5 Indicators That You Are Doing Business With Reputable RV Dealers

RV dealers are not all the same. Some have been around for years and have built a long list of satisfied customers while others are only in it for the short term and their primary goal is to make money from your needs. Here are 5 ways that you can tell a reputable dealer from the others so that you have a good idea of what to look for when making the RV dealership choice.

1. Established Location

Reputable RV dealers have usually been in business for many years, often at the same location. In contrast, less reputable dealers may be leasing their RV lot, leading to occasional moves to new locations, reduced space for models that can be toured, and more. If your RV dealer has only been in business for a short time or is new to the area, you may want to examine them a little closer before deciding they are the right dealer for you.

2. Certified Technicians

You don't want a random fellow with a toolbox working on your RV. RVs are expensive pieces of equipment and often have components that were specifically designed for use in an RV. Backyard mechanics aren't going to have everything they need, including things like large vehicle lifts, and may not have supplier contacts to procure specialized parts.

3. Performs Warranty Work

Authorized RV dealers can perform warranty work such as maintenance and vehicle inspections, while fly-by-night companies may be able to do the work, but void your warranty in the process. In this case, you will need to shop around and make sure that your RV dealer is authorized to work on your specific brand of RV because not all dealers are authorized by all manufacturers.

4. Experienced Staff

When you are dealing with a staff that is experienced and invested in the RV lifestyle, you will have more success in finding what you need, having work done expeditiously, and more. A family-owned RV dealer is often the best kind of dealer because everyone at the company has been involved in RVs since they were young. 

5. Customer Satisfaction

Online reviews and testimonials can help you weed out dealerships that don't care about their customers. Look for people who have been going to the same dealer for years, and pay attention to what services are getting the most attention from customers. Look for dealerships that strive to make their customers feel comfortable and have a history of getting work done right the first time.

Before you choose a dealer, take a little time to read online reviews and testimonials, talk with the dealer about manufacturer certification, and make sure that you feel comfortable working with the staff.  Once you have made the choice, you are going to be interacting with that company for years to come, so choosing the best dealership for your needs at the beginning can make RV ownership a lot more enjoyable and exciting.

5 RV Repair Services That Should Be Done By Authorized Repair Center

Recreational vehicles are carefully engineered machines and any major RV repair services should be performed by an authorized service center. The technicians are trained in working on RVs and have all of the necessary resources and tools. Even if your RV needs older parts, an authorized RV dealer will have contacts and sources that may be able to help.

1. Plumbing

Unless you have extensive experience with RV repair services, plumbing problems are better left to qualified technicians. Leaks, drips, and odors are all problems that need to be addressed as quickly as possible to prevent additional problems. RV service centers have extensive working knowledge of the plumbing systems and all of the necessary tools for any repairs you need.

2. Siding

Repairing damage to the exterior of the RV should always be done by experienced RV service centers. Your RV endures a lot of wind resistance as you drive down the road, and a few missing screws can easily lead to much more serious damage. Authorized technicians know how to make exterior repairs that restore the integrity and strength of your RV’s protective shell.

3. Roofing

Just as loose exterior siding can lead to major problems, a roof leak will quickly escalate to a damaged ceiling, damaged walls, and other problems. However, repairing any roof requires a certain amount of skill, and the roof of an RV is even more complicated. Unless you know how the roof is built, even walking on it for an inspection is risking additional damage.

4. Upgrades

Installing aftermarket options to your RV will add value, but only if the work is professionally done. Botched enhancement jobs can cause serious damage, and include dangers such as electrocution, cutting a plumbing line, or damaging the structural integrity of the RV. Make your investment count and have an authorized repair center do the job the right way.

5. Mechanical Operation

It is important to keep your engine in top operating condition. It is also a good idea to consistently use the same dealership for engine repairs so that the mechanic will be more familiar with your RV’s specific operation. From brake systems to water pumps, authorized repair centers have specially trained staff to handle every problem.

