Camping World RV Sales- Bakersfield, CA Exposed: Leaks, rushed PDIs, months-long repairs, upsells
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Camping World RV Sales- Bakersfield, CA
Location: 5500 Wible Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93313
Contact Info:
• Main: (888) 441-9065
• info@campingworld.com
Official Report ID: 5701
Overview: Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield, CA
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Camping World RV Sales in Bakersfield, CA operates under Camping World Holdings, a national chain with dozens of locations across the United States and close ties to the Good Sam brand. This Bakersfield store represents the chain’s Central Valley footprint, selling new and used motorhomes and towables, financing, extended service contracts, accessories, and service/repair work. Public feedback indicates a mixed but concerning reputation at this location, with recurring complaints about service delays, poor communication, after-sale problems, and aggressive upsells. While some buyers report satisfactory transactions, the weight of recent low-star reviews and complaint narratives suggests shoppers should approach cautiously, verify everything in writing, and insist on thorough, independent inspections before paying or signing.
To see first-hand feedback, visit the dealership’s Google Business Profile and sort by “Lowest rating”: Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield, CA (Google Reviews). Use “Sort by lowest rating” to locate current 1- and 2-star experiences and verify the patterns discussed below. If you’ve had experience with this store, add your perspective in the comments to help other RV shoppers.
Where to Research Unfiltered Owner Experiences
Before you visit this dealership—or any RV store—immerse yourself in brand- and model-specific communities where owners share successes and failures candidly:
- Google Reviews (Bakersfield location): Sort by “Lowest rating” to see patterns across service, sales, and financing.
- YouTube consumer advocates: See how creators analyze dealer practices. For example, review videos on the Liz Amazing channel, where she frequently exposes problematic RV industry patterns. Search her channel for the exact dealer and model you’re considering.
- Facebook owner groups (brand/model-specific): Join multiple groups to see real-world defect and warranty timelines; use this Google search to locate relevant groups by brand: Find RV brand Facebook groups (Google Search). Read posts on delivery quality, leak histories, and service backlog expectations.
- Forums and complaint sites: See list and links below for targeted searches about this exact store.
If you’ve already shopped here, what did you experience? Tell future buyers what to watch for.
Buyer’s Warning: Make a Third-Party Inspection Your Condition to Purchase
Multiple recent low-star reviews across Camping World locations describe RVs leaving the lot with leaks, wiring problems, non-functioning appliances, slide issues, and safety failures that should be caught in a thorough pre-delivery inspection (PDI). At the Bakersfield location, 1–2 star reviews describe similar after-sale discoveries and slow warranty response times. Your single best leverage is a pre-purchase, third-party inspection from an independent, certified RV inspector—not affiliated with the dealer. If a dealership resists or refuses an outside inspection, that is a serious red flag; you should walk. To locate qualified professionals, try: RV Inspectors near me (Google Search).
Insist the inspection is completed, documented, and all punch-list items are fixed to your satisfaction before you finalize paperwork or fund the deal. Once the dealer has your money, consumers commonly report being “pushed to the back of the line,” leading to missed vacations and months-long waits for parts. Reputable dealers welcome third-party inspections because they reduce future disputes and comebacks. If you’ve been through this with the Bakersfield store, share how your inspection went.
Patterns in Consumer Complaints at Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield
After-Sale Defects and Incomplete PDI
Low-star reviews for the Bakersfield location commonly describe rigs delivered with unresolved defects. Consumers mention items like water leaks, faulty slides, non-working refrigerators or water heaters, inoperable awnings, loose trim, and soft floors. Shoppers should examine the specific Bakersfield reviews by sorting the Google profile by “Lowest rating” to read detailed accounts of delivery-day issues and early failures: Bakersfield Google Reviews (sort by Lowest).
- Impact: Water intrusion can cause mold, rot, and electrical hazards; appliance failures and slide malfunctions can end trips and strand travelers. Repairs can take weeks or months depending on parts and warranty authorization.
