Establishing A Monthly Maintenance Fund

[Kro1957]

We had questions about Maintenance Costs for a MH DP.

1. What is the typical cost for oil changes and filters? Do you do it yourself or where is a reliable, fair place you look for service on the road?

2. If you have a Aqua Hot, there are annual or bi-annual services, other mechanical expenses of the MH. I would expect to set aside a certain amount of cash each month in escrow for what ever operating costs that arise unexpectedly or otherwise.

3. Curious if any of you do this and if so what is a reasonable amount to set aside for issues that would not be covered under warranties?

[Ludmilla]

I would budget $1200 per year for all maintenance, including a 7 year replacement of the tires. If you do some work yourself, you can reduce that. I go to Speedco for oil changes and it costs just under $300 to change the oil, oil and fuel filters, lube, and replace the oil and filters on the generator. However, there are more maintenance items than this. I would recommend you generate a spreadsheet with all the maintenance items for your coach. For example, you need to periodically replace the air filter, air dryer, coolant, transmission fluid, etc.

[Fiesta48]

I'm saving up about $400 per month until I get to $10,000.
Stealer wanted $9000+ for extended warranty. Figured if everything broke before 5-6 years it wouldn't cost that much.
Now I'll have enough to do major maintenance, new tires, and much more. I do my own work saving 50-75%. Gives me something to do and I know it's done right.

[vsheetz]

Speedco.
Good service and good price.
Lube, oil, oil filter, and fuel filter(s).
They may not have your air filter on hand, but will change it if you provide one.
Locations nationwide. See their website for locator.

[Rusty years]

I've seen CW offering a good price on oil change.

[djbmsu]

I believe anyone utilizing CW for anything other than to compare prices has not dealt with CW nor read their pathetic track record for their repair service.