08/09/2011
Ensuring Your Caravan or Motorhome Gets the Best Care
When it comes to maintaining your cherished caravan or motorhome, one of the most crucial questions you'll ask is: "Who is servicing my vehicle?" The answer to this question can have significant implications for your vehicle's performance, longevity, and importantly, its warranty. In the world of leisure vehicles, the term "Approved Workshop" is one you'll hear frequently, and for good reason. It signifies a commitment to quality, safety, and adherence to manufacturer standards. But what exactly does it mean to be an Approved Workshop, and how can you be sure you're entrusting your home on wheels to qualified professionals?
Let's delve into the details of what makes a workshop "approved" and why choosing one is vital for every caravan and motorhome owner. We'll explore the benefits, the certifications to look for, and what you can expect during a typical service.
The Importance of the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS)
The Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS) is a joint initiative by the National Caravan Council (NCC), The Caravan and Motor Club, and The Camping and Caravanning Club. Its primary aim is to provide caravan and motorhome owners with the confidence that their vehicle is being serviced by workshops that meet stringent standards. When a workshop is part of the AWS, it means they have been independently assessed and approved based on their facilities, equipment, staff qualifications, and customer service. This accreditation is not easily obtained, and maintaining it requires continuous commitment to excellence.
One of the key benefits of using an AWS-approved workshop is the assurance that your manufacturer's warranty will remain valid. Many manufacturers stipulate that servicing must be carried out by authorised or approved centres. By choosing an AWS workshop, you are fulfilling these requirements, safeguarding your investment against potential issues down the line.
What about "NCC Workshops"?
It's a common point of confusion, but it's important to clarify: there isn't actually a category of "NCC Workshops." What manufacturers often refer to, and what is indeed recognised and valuable, are AWS Approved Workshops. These are workshops that have met the rigorous standards set out by the AWS. If you're ever in doubt, it's always best to contact your vehicle manufacturer directly (such as Bailey, Swift, Elddis, etc.) and ask specifically if they permit servicing by an AWS Approved mobile workshop. The answer is almost always a resounding yes.
Meet the Experts: MRE Services and Cranham Leisure
To illustrate the quality of service provided by approved workshops, let's look at two examples: MRE Services and Cranham Leisure.
MRE Services: Mobile Expertise in Somerset
MRE Services proudly highlights its membership in the Approved Mobile Workshop Scheme. This means they can service your caravan or motorhome to the same high standards you expect, with the added peace of mind that your manufacturer's warranty remains intact. When you book a service with MRE Services, you know precisely who is working on your vehicle. They emphasize the importance of checking the qualifications of the engineer, and as an AWS workshop, they assure customers that their technicians possess the relevant qualifications.
MRE Services offers a range of service options tailored to your needs:
- Full Caravan Service: This comprehensive service includes a water ingress report, checks on the hitch damper and grease, a gas soundness test, inspection of gas hoses (with renewal if necessary), checking all gas appliance operations, heating system checks, electrical system checks, lubrication of door locks and hinges, wheel and hub inspection, tyre pressure checks, brake system cleaning and inspection, wheel bearing checks, brake and handbrake adjustments, winding leg checks and greasing, general chassis condition checks, and a microwave leakage test.
- Chassis Service: A more focused service that includes checking the hitch damper, removing wheels and hubs, inspecting tyres and pressures, inspecting and cleaning the braking system, checking wheel bearings, adjusting brakes and handbrake, checking and greasing winding legs, and assessing the general chassis condition.
- Caravan and Motorhome Habitation Service: This focuses on the living area of your vehicle, ensuring all internal systems are functioning correctly and safely.
- Gas Soundness Test: Essential for ensuring the safety of your gas system.
- Damp Test: Crucial for identifying and addressing potential water ingress issues.
- Winter Drain Down: A vital service to prevent damage from freezing temperatures during winter storage.
MRE Services operates throughout Somerset (North, South, West, and East), bringing their expertise directly to you. They also offer the flexibility to customise servicing to meet specific requirements. A small sample of the extensive work carried out during a service is provided, but don't hesitate to contact Martin to discuss your needs.
Cranham Leisure: A Trusted Centre in Essex and East London
Cranham Leisure is another excellent example of an AWS-approved service centre. They cater to caravans and motorhomes in Essex and East London, offering servicing for a wide range of popular brands, including Auto-Trail, Bürstner, Hymer, Roller Team, and importantly, Bailey, for whom they are an approved service centre. When you book an annual service with Cranham Leisure, you can be confident that your vehicle is in the hands of highly qualified technicians who use up-to-date procedures and modern testing equipment.
