Written by the Motorplex Team
Offering RV and motorhome repairs in Auburn and Spokane, WA.
Motorplex by FleetEasy is an experienced diesel and heavy-duty repair shop with locations in Auburn and Spokane. We assist locals and travellers with motorhome and RV repairs for engine or mechanical issues. Because we work with large vehicles all the time, we have the shop equipment, diagnostic tools and skilled technicians to inspect, diagnose and fix the problem.
Recently, we had a customer bring in their 2007 motorhome on a Chevy Chassis. He told us that it was losing power intermittently and needed an inspection and repair recommendations.
Tracking Down the Power-Loss Concern
The initial inspection revealed several CAN communication fault codes. It’s difficult to pinpoint the issue to a specific component, so our technician had to dig deeper with a comprehensive electrical diagnostic.
What is a CAN Communication fault code?
A CAN communication fault code is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a vehicle’s computer modules cannot talk to each other properly. CAN stands for Controller Area Network.
The process included a wiggle test, fuse inspection, wiring diagram review and testing of the vehicle’s CAN communication circuits. Voltage and resistance measurements, ground testing and module testing were also performed.
The electrical system passed these tests, so it was time to get this motorhome through a road test. While driving, the technician found that the power-loss issue was related to the coolant level sensing system.
We ran a cooling-system pressure test to see if there was an actual leak or if it was just a sensor issue. Often it’s the sensor. The system held pressure! The coolant reservoir was then replaced, and the cooling system was vacuum-filled.
We did another road test. The motorhome experienced no further power loss, and the check engine light didn’t come back on.
Motorhome Maintenance Required
The power-loss diagnosis was only one part of the visit. The customer had also noticed what appeared to be transmission fluid on the undercarriage during a previous road trip.
The transmission was inspected and found to be low on fluid. Thankfully, there wasn’t a leak, and we topped it up, cleaned it up and took it on the road test. It drove normally and the transmission stayed dry.
Motorplex also completed several requested maintenance and repair services to get this beloved RV road-ready again. These included:
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- Transmission service
- Cooler-line flushing
- Fuel filter replacement
- Brake fluid flushing
- Differential service
- Chassis lubrication
- A/C service
- Marker light repair
- Tire pressure monitoring system installation
The front-end inspection found damaged ball-joint boots and concerns with the drag link. The drag link was replaced, and the steering linkage was re-inspected before the motorhome was sent for an alignment. The front end was found to be tight and suitable for alignment, so it was complete.
Thorough Diagnostics Before Returning to the Road
To the customer’s relief, final testing showed the motorhome operating normally. The transmission was functioning properly, the A/C was blowing cold, cruise control was operating, and no further active fault codes were present.
With older, well-loved RVs like this one, it’s not uncommon to find multiple issues from one symptom. Careful diagnostics, in-shop and road testing, can help technicians find and fix the source of the problem. We can also find other minor issues before they become next season’s breakdown.
It might seem like a laundry list of repairs, but the diagnostic and troubleshooting stage was the most challenging. The actual repairs were simple, and avid RVers understand the importance of taking care of their rig.
RV Repair and Maintenance in Washington State
Motorplex offers in-shop and on-site RV repair and maintenance throughout Washington State. We have dispatch locations in Auburn and Spokane, giving us a wide service area. Our services are also available 24/7, so when weary RV travellers find themselves in a pickle in the middle of the night, we can come to your rescue.
Have your RV inspected, tuned up and repaired this fall and be ready to roll for next year’s RV season.