What is the Lifespan of a Campervan?

Owning a campervan is a fantastically flexible way to explore by road, whilst also enjoying the comforts of home. However, like all vehicles, campervans require proper maintenance and care to remain in the best condition for as long as possible. The lifespan of a campervan can actually vary greatly depending on several factors, which we’ll look at in this edition of our blog. Briefly, these factors include how well the campervan is maintained and cleaned, how often it’s used and the quality of its initial construction. We’ll help you understand how to ensure the lifespan of your campervan is long, through regular cleaning and diligent maintenance.

The average lifespan of a well-maintained campervan usually ranges somewhere between 10 and 20 years. Some models last even longer, depending on various factors such as make and model, how often it’s driven and the environmental conditions it is exposed to. Proper maintenance of a campervan is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience – and extending its lifespan.

There are various cleaning steps to take on the exterior of your campervan which will contribute to its longevity. Regular cleaning of your campervan’s exterior is important as an effort to prevent rust and deterioration. Dirt, grime and road salt can accumulate on the vehicle, which will damage or corrode the paint job and any metal surfaces. Here’s how to keep the exterior in top shape:

• Wash: Use a mild soap and water to wash the exterior of your campervan at least once a month. Do a soap wash and then a rinse, repeat if you feel it is required (i.e. if the exterior is particularly dirty). You should pay special attention to the undercarriage of the campervan, where road salt and grime can build up.
• Wax: Apply a good quality wax and polish approximately twice a year as this will protect the paint, providing a barrier against the elements. It’ll also look great!
• Seals and seams: Check the rubber seals around windows, doors and joints for any signs of wear or leaks. Water ingress is a serious problem in a vehicle (of any kind) so reseal weak points as soon as possible, as if they are left untreated it may lead to rust and interior damage.

Keeping the interior of your campervan clean is not just about the aesthetic of tidiness (which is very important in a compact space) but also about preserving the materials used on furnishings, fixtures and fittings, to prevent mould and mildew.

• Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner to freshen up the carpets, seats and any other upholstered areas in your campervan. Removing dirt and debris before it ‘sets in’ will help to prevent damaging wear and tear on the fabrics.
• Wipe: Use a mild cleaning product to wipe down all of the interior’s hard surfaces -including any worktop, cabinets, windows, walls and floors. This will assist in maintaining the appearance – and hygiene – of your campervan’s interior.
• Moisture: This can be a real problem in an enclosed space, where condensation can lead to mould and damp damage. Ensure proper ventilation to avoid dampness, and use dehumidifiers, if necessary, especially in humid climates. There are a range of desiccant products on the market which will help you control the moisture in your campervan interior and work against damp damage.

Keeping on top of maintenance jobs your campervan may require is essential. Conduct regular inspections of your vehicle (interior and exterior) to ensure that you identify (and then address) potential issues before they become really serious problems which are difficult and costly to sort out.

• Monthly: Once a month it is worth going round your campervan and checking tyres, brakes, brake lights, headlights, rear lights, fluid levels and any onboard systems. You should look out for any signs of wear or damage and address them promptly.
• Seasonal: When the start of each camping season comes around, you should already have performed a thorough inspection of the whole campervan – including the roof, undercarriage and all mechanical components.

Making these monthly and then seasonal checks will really help you keep on top of every aspect of your vehicle and catch potential problems in their earliest stages.

Proper mechanical maintenance is also crucial to ensure the longevity of your campervan. These are the key areas to focus on.

• Engine and transmission: Regularly change the engine oil, replace filters when required and check the transmission fluid regularly. Always follow campervan manufacturer’s recommended service intervals so that a qualified mechanic can inspect your vehicle and do the necessary work to keep your engine and transmission running smoothly.
• Brakes and tyres: Check brake pads and brake fluid regularly. Inspect tyres for wear and always maintain pressure (i.e. proper inflation levels). You can even rotate the tyres every 5,000 to 7,0500 miles which will ensure an even wear across them.
• Battery: Keep the battery clean and ensure it’s charged. Check connections for corrosion and secure them properly. If you store your campervan for an extended period (say, over the winter), disconnect the battery to prevent drainage.

The water and power systems (i.e. plumbing and electrical) in your campervan require regular attention to prevent any issues which could lead to costly repairs.

• Plumbing: You should regularly clean and sanitise water tanks and pipeworks in the plumbing system. Check for leaks and ensure that all connections are secure. Winterise the system if necessary to prevent freezing and damage caused by it.
• Electrical: Inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of wear or corrosion. Test all electrical components, including lights, outlets and onboard appliances to ensure they work correctly. Note: Take particular care with electric systems and items.

While routine maintenance of your campervan is essential, making occasional upgrades and repairs can also extend its lifespan.

• Upgrading Components: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances if you can, as this will reduce strain on your campervan’s electrical system and provide better performance.
• Solar Panels: More and more leisure vehicle owners are installing solar panels on their vehicles as these can help keep battery charged and reduce the need for generator use. In turn, this can extend the usable life of the electrical system.
• Suspension and chassis: Upgrading the suspension system is a largish job but it will improve ride quality in the campervan and reduce wear on the chassis – especially if you frequently use it for off-the-beaten-track adventuring or drive on rough roads.
• Professional Repairs: Address any issue promptly. If there are things wrong that you are unable to fix yourself, seek professional help from a qualified engineer, mechanic or technician. Delaying important repairs can lead to more significant problems which, in turn, will lead to higher costs.

How you drive (and then store) your campervan can also impact how long it will last.

• Style: Avoid aggressive as this will cause excessive wear on the campervan’s engine, transmission and suspension. Accelerate and brake steadily to prolong the life of these essential components.
• Speed: Sticking to the speed limits wherever you are driving not only ensures your safety and the safety of other road users and pedestrians, but also reduces strain on the campervan’s engine and tyres.
• Storage: When it’s not in use out on the road, store your campervan in an indoor or covered facility if you can. This will help to protect it from the elements. If this is not possible, use a high-quality cover to shield it from sun, rain and snow. Before storing it, go through a proper process – clean it inside and out, inflate the tyres, disconnect the battery, cover any vents (to prevent pests from entering), install some sort of moisture control measure.

The ultimate advice is: Invest the right time and TLC into your campervan. Maintaining a campervan correctly will go a long way to ensuring the lifespan of your campervan is long – but also that it is healthy. The regular attention to detail this will require is a bit more than you might expect, but that extended life is truly worth the effort. Visit rove! for a fantastic selection of campervans and other leisure vehicles.