Cranham Leisure's commitment extends to repairs as well. They understand the complexity of modern motorhomes and the importance of regular habitation checks to ensure everything is in working order. Their technicians are fully trained to the latest standards, and their workshops are Gas Safe registered. As an AWS-endorsed workshop, they meet the high standards set by the NCC, The Caravan and Motorhome Club, and The Camping and Caravanning Club, solidifying their reputation as a trusted service provider.
What to Expect During a Service
Regardless of whether you choose a mobile service like MRE Services or a fixed workshop like Cranham Leisure, an AWS-approved service will typically involve a thorough inspection of your vehicle. A comprehensive service checklist is followed to ensure all critical components are examined and functioning correctly.
Key Checks in a Typical Service:
While specific items may vary slightly between workshops and depending on the type of service (e.g., full service vs. chassis service), here are some of the common checks you can expect:
| Component/System | Check Performed |
|---|---|
| Chassis | General condition inspection, check for corrosion or damage. |
| Braking System | Inspection and cleaning of brakes, adjustment of brakes and handbrake, checking wheel bearings. |
| Wheels and Tyres | Removal of wheels and hubs, inspection of tyres for wear and damage, checking tyre pressures. |
| Hitch and Coupling | Check hitch damper, grease hitch, inspect breakaway cable. |
| Gas System | Gas soundness test, check flexible gas hose for condition and expiry, check operation of all gas appliances (cooker, fridge, heater, water heater). |
| 12V Electrical System | Check operation of lights, sockets, water pump, control panel, battery condition. |
| 230V Electrical System | Check RCD, sockets, appliance operation (if applicable). |
| Water System | Check water pump, taps, pipes, and waste system. (Often part of a habitation service, especially checking for leaks). |
| Heating and Hot Water | Check operation of the heating system (e.g., blown air, boiler) and hot water system. |
| Habitation Area | Check Seitz windows, roof lights, doors, locks, hinges, blinds, and general interior condition. Check for damp using a damp meter. |
| Microwave | Microwave leakage test (if fitted). |
The Habitation Service: More Than Just a Check
A habitation service is particularly important as it focuses on the "living" aspects of your caravan or motorhome. This includes ensuring all the appliances you rely on – the cooker, heater, fridge, water heater, toilet, and shower – are functioning safely and efficiently. It also encompasses checks for water ingress and damp, which can lead to significant structural damage if left unaddressed. A thorough habitation service ensures your leisure vehicle is a safe and comfortable place to be.
Why Regular Servicing is Non-Negotiable
Regular servicing, typically on an annual basis, is not just about maintaining your warranty; it's about ensuring the safety and reliability of your vehicle. A well-maintained caravan or motorhome is a safer caravan or motorhome. Issues like faulty gas systems, worn brakes, or damp can pose serious risks. Furthermore, regular maintenance can identify small problems before they escalate into costly repairs.
Think of it as preventative healthcare for your vehicle. Just as you visit the doctor for regular check-ups, your caravan or motorhome benefits immensely from professional servicing. It ensures optimal performance, prolongs its lifespan, and ultimately, enhances your enjoyment of the caravanning lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: My manufacturer says I need an "NCC Workshop." What does that mean?
As mentioned, there isn't a specific category called "NCC Workshops." Manufacturers generally mean workshops that are part of the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS). Always confirm with your manufacturer if an AWS Approved workshop is acceptable for maintaining your warranty.
Q2: Can a mobile mechanic service my caravan?
Yes, provided they are part of the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS). Mobile workshops like MRE Services bring the service to your doorstep, offering great convenience.
Q3: How often should my caravan or motorhome be serviced?
It is generally recommended to have your caravan or motorhome serviced annually. However, always check your manufacturer's guidelines for specific intervals.
Q4: What's the difference between a full service and a habitation service?
A full service typically includes mechanical and chassis checks (brakes, wheels, chassis) along with habitation checks. A habitation service focuses specifically on the interior living systems, appliances, and checks for water ingress and damp.
Q5: Will servicing at an AWS workshop affect my warranty?
No, in fact, it is the recommended way to ensure your warranty remains valid. Servicing at an AWS workshop meets the standards required by most manufacturers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right workshop for your caravan or motorhome servicing is a critical decision. By opting for an AWS Approved Workshop, you are investing in quality, safety, and the preservation of your vehicle's warranty. Whether you choose a mobile service provider or a fixed workshop, the commitment to high standards ensures your leisure vehicle is expertly cared for, allowing you to embark on your adventures with complete peace of mind.
If you want to read more articles similar to Caravan & Motorhome Servicing Explained, you can visit the Servicing category.