Motorhomes: Euromaster advises checking tire pressure and condition, oil level, coolant, lights, brakes, wipers, filters and alternator system.
Lisbon, July 18, 2023 - In just three years, the motorhome business has almost tripled in Portugal and, by 2023, an increase of 30% is expected in the rental of this type of vehicle - data from the Yescapa rental platform. This is a way of traveling and discovering the world that is gaining more and more fans and the vast majority of the public (69%) reveals to be available to enjoy their vacations in a caravan or motorhome.
For peace of mind this vacation season, the Euromaster, a network of workshops specializing in comprehensive vehicle maintenance, reminds novice campers that these vehicles should be checked for eight key elements to ensure their good condition.
A tire pressure and condition are one of the main elements to check. It is essential to check their condition and wear - if the tread of the tire is badly worn or cracked, it should be replaced immediately.
It is also advisable to start the vehicle and move it back and forth for a few meters at regular intervals. This will help the tire to regain its shape and the pressure will be applied at a different point as it suffers more from the weight of the vehicle.
Euromaster also recommends using nitrogen when inflating tires to keep the pressure more stable, as it is more resistant to temperature changes. This promotes better tire performance, greater stability and lower fuel consumption.
Control of essential vehicle systems
Next, it is essential to check the oil levelto avoid wear and tear due to friction of the various engine components. At the same time, it is essential to check the coolantespecially in summer when very high temperatures are reached, as it absorbs heat from the engine.
It is also important to check the operation of the lightsThis provides the driver with the ability to see and be seen, especially in low visibility conditions.
A checking the braking system is also very important. So if no strange sounds are heard when the brake pedal is pressed and no abnormal behavior occurs, this is a good indicator. A visual check (with a flashlight if necessary) of the brake pads and discs is also recommended.
In addition, these vehicles put greater strain on the electrical system and on batteries, both main and auxiliary, so it is advisable to control the charging system. Incorrect maintenance or overloading can lead to partial or total discharge, thus depleting its service life much earlier than expected. This can lead to poor use of electronic appliances or the heating system. In addition, if solar panels are used, it is advisable to keep them clean so as not to affect their operation.
At the same time, the checking the condition, and the water itself, of the windscreen wipers is no small matter. When moving, the front windshield accumulates insects, dust and dirt, which reduce the driver's visibility.
Finally, it is important to pay special attention to filters. The cabin filter, also known as the pollen filter, can introduce dirt into the interior, making the system less efficient and creating a difficult environment for the driver and passengers. The same applies to the engine air filter. If it becomes saturated, engine performance will be compromised, leading to higher fuel consumption and even costly breakdowns.
About Euromaster
Euromaster is the network of workshops specialized in the comprehensive maintenance of vehicles throughout their useful life. Its more than 80 workshops in Portugal contribute to the road health of the automotive fleet, both passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as new forms of mobility and fleets, providing a quality service and capillarity to adapt to your needs. Its services cover not only preventive maintenance, but also predictive maintenance through data and critical point analysis. Part of the Michelin Group, Euromaster is present in 19 European countries, with more than 2,500 workshops, 10,000 professionals and 1,600 mobile units. More information at www.euromaster.pt