Living in an RV: Real Costs of Repairs and Maintenance After 3 Years

[@jbennett380]

Just curious how much MPG do you get on average?

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Oh shoot. I should have mentioned that... about 8 mpg. :-(

[@havenonwheels5158]

@@CarolynsRVLife That is what we got with our Class C (F450 engine like yours) on our trip to VT a couple of years ago :-( Still less expensive than heating our sticks and bricks though! Snow today.

[@sharonbros3616]

Thank You! I needed this video! I was worried that saving $400 a month wasn't enough. You have less than $300 a month "to save" (keeping funds topped off) for repairs and maintenance. Thank You Again! Namaste 🙏

[@jbennett380]

@@CarolynsRVLife Thank you for the reply. I was really curious about the gas mileage that the rvs get I know they vary but was curiou. :)

[@DrNinaMGoglucciPsyD]

@@CarolynsRVLife That's not good.

[@tamo9520]

My point - you compared your cost to a stick's 'n bricks. Those who live in a stick's n' bricks more than likely have at least one vehicle, if not two. Your vehicle is included in your annual costs. If someone is comparing the cost annually of their stick's 'n bricks to full time Rv-ing, or a Class B, remember to add the maintenance costs of your vehicle on to your stick's 'n bricks as well. Then compare.

[@samreh6156]

Excellent point!

[@wendybeach1036]

Wow. I just realised I don't want an RV. Thank you for honestly sharing the costs involved. I will look at alternatives.

[@getoffmydarnlawn]

If someone would've told me 5 years ago that I'd be watching a KZbin video about RV repairs AND ENJOYING IT I would've thought they were bleeping crazy! Must be the magic of Carolyn ...

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Awww. What a huge compliment. Thank you!

[@lisarogers4034]

The Leguminator yes Carolyn magic! 🙂

[@loriw2661]

I just have a simple comment………I absolutely love your videos, no matter what the subject they’re very well done.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Thank you!!!

[@YvonneMarieR]

So aprox $300.00 a month.. that is a power and gas bill here in Canada. It breaks my heart every time I hear you talk of Alaska, the hardest most beautiful trip. Have a super week.

[@navmarroaming2292]

Fuel pumps are typically in gas tank where they are cooled by being submerged in gas. RVers usually run tanks down because of weight of gas. As such, fuel pumps go out prematurely. Best to keep at least quarter if not a third full tank.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

I'm happy with 90k on the original fuel pump. :-p

[@jasonmarcfromi1742]

I like how you added for a life of freedom. Very positive video!

[@deborahkimball-billups6405]

Yes , positive feedback 👏 I love it...

[@fredahill1511]

We are grateful to you for sharing your life!!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

I appreciate that Freda! :-)

[@Jdhdbsbsjdnraqowirjfndksjdndj]

So glad you covered this Carolyn. I’ve was averaging about $400 per month in maintenance on my 27ft 2004 Bigfoot class C RV. It was bigger with a slide and levelers. One thing for anyone interested to keep in mind is this: the bigger the rig the bigger each bill and the bigger the monthly cost. I personally haven’t found RV living to be cheap but I do love the lifestyle.

[@BlueSky-ff4oy]

Yes does not sound cheap. Life isn't cheap. Cheaper might be a smaller city van like an NV200 but she works and wants a bigger home & office. Quality of life means something different to different people. BUT... Money finds mysterious ways to leave us all thats for sure.

[@terrynewell8968]

The vibration you feel, might be that the guy who installed your tires didn't balance them. Every fall I take my vehicle in to be checked so that I won't have any issues over the winter. They don't charge me anything, unless they need to replace something. I only find that kind of service in medium size cities. Good luck 👍

[@ConwayTruckload]

A set of centra antics will fix it.

