Essential Caravan Maintenance Tips

That’s a wrap on our time at the 2025 Let’s Go Sunshine Coast Caravan & Outdoor

Expo! 

It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and connect with both new and

experienced caravanners. Over the three days, Adam and Brett from Suncoast

Caravan Service and Southeast Fibreglass took to the stage to share practical

advice on caravan care and protection. 

In case you couldn’t make it to the show, here’s a deeper dive into the five key points

they covered: 

1. Why You Should Service Brakes & Bearings Every 10,000km or 12 Months 

Your caravan’s brakes and wheel bearings are among the most important safety

components on the road. Over time, grease breaks down, seals wear out, and

bearings can overheat or seize if not properly maintained. A regular service every

10,000km or 12 months ensures these parts are cleaned, re-greased, inspected, and

replaced if needed. Not only does this protect you and your passengers, but it also

helps avoid costly breakdowns and damage that can occur when issues go

unnoticed. 

2. Comprehensive Brake & Bearing Services – When to Consider More Than

the Basics 

While routine servicing generally covers cleaning, repacking, and adjusting brakes

and bearings, every few years it’s worth investing in a more comprehensive

service. This goes beyond the basics to include replacing worn backing plates,

thoroughly inspecting the entire braking system, and upgrading to higher-quality

components where needed. A deeper service also takes in seal inspections to

prevent leaks, suspension and alignment checks to catch early signs of uneven tyre

wear, and a full gas system test for safety and compliance. At the same time, all

caravan appliances can be checked to ensure they’re operating efficiently and

reliably.  

3. Understanding Caravan Construction Types:
Timber, Aluminium & Composite Fibreglass 

Not all caravans are built the same, and understanding how your van is constructed

helps with maintenance and future upgrades. 

–  Timber Frame – Traditional and cost-effective, but can be vulnerable to water

damage and rot if leaks occur. 

–  Aluminium Frame – Lightweight, strong, and resistant to rot, but may be

prone to fatigue cracks over long-term use. 

–  Composite Fibreglass Panel – Modern, sleek, and excellent for insulation,

but repairs can be more specialised if damage occurs. 

Each style comes with advantages and disadvantages – knowing what you have (or

what you might buy) ensures you’re prepared for both maintenance and longevity.
 

4. Best Practice for Washing Your Caravan 

Keeping your caravan clean isn’t just about looks – it’s also a vital part of protecting

your investment. Regular washing removes dirt, road grime, and contaminants that

can cause damage over time. Adam recommended using a low PH or PH-neutral

wash, such as Vantec Shampoo, which is gentle on seals, paintwork, and protective

coatings. Avoid harsh detergents or abrasive tools that can strip protective layers or

scratch your van’s surface. A simple, consistent cleaning routine will keep your

caravan looking its best and help maintain resale value. 

5. The Benefits of Ceramic Coatings & PPF Wraps 

Brett wrapped up the talk by sharing how modern surface protection options can

make a big difference for caravan owners. 

– Vantec Ceramic Coating creates a glossy, hydrophobic barrier that makes

cleaning easier while offering long-term protection against UV rays, dirt, and

contaminants. 

– 3M Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a clear, tough layer applied to high-wear

areas, helping prevent scratches, stone chips, and scuffs. 

Together, these products can keep your caravan looking new for longer, reduce

cleaning time, and provide peace of mind when travelling on all kinds of roads. 

Want to Learn More? 

If you’re interested in booking a caravan service or have questions about

maintenance, get in touch with us at Suncoast Caravan Service: 

(07) 5443 1036 | [email protected] 

For enquiries about Vantec Ceramic Coating or 3M PPF wraps, reach out to our

sister company Southeast Fibreglass Service:
https://southeastfibreglass.com.au/ 
(07) 5490 6300 | [email protected]