Your New Motorhome, 5th Wheel, or RV Stuck in the Shop?

Is Your New Motorhome, 5th Wheel, or Trailer Stuck in the Shop? Here’s What You Need to Know

The Reality of Buying a New RV

For many, buying a motorhome represents freedom, adventure, and comfort. Dealerships like Camping World and Blue Compass promise that their RVs are “ready for adventure.” Some locations even offer a “Camp Ready” package for around $1,000, charging buyers extra to ensure their new motorhome is travel-ready. But shouldn’t a brand-new RV already be prepared for the road?

Unfortunately, many owners quickly discover that their new RV is plagued with issues, forcing them to return to the dealership for repairs—sometimes within the first few weeks or months of ownership.

Did the Manufacturer Breach Its Warranty?

Major RV manufacturers like Jayco, Fleetwood, Grand Design, Keystone, Thor, and Forest River offer warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship. However, buyers often find that these warranties don’t live up to expectations. Many dealerships, including Camping World and Blue Compass, struggle to honor these warranties efficiently, blaming parts shortages, manufacturer approval delays, or service backlogs.

Common Warranty Defects in New RVs

Brand-new RVs should be road-ready, but many suffer from serious defects, including:

• Plumbing Leaks – Poor craftsmanship leads to water damage and mold.
• Electrical Failures – Faulty wiring, dead outlets, or inverter malfunctions.
• Slide-Out Malfunctions – Jamming, scraping, or leaks that cause damage.
• Leveling Jack Issues – Failing to extend/retract or leaking hydraulic fluid.
• Roof & Sealant Leaks – Water intrusion causing long-term structural damage.
• Appliance Failures – Refrigerators, stoves, and A/C units breaking down.
• Chassis & Drivetrain Problems – Engine, transmission, and brake failures.

The Frustration of Repair Delays

Many RV owners find themselves waiting weeks or even months for warranty repairs at dealerships like Camping World and Blue Compass. These dealers initially promised a travel-ready vehicle, only to leave buyers stranded while waiting for warranty fixes.

For some, the RV lifestyle dream turns into a nightmare as travel plans are repeatedly canceled due to unresolved defects. Meanwhile, dealers and RV manufacturers often shift blame, leaving owners frustrated and stuck in a cycle of delays.

How to Protect Yourself From RV Warranty Issues

If you’re struggling with warranty defects, take these steps to protect yourself and strengthen a potential lemon law claim:

• Document Everything – Take detailed notes, photos, and videos of defects.

• Track Repair Times – Keep records of how long your RV is in the shop.

• Contact the Manufacturer – Escalate issues directly to Jayco, Keystone, Thor, etc.

• Be Cautious About Pick-Ups – If your RV isn’t fully repaired, leaving it at the dealership may strengthen your lemon law case.

Considering a Lemon Law Claim?