Van Breakdown’s, The Problem With Vanlife
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.ย. 2024
- #vanlife #vlog #fulltimetravel
Living in a vehicle has some drawbacks. Today I took the van that I live in to get repair work done at a Ram dealer. The repair did not go smoothly. And what could have been a two hour job ended up taking seven and a half hours.
Because my van is my home, I was homeless for the day. This was a simple factory warranty repair. Had it been a big repair job, things could have been worse.
In this vlog, I talk about my experience and steps that I take when vehicle maintenance and repairs happen.
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My name is Scott and in 2015, I bought a Ram ProMaster City to live in. Even though I didn’t know much about RV’s and campervans, I set about building the van out as a minivan camper. And in April of 2016, I moved into my minivan full time.
Over the years, I’ve learned you don’t need to have a big skill set to build your own campervan. And that living as a minimalist and utilizing solar power can be a less expensive way to live. I’ve also learned that a minivan can be a very comfortable home.
Please follow along as I document my journey.
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![[กูเพิ่งซื้อมึงปิดหนี] 20 นาที ผมรีวิวเกมที่แย่ที่สุดในโลก CONCORD](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XhC-3q3Ii7I/mqdefault.jpg)
There is a beautiful place behind you. You seem tired so you can't enjoy the beauty around you.
I’ve been back to that park a few times since. It’s a very nice place to be
They're honest, but at $200 an hour, a repair out of pocket can get expensive. Luckily, they covered the repair. 👍
Scott, you absolutely scored on a solid repair. And really, only 90K on a 2015? That rig should go 3 times 90K with proper maintenance. Be safe out there. Peace ✌
That's just what I was thinking. This van should be able to last at least another 10 years. And it's possible that these new repairs might resolve the issues that he's been having.
On the upside that is a very expensive part they replaced, the converter.
❤ Good Evening Scott 🏙️ Like you have your Van fixed up,& not burning a hole in your pocket!👍👌✌️🤞🙌🙏🇺🇲🌅🌄🌞💫😴
Thanks for sharing our your day Scott. Overall you had an up side but also the discomfort of loud noise and lack of food. One of your delicious burritos would have helped. Beautiful and strong trees surrounding you at end. And that can never be wrong. Enjoy Humboldt ❤
This is exactly why you always want to have an emergency savings fund that is well funded! It not only covers vehicle repairs, but can be leveraged to put you up in a hotel / motel for a short stay, should your vehicle ever be down for an extended period of time for repairs! I keep a few 10 troy ounce Scottsdale Mint silver stacker bars hidden in my camper van for this very reason! Quickly liquidate them at a local coin shop / pawnshop / jewelry store / gold and silver exchange / etc. and have cash on hand for my repairs and hotel / motel stay if needed whilst out on the road! Some free advice for any Van Life nomads out there.
Hopefully nobody knows where you hiding it. 😅 Rather would have some savings account.
@@user70331 Plenty of great places to hide bullion in a vehicle that would never be found… unless the Police use their dog that is trained to find your stash! LOL
Cash is great for savings as well, it’s just too liquid and tempting to spend. Bullion places a hurdle in front of you and makes it slightly more difficult to impulse spend your money. Heh heh.
probably a bit extreme, but who knows
@RenegadeBastard that is exactly what my husband and l do. We put away so much each week and it soon builds up. Vehicles are an expense, but, also an essential, and plus our car is 6yrs old. As we are pensioners we have to keep it up to scratch can't afford to buy another one. So far we have managed to keep in in great shape and road worthy. Btw it's still under the 100k mark.
@@charlottelougher628 You are both doing an outstanding job! Keep it up! 😎
Thank you Scott. Your views can depend on you for passing along experiences that need to be addressed and shared. Especially for those who are just starting out in a nomadic lifestyle. Having a backup plan is also a valuable piece of advice to share with others Great job❤
That's is beautiful area where filmed. Glad you got your cat replaced on Chrysler's dime. My Subaru dealer wanted $2000 just for the catalytic converter plus labor, what a rip off.
Ouch!
to bad you didn't go to the Golden Harvest Cafe just a short walk from dealership, great food free water and wifi. could have turned a traumatic experience into a relatively pleasant one.
