Keeping your campervan in good nick isn’t just about getting to your next road trip spot — it’s about making sure you don’t get caught out on the side of Te Rapa Road with a flat or stuck in Morrinsville in the rain. Here are 10 practical maintenance tips we share with campervan owners around Hamilton, using the same advice we give at the counter every week.
Check Tyre Pressure & Tread Often
Safety First, Saves You Fuel Too
Round town, tyres cop a hard time. Seen a few folks in Dinsdale and Rototuna lately with worn edges from hitting all those kerbs and crater-sized potholes. Low pressure or bald tread means less grip — and more chance of getting stuck or skidding, especially in Hamilton’s wet winters. Check tyres with a proper gauge and eyeball the tread. Not sure what legal tread looks like? Have a read of this tyre maintenance guide.
Test Your Brakes — Don’t Guess
Stop Safely, Even With a Big Van
Campervans are heavy, whether you’re in a Toyota Hiace or one of those big Fiat Ducatos. If you hear squealing brakes or need to press extra hard coming down Cambridge Rd, it’s time for a check. Brake fluid can get low too — we see it heaps. Unsure what you’re looking for? Check out common brake issues for clues.
Batteries — Always Worth a Look
Dodgy Battery? No Beach for You
Nothing sinks a weekend quicker than a flat battery at Raglan. Whether you drive a Mercedes Sprinter or a Nissan Elgrand, check for crud on the terminals and see if the clamps are tight. We get a few hybrids in — Prius and Honda Odyssey — and their batteries need special care. Not sure what’s normal? Read our battery tips before you hit the road.
Keep on Top of Engine Oil
Engines Don’t Like Running Dry
Seen a few Mums in Hyundai iLoad campers recently who thought oil lasts forever. It doesn’t — especially with all the short trips in Frankton traffic. Check it monthly, and top it up with quality oil. Stick to what your manual says for best WOF results and engine life.
Look After the Cooling System
Overheating Is the Fastest Way to Ruin the Trip
Summer stop-start through Hillcrest can make your camper run hot. Pop the bonnet, check your coolant level, and make sure no hoses look dodgy or cracked. That little job can save your engine, and your wallet. For more help, see this cooling guide.
Air Filter Clean & Swaps
Petrol Bill Gone Up? Filter Might Be Clogged
Regulars with Mazda Bongos and LDV V80s are surprised what comes out of a dirty air filter. If you’re using more gas or losing oomph on steep Kaimai climbs, swap the filter. Want an easy fix? Our air filter service is quick and painless.
Electrics — All The Bits & Bobs
Check Lights, Fans and The Bits You Can’t See
Post-school run, check all your van’s lights work — even the inside ones. Wiring gremlins are common, especially after lots of mud or a water leak. Easy to sort though. If you want to get ahead of the dramas, see these campervan electrical tips.
Suss Out Suspension & Alignment
Lumpy Roads? Feel Every Bump?
Suspension keeps popping up with all the broken tarseal out in Horsham Downs. If your camper rocks or squeaks over every bump, or your tyres wear funny, it’s probably time for a check. Here’s our suspension guide if you want a better look.
Water Leaks and Plumbing
Stale Water Smells? Dripping Underneath?
Nothing ruins a Matamata weekend quicker than a wonky water pump. Check tanks, pipes and the kitchen tap for leaks or damp. Most problems are easy to fix if you catch them early.
Get Regular Checks By a Pro
Spot Little Issues Before They’re Big Expensive Ones
Doesn’t matter if you drive a Honda Stepwagon or a Renault Master, a proper car service in Hamilton will catch stuff you might miss. Our team sees heaps of different campervans, so we know what goes wrong in NZ — and how to keep you moving.
- Experienced Techs: We’ve seen pretty much every campervan issue you can imagine.
- All-In-One Service: From WOFs to fixing leaks — we handle the lot.
- Real Talk, Real Advice: No jargon, just solid info you can use.
- Easy to Find: Handy location for Hamilton and all the neighbouring towns.
Got a question or need to book in for your campervan maintenance?