Whether you're racing around the track, tackling dirt trails or simply enjoying your model in the backyard, regular maintenance is one of the best ways to keep it performing at its best.

RC models are built to be driven, but dirt, dust, grass, mud and the occasional hard landing can all take their toll over time. A little cleaning and maintenance after each driving session can help prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

Why Should You Maintain Your RC?

Looking after your model isn't just about keeping it looking good. Regular maintenance can help you:

·       Keep moving parts operating smoothly

·       Identify worn or damaged components early

·       Remove dirt and debris that can affect performance

·       Reduce unnecessary wear on gears, suspension and drivetrain components

·       Keep your tyres and wheels performing properly

·       Extend the life of your model

·       Get your model ready for its next race or driving session

You don't need to completely strip down your model after every drive either. A few simple checks and some basic cleaning can make a big difference.

Start With a Quick Inspection

After each driving session, give your model a quick once-over.

Check the body, wheels, tyres, suspension and chassis for any obvious damage. Pay particular attention after racing, jumping or driving over rough terrain.

Look for:

·       Cracked or damaged suspension components

·       Loose screws

·       Damaged body parts

·       Loose wheels

·       Worn tyres

·       Dirt or grass caught around the drivetrain

·       Damaged gears or other moving components

·       Frayed or damaged wiring

Catching a small issue early can save you from a much bigger repair later.

Cleaning Your RC Model

One of the most important parts of maintaining your model is removing dirt and debris after driving.

A soft-bristled brush is an excellent starting point, or look for a compressed air-duster (electronic or from a can – can be found online). Use it to gently remove loose dirt, dust, grass and debris from the chassis, suspension and wheels.

A small detailing brush or similar soft brush can also be useful for getting into tighter areas where dirt can accumulate.

For stubborn dirt, use a suitable RC-safe cleaning product and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular model.

A microfibre cloth is also handy for wiping down the body and chassis after cleaning.

What Should You Avoid?

Avoid using harsh household chemicals or abrasive cleaning products that could damage plastics, painted surfaces, decals or other components.

It's also important to avoid simply soaking your entire model in water. Different models and components have different levels of water resistance, so always check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific Tamiya, Maverick or Traxxas model before using water during cleaning.

For Tamiya assembly kits in particular, remember that the electronics you install and the components used in your build need to be treated appropriately.

Don't Forget the Wheels and Tyres

Your tyres are some of the hardest-working parts of your model.

After driving, check them for:

·       Excessive wear

·       Splits or damage

·       Stones or debris

·       Loose wheels

·       Damage around the wheel or tyre

If you're racing regularly, tyre wear can happen more quickly. Replacing worn tyres can help maintain grip and handling.

If you were racing through lots of water, make sure to squeeze out or dry out the wheels, water in the foam inserts can lead to severe wheel balance issues and possible corrosion if not dried properly.

It's also worth checking that your wheel nuts remain secure. A loose wheel can quickly turn a fun driving session into an unexpected pit stop!

Check the Suspension

The suspension takes plenty of punishment, particularly if you're jumping your model or racing over uneven surfaces.

Inspect the suspension arms, shocks and mounting points for signs of damage or excessive wear.

If you notice that your model isn't sitting correctly, handling differently or behaving differently over bumps, it's worth checking the suspension before your next drive.

For Tamiya, Maverick and Traxxas models, replacement suspension components are available when parts become worn or damaged.

Keep an Eye on the Drivetrain

Dirt and grass can find their way into areas around the drivetrain, particularly when you're driving off-road.

After driving, check for debris around areas such as the gears, driveshafts and other moving components.

If something looks unusual or your model starts making a different noise, don't ignore it. Investigating the problem early can help prevent additional components from becoming damaged.

Always refer to the instructions for your specific model before attempting maintenance or disassembly.

Check Your Screws and Fasteners

Vibration from driving can cause screws and other fasteners to loosen over time.

Before heading out, especially after a big day of racing, check that important components are secure.

You don't need to tighten everything as hard as possible. Over-tightening can also cause problems, particularly with plastic components.

A basic RC tool kit can be a useful addition to your hobby setup, allowing you to make small adjustments and repairs at home or at the track.

Look After Your Battery

Your battery is an important part of your setup, so don't forget to look after it too.

Always use a charger that is compatible with your battery and follow the charging, storage and safety instructions supplied with the battery and charger.

Before charging, inspect the battery, connectors and wiring for signs of damage.

If you notice swelling, damaged wiring, damaged connectors or other signs of a problem, stop using the battery and follow the manufacturer's safety guidance.

Having an additional compatible battery can also mean more driving time between charging sessions.

👉 Shop our range of Batteries and Chargers Available

When Should You Replace a Part?

RC models are designed to be driven, and sometimes things break. A hard landing, collision or particularly enthusiastic race can result in a damaged component.

The good news is that replacing a damaged part doesn't necessarily mean replacing the entire model.

When replacing a component, make sure you select the correct part for your specific Tamiya, Maverick or Traxxas model.

Checking the model name, number and manufacturer's part number before ordering can help ensure you get the right component for your model.

Upgrading Your RC Model

Maintenance isn't only about replacing broken parts. For many enthusiasts, upgrading the vehicle is part of the fun!

Depending on the model, you may be able to upgrade components to change the way it looks, handles or performs.

Upgrades can be a great way to personalise your model as you gain more experience and discover how you like to drive.

Whether you're replacing a broken component after a big race or looking for your next upgrade, always check compatibility with your specific model before purchasing.

Your RC Model Doesn't Have to Stay Broken

Had a crash? Worn out a suspension arm? Need new tyres? Looking for an upgrade?

Don't let a broken part keep your model sitting on the shelf.

Head to Hobby Vault to browse our range of Tamiya, Maverick and Traxxas spare parts, upgrades, batteries, chargers and accessories.

👉 Find Parts & Accessories for Your RC Model

Unable to find the part your looking for? Get in touch with our customer service team via our website Contact Us page with the model name and part you looking for and they will try their best to assist!

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Keep Driving, Keep Building, Keep Enjoying!