issue, but generally speaking the overhaul of any given system in your rig—from an engine or transmission to HVAC or plumbing—must be done in a classic repair shop. This simply stems from needing access to advanced diagnostics, tools, parts, and equipment. Additionally, these overhauls take a significant amount of labor time, and you wouldn’t want to be paying a mobile mechanic’s travel fee for days on end.
Another situation where you’re best off at a fully stocked shop is structural damage. For both ability to complete the job and the safety of all involved, it’s best to have structural issues like frame straightening or welding completed at a repair shop.
- Off the Beaten Path
The convenience of having a mobile mechanic travel to your location does come with some limitations if you are an “off the beaten path” kind of RVer. Access to a safe, level location for repair is going to be a requirement. Additionally, diagnosis and repair may require access to shore power and water, which you won’t find boondocking or in particularly remote locations. Now if you’re turning to mobile mechanics for emergency help with services like fuel delivery or tire repair and replacement, your remote location may not pose as much of an issue.
If you’re really hoping to use a mobile tech but unsure if you’re set up is suited to it, the worst they can say is no! Call a local tech to talk through the failure or issue you’re experiencing, and they’ll be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
What to Expect When Using a Mobile RV Tech
Getting service through a mobile RV mechanic is generally a pretty quick and easy process. First up, you’ll want to find a local tech. If you’re staying in a campground, they will likely have a recommendation for you, so be sure to check with the campground staff first! It’s always great to work off of a personal recommendation. Alternatively, sites like Google, Yelp and RV Repair Direct will help you find someone in your area.
Next up, use their phone number or website (when applicable) to book a time for the tech to come out to your location. Make sure you have some knowledge on your RV year, make, and model, the type of failure you’re experiencing or service you’d like to book, your availability, and if you’re going to be using an RV warranty or not. Additionally, keep in mind that a mobile RV tech is going to have a service or travel fee for each time they come out to your unit. This additional cost covers the convenience of having them travel to you, and you should be prepared for it to be included in your final cost.
On the day of the mechanic’s visit, be sure your RV and particularly the problematic component is easy to access. You will want to ensure you’re present for the visit, to chat with your mobile mechanic about the issue and to approve any suggested repairs. Make the most of having this expert come out to you! Ask questions, demonstrate your issues, and ensure you fully understand the costs requested. From here, approve the service, and let your tech get to work!
Using a Mobile Mechanic with Your RV Warranty
If you have an RV warranty and want to use a mobile mechanic to file a claim, there are a few key things to consider:
- Verify Coverage: Check your warranty documentation to ensure that mobile mechanic services are covered. Understand the terms and conditions, including any limitations or exclusions. With an online broker like Wholesale Warranties, your RV protection can be used at any licensed repair facility in the US or Canada, including mobile mechanics! Some of their plans even cover up to $300 additional for the mobile mechanic service or travel fee.
- Contact Your RV Warranty Provider: Before the mechanic starts the work, they will need to contact your warranty provider to report the issue and confirm that the repair will be covered. They cannot begin work until they are given a pre-authorization number.
- Provide Documentation: Ensure the mobile mechanic provides detailed documentation of the diagnosis and repair. This should include parts used, labor performed, and total costs.
- Receive Payment: After the repair is completed, your mobile tech will submit final documentation to your warranty provider, if requested. The claim will then be paid via corporate credit card directly to your mechanic.
As long as your extended RV warranty plan recognizes mobile mechanics are an approved service provider, the process of filing a claim should be straightforward!
Mobile RV Mechanics: A Great Choice
Mobile RV mechanics are a convenient and efficient option for most RVers, particularly those experiencing issues during a trip or who rely on their RV as a full-time home. While they can handle a wide range of issues, it’s important to be aware of their limitations and understand when a visit to a specialized repair shop might be wise. By setting realistic expectations and knowing how to leverage your RV warranty for mobile services, you can make the most of this resource and keep your RV in great condition.
Do you currently rely on mobile RV mechanics for your repair and maintenance needs? Share your thoughts below!
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2 Responses
Why didn’t you mention the RVTAA.ORG/LOCATE page? A lot of us are full time traveling and service different areas. The customer needs to know this resource is there for them! I have found in some places where the campgrounds will mention a local tech but they don’t really like them as they are he only option for them. You never know where you may find one of us great certified techs until you check the locater page.
Another great resource for them is myrvresource.com
Great article and thank you for the great information… We are here to serve fellow RVers!
Thank you for the additional resources! We love it when fellow RVers and people in the RV industry chime in to help!