Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes

Engine care you can trust

Your motorhome’s engine deserves the right care to perform at its best on every journey. With a professional engine oil and filter service from Bristol Caravans, you can drive with confidence knowing your engine is properly protected. Fresh oil and the correct filter help keep everything running smoothly and reliably, so you can focus on enjoying the road ahead and making the most of every trip.

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Engine Oil Service Explained

For most motorhomes, an engine oil and filter change is recommended at least once a year, even if the vehicle has covered very low mileage. Unlike cars that are driven regularly, motorhomes often spend long periods parked up, which can cause oil to degrade over time. Moisture build-up and contaminants can reduce the oil’s ability to protect the engine properly, regardless of mileage.

If you use your motorhome frequently or for long journeys, you may also need to consider mileage-based servicing, particularly for heavier vehicles or those used for towing. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines is important, but many owners choose annual oil changes as a safe and cost-effective way to protect their engine and maintain reliability.

Yes, a motorhome oil change is often different from a standard car oil change. Motorhomes are heavier vehicles, usually built on commercial chassis such as the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, or Ford Transit. These engines are designed to work harder under load and often require specific oil grades to cope with higher temperatures and stresses.

In addition, access to filters and drain points can differ, and using the wrong oil or filter can affect engine performance and longevity. A motorhome specialist will understand these differences and ensure the correct components and procedures are used, giving owners peace of mind that the service is suitable for their vehicle.

The type of oil your motorhome needs depends on the engine, its age, and the manufacturer’s specifications. Many modern motorhomes require low-ash or low-SAPS oils, particularly if they are fitted with emissions systems such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Using the wrong oil can cause increased wear or even damage to these systems.

It’s also important to consider viscosity ratings, which affect how the engine performs in different temperatures. A professional service ensures the correct oil is used every time, helping to protect your engine, maintain fuel efficiency, and preserve your service history.

Delaying an oil and filter change can lead to old, contaminated oil circulating through the engine. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate and protect moving parts. This can increase engine wear, reduce efficiency, and raise the risk of overheating or internal damage.

For motorhomes, which may already be under greater strain due to weight and long journeys, neglecting oil changes can result in costly repairs that could have been avoided. Regular servicing is a relatively small investment compared to the potential expense and inconvenience of engine failure while travelling.

While the primary focus is replacing the oil and filter, a professional motorhome service often includes basic visual checks of key engine components. This may include checking fluid levels, inspecting belts and hoses, and looking for signs of leaks or wear that could develop into larger issues.

These additional checks are valuable because they help catch problems early, before they become breakdowns or expensive repairs. For many owners, this added reassurance is just as important as the oil change itself, especially before a long trip or the start of the touring season.

Yes, many owners notice improvements after an oil and filter change, particularly if the oil was overdue. Fresh oil allows the engine to run more smoothly, reduces internal friction, and can improve responsiveness. In some cases, it may also help with fuel efficiency and quieter operation.

More importantly, regular oil and filter changes support long-term engine health. Even if the improvements aren’t immediately obvious, maintaining clean oil is one of the best ways to extend the life of your engine and ensure your motorhome remains reliable for years to come.

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Our Team

Welcome to the team here at Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes. We’re really proud of the team, and over the years it’s been our pleasure to provide advice and services to our ever-growing loyal customers.

Thank you for trusting us with your investment.

Oakleigh Wood
Director
Eliot Carey
Manager
Tracey Allen
Service Advisor
Nick Marshall
Caravan Technician
Andy Carter
Caravan technician
Nick Clifford
Valeter
Joe Wonnacott
Senior technician
Rob Housham
driver

“We arrived at Llanfyllin, and it was raining so hard it was difficult to find our plot. Once parked up, it took just 90 seconds as we let our automatic levelling system get us level. Thank you, Bristol Caravans, for fitting our amazing levelling system.”

Jake and Carol Smith