Whether you are a veteran RV enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of RVs, a problem RV should not be your problem. Despite what your dealer might have you think, there is a clear difference between a defect and a routine care and maintenance issue. There are laws to protect buyers of problem vehicles and to ensure dealers and manufacturers bear the cost of defective RVs (including your attorneys’ fees). Our related blog post delves into your legal rights when you have a lemon RV.

In recent years, complaints about RVs have become more frequent. Many people in the industry believe that the quality of workmanship and materials used in RVs have deteriorated as companies try to cut costs and sacrifice durability for superficial features. Even once reputable RV brands have become disappointing and unreliable. Here are four brands that we see repeatedly with clients in our practice:

1: Forest River

Forest River manufactures a diverse range of recreational vehicles including fifth wheels and pop-up campers. It was once known for quality but recent models have been plagued with problems. People tend to be most familiar with its Coachman line but the problems are seen across the entire brand. Its customer service is known to be unhelpful and even rude.

Common complaints about Forest River include:

• Leaks in showers and window seals
• Rust forming from leaks
• Sinking floors
• Slide out failing leading to flooding
• Poor customer service

2: Jayco

Jayco, a subsidiary of Thor Industries, has become known for unreliability. As a brand, it tends to value features and looks over durability and function. Although the extra features can offer more comfort for a time, owners report that they have a high likelihood of failing, causing inconvenience and expense.

Common complaints about Jayco include:

• Leaks from plumbing and roof
• Flooding
• Crooked toilets
• Faulty electrics (often affecting the oven hood)
• Recurring problems with ventilation, plumbing and fixtures
• Appliances break easily

3: Winnebago

Winnebago, nicknamed Winnie, is one of the best known RV brands in the industry. Many of the problems encountered with the Winnebago are a result of poor quality materials and construction, causing structural issues such as inclined or bending walls. However, faulty electricals and subpar interior finishing are also common issues.

Common problems with the Winnebago include:

• Wall structure and finishing – slanted, bending, peeling, panels blowing off while driving
• Leaking from roof and plumbing
• Electrical and lighting system failures
• Poor quality interior finishing
• Unhelpful and uninformed customer service

4: Thor

The Thor Industries group owns many well-known RV brands, including Jayco. Within the Thor brand itself, the Thor Hurricane is the most infamous due to its terrible reputation. The low quality workmanship and inferior materials of this RV are reflected in its numerous safety recalls and consistently poor ratings.

Common problems with the Thor Hurricane include:

• Defective hydraulics – leaking hydraulic lines, hydraulic jacks lose stability
• Failing parking brake (causing unintended movement)
• House batteries not charging
• Seat deterioration due to use of low quality materials
• Exhaust piping defects
• Numerous recalls (including fire risk)
• Poor customer service

At Timothy Abeel & Associates, we have helped many RV owners facing problems with these brands and others. We are experienced in dealing with the problems, the manufacturers, and the laws that are unique to RVs. Our team advises RV owners of their legal rights and gets them the repairs or cash compensation that they are entitled to by law. If you are dealing with a problem RV, we can help you too. We will provide a free case review and help you determine the best course of action for you.

Timothy J. Abeel & Associates, P.C. represent clients throughout California, Florida, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Reviews can be seen on AVVO, Google, Glen Mills Yelp, Roseland Yelp, & Pittsburgh Yelp.