The Top 20 RV Mechanic Interview Questions To Prepare For

Getting hired as an RV mechanic can be competitive. You’ll need to demonstrate technical expertise as well as strong customer service and problem-solving skills. That’s why it’s important to prepare for the types of questions you’re likely to face in an RV mechanic interview.

These are the 20 most common questions asked of RV mechanics. We’ll also give you advice on how to write great answers. Reviewing these questions can help you do well on your next big interview, no matter how long you’ve been working or how new your job is.

1. What experience do you have working on RVs?

This is likely to be one of the first questions in the interview Hiring managers want to understand the breadth and depth of your hands-on experience with RV maintenance and repair, Be prepared to provide specifics like

• The types of RVs you’ve worked on – Class A, Class B, Class C motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, etc.

• The RV models and brands you’re most familiar with – Winnebago Jayco Thor, etc.

• What kinds of RV systems you know how to work with—electrical, plumbing, HVAC, generators, appliances, propane systems, and so on

• The specific repairs and maintenance work you’ve done, like oil changes, brake work, tune-ups, roof repairs, leveling system calibration, and so on

The more detailed experience you can describe, the better. Even if you’re new to RV mechanics, highlight any relevant experience working on automobiles, heavy trucks, or other vehicles.

2. What diagnostic tools and repair equipment are you comfortable using?

Employers want confidence that you can effectively utilize the tools of the trade. Be ready to talk about specialized diagnostic scanners, digital multimeters, torque wrenches, welding equipment, hydraulic jacks, air compressors, generators, and any other gear commonly found in an RV shop.

For newer mechanics, speak to tools and equipment you’ve been trained on or are eager to learn how to use properly. Demonstrating enthusiasm will go a long way.

3. How would you inspect an RV to determine necessary repairs?

This question tests your systematic approach to vehicle inspections. In your answer, walk through the key steps like:

• Interviewing the owner to understand problems they’ve noticed
• Performing a thorough visual inspection of the interior and exterior
• Checking fluid levels, hoses, belts, tires, etc.
• Using diagnostic tools to analyze engine codes or electrical issues
• Consulting repair manuals and your past experience to make deductions
• Creating a detailed checklist of needed repairs

Emphasize safety, precision, and attention to detail in your process. These qualities are vital for an RV mechanic.

4. How do you stay up to date on the latest RV technologies and repair techniques?

The RV industry evolves rapidly. Employers need to know you are committed to continuously developing your knowledge and skills. Talk about proactive ways you stay current, like:

• Reading RV trade publications and blogs
• Attending conferences and training seminars
• Studying new RV owner’s manuals
• Joining online communities of other RV technicians
• Practicing new repair techniques during down time

Position yourself as an eager lifelong learner, not someone stuck in their ways. It will demonstrate you can adapt as RV systems become more advanced.

5. How do you handle an unhappy customer?

No one enjoys dealing with an upset customer. However, hiring managers want to see that you can maintain professionalism and work to resolve the issue. Highlight that you:

• Listen calmly and let the customer vent their frustrations
• Apologize for the inconvenience and show empathy
• Ask questions to understand the root cause of dissatisfaction
• Explain the situation objectively and set realistic expectations
• Focus on finding a solution, even if it means asking others for help
• Follow up afterwards to ensure the customer is happy

Portray yourself as someone with patience, emotional intelligence, and a dedication to customer satisfaction. These soft skills are incredibly valuable in an RV service role.

6. Do you have experience using computerized inventory management systems?

Parts inventory is a make-or-break aspect of running an efficient RV repair shop. Interviewers want to know you understand the critical importance of tracking inventory and can operate the tools to do so.

Discuss experience with software platforms that provide real-time visibility and control of parts stock, suppliers, reordering, etc. If lacking hands-on experience, show eagerness to learn new inventory management technology.