I can’t eat out because of my health issues. This wasn’t traumatic at all. Simple a lot of waiting
I'm glad all turned out well.
Hope van has improved up hills for you Scott and there is no more stress .
beautiful park too by the way.
I've been in this situation having a car worked on. A backpack with food and water is essential preparation. Also a battery to charge the phone or iPad. Plan for the entire day to eat out of your backpack. A hotel room I probably wouldn't have gotten.
Aloha Scott - No matter what the situation, you always manage to stay calm. Thank you for sharing especially for future car/van dwellers to keep in mind. 🏝️
Thanks so much.
Coffee is my calming elixir. I almost started to drink the dealership coffee when my thermos ran out. Haha
Oh no Scott….glad you got your home back in time 😊
*My husband and I love your videos!*
Thanks Bonnie
@@StaticCamperVan
You're welcome! 🌹
*P.S.*
*Loved the entertainment they provided!!*
*Love your humor!*
🙂👍
7 hours? What a nightmare! Glad this was in the past for you.
So cute the entertainment part 😇
Yes, very thoughtful of the dealership
@@StaticCamperVan 😁😉😊
That foresty scene was such a beautiful contrast (visually and auditorially) to the repair day! Nice closing ❤
The one time that I had to have my van/home repaired. I rented a mini van from Enterprise for 24 hours. Cost was $160
That is an option
Scott- Van Home or no Van Home…. My experience with dealerships/garages has been on the stress scale.. they kind of have you by the short and curly…. You got through it. Like an earlier commenter said, your lovely vehicle should do triple 90k.. particularly as you are looking after it.
Lastly-thanks for lingering with your camera scan of the forest at the end- absolutely delightful scene and sounds. That GOBBLE GOBBLE sound… we don’t hear in UK woods. Nice. Thanks.
HAVE A PLEASANT DAY👋
Hello, I am glad that you share this information with all of us because as a Lady I will be charge for service that I did not needed or want but I comply because I was pressure to get it change or replace.
It happens all too often. Thanks for watching
Plugging into mainstream is exhausting mate. Totally feel ya!
I totally relate. My van has about 340K miles on it and it had been down on power for a while, so this summer I had the engine replaced. I knew it would take about a week, so I spent several months beforehand lining things up so I'd have a place to stay and alternate transportation. And I had been saving up for this eventual repair. But we vehicle dwellers usually don't have the luxury of advanced planning. Things break unexpectedly. I chose the shop for the engine replacement because they're a NAPA affiliate and they warrantee parts and labor for three years, and the warranty is honored by all other NAPA affiliates around the country. May your van continue to serve you well.
Smart thinking with the warranty
Thanks for NAPA plug for future repairs
What’s the cost to replace an engine??
@@deedeeotero4475 3-4000 Depending. A used engine 5-1000 bucks not including labor
In my case, a little more than $9000
Scott, thanks for sharing with us your experience with the dealership repairs today. And, all the "food for thought" about being prepared for unexpected events.
I’m currently in Oregon and travel a lot, I plan to take my ProMaster to them soon to have it’s recall done.
I live in my van as well and need to know where to take it, thank you for this information!
You’re welcome. To be clear, I think dealerships that know us from previous work tend to be a better choice.
I had a dealership refuse to service my van once because they could tell I was just passing through.
I relate to dodgy garages found a couple of good ones but there miles away from where I am
Oh gosh, yes, water and perhaps a sandwich and some fruit or whatever and a thermos of coffee. But it could have been so much worse! And just about any reason to go to eureka is a good one. Seems you put your trust in the right dealership.
Thanks for sharing Scott sorry you had to go through that I think car repairs are stressful no how prepared you are I’ve got 2012 Ford E250 with 171000 miles on it even though it’s very reliable I’m tucking away some big cash for the inevitable there’s no way I could do that living in sticks and bricks! Safe travels my friend 😊
Glad you get the van taking care of , hope nothing out happens, you have a good rest of the day! Take care .
This was a great informative video, thanks.
I guess you know Chrome is without his Van, because he’s getting a new transmission, poor guy, he’s going a little crazy, without his home.
