Big K’S Autos- Albuquerque, NM Exposed: Title Delays, Hidden RV Defects & Costly Add-Ons

(Serious Concern)

For RVs and complex used vehicles, an independent, third-party inspection is your strongest leverage before purchase. Request a comprehensive inspection—interior systems, roof, chassis, engine/drive systems, electrical, water intrusion checks, and safety equipment—before you sign anything or transfer funds. If the dealer restricts or blocks a third-party inspection, that is a major red flag. You should walk.

• Schedule your own inspector: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.
• Make your offer contingent on the inspection report and repair approval.
• Never accept “We’ll fix it after you take delivery.” Once paid, you may lose your place in line, and some buyers report months-long waits while trips are canceled.

For inspection walk-through tips and gotchas many buyers miss, review independent content creators who audit dealer claims, such as Liz Amazing’s channel. Her checklists help consumers spot common defects and upsells.

(Serious Concern)

Low-star reviews on the dealership’s Google page describe prolonged delays receiving titles, plates, and finalized paperwork. For an RV or towable, a missing or delayed title can strand you. You cannot legally register, insure, or travel across state lines without proper documents, and lenders can refuse to fund if paperwork is incomplete. Carefully time-stamp every promise in writing and set deadlines with consequences before you sign.

• Require written delivery dates for title and registration.
• Have the salesperson and sales manager initial your paperwork timeline.
• If financed, verify with your lender that they have the lien perfected and all materials on file.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple low-star reviewers indicate problems discovered shortly after delivery—sometimes on the first trip—including engine or drivetrain issues (for motorized units), water leaks, electrical faults, and inoperable appliances. RVs have many subsystems, and hidden water intrusion can lead to mold and structural damage. Buyers reported frustration when seeking post-sale help, often encountering delays or disputes about responsibility, especially if units were sold “as-is.”

• Use an independent inspector to pressure-test water systems and check for soft floors and roof weaknesses.
• Demand a complete “we owe” list for any promises—repairs, parts, or add-ons—and do not sign without it.
• If a used RV is sold “as-is,” assume repairs are yours unless explicitly promised in writing.

(Moderate Concern)

Low-star complaints frequently cite aggressive financing practices: dealers routing buyers into higher-rate loans, tacking on costly add-ons (extended service contracts, gap, etch, paint or fabric protection) without clear consent, or bundling products into monthly payments. These add-ons can add thousands to your out-the-door price and rarely deliver equivalent value for used RVs, where coverage exclusions are common.

• Secure a preapproval from a credit union before shopping; compare the dealer’s rate to your preapproval.
• Decline all add-ons you don’t need. If you want a service contract, shop it independently and compare exclusions.
• Verify the “amount financed” and line items match your signed buyer’s order. If they don’t, walk.

(Moderate Concern)

Some reviewers report valuation gaps between initial verbal appraisals and the final trade allowance on contracts, or surprise deductions for “reconditioning.” To avoid last-minute changes, present written quotes from multiple buyers (CarMax, Carvana for tow vehicles; competing RV dealers for RVs) and be ready to sell outright if the final contract doesn’t match the deal sheet.

• Get at least two independent written offers for your trade.
• Insist the exact trade allowance be printed on the buyer’s order you sign—no “to be determined.”
• Photograph your unit thoroughly before leaving it with the dealer.

(Serious Concern)

Low-star reviews often mention promised repairs, parts, or accessories that never arrived, or prolonged delays with shifting explanations. In RVs, timely delivery of parts (awnings, seals, appliances) matters because lost use can mean canceled travel plans. The best defense is to refuse delivery until all open items are completed or in writing with dates and penalties.

• Use a “we owe” form listing every unresolved item with a due date and signature from a manager.
• Withhold full payment until you verify completion, or escrow funds for outstanding items.
• Document all communications by email or text; avoid verbal-only commitments.

(Moderate Concern)

Independent dealers often have limited service bays and may prioritize new sales over after-sale repairs. Low-star reviewers sometimes report long waits for diagnosis or parts and difficulty getting status updates. For RV shoppers, a third-party inspection before purchase reduces reliance on the selling dealer’s shop after they have your funds.

• Before purchase, ask for the service department’s average turnaround times—get it in writing.
• Confirm whether the dealer will sublet complex RV repairs to specialized shops and who coordinates claims.
• Line up a reputable mobile RV tech as backup. Again, search for RV inspectors/techs near you to pre-vet help.