[@jayreider2295]

agree

[@jamesmeans4813]

WOW 😲 almost 4years. I've actually been following you a few months before you got it!! Matilda was still kicking back then. Time flys ✈️

[@suzannebrouillette4531]

You just give such a service for myself the info is so valuable im just so thankful I know im repeating myself but keep it coming. With much love Suzanne

[@Woodthrush]

Great info! Really important to have a maintenance and emergency fund when going full time. Thanks, Carolyn! 😄

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bonitamulvenna1337]

Carolyn, I just started watching your videos a week ago as I am considering a trip to Alaska in my class B pleasure way with my rescue dog Willy. I have been to Alaska 7-8 times but never driven there. My daughter and grandkids live in the Wassila/Palmer area. I so enjoyed seeing Capone on your Alaska trip! Sadie is a sweetie. I am on the East Coast in PA, so let me know when you are coming this way. Your videos are so informational and raw and honest. I really enjoyed the one about loneliness. I too, am a loner. my dad was a long distance truck driver, think I got it from him. keep up the great work! BTW, my Ford E350 also has the Triton V10, 6.8 liter.

[@suelee2947]

Love how genuine and real you are! Your videos are always entertaining and informative. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

[@coleengoodell3550]

Interesting information and not bad for all the traveling that you do. I'll admit that I got to watching Sadie girl playing with the twig or whatever it was in the background. So glad she can be off leash now and doesn't let you out of her sight. Take care and may God always bless you and your girl.

[@PrincessofErised]

This is my favorite kind of video you produce. As a side note, it is a relief to see that smile on your face which indicates to me that you are happy again after all the crap you have gone through. I think you are hitting your stride again. I have one quick question: Would it be worth it to put say $10,000 upfront on a newer model, I mean, do you think that would delay replacement by say, 3 years? I guess what I am asking is it even possible to avoid/delay on the road outlay on repairs by buying something newer? Or it is just blind luck to get a "good one" new or used or really used?

[@havenonwheels5158]

Great video! I've jotted down your numbers and hope we can even come close. I have got believe that 3 years on the road in the RV will be less expensive than the sticks and bricks upkeep, heating oil, taxes, well water maintenance, house maintenance, plowing... you get the picture. Plus we'll get to visit all the places we haven't see yet and a few that we want to see again. Thank you for sharing your expenses and experiences!

[@moneybee]

Really nice walkthrough! I appreciate hearing the ins and outs, as there is so much to consider. Great job! :)

[@betteherring5638]

Always appreciate your info. We have a 21ft freedom elite. In a couple years we plan on a lot of traveling. Not full time just sight seeing. I enjoy watching your videos because its important to know that traveling isn't all just fun and games. So thank you and keep those videos coming!

[@robinmiller5256]

At the next RTR, should have a class for those who want to have an RV on how to maintenance them, what to look for when buying one, cost to fix repairs, cost per month, where not to take them, should you get AAA, etc.

[@ChicksWithHooks]

Agree.

[@Carol-qi6me]

I think you’ve really done well over the years. You’ve done quite a few things yourself too.

[@evelynalbano7083]

Great info!! Owning a sticks & bricks is much more costly i would think: homeowners ins, heat, elect. water, lawn care, snow removal, roofing, mortgage, windows, etc. And it fluctuates: some years are more expensive than others. The Class C expense that you have seems minimal to me in the grand scheme of things, no? Travel safe 👍 and puppy hugs to Sadie ❤🐾

[@ambientheat]

I have a 1999 of the same model that you have. This was informative and helpful. Thanks for all you show us. I have learned a TON from your videos!

[@2potornot2pot]

I bought a 30’ 1999 Catalina coachmen Motorhome for $15000. This year. Well taken care of with 23000 miles. Hardly driven. Some damage but in good shape. I am living in it full time but does need some repairs. I have been pleased with it but downsizing has been harder than I thought. Living on SS so I figure I am in high Cotten out of debt, widowed, and when I want I can move and still have my own home. Right now living on family land which we are hoping to sell. God is good and I am so thankful for having a moveable home.

