• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Getaway Couple

Getaway Couple

Full-time RV Adventures, Couple Travel Blog

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Blog
    • RV Living
    • Destinations
    • Make Money
    • Save Money
  • Videos
  • Resources
  • Store
    • Getaway T-shirts
    • Camping T-shirts
    • Printables
  • RV Masterclass
  • Amazon Shop
  • Show Search
Hide Search
Home » Blog » RV Living » Basics » Important Tips to Avoid Voiding Your RV Warranty

Important Tips to Avoid Voiding Your RV Warranty

If you have purchased a new or slightly used RV, you may have a warranty. In fact, you will most likely have several warranties. There are many individual parts of your vehicle and on the appliances in the coach. They come in many varieties and cover items for different time lengths. So how can you keep track and use your new rig appropriately so that you don’t void the RV warranty?

Below are tips to assist you with discerning the coverage on your motorhome or travel trailer. Keep in mind that a warranty does not take the place of RV insurance. It does not cover physical collision and a warranty will not cover regular maintenance issues like oil changes, tuneups, etc. Each warranty is different so be sure to read through your paperwork thoroughly. Now, let’s dive in!

Pile of warranty paperwork on a desk. Be sure to read the fine print so you don't void your RV warranty.

Don’t Void Your RV by Knowing What’s Covered

You will need to start with your owner’s manual(s). The vehicle should have one, and if your unit is brand new, your appliances should also have separate owner’s manuals and paperwork. If you purchased a used vehicle that is still under warranty or has a transferable extended warranty, you should have received that information from the seller. It’s important to differentiate what’s covered and what’s not through your RV warranty, so you don’t void it by accident.

Know What’s Covered

These are called “listed component warranties” as they should list in very specific terms. They will explain which items are covered on your engine, transmission, slide-outs, levelers, hot water systems, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. We suggest keeping a list as you go through each warranty agreement.  

Make your own list with the item covered and for how long.  Then put the list in a notebook that is kept with your RV manual.  It will be easy to see your coverage when the time comes to use it. Check out our online RV printable store to find helpful spreadsheets, worksheets, and checklists to stay organized on the road.

More From Getaway Couple
High Tech RV Temperature Monitor For Your Pet Peace Of Mind
High Tech RV Temperature Monitor For Your Pet Peace Of Mind
Where To Camp With Your RV in Lake Tahoe
Where To Camp With Your RV in Lake Tahoe

Know What’s Not Covered

Called an “exclusionary RV warranty,” these will list all of the items that are not covered by your blanket warranty. In other words, whatever is not on the list is covered. Make your own list of these items, as well, and place the handmade list in your notebook. 

Don’t Void Your RV Warranty With Modifications

If you make any changes in the parts of your RV that come under warranty, be sure that you are not altering parts that might void that warranty. Check the warranty requirements on the following parts before you modify them:

  • Engine
  • System Upgrades (electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling) – will update an air conditioning unit, hot water heater or furnace put extra stress on your RV systems?
  • Appliances – changing out higher voltage appliances might affect your electrical system adversely, etc. 
  • Attachments to the Frame – would adding levelers, new suspension, or a different kingpin to the underside of your RV affect the warranty?
  • Interior Design – will you be adding heavier furniture, tile, etc on a slide that might affect its performance? 
Mans hands on an engine, fixing a part. Know what you can modify on your engine so you don't void your RV warranty.

How You Use Your RV so You Don’t Void Your Warranty

Most warranties are written based on “normal usage.” This obviously leads one to consider what will be covered if you use your recreational vehicle for full-time living. There are RV manufacturers and extended warranty companies that will cover full-time living but you need to read the fine print. It will also help to be upfront and flat out ask if the warranties are covered by full-time living.

Most warranty coverage, as stated before, is mentioned in your RV manual. And yet, when purchasing a new vehicle from a dealership, many new owners have discovered, after telling their dealer that they will be living in the RV full-time, nothing is ever stated about voiding their warranty by doing so.

Each warranty is different, but some of the most thorough warranties state “no commercial use while full-timing will be covered.” I have yet to see a full-time RV owner not get reimbursed for warranty-covered issues and parts, but it is something to consider as a part of your overall budgeting strategy. Will you be able to cover repairs if denied coverage because of full-time travel status?

