DIY vs Dealer: The RV Repair Decision Guide

DIY vs. Dealer: The RV Repair Decision Guide

(When to roll up your sleeves, when to call a mobile tech, and when only the dealer will do.)
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Repairs You Can Handle Yourself (DIY Friendly)

• Basic plumbing leaks (tightening fittings, replacing hoses)
• Black tank maintenance (cleaning sensors, flushing system)
• Battery swaps & minor electrical fixes (fuses, light fixtures)
• Roof seal checks & re-caulking (prevent leaks before they start)
• Appliance troubleshooting basics (resetting water heater, fridge mode settings)
💡 Rule of Thumb: If it requires more than common tools or ladders, think twice before DIYing.
Pro Tip: Keep a dedicated RV tool kit with butyl tape, Dicor sealant, and spare fuses, 80% of DIY jobs can be solved with these three items.
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When a Mobile RV Tech is the Smart Choice

• Water pressure & pump issues (diagnosing lines, pump replacement)
• Slide-out alignment & repairs
• A/C and furnace servicing
• Generator maintenance
• Electrical diagnostics (beyond fuses & switches)
💡 Mobile techs save time if you’re parked long-term or full-timing – they bring the shop to you.
Pro Tip: Book your mobile tech before hurricane season or peak summer travel — demand skyrockets, and you’ll avoid long wait times when you really need them.

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Repairs Best Left to the Dealer (Special Tools Required)

• Warranty-covered repairs (to avoid voiding coverage)
• Frame, chassis, and suspension work
• Major electrical system overhauls
• Roof replacements or structural damage
• Complex manufacturer recalls
💡 If the repair involves heavy lifting, specialized equipment, or your warranty — the dealer is the safest route.
Pro Tip: Always document issues with photos and notes before dropping your RV at the dealer — it speeds up approval with the manufacturer and keeps service departments accountable.
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✅ Quick Reference Checklist

• DIY? Safe, small, low-cost, no warranty risk.
• Mobile Tech? Medium jobs, saves travel, keeps you camping.
• Dealer? Big, structural, warranty-covered, or specialized.
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📞 Need Expert Help?
Don’t get stuck guessing. Call Fort Lauderdale RV at 954) 797-9553 – whether it’s a quick fix, mobile repair, or a dealer-level job, we’ll point you in the right direction.