7. How do you prioritize when multiple RVs are waiting for repairs?

Like any mechanic, RV technicians must juggle multiple repairs simultaneously. Share how you take a systematic approach to prioritizing, such as:

• Identifying safety issues that must be addressed immediately
• Consulting with customers to understand scheduling needs
• Evaluating which repairs will be quickest to complete
• Grouping repairs requiring similar parts or equipment
• Communicating delays promptly and setting revised timelines
• Bringing in other technicians if needed to prevent bottlenecks

Reliability and communication are key. Portray yourself as someone who takes the stress out of prioritization.

8. Have you handled warranty-related repairs? What was your process?

Warranty work is a significant responsibility. Be ready to prove you can handle the extra documentation and potential complications. Highlight skills like:

• Communicating with manufacturers to confirm warranty eligibility
• Thoroughly documenting all repair steps, parts, and labor times
• Submitting necessary claim paperwork to manufacturers
• Acting as liaison between the customer and manufacturer if any disputes arise
• Identifying patterns in warranty repairs that could indicate broader issues

Paint yourself as meticulous, communicative, and eager to take on the responsibility of warranty work.

9. What safety precautions do you take when making RV repairs?

Safety should always be the top priority for RV technicians. Discuss the work habits you follow to create a safe environment, such as:

• Using proper protective gear – glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, etc.
• Checking for propane or gas leaks before working in an area
• Using jack stands and wheel chocks when working under a vehicle
• Operating tools and equipment carefully to avoid injury
• Keeping flammable chemicals properly stored
• Maintaining a clean, clutter-free workspace

You may also highlight any OSHA training courses in safety that you have completed.

10. How do you stay organized when working on an RV repair job?

Organization and efficiency go hand-in-hand for RV mechanics. Share how you systematically keep track of things, like:

• Maintaining a clean and logically arranged workspace
• Keeping repair manuals, diagrams, and specs readily accessible
• Labeling parts and fasteners as they are removed during disassembly
• Making detailed notes about problems found and fixes performed
• Taking photos of repairs to reference later if needed
• Restoring tools to their proper storage location after use

Being methodical in your process portrays you as attentive to detail and able to follow repair jobs through to completion.

11. Have you handled emergency roadside RV repairs before?

Roadside breakdowns are stressful but inevitable. Interviewers want to know you can act swiftly and make sound decisions under pressure. Recount a time you successfully:

• Troubleshot the issue roadside, determined if temporary repairs could get the RV safely to the shop, and towed it if necessary
• Communicated clearly with the distressed customer throughout the process
• Prioritized the emergency repair job once at the shop
• Completed the repair work efficiently to minimize downtime
• Followed up to ensure no lingering issues remained

Proving you handle emergencies calmly is a great way to stand out.

12. What steps would you take if a required part was out of stock?

Parts delays happen, so demonstrate how you’d adapt. Your response might cover:

• Researching alternative or substitute parts
• Contacting other suppliers about part availability
• Providing temporary repairs to resolve immediate issues if possible
• Setting clear expectations with the customer about possible delays
• Arranging for expedited part shipping if available
• Adjusting the repair schedule and proactively communicating changes

Portray yourself as flexible, creative, and dedicated to minimizing downtime. The ability to roll with the punches is key.

13. How do you verify the quality of your work when repairs are complete?

Quality control is paramount. Discuss how you inspect repairs thoroughly before returning an RV, such as:

• Visual examination – no fluid leaks, wires secured, hardware tightened, etc.
• Testing functionality – electrical, appliances, slide outs, leveling jacks, HVAC, etc.
• Road testing – brakes, transmission, handling, etc.
• Requesting customer feedback – have them use features to check for lingering issues
• Following up over time to ensure no problems arise

Conveying diligence will show you stand behind your work.

14. How do you respond when a customer questions or challenges your repair recommendation?

As an expert, sometimes you’ll need to educate customers. Share how you’d diplomatically handle pushback, like:

• Listening patiently and asking questions to understan