Key Takeaways
● The time taken for an RV oil change can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and model of the vehicle.
● It is important to use the right oil for your particular model and check that all filters are clean before beginning the process.
● Regular maintenance on your RV’s engine is essential to keep it running smoothly for many years.
An oil change is integral to vehicle maintenance and is no different for RVs. However, the process can be slightly different from a regular car.
Generally, an RV oil change can take around one to two hours, depending on the size of your vehicle and any other involved tasks. However, a few simple steps can help speed up the process and get your RV back on the road sooner.
If you want to learn more about how long an oil change takes on an RV, read this article for tips to help you save time and get the job done quickly.
Table of Contents
Why Is An Oil Change Necessary?
An oil change is an essential part of vehicle maintenance, regardless if it’s a regular car or an RV [1]. The purpose of changing your oil is to lubricate the parts of your engine, reduce friction, and keep it running SMOOTHLY.
Over time, the engine oil will break down from heat and use, causing it to become less effective. This can lead to build-up from friction in your engine and reduce its performance, which can cause significant DAMAGE if not properly taken care of.
Changing your engine oil regularly ensures that you get the most out of your vehicle’s engine and helps keep it running efficiently for LONGER. This is why keeping up with your oil changes is essential, even if you own an RV.
Factors that Impact Time for an RV Oil Change
As stated, an RV oil change can take around one to two hours. But this varies slightly depending on a lot of factors, such as:
The Size Of Your Rv
The size of your RV is one of the most significant factors impacting how long an oil change will take. Larger RVs, such as Class A motorhomes or fifth-wheel trailers, may require more time for the oil change than a smaller campervan or travel trailer.
This is because larger RVs typically have bigger and more COMPLEX engines that need to be worked on, making the process longer.
Your Engine Type
The type of engine you have in your RV can also make a difference when it comes to the time for an oil change. While most STANDARD engines don’t take too long to work on, the same can’t be said for a diesel engine or specialty engine.
Diesel and specialty engines are more challenging to work on and require more FINESSE, so they typically take longer to get through than a standard engine.
So if you have either type of engine in your RV, it’s important to keep that in mind as it may add extra time to your oil-changing process.
The Age And Condition Of The Engine
The age and condition of your RV’s engine can also affect how long it takes to change the oil.
If your engine is relatively NEW, you won’t need to worry too much about any extra time required for an oil change. However, if your engine is OLDER and shows signs of wear and tear, it may require more work to ensure a better-quality job.
Extra steps will have to be taken to PROPERLY lubricate all the parts in the engine, making the process longer than usual.
The Viscosity Of The Oil
The viscosity of your oil also impacts the time it takes to change it. In general, thicker oils take longer to get through than thinner ones due to their HIGHER resistance.
Thicker oils require more work to FILTER out and drain, so if you’re using a more viscous oil, you can expect your oil change process to be slightly longer.
However, this isn’t NECESSARILY bad, as thicker oils typically provide better lubrication for the engine, which can help extend its lifespan.
So while it may add some extra time to the job, keeping your engine running efficiently for years to come is worth the effort.
How Much Oil Is In Your Vehicle
The amount of oil in your vehicle can also significantly impact the time it takes to change your oil.
If you have a LARGER capacity engine, it will require more oil to fill it up, which will take more time to accomplish. On the other hand, if you have a SMALLER capacity engine, it will take less time as less oil needs to be swapped out.
It’s important to remember how much oil is in your vehicle when estimating the time for an oil change. Additionally, make sure you are using the CORRECT grade and viscosity of oil for your RV so that everything runs smoothly during the process.
Whether You’re Changing The Oil Filter
A good oil change should also include changing your vehicle’s oil filter. This is essential as it helps keep dirt, debris and impurities from entering the engine and causing DAMAGE.
If you don’t replace the filter when doing your oil change, then all of these particles will REMAIN in the engine, which can reduce its efficiency over time. Therefore, if you plan on performing a complete oil change, make sure to factor in some extra time for replacing the oil filter.
Depending on how accessible it is in your RV, this could take between 15 minutes to half an hour in addition to the actual oil-changing process.
Any Additional Maintenance Tasks
If you plan on doing additional maintenance tasks in addition to the oil change, this will affect how long it takes.
For example, if you want to CHECK your spark plugs or replace your air filter at the same time as doing an oil change, it may add some extra minutes to the process.
Or maybe you need to top off some coolant or check your brakes—all of these can add up, so be sure to factor them in when ESTIMATING how much time it will take.
Additionally, be sure to use the right TOOLS and lubricants for each task so that everything runs smoothly [2].
Where to Get an Oil Change for Your RV
If you don’t feel comfortable changing your RV’s oil or don’t have the time, plenty of options are available to help you get it done professionally.
Many auto shops and mechanics SPECIALIZE providing oil change services for RV owners, so they can quickly and efficiently take care of all your vehicle’s maintenance needs.
