Proper storage of your RV or camper will help retain its overall health through the cold temperatures and harsh winter weather while it’s not being used. A few basic and easy-to-complete winterizing procedures can help protect your RV or camper until it’s time to hit the road. Following these basic RV winterizing guidelines can help you be prepared this winter and keep your RV in top condition for the next road trip season. For manufacturer-recommended and specific instructions on how to winterize your RV or camper, take a look at your owners manual, but these basic recommendations apply to most RVs, camper trailers, and other recreational vehicles.
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In addition to adding antifreeze to your RV or camper, it’s important to make sure you have either drained the fuel from your RV or that you have a full gas tank and have used fuel stabilizer for winter storage. If you don’t fill up your tank, air can enter the fuel tank and expand or contract, which could allow moisture buildup. Filling your vehicle’s tank helps prevent condensation and moisture from forming inside the fuel tank, which could contaminate the fuel and cause corrosion in the fuel system. Adding a fuel stabilizer will also prevent the fuel from degrading during the winter, which may cause it to lose potency and evaporate. It’s also a good idea to drain, flush, and refill your vehicle’s fluids, including oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid before the cold arrives. You can find the manufacturer's recommended steps for these procedures in your RV or camper’s owners manual.
Before storing your RV or camper for the winter, it’s important to clean the interior and exterior thoroughly, removing all perishable items and anything that would attract insects or rodents. Check any storage compartments or cabinets, and vacuum out any crumbs or other perishables that have been left behind. While cleaning, inspect all seams, doors, and window seals for any damage or cracks that might allow humidity or condensation to enter your RV. Cleaning your RV inside and out, repairing any damaged seals with caulk, or replacing the weatherstrip where necessary is a good way to make sure you’re ready to go when road trip or camping season returns.
After cleaning your RV, choose a covered area to store the vehicle if possible. Keeping your RV or camper out of winter weather is one of the best ways to avoid damage from winter precipitation or freezing temperatures. If you can’t store your RV indoors or in a covered area, consider using an RV or camper cover to protect your exterior from harmful weather or debris. After you’ve decided where to park and store your RV, it’s a good idea to air up your tires to the recommended pressure and use wheel chocks to make sure your RV or camper is stabilized.
If you’re gearing up to winterize your camper or RV, O’Reilly Auto Parts has the winterizing parts, fluids, and products you need to prepare your RV for winter storage. We carry replacement Super Start Fleet and Heavy-Duty Batteries, oil filters and motor oil, antifreeze, fuel stabilizers, maintenance chemicals, RV cleaning supplies, and more. If you need help finding the right parts or fluids for your RV, our Professional Parts People can help provide a recommendation to ensure you are prepared for winter. O'Reilly Auto Parts also offers free battery testing and recharging if you need to test or charge your battery before storing it for the winter. Find everything you need to safely keep your RV on and off the road at O’Reilly Auto Parts.
