Understanding the Lippert Auto Level System
The Lippert Auto Level System is a hydraulic leveling mechanism found on many travel trailers and motorhomes. This system automatically adjusts the vehicle's height and stability by extending or retracting hydraulic jacks at various points on the frame. The purpose of the system is to keep your RV level when parked, which improves comfort, ensures proper appliance function, and reduces stress on the structure over time.
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The system consists of several key components working together: hydraulic fluid stored in a reservoir, a pump that pressurizes the fluid, control switches or buttons that you operate from inside the RV, solenoid valves that direct fluid flow, hydraulic cylinders (jacks) that extend and retract, and sensors that detect when the RV reaches level position. When functioning properly, you press a button and the system automatically raises or lowers specific jacks until the RV reaches an appropriate level position.
Understanding how this system works is important before attempting any troubleshooting or reset procedures. The hydraulic fluid must be at proper levels, the electrical connections must be secure, and the control module must receive power to operate correctly. A reset procedure typically involves cycling the system or reconnecting power to allow the control module to recalibrate itself. Many owners experience occasional glitches where the system stops responding to button commands, operates inconsistently, or gets stuck in one position.
Common reasons your system might need resetting include: prolonged periods without use, battery drain on the RV, electrical connection issues from vibration during travel, or a control module that has entered an error state. Resetting the system often resolves these issues without requiring professional service. However, some problems may indicate deeper mechanical or electrical concerns that need professional diagnosis.
Practical Takeaway: Familiarize yourself with your specific system's components by reviewing your RV's manual. Note the location of the hydraulic reservoir, circuit breaker or fuse dedicated to the leveling system, and the control panel or switches. Take photos of these locations for reference during troubleshooting.
Safety Precautions Before Starting
Before attempting any work on your Lippert Auto Level System, you must take several safety steps to protect yourself and prevent damage to your RV. Safety should be your first priority, even when performing simple reset procedures.
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First, ensure your RV is parked on level ground and the parking brake is engaged. Turn off the engine completely and remove the key from the ignition. This prevents accidental movement or electrical surges while you're working. Open all windows and doors to provide ventilation, as you may need to access areas of the RV during the process. Notify anyone else in or near the vehicle that you're performing maintenance work.
Next, locate the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the leveling system. Your RV's manual will identify which breaker controls the auto level function. Before touching any electrical components, turn off this specific breaker or remove the fuse. Wait at least five minutes to allow any residual electrical charge to dissipate from the system. This waiting period is crucial and prevents electrical shock or damage to sensitive components.
If you need to work near the hydraulic jacks, understand that they hold significant pressure even when powered off. Never stand under the RV or position yourself where a falling jack could injure you. Hydraulic fluid can be under pressure and may spray out when connections are loosened. Wear safety glasses and work gloves when working with hydraulic components. Keep a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires nearby, just as a precaution.
Never attempt a reset while someone is sitting in the driver's seat or inside the cab area. Make sure no one is in a position where sudden jacks movement could trap them. Some reset procedures involve cycling the jacks, which means they will extend and retract. Keep the area around your RV clear of people, pets, and obstacles.
Practical Takeaway: Create a simple checklist before starting work: (1) Park on level ground with brake on, (2) Turn off engine and remove key, (3) Locate the leveling system circuit breaker in your breaker panel, (4) Switch off that breaker, (5) Wait five minutes, (6) Clear the area around your RV, (7) Gather work gloves and safety glasses. Check off each item before proceeding.
Power Cycle Reset Method
The most common and straightforward reset procedure for the Lippert Auto Level System is the power cycle method. This approach works by disconnecting power from the system's control module, which allows it to reset to its default state. Many owners find this method resolves minor glitches without requiring replacement parts or professional service.
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To perform a power cycle reset, start by locating your RV's main electrical panel, which is typically found in a cabinet or compartment either inside the RV or in an external compartment. The circuit breaker labeled for the leveling system might say "Auto Level," "Leveling System," "Hydraulic Pump," or simply show a J-pin connector designation. Refer to your specific manual for the exact label used in your model year.
With the breaker panel open and all safety precautions completed, switch the leveling system's circuit breaker to the OFF position. You should see the breaker toggle switch move to a clear "off" position. If you have a fuse-based system instead of breakers, carefully remove the fuse by pulling it straight out. Note the fuse's amperage rating so you replace it with an identical one. Place the fuse in a safe location where it won't be lost.
Leave the power disconnected for a full five minutes. Use a timer on your phone or watch to ensure you wait the complete time. During this period, all electrical charge drains from the control module's capacitors and memory. After the five-minute wait, restore power by switching the breaker back ON or reinserting the fuse. You should hear a slight clicking or buzzing sound as the system reawakens, which indicates the control module is powering up and running through its initialization sequence.
Once power is restored, wait another two to three minutes before testing the system. Do not press any buttons during this initialization period. After the waiting period, press a single control button—typically the "Level" or "Auto" button—and observe whether the hydraulic pump runs and the jacks respond. If successful, the system should cycle through its operation smoothly.
Practical Takeaway: Set two phone alarms: one for when you disconnect power (reminding you to wait five minutes) and one for after you reconnect power (reminding you to wait three minutes before testing). This removes any guesswork and ensures you follow proper timing for a successful reset.
Manual Leveling Controls and Diagnostic Testing
If the power cycle reset does not restore your system's function, the next step involves using manual controls and testing individual components. Most Lippert systems include manual override options that allow you to operate each jack independently. Understanding how to access and use these controls provides valuable information about where the problem might be located.
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Locate your system's control panel, which is typically mounted inside the RV near a window or in a central location like near the bedroom or bathroom. Modern systems often feature a digital touchscreen or button panel. Older systems may have simple up-and-down toggle switches for each jack location. Review your manual to identify where manual controls or override options are located on your specific panel.
Most control panels include individual manual buttons for each jack—typically labeled Front, Rear Left, Rear Right, and sometimes Mid or Center jacks. If your main "Auto Level" or "Level" button is not working, try pressing the individual jack buttons one at a time. Listen and feel for vibration that indicates the hydraulic pump is running. Watch the area around each jack point to see if they extend or retract when you press each button.
Testing individual jacks reveals important diagnostic information. If some jacks respond but others do not, the problem likely involves a specific solenoid valve or hydraulic line rather than a general system failure. If no jacks respond, the pump may not be running or power is not reaching the control module. If the pump runs but jacks move very slowly or not at all, this may indicate low hydraulic fluid or air trapped in the lines.
Some systems include a manual hand pump lever, typically located near the hydraulic reservoir or control module area. This lever allows you to pressurize the hydraulic system without using electrical power. If your manual jacks work using the hand pump but