Where to find RV parts in your area

RV parts are sold through three main channels: dedicated RV dealerships and service centers, general automotive suppliers, and online retailers that ship to you. The fastest route depends on what you need and how urgently. If you need a part today — a water pump, a fuse, a hose clamp — a local RV service center or an automotive chain like AutoZone or O'Reilly can often have it in stock. If you can wait a few days, online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and RV-specific sites like Camping World often have lower prices and a wider selection.

To find RV service centers near you, search "RV service near me" or "RV repair near me" in Google Maps. These shops typically stock common replacement parts and can order specialty items. Call ahead to confirm they have what you need — many smaller shops keep limited inventory. General automotive stores carry universal parts like batteries, belts, hoses, and filters that work on many RV models, though staff may not know RV-specific applications.

Key Takeaways

  • RV dealerships and service centers stock the widest selection of RV-specific parts and can order items not in stock, though prices are usually higher than online.
  • Automotive chains like AutoZone and O'Reilly carry common parts like batteries and filters same-day, but staff may not understand RV systems.
  • Online retailers offer lower prices and more selection but require shipping time, typically three to seven days depending on your location.
  • Knowing your RV's make, model, and year before you shop saves time and prevents buying incompatible parts.
  • Used RV parts from salvage yards cost less but come without warranties and require inspection before purchase.

RV dealerships versus independent service shops

RV dealerships are franchises that sell new and used RVs and operate service departments. They stock parts for the brands they sell — a Winnebago dealership will have Winnebago parts readily available, for example. Dealership parts departments can order anything the manufacturer makes, and their staff understand RV systems. The trade-off is cost: dealership parts and labor are typically 20 to 40 percent higher than independent shops.

Independent RV service shops are smaller, locally owned businesses that repair all brands. They often have lower prices and more flexibility on labor, but their parts inventory depends on the shop's size and focus. A shop that specializes in travel trailers may not stock motorhome parts. Call first and describe what you need — they can tell you whether they have it in stock or how long an order takes.

What information you need before shopping

Before you contact a parts supplier, gather your RV's make, model, year, and floor plan if you have it. This information is on your registration or in your owner's manual. For some parts — water heaters, furnaces, refrigerators — you also need the brand and model number of the appliance itself, which is usually a label inside or behind the unit.

If you do not know what part you need, describe the problem: "My water pump is not priming" or "The slide-out is making a grinding noise." A parts person or service advisor can help you identify the right component. Bring a photo of the broken part if you have removed it — this prevents ordering the wrong size or type.

Comparing prices across suppliers

Prices for the same part vary significantly by supplier. A water pump might cost $180 at a dealership, $120 at an independent shop, and $85 online. Before you buy, call or visit three sources: your local RV dealership, an independent shop, and check one or two online retailers. Factor in shipping cost and time — paying $20 more for same-day pickup may be worth it if you need the part when ready.

Online retailers often have lower prices because they operate with lower overhead, but you pay for shipping and wait for delivery. Some offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. If you are ordering multiple parts, bundling them into one order can reduce your total cost.

Used and salvage RV parts

RV salvage yards buy damaged or totaled RVs and sell usable parts. A used water heater, furnace, or cabinet door costs 40 to 60 percent less than new. Salvage is a good option for older RVs where new parts are expensive or hard to find, or when you are replacing cosmetic items like cabinet hardware or light fixtures.

The downside is that used parts come without warranties and you cannot return them if they fail after installation. Inspect the part in person if possible, or ask the salvage yard detailed questions about its condition and whether it was tested. Some yards offer a short warranty — typically 30 days — so ask before you buy.

Ordering parts online safely

When ordering from an online retailer, confirm the part number matches your RV's specifications. Many parts come in multiple sizes or configurations, and ordering the wrong one wastes time and shipping costs. Check the return policy before you buy — reputable retailers allow returns within 30 days if the part is unused.

Shipping times vary by retailer and location. Amazon Prime members typically receive parts in two days; standard shipping takes five to seven days. International retailers may take two to three weeks. If you need a part urgently, check the estimated delivery date before you order, and consider paying for expedited shipping if it is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular automotive parts in my RV?

Some yes, some no. Universal parts like batteries, belts, hoses, and filters work across vehicles. But RV-specific systems like water heaters, furnaces, and slide-out mechanisms require RV parts. Ask the parts person whether a part is compatible with your RV model before you buy.

What if I cannot find a part locally?

Call an RV service center and ask them to order it — they have wholesale accounts and can often get parts faster than you can online. If the part is discontinued, a salvage yard may have it from a donor RV, or a shop may be able to recommend an equivalent replacement.

Do I need the original part number to order a replacement?

It helps, but not always. If you have the part number, ordering is faster and more accurate. If you do not, describe the part and your RV's make, model, and year. A parts person can look up the correct number in their system.

How long does it take to order a part that is not in stock?

It varies. Local shops can often get common parts within one to three days. Dealerships may take three to seven days for standard parts, longer for specialty items. Online retailers ship in the timeframe shown at checkout, typically three to seven days depending on your location.

Should I buy extended warranties on RV parts?

Extended warranties on parts are rarely worth the cost. Most RV parts have a one to three year manufacturer warranty already. Buy extended coverage only if the part is expensive and you plan to keep the RV for many years.