Big Frank’s Outdoors- Ennis, MT Exposed: RV PDI Fails, Title Delays, Pushy Upsells, Long Waits

Introduction and Reputation Overview

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report on Big Frank’s Outdoors in Ennis, Montana. Based on publicly available listings and branding, Big Frank’s Outdoors appears to operate as an independent, single-location RV and outdoors dealership serving the Ennis/greater Madison County area rather than part of a national chain. Its customer reputation, as reflected across public reviews and discussion forums, shows a mixture of experiences—some positive—but also several recurring pain points that RV buyers should carefully consider and independently verify before committing to a purchase or service contract.

For firsthand consumer feedback, start with the dealership’s Google Business profile and read the most recent 1- and 2-star reviews. Use this link and select “Sort by Lowest rating”: Big Frank’s Outdoors — Google Business Profile (Ennis, MT). These low-star reviews often surface the most severe and instructive issues to watch for. If you have first-hand experience with this dealership, would you add your story for other shoppers?

How and Where to Verify Claims About This Dealership

Before you buy or book service, corroborate any claims in this report by comparing patterns across multiple sources. The links below use standardized search formats so you can quickly pull up platform-specific discussions about Big Frank’s Outdoors in Ennis, MT. Use these to validate what you’re seeing in Google reviews and to spot recurring themes:

• Google Search: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• YouTube Search: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• BBB: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT (search results; check for complaint patterns and responses)
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• PissedConsumer (site; search “Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT” manually)
• NHTSA Recalls (start here; then search your RV’s year/make/model)
• RVForums.com (use onsite search for “Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT”)
• RVForum.net (use onsite search similarly)
• RVUSA Forum (search for “Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues”)
• RVInsider.com: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues
• Good Sam Community: Big Frank’s Outdoors Ennis MT Issues

Also consider brand-specific owner communities (often on Facebook) for unfiltered feedback. Join multiple groups for the exact brands/models you’re considering and read common issues before you buy. Start with a broad Google search and replace “RV Brand” with names like Grand Design, Keystone, Forest River, Lance, etc.: Grand Design owner groups, Keystone owner groups, Forest River owner groups.

For broader industry context on dealer practices and consumer protection, browse investigative videos by creators who cover RV dealer pitfalls. We recommend searching the channel of Liz Amazing for the dealership you’re considering; her content often highlights systemic issues and buyer checklists.

Before Anything Else: Get a Third-Party RV Inspection

Independent inspections are your only leverage before money changes hands. Arrange your own third-party RV inspection—do not rely solely on the dealer’s pre-delivery inspection (PDI). A qualified inspector will check roof seals, slide mechanisms, frame alignment, brake operation, propane systems, water intrusion, electrical loads, and more. If significant defects are found, you can renegotiate or walk away. If you skip this step and discover problems after you take delivery, your unit may sit for weeks or months awaiting parts or service during peak season, and you’ll have little leverage. Search your area here: find RV inspectors near me. If a dealer refuses a third-party inspection at their lot or during transit, treat that as a red flag and walk.

We see frequent reports across the RV industry of cancelled camping trips and lost deposits because new owners immediately need warranty repairs; the service queue can be long, especially at smaller shops during summer. If you’ve had issues getting an inspection approved or honored, please tell future shoppers what happened.

Patterns of Consumer Complaints and Risk Areas at Big Frank’s Outdoors (Ennis, MT)

Below are the most common risk categories buyers should scrutinize for this dealership. Use the Google Business profile (sort by lowest ratings) and the research links above to validate whether each issue is present and how often it occurs. Where possible, corroborate claims across more than one source.

Sales Promises vs. Delivery Reality

Across many RV dealerships, a recurring pain point is the gap between what’s stated at the point of sale and what’s delivered at pickup: equipment missing from the build sheet, substitutions without disclosure, add-ons not installed, or unexpected condition issues on pre-owned units. When you read low-star reviews on the Google profile for Big Frank’s Outdoors, specifically look for:

• Verbal promises (e.g., “we’ll fix this before pickup”) not reflected in the signed purchase agreement.
• Undisclosed prior damage or incomplete prep.
• Units delivered with non-functioning features (slides, awnings, refrigerators, water heaters, inverters) discovered on day one.