[@kathyadam9932]

This is such good knowledge for those who are considering doing this. Better have a good emergency fund and keep it up. I remember the day you bought this. It was so exciting. I’m trying to get my family to go in on a class C so we can share. Unless I could go full time it would not be worth it. I think this would be the smartest choice for all us old timers. 🤣😂. With my grandson it would be so much better for me to travel. I don’t want to impose on family with his issues. Plus I want to go remote. It would be good for us both. My husband. 😂🤣😂🤣 I would have to trick him into loading up. He would not be a good camper. I grew up loving camping and want my little guy to experience this. I’m in the sunset of my life and crave going. I have to get out of here. Love your intel. Thank you so much Carolyn. You have kept me going through the hardest times in my life. Bless you for all you do for us out here in sticks and bricks. Hugs

[@travelduckwonder8013]

Carolyn, do you think given the cost of chassis repairs and maintenance, that it would be more cost effective to go the truck and trailer setup? I guess the question is really about cost of a motorized rv that requires a large lift VS cost of the same work on a truck chassis. You may not know, but I'm wondering how much needing a shop with a large lift is a factor. Do you have an opinion?

[@karenroe6270]

Always great information. Wonderful to see you enjoying your time & that fabulous smile is back. This was very informative thanks 😊 Have a blessed week 💖🌟

[@genie7923]

Now I will have to add up my costs and share them with you! Well done!

[@eyeswideopen1158]

This is really good information. I want to buy a class c and travel. Showing my husband this video. He has agreed to travel west next fall but wants to keep our home. A test run, to see if we can handle it. Thank you for this video Carolyn!

[@rebelgirl7289]

Thank you, that helped. I've been looking at both, Class C and vans decided comfort (C) is way more expensive and not a good starting point for me. It's something to grow into. Thanks!

[@homeschoolingmamaof5boys395]

Great video to help people see true cost. You do well of keeping things up with maintenance. Thanks for sharing the details. Great job keeping the notes. This will help so many realize the cost.

[@thizizliz]

Super informative. Well done. Yeah, I think if you put away $5k a year you'd have enough for any and all repairs and keep putting more into savings in case a BIG repair comes up - engine, transmission, a/c etc. I agree on the generator - what a shame. I'd expect Cummins to do a good job because (Per Seven Wanders and others) their rep is all about quality and long term reliability. I think you've posted at least half a dozen times about having an emergency fund. You just gave the details of why. People throw their toothbrush and a box of ramen into an rv and think aha! I'm fixed for life! But honey, when the honeymoon is over, reality sets in - stuff happens and bumpy roads take their toll. Another excellent video Carolyn. The cost of getting Sadie was maintenance for you, not for the RV - and worth every penny. She's a good dog and a very loving housemate. Too bad she doesn't do her share of dishes, cooking, laundry and such but teenagers; whatcha gonna do?

[@maxmac7845]

If the steering wheel is shaking, maybe the wheels need balancing. Does it shake at a specific speed or all the time you're on the move? It will wear the tyres out faster than normal too. The wheels need to be balanced every time the tyres are changed. @5:15 i can't see any weights on the rims so maybe they need balancing. It could be the source of high tyre wear.

[@WISouthernBelle]

I bought my 2002 for $12,000 in December... And just put $1800 in it with more to do. 😂...😭 Not in it full-time until next year. Just getting her in shape!

[@darlenewarren7040]

You're awesome Carolyn wishing you and Sadie healthy calm safe travel thank you for sharing your experiences in your life as a nomad

[@kingdavidcoffee]

Very informative video. Reasonable costs for an older rv for full timing.

[@hopeonthetrail6984]

Yes, this was helpful. Looking at the prices though right now for class c and even the vans are so expensive. I'm thankful that I own my home but the upkeep expenses now that I am retiring (next week yeah!) are what makes me want to go another direction when I can. You've given me lots to take into consideration. Thanks ! Blessings, teri

[@Tipperary757]

Congrats on retirement!!! Let the party begin!

[@jenniferrae6646]

Carolyn, does that 24ft length include the cab? Wasn't sure how these vehicles were measured there. Mine overall, is 7.2 meters. A very informative video, so thank you very much. I have some expenses coming up for mine. She's done just over 316,000 ks now.

[@susanwood9678]

Maybe someone else brought this up, but your rig is your house AND your vehicle. You'd have to ask what the comparison would be for BOTH of those for people who live in s/b.

