7 Common Jayco Slide Out Problems + Fixes

Jayco is one of the leading manufacturers of RVs in the United States and they have some great budget options as well, but that doesn’t mean they don’t come without their problems.

One of the primary problems Jayco trailers experience is with their slide outs. This includes problems like the slide out not working at all, or only working intermittently.

The good news is that there are some things you can do to try and fix the problem yourself, but if that doesn’t work then you may need to take it to a Jayco dealer or service center.

jayco slide out problems

7 Common Jayco Slide Out Problems + Fixes

While there are some known issues with Jayco slide outs, there are also some fixes that RVers have been able to troubleshoot on their own.

1. Slide Out Not Working + Fuse Box

If your Jayco slide out isn’t working at all, the first thing you should check is the fuse box. There may be a blown fuse that is causing the problem. If there is, simply replace the fuse and see if that fixes the issue.

This is perhaps the easiest of all the fixes and there’s no need to call a service representative or take it to a dealership.

2. Slide Out Moving On Its Own + Fuse Box

Another common problem is that the slide out may start to move on its own. This is usually caused by a problem with the fuse box as well.

If you find that your slide out starts to move on its own, check the fuse box and see if there is a blown fuse.

This could mean there’s an intermittent connection that causes the slide out to move as if it’s receiving power when it shouldn’t. If so, replace the fuse and see if that fixes the problem.

3. Wiring Harness

Another common problem with Jayco slide outs is a wiring harness that has become loose or damaged. This can be caused by a number of things, but it’s usually due to age or wear and tear.

If you find that your slide out isn’t working properly, check the wiring harness for any damage. If you see any damage, you’ll need to replace the entire wiring harness.

This is a more complicated fix and you may need to take it to a Jayco dealer or service center to have it done.

4. Motor

If your slide out still isn’t working after checking the fuse box and wiring harness, the next thing you should check is the motor.

The motor is what actually moves the slide out in and out. If it’s not working, the slide out won’t move. There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the motor.

First, check the power supply to make sure it’s working. Next, check the connections to make sure they’re tight.

Finally, if all of that looks good, you may need to replace the motor. This is a more complicated fix and you’ll likely need to take it to a Jayco dealer or service center to have it done.

5. Slide Out Leaking + Replacing Seals

Another common problem with Jayco slide outs is that they may start to leak.

This can be caused by a number of things, but the most common cause is a seal that has become damaged.

If you find that your slide out is leaking, you’ll need to check the seals. If they’re damaged, you’ll need to replace them.

6. Slide Out Moving Slowly or Not At All

If you have hydraulic slides, you may need to replace the hydraulic fluid from time to time.

This is a fairly easy fix and you can do it yourself. Simply find the hydraulic reservoir and add more fluid as needed.

7. Adjustment Screws

If your slide out is still having problems, you may need to adjust the adjustment screws.

These screws are located on the frame of the slide out and they’re used to adjust the height. If your slide out is hitting something when it’s trying to move, you may need to adjust these screws.

This is a fairly easy fix and you can do it yourself.

How Do You Manually Retract A Jayco Slide Out?

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to manually retract your Jayco slide out, there are a few things you can do.

1. Use The Hand Crank

If your slide out has a hand crank, you can use it to manually retract the slide out. This is the easiest way to do it and it doesn’t require any special tools.

Unfortunately, most modern trailers like the Jayco Silverline, Sterling, and North Point aren’t equipped with this, so it may not be an option for you.

2. Manual Override Switch

If your slide out has a manual override switch, you can use it to manually retract the slide out. Try the button on your control panel to extend or retract your slide, and if it doesn’t work, flip the manual override switch.

This will force the slide out to move. The Jayco North Point is a luxury trailer equipped with features like this to prevent the hassle of problems with your slide outs.

3. Disconnect The Power

If your slide out is powered by electricity, you can disconnect the power to manually retract it.

Simply find the fuse box and remove the fuse that powers the slide out. This will disable the motors and allow you to manually retract the slide out by hand.

This requires some manpower if you have heavy slides, but it can be done.

4. Use A Ratchet Strap

If your slide out doesn’t have a hand crank or a manual override, you can use a ratchet strap to manually retract it.

This is a little more difficult than using the hand crank, but it can be done. Place the ratchet strap around the frame of the slide out and ratchet it tight.

Then, use the strap to pull the slide out in. While this may work for models like the Silverline or the Sterling, it probably won’t work for heavier slides like what’s on the North Point.

How To Lubricate A Jayco Slide Out

wd40

If your slide out is starting to make noise or isn’t moving as smoothly as it used to, it may be time to lubricate it.

This is a fairly easy process and only requires a few tools. Most, if not all trailers with slide outs will need to have this maintenance done regularly to ensure continued operation.

  1. Clean the Area – Before you start, you’ll need to clean the area around the slide out. This will help ensure that the lubricant doesn’t attract dirt and grime, which defeats the purpose of the lubricating process.
  2. Lubricate the Tracks – Once the area is clean, you can start lubricating the tracks. You’ll want to use a dry lubricant such as WD-40 or silicone spray. Avoid using oils or greases as they can attract dirt and grime.
  3. Lubricate the Rollers – Next, you’ll need to lubricate the rollers. These are the parts that actually move the slide out, so it’s important to keep them well-lubricated.
  4. Lubricate the Pulleys – If your slide out has pulleys, you’ll need to lubricate them as well. The pulleys help move the slide out, so it’s important to keep them well-lubricated.
  5. Lubricate the Hinges – Finally, you’ll need to lubricate the hinges. The hinges are what allow the slide out to move, so it’s important to keep them well-lubricated.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your Jayco slide out in good working order.

Regular maintenance will help ensure that your slide out continues to operate smoothly and trouble-free.


Jayco slide outs are a great addition to any RV, but they require regular maintenance to keep them in good working order.

By following the steps outlined in this article and troubleshooting your problems, you can keep your slide out operating smoothly for years to come

Madeline Cooper