Bigfoot Industries-1500 Series RV Exposed: Leaks, Jack Fails, Four-Season Hype, Warranty Delays
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Bigfoot Industries-1500 Series
Location: 411 10 Ave E, Armstrong, BC V0E 1B0, Canada
Contact Info:
• info@bigfootrv.com
• TollFree: 1-800-661-4811
• Office: 250-546-2155
Official Report ID: 986
Introduction: What shoppers should know about the Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series (a clamshell fiberglass truck camper line) has long been marketed as a lighter-weight, “four-season” option from a brand with a reputation for better-than-average build methods compared to stick-and-tin RVs. Owners often praise the molded fiberglass shell concept and the compact, off-grid capability. However, like most RVs built for today’s market, the 1500 Series is not immune to serious complaints about quality control, long repair delays, and systems that don’t perform as advertised under real-world conditions. This investigation consolidates recurring consumer-reported problems, warranty and service frustrations, and safety considerations so you can approach your purchase with eyes open.
Fast-track your research: where to verify issues owners report
- Google complaints roundup: Search broad owner experiences and media coverage: General Complaints and Issues: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- YouTube owner videos: First-hand tours, failures, fixes: Owner Video Reports: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Better Business Bureau: See complaints and company responses: BBB Listings and Complaints: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Reddit communities (unfiltered owner talk):
- RVInsider: Owner-written reviews across years and models: RVInsider Results: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Good Sam Community: Tech and model-specific threads: Good Sam Discussions: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- NHTSA Recalls & investigations: Check by model keywords: NHTSA Search: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Facebook owner communities: Join model-focused groups for raw, day-to-day ownership reports. Use this Google search and request to join several groups: Find Facebook Groups: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Forums worth monitoring: Use onsite search boxes:
- PissedConsumer: Browse to see brand-level complaints and search for “Bigfoot”: PissedConsumer (then search: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series)
Independent watchdog channels are also exposing recurring quality and service issues across the RV industry. See investigations on Liz Amazing’s YouTube Channel — search for Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series and compare patterns to this model.
Before you buy: arrange a third‑party inspection (your best leverage)
A third-party inspection before you sign is the most powerful step you can take. Inspectors will pressure-test plumbing, evaluate seals, verify weights, measure voltage drops, and document defects the dealer must fix before you take possession. After the money changes hands, many buyers report dealers push warranty repairs to the back of the queue for months, causing canceled trips and storage payments on an unusable camper.
- Find a local pro: Search here and compare credentials and sample reports: RV Inspectors near me
- Make it contingent: Put your purchase contingent on the inspection report and completion of all repairs in writing, with deadlines.
- Re‑inspect: Require a re-inspection after dealer repairs. Do not accept “we’ll order parts later.”
Have you run into pre-delivery issues with the Bigfoot 1500 Series? Tell us your story in the comments.
Patterns of consumer complaints and risk areas
Water intrusion, condensation, and mold inside the clamshell
(Serious Concern)
Owners frequently report localized leaks at windows, roof penetrations, and the front cabover seam, along with heavy condensation in cold climates. While the fiberglass clamshell concept reduces some traditional delamination risks, it does not eliminate water intrusion through penetrations and thermal bridging. Reported symptoms include dripping around the cabover in cold weather, wet bedding, mildew odor, and swollen cabinetry.
- Common scenarios: Overnight condensation soaking the mattress and front wall; window weep holes clogging and flooding interior frames; roof AC gasket seepage.
- Inspection tips: Use a moisture meter around windows, cabover corners, and under the mattress; remove access panels to check for mold; and hose-test the perimeter while someone monitors inside.
- Evidence research: Cross-check these threads and video reports:
For practical “how-to” diagnostics, see investigations on Liz Amazing — moisture and leak detection across RVs (search Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series).
