Blue Compass RV Hayden (Blue Dog RV)- Hayden, ID Exposed: PDI failures, APR markups, slow service

(Serious Concern)

Across the RV industry, including large chains like Blue Compass RV, many of the most painful customer stories start with buyers taking delivery of a unit that has not been thoroughly inspected or repaired. This leads to immediate warranty claims, canceled camping trips, and months of service delays. Your best leverage is before you sign or hand over funds. Hire an independent NRVIA-certified or veteran RV technician to perform a full pre-purchase inspection on-site. Make your purchase contingent on acceptable results and completion of all punch-list items.

• Search locally for inspectors: Find RV inspectors near me.
• If a dealer refuses third-party inspection access, that is a major red flag—walk away.
• Confirm every promised repair on a signed “We Owe/Due Bill” with dates and specifics.

We see many public complaints where buyers accept verbal assurances (“we’ll take care of that after delivery”), only to learn post-sale that warranty parts must be ordered, are backlogged, or require manufacturer approvals. The unit then sits for weeks or months in the service queue, especially during peak season, while your money and payments are locked in. Don’t forfeit your leverage. Have you tried a third-party inspection at this store? Tell us what happened.

(Serious Concern)

Across chain-affiliated locations, buyers frequently report being offered “must-have” protection plans, paint/coating packages, and prep fees that drive up the out-the-door price. While add-ons aren’t inherently bad, consumers often learn later that these packages duplicate coverage, offer minimal value, or complicate claims.

• Ask for a line-item explanation of every fee, protection plan, and add-on. If it’s “pre-installed,” you are still entitled to decline if it’s not legally mandatory.
• Extended warranties and GAP/ETC: compare third-party quotes. Many reviewers across the industry discovered significant markups at the finance desk.
• “Dealer prep” and “freight” charges: demand clarity on what was actually done and whether you benefit.

Use your own calculator and compare against competing dealers with identical VINs or comparable units. If you’ve seen unusual add-ons at this store, what were you offered and what did you accept?

(Serious Concern)

Multiple low-star reviews across the RV retail sector mention unexpectedly high interest rates and “payment packing” tactics revealed only in the finance office. Many dealerships earn back-end profit by discretionarily marking up buy rates obtained from lenders.

• Secure an outside pre-approval before visiting. You can still let the dealer compete, but you will have a baseline.
• Ask the finance manager to disclose the lender buy rate vs. your contract APR. If they won’t, proceed cautiously.
• Decline any product or fee you don’t fully understand. There is zero requirement to buy add-ons to obtain financing.

Verify the “out-the-door” number (including tax, title, doc, prep, and any add-ons) before signing anything. If the math changes suddenly, ask for time to review or leave the dealership to avoid pressure. Did your APR change at the last minute? Tell other shoppers.

(Moderate Concern)

Owners frequently report trade values that shrink on delivery day due to “reconditioning findings” or newly “discovered” defects on the trade-in. While unit condition matters, sudden and material changes can signal leverage tactics.

• Obtain an inspection-based, written trade appraisal early in the process with expiration and re-evaluation criteria clearly stated.
• Get competing bids (e.g., consignment, cash offers) to avoid dependency on one dealer’s number.
• Photograph and document your trade thoroughly prior to appraisal; bring maintenance records.

(Serious Concern)

Recent 1–2 star reviews commonly describe taking delivery of units with leaks, nonfunctional systems (refrigerators, slides, water heaters), cosmetic damage, missing parts, or unaddressed recall items. Customers often believed these would be fixed before pickup.

• Be present for a rigorous walk-through. Operate every slide, awning, appliance, pump, faucet, light, and GFCI outlet. Engage tanks, check seals, test roof fixtures.
• Insist on water tests and pressurization to reveal leaks. Verify roof and window seals and undercarriage condition.
• Do not accept delivery until all defects are corrected or documented on a signed due bill with hard dates.

Better yet, schedule a third-party inspection: Search RV inspectors near me. It’s your single best tool to avoid lengthy, post-sale service fights.

(Serious Concern)

Many low-rated public reviews in this industry describe months-long waits for warranty appointments, parts, or approvals—especially during peak season. Some buyers claim that once the sale is complete, the service queue becomes backlogged and communication slows. This can strand families with unusable RVs, forcing them to cancel trips while the unit sits on the lot awaiting attention.

• Ask for the current service backlog time and average completion time for warranty jobs. Get it in writing if possible.
• Confirm whether this location prioritizes “in-house” purchases vs. outside units for service scheduling.
• Request frequent, scheduled updates (e.g., weekly by text/email) and a single point of contact.

(Moderate Concern)

Owners often report finger-pointing between the dealership and the manufacturer. Dealers may state they are “waiting on manufacturer authorization” or “parts are on national backorder.” While both can be true, the outcome is still a loss of use for the buyer.

• Know your rights under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. Dealers cannot disclaim implied warranties if a written warranty is provided; they must perform warranty work within a reasonable time.
• Visit the FTC resources on warranties and service contracts: FTC: Warranties and service contracts.
• Document everything: dates, calls, emails, promises, and service orders.

(Serious Concern)

Some buyers describe frustrating delays in receiving titles, plates, or lender payoffs. Delayed paperwork can trigger late fees, complicate out-of-state registration, or even make it difficult to use the RV legally. We’ve seen stories where trade-in loan payoffs lagged, risking customer credit due to timing gaps.

