Safety first: What to check before the new season?

Before checking the interior , air out the caravan or motorhome thoroughly for a day . After resting for several months, old cars in particular can look damp and musty. Check particularly soft furnishings and seals for damage during the winter period.

Check the tyres

Another important check is the condition of the tyres. As with car tyres, you need to check for bulging, cracking or wear and tear and, if necessary, inflate the tyres to the pressure prescribed by the manufacturer. If you have replaced your road tyres with winter tyres, you need to refit the summer tyres and also check them for signs of wear. After fitting the tyres, you should also check that the wheel bolts are properly secured.

The tanks are as good as new

You'll also need to prepare your water tanksbefore you set off . You'd better check the entire water system by filling the tank with water and letting it flow to check for leaks. If any pipes are damaged or the tank is leaking, you will need to replace them before repeating the process. It's also important to sterilize the tanks, as they can become stale after sitting in the garage for long periods of time. You can sterilize by filling the tank with a sterilizing solution and leaving it for up to twelve hours. Finally, rinse the tank with clean water and replace the filter.

Check the batteries

The next step is to check the battery, which you will have disconnected during the off-season. First you need to clean all the battery wires and terminals with a contact cleaner. Then connect the battery according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once reconnected, check the battery for functionality by turning on the interior lights and water pump.

Gas is important

If your motorhome uses propane (LP gas), you need to check the tanks, connections, valve and combustion method. If something is not working properly, have the system checked by a professional. Be sure to do a leak test and gas pressure test every year. If you have refillable propane tanks, check the dates on the tanks, they must be recertified when the dates on them expire.

Check the engine

For motorhomes, the engine should also be checked. Start by checking all fluid levels and make sure they are fresh. If you don't know what fluid your car uses, check the owner's manual or contact your dealer. Here are the fluids you should check:

• Engine coolant
• Engine oil
• Windscreen washer fluid
• Brake fluid
• Engine oil

Then check all your gauges. Are they reading accurately? Your engine has been switched off for a long time and will need to be tested and checked before driving. Before you start the engine, check the oil level and exhaust area. If everything seems fine, try starting.

Lights on?

Road lightsare extremely important for your safety and the safety of other road users , so it is important to check that they are fully functional. Before connecting the caravan to the vehicle, check the plug for cracks in the cover or broken or corroded pins. Once connected, check that the individual lights are on and then check the lenses and marker lights for any cracks or missing screws.

Don't forget the little things

It's important to pay attention to seemingly unimportant little things, are the locks working, smoke alarms working, are the bike racks firmly attached and the first aid kit equipped? Also check the vehicle's registration, insurance and emissions sticker to make sure everything is up to date. Then just wash everything, paying particular attention to windows, vents and electrical appliances such as the fridge.

You may also consider a professional service that can do a more in-depth technical inspection of the car. For all Adria caravan and motorhome models, don't hesitate to contact our branches.