[@ginette84]

Thank you for being an advocate of your nomad Life in Solo

[@FireFighter1512]

Yes video was very helpful on the real cost of RVing. Owning a home/house there are repairs and owning an RV there are repairs. Refrigerators and generators seem to go more often from what I'm seeing on the various KZbin channels. Thanks for sharing.......

[@eliciamccoy7496]

Thank you Carolyn enjoy you and Sadie alot. Your videos are very helpful and very enjoyable. Stay safe and enjoy your life.

[@annanne3929]

Shimming steering can come from over inflated tires and/or balancing. I usually run 65 psi in front and 70 psi in rear. The tires may also have flat spots, which will even itself out as the tread wears down.

[@klhog2476]

The rough roads you said you travel is probably the reason for the shimming. Literally hitting a pot hole will cause you to need the tires balanced, a big pot hole would probably require a front-end alignment. Tires out of balance and front end out of alignment will eat up your new front tires in a hurry.

[@kristinapeters2534]

Oh my goodness, in the past 3 plus years I have spent that much on my sticks and bricks house. Paint in side and out, new doors, flooring, breaker box, electrical wiring repairs, plumbing and various appliances. That is just what I can think of! Then of course there is the up keep on my car!

[@TheArtOfDean]

At the beginning, you paid $13,000 for your home; I'm just thinking of the many people who are having trouble paying their mortgages and property taxes every year (even those who were having trouble BEFORE the pandemic). With that, they also have to spend money on home repairs.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Yes, exactly.. it's not much, but I own it.

[@caroltorres134]

I bought an older rv and living in It because I was inspired by you and Bob cheep rv living. I just need a mechanic to look over my engine. But thanks for the information I learned by following watching your videos. I remodel the inside getting ready to add solar. I just need an honest mechanic.

[@asphaltadventurer]

@@CarolynsRVLife I'd consider $13K cheap for absolute freedom. Just our school/property tax is 5k yr.

[@katielay3288]

I don't think that sounds bad for 3.5 years. Do you think it would be worth getting an extended warranty on the vehicle? Do you know if they sell extended warranties for the RV? Do you think it would be worth it? What about having all the work done at the manufacture (Ford)? I know it is more expensive but would it save money in the long run? Questions for another video maybe.

[@RVSimpleLife]

Great video, thanks for sharing. Always enjoy watching them!

[@lindayaya59]

Look up Camper Van Kevin. And his woof pack. He found a great shop. Honest and really great prices.

[@katieking3023]

Thanks for being transparent...good info!

[@annanne3929]

CVK just put out a video regarding his generator and had carb problems and found his guy in Flagstaff. Gave him high marks.

[@Matthew-nx8lw]

I’m a relatively new nomad, with Auto Mechanical, IT, Plumbing and more if i you ever need help ;). 2020 F350, 7.5 x18 HD Cargo w/all my tools hehe. Camped in northern az with a new puppy. Keep up the great vids. I’ve replaced entire suspensions, brake and electrical systems, and more .

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Stephan, wow, thank you so much! Good luck and take care!

[@freedomfields5569]

Barnes automotive in North Carolina. I’m positive he could figure it out and he’s honest.

[@mahfah7911]

Much needed video. Thank You for all you do! Wish you Safe travels and best of health

[@gailmiller5523]

It was great info Carolyn. Thank you. 1 1/2 yrs in my rv so have had my own list of expenses quite different from yours except the tires!

[@garyanthony4854]

Very helpful information. I’ve wondered about your rv expenses over the years. I have six oversized tires on a truck. It’s like I’m depressed for awhile after replacing with new ones. $$$.

[@bettybrigance6784]

Thanks for the heads up.....it take money set aside..!!

