And servicing, too

Getting a decent price for servicing and repairs should be a little easier than it used to be, thanks in part to the Approved Workshop Scheme that the National Caravan Council operates in partnership with the Caravan and Motorhome Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club.

The scheme’s 570-plus members must show that all workshop staff have gained four separate training certificates connected with motorhome repairs. They have to promise to provide a written estimate for any service-related repairs that come to more than £150, and should give realistic times for when work should be completed.

The AWS could potentially help you out if you want to buy from a show, but don’t want to have to go back to the dealer you bought from there. Through the scheme you can arrange for a local workshop to carry out all warranty supporting repair work – although you will have to get approval from the original dealer. That’s not to say that non-AWS members won’t make such arrangements on an ad-hoc basis – if you speak to your dealer direct, they will be able to confirm if this is possible.

It’s also worth noting that the AWS scheme only applies to service-related repairs. Bigger repairs such as damp work or crash damage are not covered. Whatever your circumstances, and whichever dealer you purchase your motorhome from, you shouldn’t skimp on servicing.

If it’s required for your warranty, you might void that warranty by doing so.

For more details on the Approved Workshop Scheme, visit www.approvedworkshops.co.uk.