Vehicle maintenance | Campervan handbook

Brakes

Test the brake pedal feel and listen for any squeaking or grinding. Check brake pads and discs for wear, and replace pads below the recommended thickness.

Handbrake

Inspect the handbrake operation and adjust if needed.

Wipers

Make sure wiper blades are in good condition and the washer fluid is topped up.

Drive belts

Inspect drive belts for wear, and replace if frayed or cracked.

Air filter

Keep the air filter clean and replace it if necessary, to maintain engine efficiency.

Lights

Check all external lights: headlights, indicators, brake lights and reverse lights.

Fluids

Check and top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid regularly. Check now and then for oil leaks under the engine and transmission.

AdBlue

Top up with AdBlue from time to time. You may get a warning light for this. The refill cap is usually next to the diesel cap, so be careful not to mix the two up.

A quick check each time you leave a pitch.

Pop-top fully down, straps tight and flush, loose strap ends tucked away.
Rear seat locked: the floor handle pushed fully down.
Nothing heavy in the overhead lockers.
Under-sink tank: solid yellow travel caps fitted.
Hook-up cable unplugged and stowed.
Waste water tank emptied and back on board.

Your van is heavier than it was, so allow for longer stopping distances.
All-terrain or oversized tyres can make the speedometer read low, so your real speed may be higher than shown.
Make sure the roof is secured correctly before every journey.

Check tyre pressures regularly and adjust for the load you are carrying.
Check tread depth. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but we recommend 3mm for grip.
Look for cracks, bulges or uneven wear, which can point to suspension or alignment problems.
Check the wheel nuts are tight, particularly after long trips or heavy use.
If you carry extra weight, check the suspension is in good condition and not sagging.

Why it matters

A converted camper carries more weight than an empty van, all the time. That makes correct tyre pressures and good tread matter more, especially for braking in the wet.