Your RV is a complex machine, and the term RV parts covers everything from a tiny fuse to a complete slide-out mechanism. These components are the foundation of your comfort, safety, and freedom on the road. Understanding them is the first step toward becoming a skilled and confident RV owner. This guide is designed to give you practical, actionable information you can use to maintain, troubleshoot, and upgrade your home on wheels.
Quick links: All RV parts · Converters · Inverters · Batteries · Fuses · Water pumps · Water heaters · Anode rods · Tank treatments · AC filters · Furnace igniter/sail switch · Propane regulators · Fridge parts · Slide-out seals · Leveling/stabilizing · Roof sealants
Understanding Your RV’s Core Systems
It’s helpful to think of your RV not as a single object but as a collection of interconnected systems…
Proactive Care vs. Reactive Repairs
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What You Will Learn in This Guide
- Key System Breakdowns
- Diagnosing Common Failures
- Actionable Maintenance Schedules
- Smart Shopping Strategies
A Deep Dive Into Key RV Parts and Components
The Electrical System: Your RV’s Heartbeat
- Converter: Shop converters
- Inverter: Shop pure sine inverters · Install kits/ANL fuses
- Deep-Cycle Batteries: Lithium LiFePO₄ · Battery monitors
- Fuses/Breakers: Fuse assortments · 12V breakers
Plumbing and Sanitation: The Lifelines
- Water Pump (12V): Replacement pumps · Accumulator tanks
- Water Heater: Heaters · Anode rods · Elements
- Holding Tanks: Treatments · Tank rinsers · Gate valves
HVAC and Propane Systems: Total Climate Control
- Air Conditioner: Filters · Soft/Hard-start kits
- Furnace: Igniters & sail switches · Limit switches
- Propane Regulator: Auto-changeover regulators · ACME pigtails
Appliances and Slide-Outs: Making It Feel Like Home
- RV Refrigerator: Thermistors/elements/boards · Vent fans
- Slide-Out Motors & Seals: Motors/gear packs · Seals & conditioners
Chassis, Leveling, and Exterior Parts: The Foundation
- Brakes/Suspension: Brake assemblies · Leaf springs · Shocks
- Leveling/Stabilizing: Jacks · Blocks · Pads
- Awnings/Roofing: Awning parts · Self-leveling lap sealant · Roof coatings
How to Diagnose Common RV Part Failures
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Starting With The Obvious Checks
- Power on? (Shore/gen)
- Propane on? (LP detector reading normal?)
- Batteries charged? (Check voltage)
- Fuses/Breakers OK? (spares)
Common RV Problems and Potential Part Failures
| Symptom | Affected System | Potential Faulty RV Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator not cooling | Propane/Electrical | Thermistor, cooling unit, element, control board, igniter |
| No hot water | Water Heater | Igniter board, thermocouple, gas valve, element |
| Water pump cycles randomly | Plumbing | Pressure switch, leaky faucet, check valve, cracked fitting |
| Furnace won’t ignite | HVAC / Propane | Sail switch, igniter, control board, limit switch, gas valve |
| Flickering lights | 12V Electrical | Converter, loose battery cable, ground |
| AC won’t turn on | HVAC / Electrical | Thermostat, capacitor, control board, breaker |
| Slide won’t move | Slide-Out | Motor, gear pack, control module, switch, shear pins |
| Toilet won’t hold water | Sanitation | Blade seal, flush mech, water valve |
Scenario-Based Troubleshooting
Scenario 1: Water Pump Cycles Randomly
- Inspect for leaks (sinks, toilet, water heater).
- Check outdoor shower is fully closed.
- Reseat city water check valve.
- Tighten pump fittings; inspect inlet filter housing. If internal: replace pump here.
Scenario 2: Refrigerator Isn’t Getting Cold
- Fails on both AC/LP → cooling unit/thermistor/venting (vent fans)
- Fails on AC only → element/fuse/outlet
- Fails on LP only → burner/igniter/thermocouple/gas valve
Creating Your RV Maintenance Schedule
Essential Monthly and Quarterly Tasks
- Test smoke/CO/LP detectors (LP / smoke / CO)
- Check fire extinguisher
- Clean AC filters (filters)
- Exercise generator under load
Annual and Seasonal Maintenance Milestones
- Inspect roof sealants (lap sealant)
- Sanitize fresh system (sanitizers)
- Winterize/de-winterize (RV antifreeze · bypass kit)
- Service wheel bearings/brakes (bearing kits)
- Deep clean holding tanks (rinser wands)
How to Smartly Shop For RV Parts
Compare OEM vs aftermarket, warranty, returns, and final ship price. When you know the exact item, shop online here: RVupgrades.com.
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
- OEM for safety-critical: brakes, propane, suspension, towing
- Aftermarket for non-critical: faucets, lights, décor (choose well-reviewed)
Your Pre-Purchase Checklist
- Confirm compatibility (model/part #; provide VIN if needed)
- Read recent reviews
- Check warranty
- Understand return policy
- Watch shipping thresholds (free over $99 at RVupgrades)
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Parts
What Is the Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket RV Parts?
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How Do I Find the Correct Part Number for My RV?
- Read the old part’s label/stamp
- Use manuals/parts diagrams
- Call OEM with VIN
- Leverage owner forums
When Should I DIY vs Hire a Pro?
- DIY: pumps, fixtures, anode rods, sealant touch-ups
- Pro: propane lines, 120V AC/inverters/transfer switches, brakes/suspension, structural/slide work
Where Are the Best Places to Buy RV Parts?
- Online specialists: RVupgrades (huge selection, tech help, fast shipping)
- Dealer parts counters (VIN-matched OEM)
- Manufacturer distributors (appliance-specific)
For over two decades, RVupgrades.com has stocked 20,000+ parts from top brands, with fast U.S. shipping and expert support. Shop our selection and get free shipping on orders over $99.
