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Good Sam
“Roadside assistance for a fifth wheel RV offers many of the services as standard roadside assistance plans like towing, battery jump-starts, and lockout services. However, the size and weight of fifth wheels adds unique complexities that require a service like Good Sam that has the knowledge and expertise to help.”
Towing a fifth wheel isn’t like hauling a small trailer or popping the hood on a compact sedan. These large, luxurious RVs bring the comforts of home on the road, but they also come with some pretty hefty responsibilities.
When something goes wrong mid-trip, it’s not just inconvenient - it can bring your whole adventure to a grinding halt. That’s where specialized roadside assistance for fifth wheels becomes essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about fifth wheel roadside assistance. From common breakdowns to choosing the right plan, we’ll help you stay ready for whatever the road throws your way.
Roadside assistance for a fifth wheel RV isn’t the same as what you’d get for a typical car or even a smaller RV. While there’s some overlap, like towing, battery jump-starts, and lockout services, the size, weight, and complexity of fifth wheels raise the stakes significantly.
Imagine getting a flat tire on a rural highway. Standard car roadside assistance likely won’t send a heavy-duty tow truck or a technician trained to handle RV-specific hitch systems. That can mean longer delays, added stress, and, sometimes, out-of-pocket expenses.
On the other hand, fifth wheel roadside assistance typically covers:
The biggest difference setting fifth wheel roadside assistance apart? These plans account for your RV’s size, your towing setup, and the need for specially trained service providers. And let’s be honest, when you’re stranded with a 40-foot rig, experience makes all the difference.
When you tow a fifth wheel, you’re managing a lot more than just your truck. There are several points where things can go wrong.
Here are some of the most common roadside issues fifth wheel owners face:
Fifth wheels are heavy, especially when fully loaded, making tire blowouts one of the most frequent (and dangerous) issues on the road. A blowout at highway speeds can cause serious damage to your trailer’s sidewalls or fenders.
Prevention Tip: Check tire pressure before every trip and keep an eye on tire age. Don’t wait for visible wear; replace tires as needed.
The hitch system for a fifth wheel is complex and unique. If the kingpin isn’t locked correctly or the jaws fail to engage, your trailer could disconnect – an extremely rare but serious risk. Even minor hitch alignment issues can leave you stuck.
Prevention Tip: Always double-check the locking mechanism and kingpin connection. Use a pre-trip checklist so you don’t miss any important steps.
Problems with the trailer’s brakes or lights can make towing unsafe and, in some states, illegal. Corrosion, poor connections, or blown fuses are often the culprits.
Prevention Tip: Include electrical checks in your routine maintenance and pre-trip checklist. Carry spare fuses and learn the basics of troubleshooting.
An improperly loaded trailer can lead to swaying, uneven tire wear, and excessive strain on your tow vehicle. Poor weight distribution increases the risk of mechanical failure or loss of control.
Prevention Tip: Know your fifth wheel’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and use a tongue weight scale if needed. Keep weight balanced and secure, as exceeding the GVWR can lead to blown tires, strained brakes, or even frame damage.
With solid preparation and regular maintenance, many of these issues can be avoided. But when something does go wrong, having a roadside assistance team that understands the unique needs of your RV makes all the difference.
These larger trailers have unique requirements, and a standard auto plan often won’t cut it. Here’s what to keep in mind when comparing options:
Always read the fine print. Does the plan explicitly cover fifth wheel towing? Many auto roadside assistance plans exclude trailers that exceed certain size or weight limits.
Look for RV-focused plans that offer:
For side-by-side comparison, you can check out Good Sam’s RV roadside assistance plans to see how different plans stack up.
You should know your trailer’s weight, length, and configuration in addition to the year, make, and model. Roadside assistance providers need these details to send the right equipment and technician to assist you. If your plan doesn’t account for your trailer’s specs, you might be stuck waiting for a second (and better-equipped) tow truck.
A roadside assistance plan is only as reliable as its service network. Look for providers that offer 24/7 support and work with RV-trained techs who know how to handle fifth wheels safely and efficiently.
Some plans offer extras that are especially useful for fifth wheel travelers, such as:
The bottom line is the more RV-specific the plan, the more peace of mind you’ll have on the road.
While you can’t always predict when things will go wrong, you can plan how prepared you are when they do. Here’s how to set yourself up before hitting the road:
Make these checks a part of your routine before every drive:
Pack essentials to help you stay safe and self-sufficient on the road:
Keep your trailer specs (length, weight, VIN) saved on your phone or printed in your glovebox. You’ll need this information when calling for assistance.
If you break down, pull off the road as far as safely possible. Turn on your hazard lights, set up safety triangles, and stay clear of traffic while waiting for help.
When something goes wrong on the road, knowing what to expect can ease the stress. Here’s how a fifth wheel roadside assistance call typically unfolds – and how to make the most of it:
To ensure a smooth service call, communicate clearly and give as much detail as possible when calling the provider. Stay calm and cooperative while prioritizing your safety. Take photos of any damage or mechanical problem to document the condition of your rig and support any future insurance claims.
Towing a fifth wheel opens up an incredible world of adventure. But it also comes with a higher level of responsibility and risk. Having the right roadside assistance plan ready ensures that if anything unexpected happens, you won’t be stuck Googling solutions or scrambling for help in the middle of nowhere.
To ensure you're fully covered, explore Good Sam’s Platinum, Platinum Complete, and Platinum+ Plans that include fifth wheel towing. They're the trusted companions to keep you moving confidently on the road.
A: Fifth wheel towing assistance is specialized roadside help designed for fifth wheel RVs. Services often include towing, flat tire help, fuel delivery, lockout support, and more, with certified technicians and equipment suited to large rigs.
A: Usually, no. Most standard plans exclude trailers above a certain size or weight. Always read the fine print or go with a dedicated RV roadside assistance provider.
A: Coverage for boondocking or off-grid locations varies by provider. Some plans may offer limited or no service in remote areas, so it’s critical to confirm with your provider beforehand. Providing precise GPS coordinates can help facilitate service if it’s available.
A: RV-specific plans can range from $80 to $200+ per year, depending on coverage level. It’s a small price for peace of mind during your big adventures.
A: If you travel often with a fifth wheel, it’s absolutely worth it. The right plan means faster, safer help in emergencies, and a lot less stress when the unexpected hits.