Man's hand signing a warranty contract with an approved stamp on it. Be sure to read the fine print so you don't void your RV warranty.

Final Thoughts

One good habit with all warranty issues is to talk with the manufacturer first. Some will guarantee reimbursement and others will pay the repair shop outright. Don’t ever assume.

And for those considering purchasing an “extended” warranty, do your homework. Now that you know what to look for in the way of items covered and those that won’t be, look closely at the warranty agreement before signing. We recommend Wholesale Warranties because they do cover full-time living and have fantastic reviews from their customers. 

Warranties can be helpful tools in times of trouble, and a little effort on your part can make them useful just when they need to be. Do a little homework on your coverage before you hit the road, and you will be well prepared for any mishap that might occur.

Want a free quote?

Get a free, personalized, no-pressure quote from Wholesale Warranties to see if an Extended Service contract is right for you! That’s what we did!

Get My Free Quote

Join 5000+ Subscribers

For Exclusive Access to our Weekly Getaway Tips

What You Will Receive:
✅Tips and tricks to save you money and time when purchasing an RV and while out on the road.
✅Hand-picked product reviews and recommendations that we use and love.
✅Destination highlights and activities that you need to add to your bucket list.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Where To Camp With Your RV in Lake Tahoe

The best RV covers on a geometric background

The Best RV Covers Buying Guide

A United States map is laid out on a desk. On top of the map is cash money, attraction brochures, keys, and binoculars while planning how to save money on a road trip.

How To Save Money On A RV Road Trip

Save Money in a blue piggy bank

Astonishing Ways To Save Money On A Tight Budget

A motorhome tows a utility trailer which tows a boat. Triple towing laws in some states prohibit this.

The Truth About Triple Towing Laws Actually Vary By State

The top image is a motorhome driving down the road. The bottom image is a travel trailer being towed by an SUV.

Unique Differences When Deciding Motorhome VS Travel Trailer

Written by:
Jason Miller
Published on:
November 22, 2020
Comments:
No comments yet

Categories:
Basics


DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE NOTICE FOR MORE INFO.

About Jason Miller

Hey there! I grew up in Los Angeles, CA and caught the travel bug early during a west coast road trip as a kid. I love tech, coffee, beer, photography, and exploring new places with my wifey. I am a shy, introvert who digs meeting new people (over a beer perhaps?). I truly enjoy teaching others so feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Join 5000+ Subscribers

For Exclusive Access to our Weekly Getaway Tips

What You Will Receive:
✅Tips and tricks to save you money and time when purchasing an RV and while out on the road.
✅Hand-picked product reviews and recommendations that we use and love.
✅Destination highlights and activities that you need to add to your bucket list.

Recent Adventures

A notepad is on a desk with the work warranty written with black marker. On one side is a laptop and on the other side is a cell phone.

How Many Years Are Warranties On The RV: Compare Manufacturers

It’s a good feeling to head out on a trip with your RV fully packed and ready for adventure. It …

Continue Reading about How Many Years Are Warranties On The RV: Compare Manufacturers

A man stands on an RV lot with a smile and his hands up declaring he found the best RV. He is standing behind a Class A motorhome.

Buying An RV? How To Know Which One Is Best For You

When shopping for a new RV, how do you tell which one is the best RV for you and your family? There …

Continue Reading about Buying An RV? How To Know Which One Is Best For You

A man is kneeling down beside his RV connecting the sewer hose to the black tank and preparing to use the best RV tank rinser to clean his black tank.

The Best RV Tank Rinser For Easy Cleaning

Okay, I’ve just gotta say it. “It’s a stinky job, but someone has to do it!” Dump the black tank, …

Continue Reading about The Best RV Tank Rinser For Easy Cleaning

Explore more

Buy us a beer Join Patreon Contact Us

Footer

Getaway Couple

1530 P B Lane
Ste M4737
Wichita Falls, TX 76302

Copyright © 2015–2021 Getaway Couple LLC

Keep In Touch

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • All Content
  • Disclosure Notice
  • Privacy Policy
  • RV Living
  • Destinations
  • Make Money
  • Save Money