Frustrating Manufacturing Defects with Lippert Brakes on Trailers

Lippert Components plays a pivotal role in the RV industry, serving as a leading manufacturer of a diverse range of RV components beyond the typical parts vendor. Lippert’s offerings encompass chassis systems, appliances, HVAC units, slide-out mechanisms, awnings, and interior furniture, supporting notable brands like Forest River, Grand Design, Jayco, and more.

In 2022, Lippert introduced an innovative anti-lock braking system (ABS) for trailers, aimed at enhancing road safety and stability. This ABS system integrates seamlessly with Lippert’s Spring Axle line of products, promising improved driver confidence by preventing wheel-lock and enhancing control, particularly in challenging conditions where trailers might fishtail.

However, consumers have encountered challenges with Lippert’s ABS brakes, experiencing various common defects:

• Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors: Critical for monitoring individual wheel speeds, damaged sensors can compromise system functionality and pose safety risks.
• Damaged ABS Module: The ABS control module oversees system operations; any damage to this component can lead to erratic behavior or outright system failure.
• Low Brake Fluid: Maintaining proper brake fluid levels is crucial for optimal ABS performance. Fluid leaks can impact braking effectiveness and trigger warning signals.
• Contaminated Sensors: Accumulated debris or metal shavings on wheel speed sensors can impair accuracy and system responsiveness.
• Worn Brake Pads: Diminished brake pad effectiveness not only reduces braking efficiency but also impacts ABS functionality, often accelerated by other system defects.

California Lemon Law Protection

In California, the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (California lemon law) safeguards consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles, including RVs equipped with Lippert components.

If recurring issues impair the usability, value, or safety of your trailer or 5th wheel, and repair attempts fail to resolve them, you may qualify for relief under this law.

Criteria for Lemon Law Relief

To qualify under the California lemon law, defects must substantially impair the vehicle’s operation, and the manufacturer or its authorized repair facility must have made a reasonable number of repair attempts. Extended periods of warranty-related downtime (typically 30 days or more) or repeated unsuccessful repair attempts may indicate a valid lemon law claim.

Lippert’s Warranty Policy

While Lippert claims not to provide direct warranties to consumers, this does not preclude California consumers from pursuing successful lemon law claims due to defects in Lippert components. This includes the ABS system, as well as slide-outs, leveling jacks, entry steps, and other components.