Additionally, some campgrounds and dealerships offer Rv oil changes SPECIFICALLY catered toward RV owners.
They may even offer CONVENIENCE services such as mobile oil change vans that come to you, allowing you to take care of all your maintenance needs without leaving the comfort of your home.
Prepping Your RV for an Oil Change
Prepping your RV for an oil change is key to making the process as quick and efficient as possible. Check out some of our tips below for taking the stress out of your next oil change:
Before Going To The Auto Shop
If you’re opting to have a professional do your oil change, there are still some key steps you should take before going.
First, make sure all the necessary SUPPLIES for an oil change are readily available, such as motor oil, oil filter and tools.
Additionally, check that your vehicle is free from debris or obstruction so your mechanic can quickly access the engine and perform the task efficiently.
It’s also essential to double-check that your RV is SUITABLE for an oil change—some may require special tools or equipment to do it properly.
Lastly, ensure you book AHEAD of time, so you don’t have to wait around in line when you get there.
Pro Tip: Ask the mechanic for a discount if you can provide all your supplies.
Before Doing It By Yourself
If you’re planning on doing your own RV oil change, then there are a few key steps you should take before getting started.
First, ensure you have all the TOOLS and SUPPLIES you need for the job: motor oil of the recommended grade, an oil filter, a ratchet or oil filter wrench, a funnel, gloves and rags or paper towels to keep things clean.
Reading up on your RV’s MANUAL is important to understand how and where to access its engine components.
Also, double-check that all parts are in GOOD condition before replacing them; if any seals or gaskets appear worn out or cracked, it may be best to replace them.
Pro Tip: Take pictures of the process, so you don’t forget how to put things back together.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Changing Your RV’s Oil
If you’re comfortable doing the oil change yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the job done:
Park The RV
First, park your RV on a FLAT surface and place wheel chocks in front of the rear tires to keep it from rolling. This will also help you access the engine compartment more easily.
Prep Your Engine
Next, inspect your engine for leaks or damage, and make sure all necessary tools are within reach. You can also cover nearby surfaces with a tarp or old cloth to avoid any mess.
Locating The Oil Filter
Locate the oil filter and drain plug around the engine’s oil pan, making sure to have a wrench or ratchet set handy for loosening it.
Get The Oil Pan And Wrench
Place an oil pan on the area where you will be draining out the old motor oil, then use a wrench or ratchet to unscrew the drain plug.
Drain The Old Oil
Once the drain plug is removed, let the old dirty oil pour out into the pan until it has drained completely. Depending on your RV’s engine size, this can take up to 10 minutes.
Replace The Drain Plug
After the used oil is drained, you can reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely. Be sure to use a wrench or ratchet, and NOT your hands, to do this.
Replace The Oil Filter
Once the drain plug is securely in place, you can replace the oil filter by unscrewing it with a wrench or ratchet, then replacing it with the new one. Make sure all connections are tight before moving on.
Apply Engine Oil On The Gasket
Apply some engine oil to the new filter’s gasket. This helps relieve tension from the seal when the filter is screwed in.
Put The New Oil Filter In
Carefully insert the new oil filter into its housing and tighten it securely. It’s important not to over-tighten it, as this can cause damage.
Pour Engine Oil
Making sure to consult your RV’s manual for the correct grade of oil, and fill up the engine with fresh motor oil until it reaches the “full” line.
Check The Oil Level
After filling up the new motor oil, start your engine and check the fresh oil level on the dipstick.
Check for any leaks or irregularities and ensure all components are tightened securely before driving away. If everything is in order, you can then go ahead and shut off the engine.
Clean Up
Finally, dispose of any used engine oil properly by taking it to a certified waste facility near you. Don’t forget to clean up any spills or messes with rags or paper towels to prevent accidents.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on your RV’s oil levels over the next few weeks to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Drive My Rv Immediately After Changing The Oil?
It’s generally advised to wait a few minutes before taking your RV out for a spin again. This allows the oil to circulate and settle in the engine components properly.
How Can I Dispose Of Used Motor Oil Properly?
It’s best to take your used motor oil to a certified waste facility that properly disposes it. You can also check with your local government to see which waste centers in your area accept used engine oil.
What Motor Oil Should I Use When Changing The Oil In My RV?
Refer to your RV’s manual for the recommended motor oil type. As well as the viscosity and grade. Choosing the wrong type of oil can cause damage to your engine, so make sure to get it right.
How Often Should I Change The Oil In My RV?
Changing the oil in your RV every 3,000 miles or at least once a year is best. However, this can vary depending on your RV’s manufacturer and model.
Conclusion
All in all, changing the oil in an RV isn’t difficult, but it is essential to ensure that it’s done properly and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
You can have your oil change done by a professional, or if you are comfortable doing it yourself, the above steps can help make the job go as smoothly and quickly as possible.
With patience and knowledge, you’ll be able to keep your RV running in tip-top shape for many miles to come.