Manual/electric jack failures and attachment integrity
(Serious Concern)
Truck-camper jacks see high loads. Owners report binding, sudden motor failure, and mounting bolts loosening over time — occasionally resulting in dangerous instability when loading/unloading. Rust at mounting plates and thin backing materials can aggravate the issue, especially on older units or salty-road exposure.
- Risk indicators: Squealing or stuttering under load; visible flex at jack brackets; non-synchronized lift in electric jacks.
- What to do: With an inspector, torque-check hardware, examine backing plates inside walls, and load/unload on a level pad before purchase.
- Owner evidence:
Have you had jack mounting points fail or shift? Share your experience below.
Roof penetrations and the clamshell seam
(Serious Concern)
Even with a molded shell, maintenance of the seam and penetrations is critical. Consumers allege sloppy sealant work around skylights, vents, and antennas. Over time, UV exposure and flexing can open micro-gaps, causing slow leaks that are hard to trace. Front cabover windows (if equipped) are a known leak risk in many truck campers, and owners sometimes retrofit delete panels.
- Checklist: Inspect for sealant uniformity; press gently around mounted hardware to feel for flex; evaluate AC gasket compression; review maintenance records.
- Evidence searches:
Weight, payload, and handling mismatch with “half-ton” expectations
(Serious Concern)
The 1500 Series is positioned as a lighter-weight camper, but real-world wet weights with options often exceed many half-ton truck payloads. Consumers report sagging suspensions, front-end lightness, and marginal stopping performance without significant truck upgrades (tires, airbags, helper springs, sway bars). Overloading can become a safety and insurance liability.
- Verify on a scale: Weigh the camper wet (full propane, battery, water) and compare to your truck’s payload sticker and rear axle rating.
- Evidence research:
- Professional review: Ask an inspector to confirm center of gravity marks and evaluate truck setup: Find RV Inspectors near me
Electrical system faults: converters, charging, and parasitic drains
(Moderate Concern)
Many owners across brands report converter/charger failures, weak factory wiring, and non-isolated parasitic loads that drain batteries in storage. In the 1500 Series, complaints include low voltage at the nose, flickering lights under load, and alternator charging lines that underperform without heavy-gauge upgrades — especially if owners retrofit lithium batteries.
- Testing plan: Load-test the converter, measure voltage at lights and water pump under simultaneous use, and verify wire gauge and fuse protection.
- Evidence research:
Heating, insulation, and “four-season” marketing vs. cold-weather reality
(Moderate Concern)
Bigfoot’s fiberglass shell and insulation are often touted for cold-weather performance. Yet owners report freeze-ups at low temperatures, particularly in the lighter 1500 Series where tanks and lines can be more exposed than in heavier models. Cold-soak condensation around windows and in the cabover can be significant. Furnaces may short-cycle if ducting and return air paths are restricted by cargo or design.
- Checklist: Thermal camera inspection; verify heat runs to vulnerable areas; check enclosed tanks; ask for documented cold-weather tests.
- Evidence searches:
Industry-wide, channels like Liz Amazing highlight cold-weather marketing claims vs. owner outcomes; search her videos for “Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series.”
Plumbing leaks, pump cycling, and unreliable tank sensors
(Moderate Concern)
Reported issues include loose PEX crimp fittings, noisy or air-leaking water pumps that short-cycle, and tank sensor readings stuck at “full” due to residue. Some owners note difficult access to tighten fittings behind panels, raising labor time for simple fixes.
- What to check: Pressure test the system, inspect every visible fitting with mirrors, and verify pump cutoff pressure and accumulator use.
- Evidence research:
Appliance reliability: refrigerator, furnace, and water heater
(Moderate Concern)
Most RVs share commodity appliances (Dometic/Norcold refrigerators, Suburban/Atwood furnaces, etc.). Owners report fridges struggling in hot weather or off-level conditions, furnace lockouts due to weak flame sensing, and water heaters with anode or igniter issues. While not unique to the 1500 Series, the compact installation can magnify ventilation problems.