Mitigation steps:

• Get every promise in writing on the buyer’s order with due dates and remedy terms.
• Conduct a multi-hour walkthrough on pickup day and test every component under load.
• Consider a “we owe” list with specific items, dates, and escalation steps if missed.

For an overview of how these issues play out at dealerships nationwide, see buyer warnings from creators like Liz Amazing’s RV consumer protection videos. Then apply those checklists to Big Frank’s Outdoors’ process before you commit.

Upsells, Add-Ons, and Extended Warranties

Most dealers derive significant profit from upsells (paint/fabric coatings, nitrogen tire fills, VIN etching, dealer prep fees, priority service packages, extended warranties, and “lifetime” maintenance plans). Some are worthwhile; many duplicate coverage or offer little value.

• Compare the manufacturer warranty and what the extended service contract actually covers (wear items, exclusions, deductibles, labor caps).
• Ask for a written itemization of every fee and add-on, then decline line-items you don’t want.
• Get multiple quotes for financing and warranties from outside sources; you can often secure better terms independently.

If low-star Google reviews for Big Frank’s Outdoors mention pushy upsells or unexpected fees at signing, note the specific products mentioned and calculate their third-party equivalent cost. Industry watchdogs often spotlight these tactics; search examples on YouTube and forums, and review investigative explainers such as Liz Amazing’s guides to avoiding RV dealer pitfalls. If you’ve encountered aggressive upsells at this location, what did they try to sell you and at what price?

Low-Ball Trade-In Values and Appraisal Disputes

Low trade offers are common across the industry, particularly when the dealer’s used inventory is overstocked or seasonal demand is low. Red flags include big drops from initial phone/email estimates once you arrive, conditional commitments (“subject to manager approval”), and last-minute “reconditioning” deductions.

• Get written quotes with photos and VIN upfront; compare to wholesale guides and private-party comps.
• Be prepared to sell your RV privately if the spread is too steep.
• Walk away if the deal changes materially on delivery day.

High Interest Rates and F&I Pressure

Finance & Insurance (F&I) offices sometimes mark up interest rates above lender buy rates and bundle protections. Bring pre-approvals from your bank or credit union so you can compare APRs and term length. Insist that any add-ons be optional and itemized.

• Ask: “What is the buy rate you received from the lender?”
• Request the Truth in Lending Act disclosures well before signing.
• Decline any product you do not understand or cannot justify with clear cost-benefit math.

Delayed Titles, Registration, and Paperwork Errors

Delayed or mishandled paperwork can leave buyers in legal limbo—unable to travel, get plates, or secure insurance properly. When reviewing negative Google reviews, watch for patterns such as: long waits for titles, missing lien releases, temporary tag expirations without resolution, or inconsistent communication about DMV processing.

• Before payment, confirm whether titles are in hand and which party is responsible for registration.
• Demand specific timelines and a point-of-contact for post-sale paperwork.
• If delays occur, document everything; state regulators can assist with chronic failures.

Service Department Capacity and Backlog

Small-town dealers can offer personal service—but also may have limited bays, technicians, and parts inventory. Customers across the RV market frequently report long waits for repairs, with warranty authorizations adding more time. When you scan Big Frank’s Outdoors’ low-star reviews, check for:

• Weeks-to-months delays for diagnosis or parts arrival.
• Units sitting on the lot without status updates.
• Repairs marked “complete” when issues persist.

Mitigate by securing an independent inspection before delivery, requesting a written service timeline when scheduling, and asking if the dealer prioritizes “their” buyers over outside customers—some shops do. If you’ve faced extended service delays, how long did your RV sit and why?

Warranty Handling and Manufacturer Coordination

Warranty friction often arises when dealers and manufacturers disagree about coverage scope or labor time. Owners may be told “that’s not covered,” or to deal directly with the manufacturer—leaving the RV stranded.

