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Tue - Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Tue - Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
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Dealership hours of operation
Mon CLOSED
Tue - Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sun CLOSED
1490 Highway 11 S, Oro-Medonte, ON, L0L2L0

Seasonal Maintenance Guide for Motorhomes: Keeping Your Travels Smooth Year-Round

Seasonal Maintenance Guide for Motorhomes: Keeping Your Travels Smooth Year-Round


Owning a motorhome in Canada means embracing freedom on the open road, from summer escapes to Ontario’s lakes to fall tours through fiery maple forests. But this freedom comes with responsibility. Unlike cars that mostly stay parked overnight, motorhomes endure varied weather, sit idle for stretches, and carry entire living spaces on wheels. That’s why a Seasonal Maintenance Guide for Motorhomes is essential to protect your investment and ensure worry-free travels in every season.

Here in Oro-Medonte, the changing weather can be as dramatic as the views along the Horseshoe Valley Road. Spring thaws bring leaks, summer sun beats down on paint and seals, autumn debris clogs vents, and winter’s deep freeze can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. Regular maintenance tailored to the seasons helps keep your motorhome reliable and safe for every kilometre of your journey.

Spring: Awaken Your Motorhome After the Thaw

Spring: Awaken Your Motorhome After the Thaw

Spring in Ontario breathes new life into forests and lakes—and it’s time to do the same for your motorhome. De-winterizing is the first task. Flush the plumbing system with fresh water to remove any non-toxic antifreeze used during winter. Check for leaks around windows, roof seams, and vents where freezing and thawing may have caused cracks.

Inspect your tires carefully; the weight of a motorhome can cause flat spots if it’s been stationary all winter. Inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure in kilopascals (kPa). Test your battery’s voltage, as winter storage often drains power. Finally, wash away winter grime from the exterior, applying a protective wax coat to shield your motorhome’s finish from UV rays and spring showers alike.

Summer: Beat the Heat and Keep Rolling

Summer: Beat the Heat and Keep Rolling

While summer road trips call for open highways and blue skies, the heat can be an RV’s hidden enemy. Before a long journey, check the coolant level to ensure the engine stays within safe temperatures, especially if your route includes Ontario’s rolling hills. Inspect belts and hoses for cracks caused by heat exposure.

Air conditioning is crucial for comfort in a motorhome. Clean filters and test your A/C to confirm it’s blowing cold air throughout the cabin. It’s also wise to inspect awnings for mould or tears, as summer storms can arrive quickly around Oro-Medonte. Regular washing helps remove dust, insects, and road film that can bake onto the motorhome’s surface under the hot sun.

Inside, keep an eye on humidity. Moisture buildup can cause mould and mildew in small spaces. Run a dehumidifier if necessary, and leave windows cracked open when safe. This small step goes a long way in preserving your motorhome’s interior.

Autumn: Prepare for Falling Leaves and Crisp Days

Autumn: Prepare for Falling Leaves and Crisp Days

Autumn is a spectacular time for motorhome travel, with cooler days and brilliant colours across Simcoe County. Yet, it’s a season when nature can be as challenging as it is beautiful. Leaves and debris can clog roof vents, gutters, and air intakes, leading to water leaks or reduced air circulation. Clear them regularly to avoid costly repairs.

This is the perfect time to inspect your furnace and test it before colder nights arrive. Check seals around doors and windows for gaps that could let in drafts. Examine your tires for wear from summer trips and replace them if the tread is low. Clean and dry your freshwater tank and plumbing lines to avoid mildew during winter storage.

If your motorhome won’t see much use over the winter, autumn is also the time to plan for proper winterization. A little effort now prevents bigger headaches come spring.

Winter: Protecting Your Motorhome in Hibernation

Winter: Protecting Your Motorhome in Hibernation

Ontario winters can be harsh, with temperatures plunging well below freezing. Motorhomes must be properly winterized to survive these months without damage. Drain all water tanks, including freshwater and greywater systems, and run RV-safe antifreeze through the lines to prevent freezing and burst pipes.

Disconnect and store your batteries in a dry location where temperatures remain above freezing. Cover your tires to shield them from UV rays and cold-induced cracking. A breathable motorhome cover is also wise, preventing snow and ice from sitting directly on your roof.

If storing your RV outdoors in places like Oro-Medonte, choose a level spot and park on wooden blocks to keep the tires off wet ground. Sealing off possible rodent entry points is critical—mice love cozy interiors during the winter chill.

Year-Round Tips for Happy Travels

Regardless of the season, some maintenance tasks should be part of your routine all year long. Check your engine oil and transmission fluid regularly, topping up or changing as needed. Listen for unusual noises during drives, which could signal mechanical issues. Clean the interior often to prevent dust buildup and odours.

Don’t overlook your motorhome’s safety systems. Test smoke, propane, and carbon monoxide detectors every few months. Keep an emergency kit stocked with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, fuses, and spare fluids.

If you’re planning extended trips, consider scheduling professional inspections to catch problems before they derail your travels. It’s far less stressful to fix small issues close to home than to deal with a breakdown hundreds of kilometres away.

The Joy of a Well-Maintained Motorhome

A motorhome isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a passport to adventure and a retreat on wheels. Maintaining it might not be the most glamorous part of RV life, but it’s the key to keeping your travels smooth, safe, and worry-free. Whether it’s spring dew, summer heat, autumn leaves, or winter frost, every season brings its challenges and joys.

Here in Oro-Medonte, we know the beauty of hitting the road for a weekend at Bass Lake Provincial Park or a longer trek across Ontario. With proper seasonal care, your motorhome will be ready to help you make those memories year after year. For personalized advice or help preparing your motorhome for the seasons ahead, visit THE HITCH HOUSE in Oro-Medonte, ON. Our team shares your passion for the open road—and we’re here to keep your adventures rolling safely and smoothly.

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