When something goes wrong with your RV — whether it’s the furnace not firing, AC blowing warm air, leaks, slide issues, or electrical trouble — your first question is usually:
“Do I call a mobile RV technician or take my RV to a dealership service center?”
If you live in the Des Moines metro, you have access to:
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Mobile RV repair services (like MilTech Mobile RV Repair & Inspection)
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RV dealerships with full service centers (Good Life, Blue Compass, etc.)
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Independent mobile techs
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Smaller RV shops
Each option has strengths — and major differences in cost, convenience, scheduling, and expertise.
This guide breaks down the pros and cons of mobile RV service vs. dealer service, so you can choose what’s right for you.
What Is Mobile RV Repair?
Mobile RV service means a certified technician comes directly to your campsite, home, storage unit, farm, or driveway to diagnose and repair your RV on-site.
MilTech specializes in:
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RV furnace & water heater repair
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AC service & diagnostics
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Electrical & 12V/120V issues
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Leak detection & roof/seal checks
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Plumbing/water leaks
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Winterizing & dewinterizing
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New-owner walk-throughs
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Full NRVIA-certified RV inspections
No towing. No waiting rooms. No service lines.
What Is Dealer Service?
RV dealerships offer large service centers with multiple bays. They typically handle:
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Warranty repairs
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Body work
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Major structural issues
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Slide-out rebuilds
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Frame/suspension repairs
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Chassis/engine work (for motorhomes)
Dealers are good for large-scale repairs that require lifts, welders, or manufacturer authorizations.
Mobile RV Repair: Pros & Cons
⭐ Pros
1. Convenience — You Don’t Move Your RV
No towing, no transport, no waiting for a driver.
If your slide won’t come in, the water heater fails, or your battery is dead — we come to you.
2. Faster Scheduling
Dealers in Iowa often book 3–8 weeks out during peak season.
Mobile technicians can usually schedule appointments within a day or two, especially for urgent issues.
3. One-on-One Service
You speak directly with the certified technician working on your RV — not a service writer or front desk representative.
You get:
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Real explanations
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Real education
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Real solutions
4. Lower Total Cost
Mobile rates (even with trip fees) are often cheaper than dealership labor + shop fees.
Plus, no fuel costs or towing fees.
5. Great for Electrical, Plumbing, Appliances & Winterizing
Most RV problems are “house side” issues that mobile techs are certified to repair on-site.
⚠️ Cons
1. Not Ideal for Major Structural or Collision Repairs
Roof replacements, complete slide rebuilds, frame work, and body damage require a shop space.
2. Warranty Limitations
Manufacturers sometimes prefer warranty repairs done at authorized dealers.
Good mobile techs can still diagnose the issue, document it, and help you with warranty claims — but some parts must be installed by an authorized facility.
3. Severe Weather Limitations
Iowa winters can slow down outdoor repairs.
(Though MilTech is equipped to work safely in most cold conditions.)
Dealer RV Service: Pros & Cons
⭐ Pros
1. Handles Large / Structural Repairs
Dealers are the place for:
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Roof rebuilds
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Complete slide mechanism replacements
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Welding & major fabrication
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Body collision repair
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Chassis issues
2. Warranty Authorization
Dealers often handle warranty claims and manufacturer part replacements.
3. Access to OEM Parts & Bulletins
Some dealers have direct access to manufacturer service notices and part networks.
⚠️ Cons
1. Long Wait Times
3–8 week waits are common in Iowa — especially spring and summer.
Your trip plans don’t wait… but the dealership might.
2. You Must Move the RV
This is a major issue if:
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The RV won’t start
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Slides won’t retract
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There's a leak
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You’re in a storage lot or campground
Towing an RV is not cheap — or fun.
3. Higher Labor Rates
Dealership labor is almost always more expensive.
Plus you may get charged:
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Environment fees
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Shop fees
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Diagnostic fees
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Storage fees
4. Lack of Personal Attention
You speak to a service writer — not the technician.
This can lead to communication delays and misunderstandings.
Which Option Is Best for Des Moines RV Owners?
Most Iowa RV owners choose mobile repair first, and a dealership only when needed.
Here’s how it breaks down:
✔ Choose Mobile RV Repair when:
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You need fast help
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You want someone to come to you
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Your RV is stuck or not drivable
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You need furnace, AC, electrical, plumbing, or appliance repair
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You want a certified NRVIA inspection
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You want one-on-one, veteran-owned service
This is MILTECH RV's specialty.
✔ Choose Dealer Service when:
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You need collision/body repair
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You need chassis/engine work
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You need structural/frame repairs
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You have a manufacturer's warranty requiring an authorized dealer
Mobile techs and dealers complement each other — they’re not always in competition.
MILTECH Mobile RV Repair & Inspection – Your Best Local Option in Des Moines
MILITECH RV is the ideal choice for most RV repair and inspection needs because we offer:
✔ Certified RVTAA Technician
✔ Certified NRVIA Inspector
✔ Veteran-Owned & Insured
✔ We Come to You Anywhere in the Des Moines Metro
✔ Faster Scheduling Than Dealerships
✔ Transparent Pricing
✔ Honest, One-on-One Service
✔ Repairs + Education + Long-Term Maintenance
From winterizing to furnace repair to electrical diagnostics to full RV inspections — MilTech saves you time, towing, and frustration.
Need Fast, Certified Mobile RV Repair in the Des Moines Area?
👉 Call/Text MilTech: 515-257-6021
👉 Schedule Service Online: Your Contact Page Link
👉 Serving: Des Moines, Ankeny, Altoona, Waukee, Bondurant, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, and surrounding areas
Need Fast, Certified Mobile RV Repair in the Des Moines Area?
👉 Call/Text MilTech:
515-257-6021
👉 Schedule Service Online:
Your Contact Page Link
Serving: Des Moines, Ankeny, Altoona, Waukee, Bondurant, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, and surrounding areas