• Get a clear timeline for title transfer, registration submission, and any trade-in payoff. Confirm who is responsible for each step and obtain follow-up contacts in accounting and title departments.
• Monitor your lender portal to confirm the trade-in payoff posts on time.
• If deadlines are missed, escalate in writing and consider filing a complaint with the state attorney general.

(Serious Concern)

Especially on pre-owned units, multiple reviewers across the RV market have reported discovering hidden water damage, soft floors, roof issues, rust, or delamination after purchase. Water intrusion is a notorious RV killer. Repairs can be extremely expensive and time-consuming.

• Insist on moisture meter readings and roof/ceiling panel inspections. Check around slide-outs, windows, skylights, and penetrations.
• For pre-owned, get a comprehensive third-party inspection: Find an RV inspector near me.
• Have the dealer demonstrate recent sealant work or repairs and ask for invoices.

(Moderate Concern)

Even when a warranty claim is approved, customers sometimes report long waits for parts, followed by partial completion or new issues introduced during repair. When communication is sparse, buyers may not know whether the delay is manufacturer backorders, internal scheduling, or vendor coordination.

• Ask service to identify parts vendors and projected ship dates; request tracking info when available.
• Schedule specific check-in dates; hold the dealer to documented timelines.
• Inspect the unit thoroughly on pickup; do not leave until all items are verified complete.

(Moderate Concern)

Chain dealerships regularly face staffing changes. Some complaints attribute workmanship issues to hurried PDIs or inexperienced techs. Training quality and oversight matter, especially for complex electrical, plumbing, and slide systems.

• Ask how many RVTI- or factory-certified technicians are on staff and how PDIs are audited.
• Request the name of the technician responsible for your PDI and repair order.
• Demand a written punch list and sign-off protocol before delivery.

(Serious Concern)

Warranty performance, safety recalls, and truthful advertising are covered by federal and state consumer protection laws. If you encounter unresolved defects or misrepresentations, the following frameworks and agencies may be relevant:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (federal): Sets standards for written warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. More info: FTC Guide to Warranty Law.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Oversees unfair and deceptive practices, including false advertising and warranty misrepresentations. File complaints or review guidance: FTC.gov.
• NHTSA (for motorhomes and safety equipment): Check and report safety defects and recalls: NHTSA Recalls.
• Idaho Attorney General – Consumer Protection: Report unfair practices and seek guidance on dispute resolution in Idaho: Idaho Attorney General (navigate to Consumer Protection).

Note: State “lemon laws” vary and often exclude RV towables or limit coverage primarily to the motorized chassis. Many RV owners rely on Magnuson-Moss and written warranties for recourse. If you’re unsure, consult a consumer protection attorney familiar with RV cases.

(Serious Concern)

Reports of slide failures, brake or axle issues, propane system leaks, water intrusion, or electrical faults can create serious safety hazards and financial losses. If PDIs are rushed or incomplete, defects can go unnoticed until you’re on the road or parked off-grid.

• Water intrusion leads to mold, rot, and delamination—often hidden behind wall panels. Early detection reduces repair costs dramatically.
• Propane leaks or mis-installed appliances are fire and explosion hazards. Always request a certified propane system leak-down test and CO/LP detectors check.
• Axle/brake/suspension problems compromise stopping distance and stability. Request torque specs and a documented inspection.
• Electrical faults can damage batteries, inverters, or cause shorts. Verify GFCI function and that all 120V/12V systems operate as designed under load.

Recalls may apply to your specific brand or component regardless of the selling dealer. Always run the VIN through: NHTSA Recall Lookup. If recall fixes are delayed, document the schedule and request interim safety guidance in writing.

If this dealership performs recall work, verify part numbers and campaign documentation. Post-repair, retest the system and obtain the work order. Have you had recall work done at this store—how did it go?

For additional consumer education, consider watching Liz Amazing’s videos on RV quality control and dealer practices, then search within her channel for the brand and dealer you’re evaluating.

(Moderate Concern)

High-margin finance office products can materially inflate cost. Ask for total cost of ownership (TCO) including premiums, deductibles, and coverage limits before agreeing to any service contract. Extended warranties often exclude sealant maintenance, water intrusion, “wear items,” and aftermarket accessories—read every exclusion.

(Serious Concern)

Seasonal backlogs are real. If you’re a traveler passing through, ask whether they service “customer-bought-elsewhere” units; some chain stores deprioritize outside purchases during high demand. Confirm their policy in writing.

(Moderate Concern)

When staff changes occur mid-repair, customers can lose continuity. Protect yourself by requesting a single point of contact and weekly status summaries via email or text. If a promised call-back is missed, document and escalate promptly.

(Serious Concern)

Clarify from the outset that you will not commit to any non-refundable deposit or sign any “as-is” documents until your independent inspection is complete and all deficiencies are addressed in writing with agreed timelines.

• Bring a detailed PDI checklist; do not rush. Test utilities, HVAC, slides, leveling, and connectivity.
• Confirm that any outstanding recalls (by VIN) are completed prior to delivery. Get recall completion paperwork.
• Insist on the removal of any add-on you did not authorize; walk if the price cannot be honored without it.

(Moderate Concern)

Come armed with bank or credit union offers. If the dealership matches or beats your APR without mandatory add-ons, great—but verify the math. Ensure the buyer’s order equals your negotiated out-the-door price with no unexplained fees.

• Compare prices on identical or similar units regionally. If the Hayden store won’t align, consider other Blue Compass locations—or independent dealers—with stronger service reputations.

(Moderate Concern)

Create a service paper trail immediately for any defect—do not wait. If timelines slip, escalate in writing to management and corporate. Use BBB complaints and regulatory filings tactically when warranted.