I’ll never forget the evening at Yellowstone when my camping neighbours, Mark and Susan, pulled in just before sunset. While my wife and I were still wrestling with manual jacks and plastic leveling blocks, they simply parked, pressed a button—and in under two minutes, their fifth wheel was perfectly level. By the time we were crawling around with a bubble level, they were sipping wine and enjoying the view.
"That's it," I told my wife, wiping sweat from my forehead. "We're getting auto-leveling."
If you’ve ever watched another RVer set up camp effortlessly and wondered if you could upgrade your rig the same way—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I get from RV owners looking to simplify their setup.
The good news? In most cases, yes, you can add an auto-leveling system to your RV. But before you make the leap, there are a few key things to know about compatibility, installation, and cost.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned after installing auto-leveling on three of my own RVs and helping dozens of fellow campers find the right solution for their setup.
Before diving into the specifics of adding an auto-leveling system to your RV, it's important to understand what these systems are and how they work.
Think of them as the difference between washing dishes by hand versus using a dishwasher—both get the job done, but one is dramatically more convenient.
An auto-leveling system is a set of hydraulic or electric jacks that automatically deploy and adjust to level your RV with the push of a button.
These systems typically include:
The first time I saw an auto-leveling system in action, it seemed almost magical—like something from a sci-fi movie. But the technology is actually quite straightforward, just brilliantly applied to solve one of RVing's most tedious tasks.
There are two main types of auto-leveling systems available for RVs, each with its own advantages:
I installed a hydraulic system on my 36-foot fifth wheel, and the power is impressive. It can lift and level the 14,000-pound rig without breaking a sweat, even on significantly uneven terrain.
A friend of mine installed an electric system on his 26-foot travel trailer, and it's perfect for his needs—lighter, less expensive, and still gets the job done efficiently.
The feasibility of adding an auto-leveling system depends primarily on your RV type.
Let's break it down by category:
Fifth wheels are generally the easiest RV type to upgrade with aftermarket auto-leveling systems. Most fifth wheels have sturdy frames that can accommodate the mounting of leveling jacks.
Systems typically available include:
I've personally installed a Quadra Bigfoot system on my fifth wheel, and the difference in setup time and stability was remarkable. What used to take 20-30 minutes of adjusting now takes less than 2 minutes with perfect results every time.
A quick story: During a trip to the mountains, we arrived at our campsite after dark in pouring rain. Instead of fumbling with a flashlight and getting soaked while manually leveling, I simply pressed the auto-level button from inside the cab of my truck. By the time I grabbed my raincoat and stepped outside, the fifth wheel was perfectly level. That moment alone made the investment worthwhile.
Many travel trailers can be upgraded with auto-leveling systems, though there are more limitations compared to fifth wheels. Key considerations include:
For travel trailers, electric systems like the Lippert Ground Control TT are often recommended due to their lighter weight. These systems typically cost around $4,000-$5,000 including installation.
My camping buddy Tom has a 28-foot travel trailer that he upgraded with an electric leveling system. He had to reinforce a couple of mounting points, but the installation was successful, and he's been thrilled with the results. "It's like getting an extra hour of vacation time at every campsite," he told me.
Most motorhomes that don't already have auto-leveling can be retrofitted with aftermarket systems. The approach varies by motorhome class:
When I added a Quadra Bigfoot system to my Class C motorhome, I found that the installation was more complex than on my fifth wheel, but the results were equally impressive. The installer had to work around some chassis-specific features, but the end result was a perfectly functioning system.
Pro tip: If you have a motorhome built on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis, be sure to work with an installer who has specific experience with these vehicles. The mounting points and weight distribution requirements are unique and require specialized knowledge.
Before investing in an auto-leveling system, it's worth considering the full range of benefits. This isn't just about being lazy (though I fully embrace that aspect)—there are practical advantages that improve your entire RVing experience.
The most obvious benefit is convenience. What used to take 20-30 minutes of manual work now takes just 1-2 minutes with the push of a button. This means more time enjoying your camping experience and less time setting up.
I've calculated that over a typical 10-day vacation with multiple stops, auto-leveling saves me about 3 hours of setup time. That's 3 more hours of hiking, fishing, or relaxing instead of crawling around under my RV.
Auto-leveling systems provide superior stability compared to manual methods. This means:
My wife used to get motion sickness from the subtle rocking of our manually-leveled RV. Since installing auto-leveling, that problem has completely disappeared, making for a much happier camping experience for both of us.
Auto-leveling systems achieve more precise leveling than manual methods. This is particularly important for:
Before auto-leveling, I would sometimes wake up to find my refrigerator wasn't cooling properly because the RV had settled overnight and was no longer level. With auto-leveling, I can quickly re-level without even stepping outside if needed.
Manual leveling can be physically demanding, especially on uneven terrain. Auto-leveling eliminates the need to:
As someone with occasional back problems, this benefit alone has been worth the investment. No more crawling around on gravel or mud, no more cranking manual jacks until my arms ache.
Adding an auto-leveling system can increase your RV's resale value. When I sold my previous fifth wheel, the Quadra Bigfoot system I had installed was a major selling point that helped me recoup much of my investment.
The buyer specifically mentioned that the auto-leveling system was one of the features that made him choose my RV over similar models. He was willing to pay a premium for the convenience, which offset about 70% of my original installation cost.