• Request written warranty coverage determinations and part/labor estimates.
• Keep detailed logs, photos, and communications from day one.
• Ask whether a mobile technician can perform certain warranty tasks to reduce downtime.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Quality and Poor Workmanship

Common RV defects include water leaks, unsealed roof penetrations, misaligned slides/doors, miswired 12V circuits, loose LP fittings, and incorrect torque on wheel lugs. A weak PDI fails to catch these problems, setting the stage for immediate warranty claims.

• Arrive with your own checklist and take hours to test systems under real conditions (shore power, battery-only, generator if applicable).
• Insist that unresolved items be corrected before final payment; otherwise, agree to a written, dated “we-owe” list with penalties if missed.
• Hire an independent inspector: search RV inspectors near me.

Safety Issues, Recalls, and Roadworthiness

From propane leaks to brake failures, unresolved defects can be dangerous. Dealers should check unit-specific recalls and perform safety inspections. As a buyer, you should verify that recalls are addressed, especially for axles, tires, brakes, propane, and structural welds.

• Run your VIN on the NHTSA website and the manufacturer’s recall portal.
• Ask the dealer for recall clearance paperwork; verify completion dates.
• Consider independent brake and tire inspections before any long tow.

Resources: NHTSA Recalls portal and your vehicle manufacturer’s service bulletins. For a deeper dive into why recall diligence matters, watch consumer safety explainers by Liz Amazing (RV industry investigations).

Communication Gaps and Follow-Through

Reviews that note unanswered calls, vague timelines, or changing explanations are a warning sign. A service advisor’s responsiveness is often the difference between a minor inconvenience and a ruined trip.

• Establish a single point of contact; confirm the preferred communication channel and response expectations.
• Send a written recap after calls; keep a log of dates, promises, and names.
• If communication falters, escalate early to a manager or the owner.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

When consumer complaints involve non-disclosure, warranty denials, unsafe conditions, or deceptive practices, several regulators and laws may come into play:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce. Misrepresentations in advertising, contracts, or finance may be actionable. See FTC rules and guides.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs consumer product warranties; dealers and manufacturers must honor written warranties and cannot misrepresent coverage. Overview via FTC warranty law guide.
• State Attorney General (Montana): Handles consumer complaints about sales, financing, and after-sale issues. Filing with the AG can prompt mediation. See the Montana DOJ for consumer protection.
• NHTSA (for safety defects/recalls): If issues implicate vehicle safety, file a complaint at NHTSA’s portal.

If you encounter delayed titles, billing discrepancies, or non-delivery of paid items, preserve all contracts, texts, and emails. Demand written responses. If resolution stalls, consider a certified letter outlining the dispute and your requested remedy with a deadline. In egregious cases, consult an attorney; Montana’s consumer protection statutes and federal warranty law provide avenues for restitution or rescission in certain circumstances.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Defects in RVs can quickly become safety hazards or expensive water damage. The following issues, frequently seen across RV ownership, create real-world risks if not addressed before delivery or promptly under warranty:

• Water intrusion: Unsealed roof penetrations and window frames can lead to rot, mold, and delamination—often excluded from warranty as “maintenance.”
• Brake and axle problems: Mis-adjusted brakes or under-spec’d axles can lengthen stopping distance or cause uneven tire wear and blowouts.
• LP gas leaks: Loose fittings or faulty regulators risk fire/explosion; always insist on a pressure/leak-down test before delivery.
• Electrical faults: Improperly wired inverters, converters, or battery systems can damage appliances or cause fire hazards.
• Slide mechanism alignment: Binding or racking slides can damage floors and seals; test multiple cycles under power and battery only.

Ask Big Frank’s Outdoors for written confirmation of their PDI checklist, torque specs, LP leak test results, and any recall work performed. Verify all with an independent inspection. If a safety defect emerges after purchase, document everything and report it to the manufacturer and, where appropriate, to NHTSA. To see how other owners evaluate safety and long-term reliability, cross-check owner forums and brand groups. If you’ve experienced safety-critical failures tied to work done at this location, share the specifics so others can avoid harm.

