Fall Maintenance Checklist for Your VW Eurovan
As fall brings cooler temperatures and wet weather, it’s the perfect time to prepare your VW Eurovan for the season ahead. Whether you’re planning late-season camping trips or getting your van ready for winter storage, fall maintenance is essential to keep your van in top condition. From checking your propane system to preventing rodent intruders, this guide will help you avoid common issues and ensure your van is ready for anything.
1. Propane Tank Maintenance and Leak Check ☑
Your Eurovan’s propane system powers important appliances, such as the stove and furnace, so it’s important to check the tank and connections for leaks.
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● Inspect the propane tank for rust, corrosion, and valve integrity.
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● Test for leaks: Use soapy water on the connections and hoses. If you see bubbles, you
have a leak that needs to be fixed immediately.
2. Fridge Airing and Maintenance ☑
Before storing your van or even between trips, it’s crucial to clean and air out your fridge.
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● Clean the fridge thoroughly and remove all food to prevent odors and mold. Put a box a baking soda inside if you are not using the fridge on a regular basis.
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● If storing for the winter, Leave the fridge door propped open to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup inside. (You will need to disconnect your coach battery to do this)
These steps ensure your fridge stays fresh and odor-free, making it ready to use at the start of the next trip.
3. Coach Battery Care ☑
Your coach battery powers the lights, fridge, 12 volt outlets and other key appliances in your van. Cold weather can drain the battery more quickly, so it's important to take precautions if you're storing the van for a while.
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● Disconnect the coach battery during long-term storage to prevent it from fully discharging.
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● If you want to keep it charged, use a battery tender to maintain the battery at an optimal level without overcharging it.
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● Clean the terminals and check for any signs of corrosion.
These steps will help extend the life of your coach battery and ensure it's ready when you need it.
4. Drain and Sanitize the Fresh and Gray Water Tanks ☑
Before winter hits, it’s important to drain and sanitize both your fresh and gray water tanks to prevent freezing and bacteria buildup.
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● Drain the fresh water tank completely, then sanitize it with a solution like bleach and water. Rinse thoroughly afterward. Remember, we do not recommend drinking water from your tank - it is just for washing dishes and hands.
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● Flush the gray water tank to clear out any standing water or residue.
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● If storing the van, leave both tanks dry to avoid freezing or buildup over the winter.
5. Inspect Seals and Roof for Leaks ☑
Fall’s wet weather makes it essential to check your Eurovan’s seals and roof for leaks.
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● Inspect the rubber seals around windows, doors, and roof vents for any cracks or wear that could let water in.
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● Re-seal any areas that show signs of deterioration.
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● Check the roof for damage, especially around solar panels or roof vents, and repair any
small cracks before they become bigger issues.
Keeping your seals in good condition helps prevent moisture and water damage to your van’s interior.
6. Heating System Check ☑
Cooler fall nights mean you’ll want a reliable heating system.
- ● Test your heater to ensure it's working correctly and providing adequate warmth.
Ensuring your heating system is functioning well will keep you warm during any fall or early winter camping trips.
7. Rodent Prevention ☑
Rodents often seek warmth and shelter in vehicles during the fall, making your Eurovan a potential target.
- ● Seal entry points: Make sure you have screened off the areas that mice like to access in your Eurovan camper (behind the rear bumper!)
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● Use natural rodent repellents like peppermint oil or rodent-repellent pouches inside the van.
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● Remove all food from the van! When camping, make sure you store your food in airtight containers so you don’t attract rodents at your campsite.
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● Regularly inspect the van during storage for signs of rodent activity, like droppings or chewed wires.
Taking these precautions can save you from costly repairs due to rodent damage.
8. Tire and Brake Check ☑
After a summer of road trips, your tires and brakes may need some attention.
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● Check tire tread for wear and ensure proper inflation, as cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop faster.
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● If you plan on driving in icy or wet conditions, consider switching to all-weather or winter tires.
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● Inspect the brakes for wear, especially the pads and rotors. If you hear squeaking or grinding, it may be time for replacements.
Ensuring your tires and brakes are in top condition will keep you safe during any fall drives.
9. Clean Your Awning ☑
Before the wet weather sets in, clean and store your Fiamma awning to prevent damage.
- ● Clean the awning fabric with mild soap and water to remove any dirt or mildew buildup.
- ●Let the awning dry completely before storing it to avoid mold growth.
- ● Lubricate the brackets and joints to ensure everything operates smoothly when you’re ready to use it again.
Proper awning care during fall can extend its life and ensure it’s ready for use when the weather improves.
10. Consider a Car Cover for Outdoor Storage ☑
If you’re storing your van outside for an extended period, adding a car cover can protect it from the elements.
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● A weatherproof car cover will protect your Eurovan from rain, snow, and debris, reducing the risk of rust or paint damage.
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● It also helps prevent UV damage from prolonged sun exposure, keeping your van’s exterior in better condition.
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● Make sure the cover fits snugly and allows for proper ventilation to avoid trapping moisture underneath.
Investing in a good-quality car cover is a simple but effective way to protect your van during long-term outdoor storage.
Ready for Fall?
By following these fall maintenance steps, your VW Eurovan will be in excellent condition for either storage or late-season trips. From checking the propane system and water tanks to preventing rodents and using a car cover, these tasks will ensure your van is well-protected through the changing season.
At Poptop World, we offer a full range of parts and services, including Eurovan service and upgrades, Fiamma awning repairs, Renogy power solutions, and we ship parts nationwide. Whether you're preparing your van for fall adventures or getting it ready for winter, we have everything you need. Visit our shop or browse our store to make sure your Eurovan is fall-ready.