Mastering Your RV Walk-Through: Tips from Our Experience
When we did the walk-through inspection and tutorial of our new RV with the technician, excitement was running high, but so was the flood of new information. This is your chance to get hands-on with your RV, ask questions, and make sure everything works before you hit the road. This process should be much the same as purchasing a new house and learning where everything is, but since this house will be moving, you should really get to know the systems and operation of your vehicle/home.
Here’s what we learned about making the most of this crucial step:
1. Record the Whole Thing
Even if you have a perfect memory (we don’t), there’s a good chance you’ll forget details about which valve is which or the exact sequence for operating the leveling system. Video is your best friend—especially at 10:00 p.m. in a dark campground when you can’t remember which switch controls the water heater. We took a Go-Pro and simply recorded the entire session as the technician went through each compartment and system. This will most definitely pay dividends in the future!
2. Test Every Single System
Turn on all the lights
Operate the slide-outs
Check the water pump and faucets
Light the stove and oven
Test the microwave
Run the generator and HVAC
Turn on the TVs
Check the heater
Check to make sure the shades come fully down (our large front shade did not go all the way down!)
If it’s there, make sure it works before you drive off. Our tech took notes of any remaining issues and will have them fixed before we drive off the lot!
3. Inspect for Cosmetic and Functional Issues
Look for scratches, dings, misaligned doors (we found our shower door needed an adjustment), and loose screws. Test latches, drawers, and cabinet doors. It’s a lot easier to have them fixed now than after you’ve driven home.
4. Practice Key Procedures
Ask the tech to walk you through:
Hooking up water, sewer, and electric
Using the self-leveling system
Operating the awning
Winterizing (or at least where everything is)
Deploying and storing the outdoor kitchen
Checking tire pressure and fluids
5. Don’t Rush
This isn’t the time to feel shy or hurried. Take as long as you need to understand how everything works. The more you learn now, the fewer “What do we do now?” moments you’ll have on your first trip.
6. Ask “What if?” Questions
What if the slides won’t retract?
What if the leveling system fails?
What if I can’t get power?
What if the propane alarm goes off?
How to operate the emergency fire escape in the back (do you need a ladder?)
How do I avoid a poop pyramid? (yes, that’s a real thing)
You’ll get valuable troubleshooting tips from someone who has seen it all.
Our takeaway: The walk-through is your classroom, and your RV is the textbook. Bring your camera, notebook, and curiosity. The time you invest here will save you stress and maybe even a repair bill later.