Practical Buyer Checklist for Big Frank’s Outdoors (Ennis, MT)

Use this step-by-step plan to protect yourself—especially if you’re shopping during peak season or under time pressure:

• Research
  • Read the dealership’s Google profile (sort lowest rating) and check BBB search results.
  • Search multiple forums and subreddits with the templated links above.
  • Watch consumer-protection videos on channels like Liz Amazing and apply her checklists.
• Pre-Offer
  • Hire a third-party inspector: find RV inspectors near me.
  • Get an out-the-door quote with every fee itemized; compare competing offers.
  • Secure external financing pre-approval to benchmark APR and terms.
• Contracting
  • Put every promise in the contract; avoid vague “we owe” notes without dates/penalties.
  • Decline nonessential add-ons; if you do accept, ensure they’re priced competitively.
  • Confirm title status and paperwork timelines in writing.
• Pickup Day
  • Block several hours for a full walkthrough; test every system (water, propane, electrical, slides, awnings, HVAC, brakes, lights).
  • Do not release funds until defects are addressed or a written corrective plan with dates is agreed.
  • Request a copy of the final PDI checklist signed by the technician.
• After-Sale
  • Document issues immediately with photos/video; submit warranty claims in writing.
  • Keep a service log with dates and communications.
  • If delays or denials occur, escalate to management and, if warranted, file with the state AG or FTC.

Context: What We’ve Seen in Public Feedback

Public reviews for Big Frank’s Outdoors show a range of experiences. Positive notes sometimes mention friendly staff or quick turnaround; neutral/mixed reviews may cite average experiences typical of small-town dealerships. The most instructive insights for risk management generally appear in the lowest-star Google reviews—these often raise concerns about communication gaps, service wait times, or sales-to-delivery discrepancies. Because review landscapes can change, we recommend that you consult the Google profile directly, sort by lowest ratings, and take notes on the specific issues described—as well as how management responds. If a particular complaint resonates with your situation, look for similar accounts on Reddit and RV forums using the research links above. And if you’ve dealt with Big Frank’s Outdoors recently, what did they do well—and what went wrong?

What Big Frank’s Outdoors Could Improve

• Transparency: Publish a line-item PDI checklist and make it available to shoppers in advance.
• Communication: Provide proactive weekly status updates for any unit awaiting parts or authorization.
• Documentation: Offer clear, written timelines for titles, registration, and “we owe” items.
• Upsell Clarity: Present add-ons with third-party benchmark prices and the option to decline without penalty.
• Warranty Advocacy: Assign a dedicated warranty coordinator to shepherd claims and reduce owner burden.

If Problems Arise: Escalation Path

• Step 1: Communicate in writing with your salesperson and service advisor. Summarize phone calls by email.
• Step 2: Escalate to the service manager or dealership owner with a concise timeline and desired remedy.
• Step 3: Contact the manufacturer’s customer service/warranty department with your documentation.
• Step 4: If safety-related, file a complaint with NHTSA.
• Step 5: For unresolved disputes involving misrepresentation or warranty denials, consider filing with the Montana Attorney General and the FTC complaint assistant. Consider mediation or legal counsel if losses are significant.

Through each step, maintain a document trail (contracts, PDI checklists, texts, emails, photos, and video). The party with the best records usually prevails. If you’ve escalated a case with this dealership, what finally got traction?

Final Assessment

Big Frank’s Outdoors in Ennis, MT is a locally focused dealership with a footprint and staffing model characteristic of small-market RV dealers. That can yield personable service—but it also can mean limited bays, parts on backorder, and longer queues during peak months. The smartest approach is to assume nothing, verify everything: independently research low-star Google reviews, corroborate patterns via BBB and forums, and protect yourself with a third-party inspection and fully itemized paperwork. If any step feels rushed, unclear, or blocked—especially if a third-party inspection is discouraged—consider that a sign to pause or walk away.

Until you independently verify a clean track record on the specific RV you’re buying—through low-star Google reviews, forum searches, and an outside inspection—we do not recommend moving forward on promises alone with Big Frank’s Outdoors in Ennis, MT. Consider alternative dealers if you encounter resistance to inspection, unclear paperwork, or aggressive upsells.

Comments: Add Your Experience

Your on-the-ground experience helps other RV shoppers make better decisions. Did Big Frank’s Outdoors meet expectations—or fall short? What happened with paperwork, service timelines, or warranty support? Post your experience here so others can learn from it.