(Moderate Concern)

Many dealers offer third-party service contracts mischaracterized as “warranties.” These contracts often exclude common failures, especially on older units. Read the sample contract before you buy, check labor rate caps, and verify who gets paid and how claims are approved. If the product can’t be reviewed in full, do not sign.

• Ask for a blank copy of the service contract and read exclusions and claim steps.
• Price the same protection plans from independent providers; you may find better coverage for less.
• If you don’t receive the full policy within the free-look period, cancel in writing immediately.

For strategies to resist high-pressure F&I sales, see consumer-focused explainers on the Liz Amazing channel—search her F&I topics.

(Serious Concern)

Allegations in low-star reviews—such as undisclosed defects, paperwork delays, or misrepresented add-ons—can implicate consumer protection rules. While outcomes depend on facts and contracts, buyers should know these enforcement avenues:

• FTC Used Car Rule: Requires “Buyers Guide” disclosures for used vehicles (including certain motorized RVs) and prohibits deceptive practices. Learn more at the FTC: FTC Used Car Rule.
• State Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Acts: New Mexico’s consumer protection laws prohibit deceptive or unconscionable trade practices. Report serious issues to the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office and retain repair records and messages.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs written warranties on consumer products and limits deceptive warranty terms. If a dealer or third-party provider denies valid coverage, this law may be relevant. Overview: FTC Magnuson-Moss Act.
• NHTSA Safety Recalls (motorized/chassis components): Confirm open recalls before driving any motorized RV or tow vehicle. Start here: NHTSA Recalls Portal.

If you believe promises were broken, send a dated, written demand letter to the dealership detailing the issues and your requested resolution. If unresolved, consider small claims court for documented losses or file complaints with the FTC and State AG.

(Serious Concern)

For RVs, post-sale defects can be more than inconveniences—they can pose serious safety hazards and significant financial exposure:

• Brakes/tires/suspension issues: Risk of loss of control, blowouts, and accidents. Verify production dates on tires and inspect brake wear before purchase.
• Water intrusion or roof seam failures: Leads to rot and hidden structural damage, undermining resale and safety. Inspect for soft spots and use a moisture meter.
• Propane and electrical faults: Fire and carbon monoxide risks. Test CO/LP detectors, GFCIs, and grounding.
• Missing title and registration: You may be unable to legally drive or tow—resulting in impound exposure, insurance problems, and inability to obtain tags.

Always check for recalls on any motorized unit or chassis component with the VIN using NHTSA: NHTSA recall lookup. If you’re considering this dealership in Albuquerque, ask them to provide the VIN(s) up front and verify no open recalls are outstanding. Delayed recall repairs can sideline your RV for months during peak season.

(Serious Concern)

• Independent inspection: Book a third-party inspector and make the sale contingent on results: find RV inspectors near you.
• Demand full transparency: VIN history, service records, recall status, water intrusion tests, tire dates, battery health.
• Paperwork readiness: Confirm the title is in hand; ask to see it. If financed, verify lender requirements are ready to fund.

(Moderate Concern)

• Cross-check numbers: Buyer’s order, rate, APR, fees, and add-ons must match your agreement. Decline any “mandatory” add-ons.
• We-owe form: List any pending items with dates and manager signatures. Do not rely on verbal promises.
• Final walk-through: Demonstrate all systems. If anything fails, stop and renegotiate or cancel.

(Moderate Concern)

• Document issues immediately: Email the dealer with photos/videos and request a written plan with dates.
• Know your rights: If a paid service contract or warranty exists, follow the claim steps exactly and keep all receipts.
• Escalate appropriately: File complaints with your lender, the FTC, and the State AG if commitments aren’t met.

(Moderate Concern)

RVs require specialized diagnostics and skilled technicians. Small independent car dealers that occasionally sell RVs may lack trained RV techs, parts sourcing channels, or warranty-processing experience. The result can be long delays or incomplete repairs. This is precisely why a pre-purchase inspection from a dedicated RV professional is essential.

(Moderate Concern)

Used RV inventory quality varies widely. Without strict reconditioning standards and complete documentation, buyers may encounter surprise defects. Independent verification is the best hedge against disclosure gaps, particularly on water damage, roof condition, and safety systems.

(Serious Concern)

For motorized RVs and tow vehicles, confirm there are no open safety recalls. Verify with the VIN on NHTSA’s recall portal. If you discover an open recall, request the dealer coordinate completion before delivery or adjust the price accordingly. For towables, ask about manufacturer service bulletins and check owner forums for recurring issues on your model. Consumer advocates like Liz Amazing’s RV investigations frequently highlight brand-specific issues worth checking.