We’ve done a lot of upgrades over the past few years. However, replacing our RV door lock was one of the first things we did when we bought our new truck camper.
Regardless of what RV you have, we think this is a worthwhile project. So how do you replace an RV door lock? Fortunately, it’s not as difficult as you might think, and you only need a few tools.
Today we’re going to show you how to replace your vehicle’s cheap RV door lock. Let’s get started!
Is replacing a motorhome door lock difficult?
While some of the tasks on your “honey-do” list can be time-consuming, this is not one of them. Replacing an RV door lock is as easy as can be. Even if you’ve never done it before, it shouldn’t take more than 10 or 15 minutes.
For most installations, all you need is a screwdriver and a pair of needle-nose pliers. Loosening a handful of screws is all it takes to remove the current lock. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the steps to replace an RV door lock.
Are all RV locks and keys the same?
For many RV owners, it’s a surprise that their RV is as unique as they thought. Unfortunately, manufacturers typically use only a handful of locks and keys. There are several reasons for this. One is that it is easier for dealers to secure the RVs on their lot.
While this can be useful if you are locked out of your RV, it also creates safety concerns. Your campground neighbors are probably good people, but that’s not always the case.
If another camper has a key that matches your RV’s lock, they could gain access to your vehicle. For many owners, that’s a risk they don’t want to take.
Advantages of replacing your motorhome door lock
There are several reasons to replace your RV door lock. Let’s consider why you should put this project on your to-do list.
Increased security
As we mentioned earlier, upgrading your lock increases the security of your vehicle. Depending on which lock you choose, it’s pretty much impossible for someone else at the campsite to have a key that fits. So you can worry less when you are asleep or not in your motorhome.
Security is one area where you can never be too safe. Keeping yourself and your belongings safe on your adventures is priceless. Any upgrade that increases safety is worth it to us.
Remote locking and unlocking
The lock we upgraded to, RVLock, comes with a key fob. Just like the key fob for our truck, it allows us to lock and unlock our RV door with the push of a button on our keys. This has come in handy several times when we’ve crawled into bed and forgotten to lock the door.
Plus, it’s happened to us a time or two when we’ve come back from an adventure or shopping and it’s rained. Now we don’t have to stand at the door and fumble with the key while the rain beats down on us.
Never be locked out again
Almost every RV owner we know has been locked out of their RV at one time or another. If you choose a lock with keypad, you won’t have to worry about that anymore.
You can lock your door with the touch of a button and unlock it by entering your unique pin code. This is easier and reduces the likelihood that you will lock yourself out of your facility.
One key for all your locks
There’s nothing more annoying than having to carry around a multitude of keys on your key ring. Unfortunately, most RVs come with a variety of locks, which means you have to carry multiple keys. Fortunately, many companies that offer replacement locks offer options to replace all of them.
Then, instead of multiple keys, you’ll have just one to lock and unlock all of your RV’s doors and cabinets. There are even options that allow you to secure all locks with a single button. You no longer have to check each deadbolt to make sure you’ve secured each one.
How to replace the door lock of the motorhome
Replacing an RV door lock is a simple project. However, we’ll go over each step of the process so you can tackle it with confidence. Let’s go!
Measuring the lock and ordering the right replacement
First, you need to measure the lock and order the right replacement. Fortunately, RV locks come in only a handful of sizes and types.
But again, it’s worth taking the time to measure. You don’t want that new door lock to arrive and find that it’s not compatible with your vehicle.
When in doubt, contact customer service before ordering. Otherwise, you may have to pay for return shipping if you order the wrong item.
Not only will this cost you money, but it can also cause you a headache if you have to return an item.
Remember: Protect your RV filter door from damage with these 5 helpful tips!
Open the door and remove the screws
Once you are ready, open your door and locate the screws on the inside of the door. Usually only a handful of screws hold the lock in place.
If you remove the screws, the handle will loosen. When you loosen the screws, the inside and outside of the handle separate.
During this step, an extra pair of hands may be helpful, but is not essential to avoid losing screws or small parts.
Attach new lock and screw in screws
After removing the old lock, install the new latch and slide the outside of the new lock into place. You will need to line up the screw holes with the inner and outer parts before screwing in the screws.
Also, make sure you connect the electronics if you decide to use a push button or remote control.
Once everything is in place, tighten the screws. Don’t over tighten them, especially if your new lock is made of plastic. You don’t want to damage a brand new door handle.
Check lock for proper fit
Before closing the door, test the lock a few times. Use the key to lock and unlock the door to test all moving parts. If a remote control was supplied, test it as well.
Make sure you can lock and unlock the door before closing it. Otherwise, you could accidentally lock yourself out of your vehicle.
After making sure your lock works, you can close the door. We recommend that you leave someone in the house in case things don’t go as planned.
Next, make sure the door lock closes smoothly and efficiently. You shouldn’t have to slam the door to get it to close. Finally, test all the functions and make sure everything works as it should.
Program input code, if applicable
If you have chosen a lock that allows you to set an entry code, now is the time to program it. The procedure for setting your code depends on which device you have chosen. Therefore, it is best to refer to the manual that came with your lock for this procedure.
If you need help, contact customer service. Also, you are probably not the first customer to have a problem. You may find a video on YouTube of someone who can help you solve the problem.
When choosing your access code, make sure it’s a number you won’t forget. Do yourself a favor and don’t choose “1,2,3,4” or something that anyone can guess. Use the last four digits of your phone number, social security number or date of birth so you can remember them.
Remember: Feel safe and secure in your motorhome with these practical safety products for motorhomes
Use your new lock
After you install your new lock, you need to use it. You need to secure your property whenever you are not in or near your vehicle. Fortunately, many of these retrofitted units make this as easy as possible. Just don’t forget your new key or access code.
Is it worth replacing your RV’s door lock?
Replacing your RV’s door lock is a project worth doing. It’s a quick, easy way to maximize your security.
No longer do you have to worry about someone else at the campground having a key to match or gaining access to your RV. So do yourself a favor and put this project on your to-do list before your next camping adventure.
Has anyone else ever opened your RV with their key?