I’m glad your back in your home, with coffee ☕️ & food ❣️
Scott, there is another option for you to think about if your van needs overnight repairs. You mentioned family or a motel room. What about renting another van? Check out the cost at both a car rental facility, and a U-Haul van rental. You could move your mattress bedding, electric coffee pot, power supply, some food, and personal items into a rental van. It’s probably less expensive than a motel room!
❤❤❤ Blessings to you!!
Good advice,I have a great trusted mechanic for 25 years. And I diy ignition coils. I have pulled and easy out broken bolts,its tricky but 7 hrs? Glad it was warranty. The coil will help mileage,I carry spare coil and plug.
Seven hours? It’s like doing jury duty. You needed two double batches of coffee (your way) and four burritos plus ice cream and a book to read. Glad you are home safe and sound.
Oh! I forgot! And noise-canceling headphones.
I can’t wear headphones because of a health issue but that’s a good idea
@@StaticCamperVan That’s okay. I can’t or shouldn’t either. 😅
@@StaticCamperVanearplugs maybe?
We collect Hilton points for free stays when we are out of the van. I have a check up d he dukes for my Promaster in Ohio and as it will be an overnight it will be at a Hilton for us!
Glad you got the van fixed. Much less stress.
Enjoy your stay
👋 Scott
Well at least you made it without to much hassle. Could of been worse. Hopefully that repair will be the answer to your problems. Fuel up on dinner and Coffee ☕️ you'll be fine.😊Bye-bye
Omg having a mechanic to trust is sooo Important. Amazing. You can complain as much as you need to. That is what friends are for. Hugs.
Hi Scott, i can tell the exhaust manafold and catalytic converter install created stress and anxiety for you. Have your best day and lean into the elements of your day you can control. Your good at independent living.
I guess your repair ended up being a win win situation. Got your van repaired for free other than giving up your time and got it back same day not having to get a place to stay. Have a good evening. 😊
Great video. Important information. Thank you, Scott.
Check that the work was done and done correctly.
Very informative. Thank you for sharing your experience. A good mechanic is worth staying relatively close to I imagine. It's a whole different equation when your vehicle is also your home. I am considering relocating somewhere else in my state and finding a good mechanic will be key if I do. I'm happy you found a silver lining and a nice walk afterwards!
Glad everything worked out I wondered what the reason was that you were heading south in kind of a rush. Now I know.😊
Hi Scott, thanks for the vlog and so glad it all worked out for you. It didn't sound like complaining but rather a serious, important conversation about planning for possible future vanlife issues (or for anyone who depends on their vehicle daily and doesn't currently have backup vehicle/family/friends).
Thanks for the walk through nature at the end; it was an enjoyable and peaceful end to the day/vlog. Best wishes for more uneventful and peaceful living- take care.
2:09 holding cell 😂😅 that's a nice lounge.
I ve been through it with my van more often than I care to remember. Like you, I m not comfortable staying in motels n unusual places. Dog n I have spent days walking around, sitting in shade, picnicking out of a packed bag simple foods, water, dog treats, dog toys, my devices, portable power bank for them n a book. Some days were very long n difficult; extremely exhausting for both of us. Dealing with evil mechanics is a torture no one needs for sure. Happy that is over for you❤
glad you did not have to pay for it. Catalytic converters are not cheap.
Sounds like an introverts bad dream. Be well and safe Scott.
Yes!
Last year when I met you in Sequim, I was sticking around up there longer than I had planned because I needed substantial repairs. Mind my van is 20 years old with over 220k miles on it. Ford's have a known design flaw that causes them to sometimes have spark plugs fall out. So I had that happen, and the brake master cylinder and power booster both failed. Mind you, they were both 20 years old, so I wasn't terribly upset. The brake problems were done in a day, the plug issue took slightly longer since they had to order a special part, and a special tool to get it done. It also needed to sit overnight to allow the threat locker to properly cement into the head.
So, I got a hotel room at the Super 8 down the street, and the guys at Peterson's in Port Angeles drove me back and forth to the hotel.
