Would you like to save this article?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later to read!
The open road is calling, but what happens when your home-on-wheels answers with a loud “clunk” instead of a happy purr? We recently posed a crucial question to our readers about their strategy for handling those inevitable RV breakdowns.
This topic strikes a chord with every RVer, from the weekend warrior to the full-time nomad, as a broken-down rig can turn a dream trip into a roadside dilemma faster than you can say “blown tire.”
We launched this poll directly in our newsletter to get the real scoop from our community of experienced travelers. The results are in, and they paint a fascinating picture of self-reliance, trust in professionals, and a shared dread of the dealership. Remember to subscribe and vote in our future polls so your voice can be part of the results and findings!
Here is a breakdown of how our community leans when things go mechanically wrong.
| Approach | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Roadside Assistance | 28% |
| DIY Repairs | 28% |
| Mobile RV Tech | 33% |
| RV Dealership | 11% |
The Great RV Breakdown Divide
As you can see, the RV community is neatly split into several distinct camps. It seems when trouble hits, we all have a very different idea of what constitutes a “good time.”
Let’s be honest, the “DIY Repairs” crew (28%) is the group we all secretly wish we were. They hear a strange noise and see it as a fun puzzle. Their toolboxes are better stocked than most hardware stores, and they aren’t afraid to use them.
The Phone-A-Friend Factions
Then we have the two groups who prefer to let someone else get their hands dirty. The “Roadside Assistance” champions (28%) have their membership card on speed dial. For them, a breakdown is simply a minor plot twist that involves making a call and waiting patiently for a hero in a tow truck.
Slightly edging them out are the “Mobile RV Tech” supporters (33%). This group has mastered the art of the targeted SOS. Why drag your entire house to a shop when you can have the shop come to your beautiful, albeit broken, boondocking spot?
The Dealership: A Last Resort
And then, sitting quietly in the corner, we have the “RV Dealership” option at a mere 11%. This is the group we turn to only when all else fails, or when the problem requires a mortgage to fix. Choosing the dealership often feels like entering a labyrinth of scheduling, invoices, and a mysterious “diagnostic fee.”
Our Take: Why the Results Shook Out This Way
We believe these results perfectly reflect the modern RVing ethos. The near-tie between DIY and Roadside Assistance highlights the core divide between self-sufficient adventurers and those who prioritize peace of mind through a paid service. The strong showing for Mobile RV Techs, however, is the real story of convenience winning the day. It’s the perfect middle ground—expert help without the hassle of a tow. The dealership’s last-place finish is no surprise; it’s often seen as a time-consuming and expensive last resort, reserved for warranty work or problems too complex for even a mobile pro. Ultimately, the data shows that while we all love the freedom of the road, we have very different strategies for buying that freedom back when our rigs decide to take an unscheduled vacation!