Based on my experience and research, these are the top systems to consider for aftermarket installation:
Best for: Travel trailers and lighter fifth wheels
Type: Electric
Features:
Approximate cost: $3,500-$4,500 (including installation)
I've helped several friends install this system on their travel trailers, and they've been universally pleased with the performance. The auto-hitch memory feature is particularly useful for fifth wheels, as it remembers the exact height needed to reconnect to your truck.
Buy Lippert Ground Control
Best for: Motorhomes and heavier fifth wheels
Type: Hydraulic
Approximate cost: $4,000-$7,000 (including installation)
I've personally installed and used the Quadra Bigfoot system on three different RVs, and I've been consistently impressed with its reliability and performance. Even in challenging terrain, it's never failed to level my RV perfectly.
A quick story: During a trip to the Rocky Mountains, we camped at a site with nearly 6 inches of slope from side to side. I was skeptical that any auto-leveling system could handle it, but the Quadra Bigfoot lifted my fifth wheel with no problem, creating a perfectly level living space despite the challenging terrain.
Buy Quadra Bigfoot
Best for: RVers who want improved leveling without a full auto system Type: Manual (stackable blocks)
Approximate cost: $60–$80
If you're not ready to invest in a full auto-leveling system, these stackable Ultra Leveling Blocks are a great alternative. I've recommended them to dozens of RVers who wanted more control over uneven campsites without breaking the bank. They're durable, easy to use, and compact enough to store easily between stops.
One couple I met in Arizona used these on their Class C during a desert boondocking trip—they managed to level their rig perfectly on rocky terrain using just a few blocks and a bubble level.
Buy Ultra Leveling Blocks
While some mechanically inclined RV owners might consider a DIY installation, I strongly recommend professional installation for most people. Here's why:
Professional Installation Advantages:
DIY Challenges:
When I had my systems installed, I found that the professional installers had specialized tools and knowledge that would have been difficult to replicate on my own. They also completed in 6 hours what would have likely taken me several days of frustration.
A word of caution: I met an RVer who attempted a DIY installation to save money. He ended up damaging his RV's frame and electrical system, resulting in repairs that cost more than professional installation would have. Sometimes the most expensive route is trying to save money in the wrong places.
If you're curious about what the installation entails, here's a general overview:
The entire process typically takes 6-8 hours for a professional installation. When I had my fifth wheel system installed, I dropped it off in the morning and picked it up in the afternoon with the system fully operational.
Installation costs vary depending on your location and RV type, but you can expect to pay:
While this represents a significant investment, I've found that the convenience and improved camping experience make it worthwhile for frequent RVers. If you camp more than 10-15 nights per year, the time savings and convenience quickly justify the cost.
Pro tip: Some RV dealers offer installation specials during slow seasons (typically fall and winter). I saved nearly $300 by scheduling my installation in November when the service department had more availability.
Once installed, auto-leveling systems require some maintenance to ensure long-term reliability:
I keep a small maintenance kit in my RV with the appropriate lubricant and cleaning supplies. After each camping season, I spend about 30 minutes inspecting and maintaining the system, which has helped ensure trouble-free operation for years.
If you store your RV during winter months, take these additional steps:
I learned the importance of proper winterization after seeing a friend's jack legs develop rust during winter storage. A little preventive care goes a long way in extending the life of your system.
Generally, a properly installed aftermarket leveling system should not void your RV's warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers in this regard. However, if the installation causes damage, that specific damage might not be covered.
I was initially concerned about this when installing a system on my nearly-new fifth wheel, but the dealer assured me that as long as the installation was done properly by a certified technician, my warranty would remain intact.
Professional installation typically takes 6-8 hours, depending on your RV type and the system being installed. My fifth wheel installation took about 6 hours, while my more complex motorhome installation took closer to 8 hours.
Yes, most systems include a manual override function that allows you to operate the jacks individually if necessary. This came in handy for me once when a sensor malfunctioned—I was able to manually control the jacks until I could get the sensor replaced.
Auto-leveling systems have limitations based on the degree of unevenness. Most systems can handle up to 3-4 inches of correction, but extreme slopes may exceed their capabilities.
I've successfully used my system on everything from perfectly flat concrete pads to significantly sloped forest campsites. The only time I encountered a limitation was at a primitive site with nearly 8 inches of slope—I had to position the RV more carefully before the auto-leveling could handle the remaining adjustment.
This varies by system, but most are rated to support the full weight of your RV. Hydraulic systems typically have higher weight capacities than electric systems.
My Quadra Bigfoot system is rated for up to 17,000 pounds, which comfortably exceeds the weight of my fifth wheel. This gives me confidence that the system isn't straining even when lifting the RV on uneven terrain.
Based on my experience, adding an auto-leveling system to your RV is worth considering if:
While the initial investment is significant, the convenience, comfort, and potential increase in resale value make auto-leveling a worthwhile upgrade for many RV owners.
Remember that proper installation is crucial for safety and performance, so research qualified installers in your area and choose a system that's compatible with your specific RV type and weight.
With the right system properly installed, you'll be enjoying the convenience of one-touch leveling and spending more time enjoying your camping adventures rather than struggling with manual jacks and leveling blocks. And like me, you might find yourself relaxing with a beverage while watching your neighbors still crawling around with bubble levels and leveling blocks—just be nice enough to offer them a hand (or a sympathetic smile).
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business—it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
Follow me on LinkedIn