Speaking of which, if you're up in that next of the woods and need a good mechanic, go to Peterson's, tell Omar that Sami (Sunshine) sent you and they will take excellent care of you, and your promaster!
Bit of Trivia should you be interested, Peterson's has a well know, well earned reputation as THE VW van repair place in the northern hemisphere - so much so that while I was having them work on my Ford, a customer shipped his VW from Alaska to them to get it worked on! The other awesome but of Trivia is that Mike Peterson is a talented and accomplished artist, and his art adorns the walls of the shop, and galleries up and down the coast.
That said, I'm glad you're home safe, and that your home is safe too!
😔sorry you had to go through that. Great judgment and claim for truth and rights. Once was 9hours not so good. This last journey found trusted mechanic in TX to do some work. Headed to Illinois to my birth hometown n trusted mechanic. Every journey out from my truck is checked and when arrive7months later to visit my children. I'm so glad you brought this awareness to the community👍🏻
You can solve all your future headaches by first buying a four wheel drive Subaru ( tough care , new or used), then a very small trailer to tow ( used is very responsible) . Car goes in for repairs, trailer ( home) stays in a camp or RV site. An old saying, an once of prevention worth a pound of cure. Plan ahead, plan for worse case scenario, and Over yourself.
That wouldn’t work well for me but I know a few people who do similar
Ha Ha double batch of coffee
Hi Scott. I'm late due to a number of issues, catching up. Glad you were able to relieve stress and get past your repair dilemma. Take care my friend.
Glad you are in cooler temperature. I'm also glad you got your van worked on for free. I think it will be a inconvenience to have my vehicle( home) worked on, but still believe it is way better than paying rent. Especially in these beautiful coastal areas. Thank you for your videos. I enjoy them a lot.
So sorry you had to go through this!
...as you are given to tell of your day's happening what comes to mind is woodland scent a vision. The park there is beauty I so appreciate and the scent of must be of a perfume I would like always to ware.
🙋♀️☕🌲
I actually use a pine scented beard oil
Nothing ever goes as planned. Glad they didn't keep it overnight
If you're having oil burning issues. Getting a free catalytic converter saved a lot of money down the road
Those are unrelated issues. The dealership did inform me that I could reapply for the engine recall though
I generally use yelp when I’m looking for reviews on auto mechanics. Seems to be helpful finding trust worthy mechanic unless the review is too old
Chrome is having a similar repair issue. He has to get a new transmission and is van-less for a week at LEAST. Rebuild. (He had to rent a travel van). He was on a trip in central Canada. You probably know this already but at least you have someone to sympathize with.🤣 Bummer. Hope your repair won't take too long.
My husband can tell when I’m listening to you. He calls you coffee man 😂 I grew up in Eureka. Used to party in the woods where you are when I was a teenager.
Hahahaha ☕️🎉
Me too! I lived in a little apartment across the street from that park. Love the zoo and duck pond, too!
I'm glad you stood up for yourself with those fraudster dealerships. Maybe lease or rent a camper van if yours has major repairs in the future.I am bothered by loud noises too. Eureka looks beautiful. Hope you got a good rest.
Good to hear someone address this issue.
I think your van will last a long, long time. They build cars these days to last a long time, and they do. I still have a 2002 Honda Odyssey van ( which I do not live in ) but it is 22 years old and has never broken down or failed to start yet and has 180K miles on it.
Hi Scott, hope you`re feeling better. Thank you for sharing your story about the van. I currently own a 2021 Ram Promaster City. To date, I`ve had one recall for a turn signal indicator (Flasher) for us old-timers. Have you experienced any transmission problems? My transmission seems to have issues shifting from gear to gear, intermittently. I spoke to the dealer about this and they say they haven`t heard of this issue. Unfortunately, I`ll need to schedule an appointment for them to diagnose the issue. I can relate to some degree to leaving your home in someone else's hands. My van is my tool shed. Everything I need to make a living is in that van so I get very nervous when I cannot see or be near my van.
