Some common types of motorhome repair are mechanical in nature and similar to car repair, while others are comparable to housing repairs, like roof and toilet replacement. Motorhomes are still vehicles even though they can be lived in, so they have mechanical issues similar to cars, like dead batteries. Roof patching or replacement is a necessary motorhome repair in a lot of older homes. In addition, plumbing problems like leaky toilets can also become a problem as the vehicle grows older. The vast majority of repairs on motorhomes can be completed as do-it-yourself projects, but potentially dangerous repairs, such as anything that involves electrical wiring, should be left to a professional.
As a vehicle, regular motorhome maintenance is needed on the engine, brakes, and other parts that allow the home to safely and reliably run. Like a car, motorhomes need scheduled maintenance to keep them at tip-top shape, and occasionally something goes wrong and requires maintenance between scheduled visits. For example, dead batteries, flat tires, and a dead headlight lamp happens to cars and trucks but also happens to motorhomes. Depending on the age and typical use of the motorhome, these unexpected mechanical problems can be quite common. In general, new motorhomes only need scheduled maintenance and some motorhome repairs for mechanical problems are under warranty.
Roof replacement or patching is a common type of motorhome repair. As the vehicle ages, the roof can begin to sag and develop leaks in bad weather. In general, this is fixed using vinyl fabric and vinyl cement, but the cabinets or other permanent fixtures may have to be removed to reach the repair spot. For someone with the right know-how or the time to thoroughly research the project, this repair can be a do-it-yourself project. Other people choose to have the motorhome repaired professionally and, depending on the severity of the roof damage, this can be expensive.
Another common motorhome repair is toilet replacement, or at least the replacement of toilet seals. These parts are usually found at a motorhome store rather than a regular home improvement store. Normally, a regular toilet will not fit in the small space a motorhome toilet goes. Replacing a motorhome toilet is similar to replacing a regular toilet, though. The water valves should be shut off and then the bolts can be removed and the toilet lifted. Most people only run into difficulty when removing the bolts, especially rusted or partially broken ones.