- Owner evidence and fixes: Baffle and fan mods for refrigerators; cleaning furnace flame sensors; ensuring water heater combustion air is unobstructed.
- Evidence research:
Dealer and warranty support: long delays, limited networks, and parts backorders
(Serious Concern)
Many RV buyers across brands report months-long waits for warranty work. For Bigfoot 1500 Series owners, additional friction can stem from a limited dealer network and cross-border parts shipping, leading to extended downtime. Some dealers decline to service units not purchased at their location, citing factory reimbursement rates and scheduling priorities.
- Red flags: “Bring it back after the season,” requests for cash up front on warrantable items, or promises to “order parts later.”
- Evidence research:
For broader context on warranty runarounds, see Liz Amazing’s coverage of RV service bottlenecks (search Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series).
Pricing, options, and value retention
(Moderate Concern)
Consumers often describe the 1500 Series as “overpriced for the equipment level,” noting big markups on options like solar or jacks that may be less expensive when sourced aftermarket. Resale values can be strong in niche markets but drop sharply with documented water damage or jack repairs.
- Actionable tip: Ask for a detailed, line-item build sheet and price comparison to aftermarket parts; verify depreciation trends via multiple private-sale comps.
- Evidence research:
Fit, finish, and cosmetic defects
(Moderate Concern)
Even brands with stronger reputations face fit-and-finish complaints. Owners point to misaligned cabinet latches, rough fiberglass around cutouts, sloppy sealant, and squeaks/rattles on rough roads. Some mention gelcoat oxidation on older models without diligent care, and stress cracks around window corners that need attention before they propagate.
- Inspection musts: Open/close every latch multiple times; look for stress cracks under bright light; tap test for voids around cutouts.
- Evidence research:
Documentation, model-year labeling, and insurance valuation
(Moderate Concern)
Owners sometimes encounter confusion between build year and model year, complicating appraisal and insurance. Discrepancies can affect financing, resale, and claims. Carefully cross-check the VIN/data plate, the bill of sale, and insurer inputs to prevent under- or over-valuation — especially for older units where documentation may be incomplete.
Published recalls and safety notices: how to check
Recall activity can involve appliances, jacks, LP systems, and lighting — sometimes issued by component suppliers rather than the RV brand. Always check the NHTSA site by keyword and review appliance serials against manufacturer recalls.
- NHTSA Search: Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Google: Recall Notices — Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Cross-check specific components (e.g., refrigerators, furnaces) on their own recall pages and forums.
Did you encounter a recall that the dealer didn’t disclose? Add your experience for other shoppers.
Legal and regulatory warnings
Consumers alleging warranty violations, deceptive marketing (e.g., “four-season” claims that don’t match performance), or safety defects have several avenues:
- Warranty law: The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires clear warranty terms and timely performance. If a manufacturer or dealer fails to repair a warrantable defect within a reasonable number of attempts or time, owners may seek remedies including reimbursement for consequential damages in some jurisdictions.
- State lemon laws: Many RV lemon laws are weaker than auto laws and may not cover towables or campers in all states. Still, some states extend coverage to the “house” portion or the vehicle as a whole. Research your state’s statute and deadlines.
- Federal safety complaints: Report safety-related defects (brakes, LP gas leaks, structural failures affecting operation) to NHTSA. A pattern of complaints can trigger investigations.
- FTC and deceptive practices: If marketing claims are materially misleading (e.g., repeated freeze-ups in “four-season” use), consumers can report to the FTC, especially if they experience economic harm.
- Documentation: Keep detailed logs of repair attempts, dates out of service, and costs incurred. Written records strengthen claims.
Product safety and financial risk: what the problems mean in real life
- Water intrusion and condensation can rapidly undermine structural and indoor air quality, resulting in mold remediation costs, soft floors, or cabinet replacement. Left unchecked, this can total an RV economically.
- Jack failures can cause the camper to shift or fall during loading/unloading, risking serious injury and significant damage to the camper and truck.
