Is it common to have to pay for the 1st service of a new van? Going on new cars where the first 1000 km service is free! Just wondering if that applies to vans or am I about to be ripped off?
IMO, the latter. In hindsight, I wouldn't waste the fuel going to the dealer even if the service was free. Check your wheel bearings, or pay someone to do it... because that's about the only useful thing you're likely to get.
We paid well in excess of $300 for our first service and I had to drag the van 30kms aross town to the Retreat dealer then go back the next day and pick it up. We had only done a couple of short trips and there were no issues that needed attention - what did we pay for I have no idea ? The 12 monthly service will be coming up soon and although we've done a few more kms there is still nothing that needs fixing, one things for sure as soon as the warranty period is over I'll be looking for other cheaper alternatives. I agree Kathleen like a new car the first service should only be a quick checkover paid for by the manufacturer - whether they include it in the purchase price is up to them.
Its usual to have to pay for a service otherwise the manufacturer will tell you it will void your warranty. Many supply you with a service booklet.
Shop around if you have a few RV repairers in your area - their price vary widely from about $150 to $500 (especially if you go to an RV dealer).
They should check your gas lines and tanks for leaks and basic electrics as well as a visual of the rig, especially underneath and your tyres and braking system. If you have electric brakes, these need constant adjustment and finally the wheel bearing (pulled out, cleaned and re-greased).
If you google to search for a repairer, see if there is any on-line feedback from other customers. Its the old story - you pay the money, but cant be sure all the work has been done. Make sure you get a detailed invoice of what they have done in case you need to make a future warranty claim.
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Cheers Bruce
The amazing things you see when nomading Australia
Servicing is a funny thing.
Different things to different peoples.
Did my own for decades.
But realistically.
Go to a place that does, Local van places do BUT charge.......
Trailer MFG\Agent near you?
Pedders. and the like. They'll do Brakes. Bearings. ext lighting etc. Gas lines.
Ask him to check tow hitch, plugs.
STD Veh check. Extrra for regrease etc. Adj normally in price.
IF they don't do electrics. Get an Auto Sparky.
He'll do the interior, switches. Charging. Solar circuits etc.