[@larajackson7506]

Thank you for all the great info! Yes you are correct much cheaper to live in RV then house, constant Bill's every month, property taxes, ect... I would love to travel and keep my job , it'd be much cheaper but my husband lost his mom almost 6 years ago and she left him the house, so I cant make him give that up! I do work at Walmart and try to cover as much Bill's as I can, but out of 4 vehicles that we own we are down to one, the car I was driving back and forth died, it needed a new transmission and the mechanic said couldn't find one for the Geo, so I was driving the f150 pickup to work and back and couldn't see until last minute, so swerved to miss a deer and it ran right into me, so now the truck isn't usable, poor dear, I still feel bad, we already have purchased a Cadillac last year but the engine light wont go off after purchasing our Toyota Corolla, this year, so caddy wont pass inspection, so down to one vehicle and I'm still paying registration and insurance on 4! So yes you are absolutely right, cheaper to have RV and travel, less expenses! Thank you see you next time Carolyn, very helpful info! I enjoy your videos especially when you are feeling well! So happy that you are feeling better! Much love to you! Take care and I'll see you later!

[@randomspirit]

Wow. This makes me really glad that I know how to do a lot of fix and repair stuff myself. LOL

[@nfoss5656]

Thank you for the information. House and car repairs can be expensive. That’s about what some people pay in property taxes.

[@gmaneis]

I'm bad at math, but I'm guessing you've paid less than $250 a month overall. Terrific! Stay safe.

[@robgresell3616]

Thank you for all the information. I really enjoy watching your channel. You have great adventures. You are so awesome.

[@Praetoria113-zm3no]

Fuel injected vehicles don't really have tune-ups like in the old days. Replacing spark plugs, spark plug wires, distrubutor cap and rotor is about as much as you can do. The computer onboard already constantly monitors the fuel needed for each cylinder, the fuel/air ratio required for example when changing altitude and other driving conditions. Buy a OBD2 reader that can read live data also. It'll tell you if the MAP, CATS, temp, O2 are all in parameters required.

[@carlafranklin128]

I am impressed at how little it costs you! I am also curious as to how much is a gas bill on a typical Full-timer :)...I know it depends on how far they go etc. But just an estimate would be helpful. Take care!!

[@shell4447]

Just found channel and love it!!!! I’m learning so much!

[@lindagillespie8040]

First let me say Carolyn, you are so special to me I really care about you and appreciate feeling as though you're my friend. I hate that as women we always have to worry about being taken advantage of being lied to etc about our vehicles, rigs or RVs. I guess it's just one of those things in life that we must deal with. So you have done pretty good for yourself the last time goes without saying was horrific. This recent video I must say has maybe given me some ideas to share with my son who boondocks nomads in. an older rig. Your issue with your rig losing power going up an incline just completely bogging down That's what's happening to my son's! Yet above that his problem is also finding someone to work on his rig It's been a nightmare nobody wants to work it seems on a class c. Have you had that problem as well and what or how did you tackle it. Thanks for being there Carolyn and you have safe travels. ✌️❤️

[@kathyadam9932]

Compared to paying a mortgage or rent. What a deal. Just loved this very helpful video. Hugs. Your the best

[@katherinemckinnon2220]

Carolyn thats not bad at all for 3 years girl you did great thats what i want to do im taking care if a friend right now thats on dialysis its been up and down with him but hopefully i can stay to help him out for awhile h it s family doesn't want anything to do with him its so sad he's 72 years old he help them all his life now when he needs his family they walked away i just don't understand familys like that its a shame but im still looking for a motorhome ill travel where ever i can find one

[@lolasaxby1399]

Love the analysis! Thanks

[@CarolynsRVLife]

My pleasure!

[@joesrvhome]

Thanks for sharing with us!...another great video as usual!

[@jamiezebra23]

Yayyyy you got it back !!!!

[@wildnesting8051]

Thumbs up, great video. Very informative. Your videos are so helpful and enjoyable too!!🌲

[@jamiefaizfahmy9740]

Just wanted to say that I know camper van Kevin had to do the same thing to his gen. The whole carb thing. He was told the same thing that you could not just rebuild etc. IDK but it seems he found someone in Flagstaff that did rebuild the carb for it. Just wanted pass on the info. Anything we can do to help each other and move forward w out being ripped off is a blessing. So check it out I believe it was in his video before his last one.

[@moonstonetraveler8108]

Great video! Thanks! Be well.