There are repairs that you can do yourself, but the best approach is to have all major RV repair services done by authorized repair centers. You will know you are getting the job done the way it is supposed to be, without having to stress yourself or even risk uncertain results from a less qualified mechanic.

Is It Time for Some Important RV Repair Services?

If you are hearing funny noises, feel strange vibrations, or notice unusual odors, it might be time for some important RV repair services. If you can’t identify the problem, or you don’t know how to fix it, take your motorhome to an authorized repair center. If your RV is still under warranty, authorized repair centers may be required under your warranty.

Leaks and Drips

Leaks and drips are never a good sign. Depending on where they occur, leaks could be a problem with your transmission, engine, or RV water lines. If you aren’t mechanically inclined yourself, it may be a good idea to seek the assistance of authorized repair services at an RV dealer. A small leak today could easily become a major mechanical problem tomorrow, so having it repaired as soon as you notice often saves money and time.

Shaking and Pulling

If your RV seems to be pulling to one side or shaking while going down the road, there may be a problem with your tires, vehicle alignment, and other issues. Professional RV repair services will identify the source of your RV problems and provide you with an estimate of the repair costs. Where your tires and alignment are concerned, failure to get prompt repairs could result in serious problems and may even cause an accident.

Rattles and Squeaks

Motorhomes are designed for a smooth, quiet ride. If your RV has rattles or squeaks, it probably needs RV repair. Components wear out, fasteners vibrate loose, and bumpy roads contribute to items needing to be tightened or replaced inside and out. Repair services include diagnosing strange noises and making appropriate repairs, typically using factory-approved replacement parts. Because noises can mean any of dozens of things, it is best to visit an RV specialist anytime the problem isn’t easily recognized. Even interior rattles can be a lot more serious than you suspect.

Damages

Accidents happen, even when your RV is sitting idle at home. A fallen limb, for example, can penetrate the roof of your RV, leading to a ceiling leak that requires superior repair services. Whether the damages happen at home or on the road, getting them fixed as soon as possible can save you a lot of money. Many damages will get worse over time, and may affect how well the RV handles, drives, or operates in other ways. As soon as you notice RV damage, get the problem repaired.

Your RV is a big investment, and quality RV repair services are a great way to protect it. Spending a little on minor repairs today will prevent major problems later, and may leave you stranded until a tow truck arrives. You might even consider regular inspections to nip future problems in the bud.

Buying Local: Test Driving RV Options at your Local RV Dealer

Nohr’s RV Center has sold a full line of RVs and travel homes since 1970, and we fully understand that every vehicle handles a little differently, as well as major differences in Class A and C motorhomes. We recommend taking a test drive to both evaluate the vehicle and to get a feel for how it handles.

Setting up your RV Campsite

The beauty of an RV is that you can have all of the comforts of home combined with the freedom to go almost anywhere. Over the years, Nohr’s RV Center has noticed that setting up camp can be daunting for people new to RVing. We also know that the quality of your camp will affect the quality of your trip. These useful tips provide a guide for first-time RVers trying to set up camp.

New to RVing? Driving Skills to Learn before your First Road Trip

Nohr’s RV Center is dedicated to life on the road and doing it successfully. We want you to enjoy the RV lifestyle, and that means understanding the complexities of driving your motorhome. Not only is your RV an expensive piece of equipment, but it also behaves differently than passenger vehicles. Before you set out on an RV adventure, take the time to brush up on the driving skills necessary for safe motorhome travels.

Navigating your New RV

Nohr’s RV Center wants you to get the most out of every RV adventure. To that end, we have noticed that today’s digital electronics do not get enough consideration. We aim to correct that oversight with some tips concerning popular apps and devices that will enhance your RV experience. Using electronics is a great way to simplify your trip, but always keep a paper map on hand for emergency situations with no internet access.

Moving Up: Going from a Tow RV to a Driving RV

Many campers ponder the question on which is better - the tow RV or a driving RV? Campers sit around the bonfire, exchanging ideas over the internet, or talking it over at a campsite, and often discuss what the advantages or disadvantages are between the two different RV styles.