Everyone complains about the transmissions. They are all a little clunky. I haven’t heard of any real issues with them though
Hello Scott, its a good thing to vent what you when true, we are here to listen to your journey's so don't be sorry for telling us the up and down side of van life cause I know it's not like instagram perfection, thank's again for sharing ✌🤗👋
Thanks Josee
Thanks for sharing 👍
Hi Scott! Glad you have a mechanic (dealership) that you can trust! I used to have a reliable mechanic but he retired. Now I tried someone who was recommended. Did a good job but very pricey! Repairs on any car/van is VERY stressful, if you ask me! I am not a full time nomad but I cannot be an entire day without my car for a lot of reasons.. Also, trusting people with your van/dwelling is hair raising. I have a lot of my important papers and stuff in there and then have to empty it all out because I do not want to leave the stuff in there while they are working on it. This new place I used took All Day- Nightmare!
That looked troubling hopefully miles of smiles
👋👋👋😊
From a senior mechanics opinion the sooner you learn how to repair your vehicle the better off you will be 👍👍
Do you think someone will buy me a brand new Launch system? Haha
I'm very happy to see you end what was a very stressful day in such a beautiful calm setting Scott. Fingers crossed the repair was completely successful and your home needs no more work for a long time 💚
Even if it took MUCH longer than you had expected and hoped for, you are very lucky that your appointement was at 8-am.
If your appointement would have been in the afternoon, they would have needed to keep your house overnight.
So now you didn't have to find accomodation elsewhere for the night, which was having luck anyway.
That’s why I always schedule these repairs early and never on a Friday
How interesting. Chrome over at van city VANLIFE weirdos unites transmission went out. He was trying to find mechanics. Drove across a portion of Canada to a specific mechanic and transmission went out on him just miles from his destination. He had to have van towed. He rented a hotel I think 1 nite then rented a beautiful high top van for I think 10 days waiting for his van fix. Last few episodes u can watch.
Yes, I’ve been a bad friend. I haven’t called Chrome but it looks like he’s doing ok
So glad you got the repair done. I hope it all works out well. They DO have a nice waiting area at that dealership. We were there not too long ago test driving a DGC. Also, Sequoia Park is a lovey place. We went on a little hike on one of the trails a couple of weeks or so ago.
Currently van camping near Mt. Shasta and it's 88°. A wee bit too hot for this Humboldt gal. 🥵
Shasta is magic but too hot now. Hope you are having a great time there
@StaticCamperVan We are having a beautiful time. Currently sitting by Lake Siskiyou in the shade. It's very refreshing.
Glad to hear the repairs are over with and that everything turned out okay! I was thinking about how that would be so stressful to hand over the keys to your home with everything in it.
Everything that would be difficult to replace was in my backpack. But yes it wasn’t an ideal day
Vehicle repairs can be stressful especially living in. Blessings in your life. Thank you for the video.
I had the “uphill” problem with my Astro a couple of years ago and it was much better with new catalytic converters.
Sooo Glad you got those things done for your van - for FREE!!!! ... I guess you know Chrome is also dealing with van-repair issues ... funny, I was just laying down, listening to this thought-provoking post with astrologer Pam Gregory & her buddy Veda Austin, ( water researcher/mystic) ... you came to mind - how you notice such a positive difference in how you feel by adding a bit of salt to your water ... and then there you are! ... talking about needing water ... just remembered that you don't like us to leave links ... so hopefully you'll look up Pam Gregory - Astrologer, and enjoy this enchanting conversation ... that forest around you looks absolutely Delicious!! ... was that Mr. WoodStump behind you? 😺💜 ... perseverance furthers ...
No, Mr. Woodstump resides in a different area of Humboldt
@@StaticCamperVan I think I have an idea where he lives ... Happy Full Moon tonite, Scott
My van is still under the 90,000 mile mark, but I’m getting close (86,000). I need to think about what I need to do. I’m considering selling it and getting a newer van, because I am not at all mechanical. But I also see the value in keeping my trusting vehicle and just making repairs as needed. So far, I haven’t had any issues other than an airbag recall. During the height of the pandemic, I took my van in for a simple oil change and was stuck in the waiting room for around 8 hours. I had a similiar experience with not enough food and water. Thanks for sharing. 😊
At 90k you should stick with it. The price of a new one with the inflated market and low inventory means you will pay way over MSRP. 90K is just getting started with those little commercial vans. Just stay up on the maintenance and you will be fine.