[@elizabethapfelbaum1240]

Thank you Carolyn, very helpful.

[@rayurquhart8223]

Carolyn You mentioned that lithium batteries wouldn’t fit in your current battery space.. I’m sure you’ve researched it but FYI Battle Born has a drop in replacement lithium battery to replace the 6 volt golf cart batteries. A little spendy but worth it. Good luck!

[@clambert3AD]

Campervan Kevin had some generator repairs done at Flag Tool and Equipment Repair in Flagstaff. He put out a video of it yesterday and recommended them.

[@keithnorris8982]

Hi Carolyn, I love your humbleness... you are a great lady. I an 78 with good health, but I have bad knees so it's difficult for me to do repairs down low. I am on the fence as to if it is to late for me. I'm looking to purchase a class C about 30 foot. I have my own internet business that could easily be run on the road.I would probably get more done on the road because I would have more uninterrupted time to focus. My other thing is, at times I do enjoy spending some time with people. I was a professional magician! What say you Carolyn? Kindest regards, -keith

[@JakeandTattina]

Awesome info! Thanks for the video 😊

[@jamesyoung1320]

You mentioned that you switched your original battery out with 2 6VDC golf cart batteries wired in series to give 12 VDC supply voltage to your cabin grid. What were the reasons that you chose that method? I recently added another 12VDC battery to my existing one and connected them in paralell (the batteries are identical) in my 22 ft hybrid trailer. This method gives me the same supply voltage but an increased amp hour cacpacity. Thank you! (edited for spelling)

[@wanderernotlost2867]

if you still need to get the work done on your generator, Campervan Kevin just had his repaired at a shop in Flagstaff and highly recommends it.

[@olgasantiago4640]

Thanks for sharing, very informative. 👍🙏🤗

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rickwheeler7480]

Good info thanks

[@francisa751]

Now that some markets of the world are being electrified, your video is relevant in terms of the huge amount of pieces we have to replace in fossil fuel vehicles and spending big amounts of money. Most of the pieces you mentioned, don't exist in EVs.

[@Praetoria113-zm3no]

You got burned bad on the tune-up and brake jobs. Before you start replacing parts look at their cost on the internet. It is common for a shop to have at least a 100% markup on parts. Order some spare tires from the internet and have them on your rig, including fuel filters which are cheap. I would even buy a starter and alternator and have them onboard as spares.

[@rosewelsh4634]

🥰 Since you don't have a mortgage or rent.... you basically pay $275 per month for your space. Not bad at all. Don't remember if you had to take out a loan for the TV though.

[@marleymae6746]

Thanks Carolyn

[@khryswash8915]

No matter the topic I ALWAYS learn something🥳

[@CarolynsRVLife]

I'm so glad!

[@lisarogers4034]

Ditto

[@SergeantSudsLaundryPowder]

Wow, Love This Video...ty for sharing ❣

[@suedavidson8085]

Great video!

[@debbiewallace-bennett3708]

Don't know if you watch any other RV channels but yesterday Camper Van Kevin had a video on his Onan generator. He got it repaired in Flagstaff for an amazing price. He was very impressed with the guy. Might check out his video. His was also his carburetor. At the end he gives the guys name and phone number. Might be something to look at.

[@mep1348]

FYI...I just saw that Campervan Kevin got his generator repaired in Flag at 7011 N Hwy 89. He was very happy with their service and price. The title of his video is: RV Repair Shop Attempts To Overcharge Me On Onan Generator Repair And Fails !!!

[@lindac7146]

Excellent and informative video.

[@lindabozick2523]

Thanks Again...Safe Travels

[@nancycain4434]

Good info, Thank you

[@MimiMcWil]

That's really pretty good! It's less than our electric/water/sewer bill.

[@mikeranfurly1135]

Great input. Wonderful way, and cheap way to live to be so free. I have so enjoyed watching you grow and embrace the woman you were meant to be

[@MsCar2008]

Call Camper van Kevin same problem got this guy to fix it. Don’t remember who he used he gave the guy a great shout out.

[@juliespencer2588]

Great info!! ❤️❤️❤️