Lippert Leveling System Faults — Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Owning a coach or fifth-wheel with a :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} or similar automatic leveling system from Lippert Components means one-touch setup can go out the window when faults happen. This guide gives you a full breakdown of how to diagnose and fix the most common Lippert leveling system errors — from LED codes and wiring to the pump, jacks, touch-pad and controller board.

Common Symptoms of Lippert Leveling System Faults

“LF”, “RF”, “LR”, “RR”, or “RM” error codes on the touch-pad
System refuses to extend or retract jacks automatically
Jacks extend but stop mid-stroke or retract only partially
Pump runs but no jack movement
Touch-pad unresponsive or doesn’t light up
Coach sagging or uneven after leveling cycle

Tools & Prep You’ll Need

12 V multimeter (for voltage & current checks)
Nut drivers: ¼″, 5⁄16″, 3⁄8″ (depending on installs)
Socket set (for pump mounting bolts, hydraulic lines if applicable)
Manual/Owner’s guide for your Lippert system (LED code sheet) — see Lippert doc 0021. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Ladder or platform (for checking jacks/rails) & flashlight
Clear working space around coach with ignition off and wheels chocked

1. Check Battery Voltage & Grounding — Start Here

Why it’s critical

These systems draw large current. If voltage drops below ~11-12 V under load, erratic faults occur. Weak battery or poor ground = big trouble.

Steps:

Disconnect auto leveling system (if safe) — or at least ensure system is in idle.
Check battery resting voltage (should be ~12.6 V). Then switch on system and observe during pump run or jack movement. If drops below ~11.5 V = issue.
Inspect ground connections: frame to battery negative, chassis ground strap, jack frame grounds. Clean corrosion, tighten bolts.

If your voltage is dropping badly under load, stop diagnosing further until you fix power issues — many “controller faults” are really just under-voltage.

2. Touch-Pad & Control Panel Fault Codes (LEDs) — Interpret What They Mean

The touch-pad is your gateway to understanding what’s wrong. Lippert publishes code sheets; for example the “Electronic Leveling” document shows the sequence of lights and meanings. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Typical codes & meanings

“LF” / “RF” / “LR” / “RR” / “RM” – Left Front / Right Front / Left Rear / Right Rear / Right Middle jack fault.
Pump runs then stops without jack movement = hydraulic issue or motor fault.
No lights on panel – no power to system or failed module.

Reset procedure:

Turn system off and ignition off.
Chock wheels and set parking brake (safe level ground).
On touch-pad, press and hold RETRACT + ENTER (or as your model states) until you hear pump cycle (this clears codes). Method varies by model. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Watch for new codes during next cycle — note them down for targeting fault area.

3. Hydraulic Pump & Power Unit (for hydraulic models)

How to inspect:

Locate power unit (sit-down coach usually basement or compartment). Ensure wiring secure and clean.
With system off, check fuse/relay that supplies pump. Replace if blown.
With ignition on and system engaged, measure voltage at pump input while it’s running — if voltage drop or motor spins slow → may be weak pump or wiring loss.
Listen: Pump running but jacks not moving → internal pump fault or blocked line or leaking cylinder.

If you have a leak in a hydraulic line or fitting the system may detect “jack extension but no movement” which triggers fault codes.

4. Jack Legs & Motors (Electric / Hall-Effect Systems)

In electric systems like the Ground Control 3.0, the jacks use Hall‐Effect sensors to track revolutions. If a jack leg fails or sensor misreads, the system throws a fault.

Inspection steps:

With system off, inspect all legs for bends, debris, damage or binding. Clean and adjust pivot points.
Check the wiring harness at each jack—look for chafing or broken wires.
Activate system in Manual mode and watch each leg extend fully. If one leg fails consistently it may be the motor or sensor.
Unplug motor at fault leg and apply 12 V directly (if safe) to test motor rotation / sensor output.
Replace the jack or motor unit if failure confirmed—for example the replacement jack listed above. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

5. Wiring, Fuse & Relay Checks

Don’t skip this. Faults often stem from loose connectors, blown fuses, or bad relays rather than major component failures.

Locate fuse panel for leveling system—check for any blown fuses (refer to owner’s manual).
Check relay: With relay energized you should hear click; if no click but power present at coil side = bad relay.
Check ground continuity: from chassis to controller and jacks. Use meter to check <0.2 Ω resistance.
Inspect every connector—look for corrosion or burn marks.

6. System Calibration / Zero Point Setting

Some Lippert systems allow setting a “zero point” after battery disconnect or system repairs so the controller knows reference position. Without this, jacks may mis-interpret position causing fault codes. Refer to Lippert service sheet. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Procedure summary:

Level coach manually until jacks fully down and resting.
On touch-pad press the zero-point setting sequence (often pressing FRONT button 5 times). :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Turn system off and restart — test Auto cycle.

7. When to Call in Professional Help

You can handle most issues yourself, but these situations warrant a mobile tech or shop:

Hydraulic leak inside chassis creating major fluid loss.
Repeated jacks mis-sensing or failing even after motor/leg replacement (possible central module fault).
Controller board shows lots of “unknown code” and no documentation available.
Coach structural issues (frame bending) causing jacks not to seat properly.

Final Thoughts

The Lippert automatic leveling systems (Ground Control, Level-Up, etc.) offer amazing convenience — but when they fault, they can leave you stuck in an awkward setup or mis‐levelled campsite. Start with **power, ground and wiring** (most faults originate there). Then move to **touch-pad codes**, **jacks/motors**, **hydraulics** and **zero-point recalibration**. With the steps above you’ll diagnose and often fix the issue without paying a big service call.

Happy camping & safe leveling!