Motorhome and Campervan Recalls: Essential Information You Should Be Aware Of
In the world of motorhoming, safety is paramount. Just like with cars, manufacturers sometimes issue recalls for faulty parts in motorhomes or campervans. To ensure your vehicle is safe and up-to-date, it's essential to check for any outstanding recalls.
The best place to start your search is the UK government’s vehicle recall database on gov.uk. This database allows you to check if your specific vehicle make and model has any outstanding recalls registered by manufacturers. This resource covers all vehicle types, including motorhomes and campervans, and is not limited to American RVs.
When using the database, you can search by vehicle registration number or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). If you don't know the registration or are looking at buying a vehicle, entering the manufacturer details (make, model, and year) should suffice.
It's important to note that authorities plan to better integrate recall checks with the MOT process in the future, increasing safety oversight for all vehicles, including motorhomes. However, until then, it's advisable to check for updates on your motorhome as soon as possible to avoid delays during travel.
Remember, when contacting the dealership or manufacturer about a recall, provide the VIN number (located on the V5c logbook) and your personal details. Sending a photo of the logbook by email may be necessary to confirm if any recalls have been completed.
For instance, if you own a Swift Escape 685, the only recall was a motorhome battery terminal issue. On the other hand, Fiat Ducato recalls included pipes that could fracture, camshafts that could fail, and sleeves that could detach from the throttle body.
If your vehicle is recalled, contact an approved dealership (e.g., Fiat or Swift) or the manufacturer (e.g., Swift) to arrange for the necessary repairs. The dealership will not disclose specific recall details without proof of purchase.
If you're new to motorhoming, consider signing up for motorhome travel and road trip tips from Wandering Bird, a platform founded by digital nomad and former air traffic controller Kathryn Bird.
Stay safe on the road, and happy travels!
[1] Source: gov.uk, RAC, BBC News [4] Source: NHTSA recall search service (Not applicable for UK-specific recalls)
- If you're looking to enhance your lifestyle, considering home-and-garden improvements or planning a travel adventure, remember to prioritize safety, just as in motorhoming.
- For those new to motorhoming, seeking advice from an experienced resource like Wandering Bird can greatly help in navigating best practices for travel, home-and-garden upgrades, and lifestyle choices.
