Motorhomes are the vehicle to create ever-lasting memories with your loved ones, and there’s not many better out there than the Fiat Ducato.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips on how to maintain your home-away-from-home, to help keep you on the road and avoid possible breakdowns on your journeys.
How to look after your Fiat Ducato
Check your battery and electrics
The battery is the part of your Ducato that will naturally deteriorate over time, but there is a simple trick you can do to slow down the ageing process.
Turning on the engine of your motorhome every week, even when you’re not using it, and leaving it to run for about 20 minutes – or perhaps even taking it for a short drive around the block – can help lengthen your battery’s life.
Keeping the mechanical parts of your engine active will help the battery perform its recharging cycle which should support efforts to prevent it from seizing up, meaning you won’t be stopped in your tracks when going on holiday.
Air out your Ducato to avoid damp
Dampness is the number one enemy of your motorhome.
Mould can often be found after long periods when it’s not in use. This can affect the bodywork and seals which can lead to structural issues as well as superficial ones.
To maintain a healthy interior in your Fiat Ducato, frequent airing is crucial. Open windows often and promptly dry any wet surfaces. While protective covers shield the bodywork, prolonged use can be detrimental so avoid keeping your vehicle covered for extended periods.
For motorhome owners without a garage or covered parking, safeguarding your vehicle from bad weather requires protective canvases and frequent airing to prevent related issues.
Protect your seals
Seals are crucial for preventing water and damp ingress, which can cause deterioration of parts. However, these vital components, often overlooked, require regular inspection and replacement.
There are three key indicators that a seal needs replacing: hardening, shrinking, or breakage. In any of these scenarios, immediate replacement at a workshop is highly recommended to ensure proper isolation of the area.
Regularly inspect screws and screw caps for rust. Replace rusty components promptly to prevent breakage from vehicle vibrations. When performing these replacements yourself, avoid stainless steel screws. Despite being rustproof, their lack of flexibility can lead to premature breakage, potentially even during installation.
How to clean and remove stains from your seat covers
To maintain the appearance and extend the longevity of your Fiat motorhome seat covers, regular cleaning is crucial. Promptly addressing dirt, stains, and spills prevents them from setting in and becoming harder to remove.
Start by vacuuming to eliminate loose debris or bits before using a cleaner that is free from harsh chemicals. Avoid using abrasive tools when scrubbing to not damage your fabric or leather. You can even opt to use a fabric protector spray for added protection against stains and any spills you may have on your journeys.
If your seats have a stain or something is spilt, the best approach is to tackle it immediately. If you have fabric use a mixture of mild detergent and warm water. If you have leather, a specialised leather cleaner should be used. It’s always best to test the cleaning solution on something small before you start, or in an area that’s hidden.
Caring for your Fiat Ducato motorhome involves a few essential tricks and precautions. This includes:
- Remember to empty the water system when the motorhome is not in use, and ensure its proper maintenance
- Thoroughly clean the bodywork with specialised products
A key precaution is to prevent pests from entering the vehicle: never leave food lying around, as this can attract insects and rodents that might nest in the vehicle during periods of disuse, potentially damaging mechanical components.
When should you have your motorhome serviced?
Your Ducato owner’s manual outlines the service schedule, detailing tasks for specific mileage intervals. For instance, a Fiat Ducato requires servicing every 30,000 miles or two years, whichever comes first.
While other brands have similar intervals, these aren’t optimised for motorhome use, where vehicles often cover less than 10,000 miles annually and can remain unused for weeks.
The annual MoT test may catch major issues, but it’s unlikely to identify oil leaks, worn brakes, or simple ECU software updates. That’s why getting a service is key.
It’s advised you should change your oil and filter annually if you drive 10,000 miles or less per year. Additionally, make it a routine to inspect all other service consumables whenever the bonnet is open.
Motorhome insurance you can trust
If you own a motorhome, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct motorhome insurance policy. Adrian Flux offers tailored policies at competitive rates and can match one to your exact needs.
For our best rates, call 0800 369 8590 or book a callback at a time that works for you.
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