- Electrical faults pose fire risk if wiring is improperly fused or undersized, and can strand owners off-grid when charging fails.
- Weight/payload mismatch increases stopping distances and can void insurance if claims adjusters determine the vehicle was overloaded.
- Warranty delays convert a leisure purchase into a months-long storage liability, stacking up costs for payments, insurance, and lost reservations.
These risks underscore why we strongly recommend a pre-purchase inspection and written repair commitments. Search now: RV Inspectors near me.
Any signs of improvement or positive owner feedback?
Some owners report that the Bigfoot 1500 Series, when meticulously maintained, delivers a tighter, quieter camper than framed aluminum or wood units. They cite fewer issues with exterior delamination thanks to the molded shell, good aerodynamics, and a compact footprint ideal for dispersed camping. A subset of owners praise winter performance once they address draft control and condensation management. It’s also noted that dealer experiences vary significantly — a well-supported sale with a thorough PDI can result in fewer early-life headaches.
That said, these positives often coexist with the risk areas above. Owner diligence and dealer competence are decisive factors in whether the experience is satisfying or frustrating.
Pre‑purchase inspection checklist: Bigfoot 1500 Series specifics
- Moisture detection: Meter every window and the cabover; pull mattress and inspect the deck; verify no mold odor in closed cabinets.
- Seams and penetrations: Inspect roof, skylight, and AC gasket; confirm even, intact sealant around every penetration.
- Jacks and mounts: Load/unload on a level pad; check for bracket flex; verify torque on fasteners; listen for binding.
- Electrical: Load-test converter; confirm alternator charging via truck umbilical; check fusing and wire gauge; test all GFCIs.
- HVAC and insulation: Run furnace for 30+ minutes and measure temperature at vulnerable spots; verify ducting to tanks/valves if claimed “four-season.”
- Plumbing: Pressure test; run hot/cold for extended time; inspect PEX fittings; evaluate pump cycling behavior with all faucets closed.
- Appliances: Confirm fridge temps under heat load; water heater ignition reliability; stove flame quality.
- Weight and COG: Collect actual wet weight and confirm center-of-gravity alignment with your truck’s ratings.
- Paperwork and support: Verify warranty terms in writing; ask for dealer service timeline commitments; request parts ETA policies.
What did your inspection uncover? Report your findings to help other buyers.
How to verify owner claims and avoid buyer’s remorse
- Cross-check multiple sources: Balance video testimonials with forum archives and BBB filings:
- Join owner groups (FB and forums): Don’t rely on dealership narratives; ask owners for photos of failures and repair invoices. Use this link to find groups: Facebook Groups for Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series
- Educate yourself: Watch third-party journalism that exposes industry patterns, like Liz Amazing’s channel (search Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series), to understand how to audit marketing claims and navigate warranty disputes.
Conclusion: is the Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series worth it?
The Bigfoot 1500 Series has design advantages over many stick-built competitors, especially the molded fiberglass shell concept and compact footprint. However, consumer reports reveal recurring pain points: water intrusion and condensation, jack system vulnerabilities, electrical and plumbing nuisances, limited dealer/service coverage with long repair queues, weight and payload mismatches, and debate over “four-season” claims. These issues translate into real safety and financial risks if not addressed pre-purchase.
Given the weight of complaints about quality control, service delays, and performance shortfalls relative to marketing, we do not recommend purchasing a Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series without an exhaustive third-party inspection and written, enforceable pre-delivery repairs. Many shoppers will be better served exploring other brands or models with stronger local service networks and verified field performance.
Do you agree or disagree with our assessment? Add your perspective for future readers.
Comments: owner experiences and buyer questions
Have you owned a Bigfoot Industries 1500 Series? What went right, what went wrong, and how did the manufacturer or dealer respond? Your detailed comments, including model year, truck pairing, and repair invoices, help other buyers make informed decisions. Please keep it factual and respectful.
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