@@williamryan9195 I appreciate the advice. Thanks. 🙂I really do like my little cozy home.
I absolutely love that you were playing with that bead toy for kids! 😍 I have to get some dental work done today and I’m going to think about that if it becomes painful…hopefully it will get me through. 😉
Hope you’ve made it through without any pain
@@StaticCamperVan , thanks! It went okay! You actually replied right as I was getting done. 😁
You're absolutely correct. It is very difficult to find a good and honest repair shop.
WOW! So glad to hear it was a recall, I was already getting uptight over the cost of a manifold and converter replacement. What a relief. My frame was replaced and they estimated it to cost 12 grand. Some things we luck out on. The replaced converter should improve gas mileage.
I might not always will comment, but when I see the vid I like to place the 👍.
That whole area is so untrustworthy! Simply performance in Arcata..Danny...the go to guy!
Lithia Eureka has been good to me
@StaticCamperVan good to hear. I lived there for a number years and saw too much!
The entertainment the dealer offers is just great 😂 could you finish it? 😅
At the End of the Day, Glad things seem to be on the uptick. You appeared to be like me for too much caffeine on AC n empty stomach not good
I’ve never had an issue drinking coffee on an empty stomach. I do it everyday
Sounds stressful, I know that some people would say just grab something to eat but when you have a lot of allergies it’s not that easy to just pick something up. I’m sure you’re glad it’s over with now.
Thank you
I am a retired mechanic so i always fix my own Van. There's a lot of dodgy mechanic's here in the UK Scott.
Here too
The Fiat version of this car we have in Europe have a turbo on the engine. It helps the power. Gets much better gasmilage also. Intresting how the same car uses big engine and automatic transmission in US and EU use small turbo engine and manual transmission.
I would have bought a diesel with a manual transmission if it were offered. But having a Jeep drivetrain probably makes more sense for North American roads.
Gosh! Most dealerships offer bottled water coffee and some do snacks!
Yes, I’m a coffee snob. I almost drank some of the coffee there
Great video bro. I love these videos. Im smoking some w33d right now.
Hopefully you won't need any more major repairs for a while. And what a beautiful park! Keep staying safe Scott.
wow
when people don’t comprehend why you make the choices you do and you don’t require their validation to do so vibes, beautiful trees, good energy to you…..🌊
totally innerstand how that experience made you feel , big hugs , grace
I Think you handled it well!👍 Because they told you it would take 2 hrs. & They took longer! So i would have said is ther a problem that your taking longer time,& you have to pay out of your pocket,for their mistake!Maybe their over charging you!👍🤞👌💫✨🙌🙏🇺🇸🌞🌅🌄🌟
Glad everything got sorted
Scott, I understand how you feel it’s your home xxx
Hi Scott I think I told you this before my brother owns a Mazda dealership yesterday he took in for trade a 2015 pro master with 198,000 miles wow. He said it was well taken care of in great condition. Even the car fax came back great. I went over to look at it even though no way I get one especially with that high mileage. Wow it looks so much smaller inside than your on UTube I showed my brother one of your videos he said what you did with your van is amazing. I agree you well thought out exactly what you wanted and made it your home on wheels. Hey don’t feel bad I have a 2024 Mazda cx 90 had 2 recalls in one week they were not hard to fix just computer updates . Any way I really enjoyed your video. Thanks Scott 😀
Most people are getting rid of the ProMaster City vans because of the high oil consumption. They are very poorly designed engines
@@StaticCamperVan yes you are right that’s why I was surprised it had that many miles. Oh my brother got some information that different companies are going start bringing back small cargo vans in the USA starting next year I hope so I will definitely get one but definitely not a pro master lol.
Getting a good mechanic is hard enough when based in the same place but on the road, it must be extra problematic. My mechanic of the last 20 years retired last year so I have needed to find a new one, and it hasn’t been easy even being based in one place.
Hope all goes well
Thanks Alvin. So far so good
So glad you got Tardy fixed, hope you have many trouble free miles ahead!!