- How to mitigate: Require a full PDI checklist, operate every system yourself, and bring an independent inspector. Ask the service manager to demonstrate leak tests, underbelly insulation integrity, and slide timing.
For deeper analysis of delivery quality trends industry-wide, consider watching advocates like Liz Amazing’s RV consumer education videos and search her channel for “Camping World Bakersfield” or the brand/model you’re buying.
Service Delays and Long Repair Timelines
Recent Bakersfield reviews frequently describe long waits for warranty work and poor status updates. Common themes include “unit sat for weeks,” “parts on backorder without proactive communication,” and “promises to call that never materialize.” Before accepting a delivery with pending repair items, ask for a written timeline and escalation contact. Verify the shop’s parts ordering process, preferred suppliers, and whether they will allow you to source certain parts yourself to accelerate timelines.
- Practical tip: If repairs are “we owe” items from the sales contract, tie funding to completion or have a holdback in escrow. Otherwise, you risk becoming a low priority once the deal is done.
- Backlog risk: Summer seasons and holiday periods intensify backlogs; get real turnaround commitments in writing.
Owner stories of months-long waits are not unique to this location or brand, but the Bakersfield store’s low-star reviews signal this is a recurring local risk. If your RV waited for parts here, explain how long and what caused delays to help other buyers prepare.
Financing, Interest Rates, and Add-Ons
Multiple Camping World locations have complaints about aggressive finance office tactics—steering buyers toward higher interest rates and add-ons like gap, paint/fabric protection, interior coatings, tire-and-wheel packages, and extended service plans that add thousands to the out-the-door cost. Bakersfield reviews align with these patterns, citing surprise add-ons, unclear disclosures, and pressure to sign quickly.
- How to protect yourself: Arrive preapproved from your credit union; compare APR and total cost. Decline add-ons you don’t understand. Ask for plain-English copies of each warranty or protection plan and scrutinize exclusions, claim process, and cancellation terms.
- Post-sale recourse: In California, misrepresentations or undisclosed add-ons can implicate state Unfair Competition Law and False Advertising Law. See the FTC’s guidance on add-on junk fees: Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
For background on finance/upsell pitfalls, consumer advocates such as Liz Amazing often break down add-on math and how to negotiate or refuse them.
Low-Ball Trade-Ins and Appraisal Disputes
Complaints at this and other Camping World stores describe lower-than-expected trade offers and last-minute changes at signing. Some reviewers say they were led to believe their trade had a higher value until contract time. If trading in at Bakersfield, request written appraisal details, demand inspection transparency, and be prepared to walk if the final figures deviate without a clear, documented reason.
- Tip: Secure buy-bids from multiple dealers and local RV consigners. Consider private-party sale to preserve equity.
- Documentation: Photograph your unit, list recent maintenance, and bring comps to your appointment.
Delayed Titles, Paperwork, and Registration
Some Bakersfield reviewers report weeks to months for title or registration completion, creating a risky gray area where owners cannot legally travel or insure policies properly. When paperwork stalls, trips are canceled and storage costs accrue. Ensure the purchase agreement specifies the timeline for title work, any “due bill” items, and penalties for missed deadlines.
- California implications: Excessive delays can raise questions under state dealer licensing rules. If you encounter protracted delays, file a complaint with the California DMV Investigations Division and the state Attorney General.
- If the title is delayed: Stop further payments for add-ons not delivered; escalate in writing and consider assistance through your lender’s dealer relations department.
Warranty Claims and Extended Service Contracts
Consumers say warranty approvals and parts authorizations at Bakersfield can be slow, with finger-pointing between the dealer and manufacturer. Extended service contracts sold in finance often have narrow coverage, high deductibles, or strict claims procedures. Before buying any extended plan at this store, read the full contract, confirm the administrator’s name, check their complaint record, and understand how claims are approved and paid.
- Key questions: Who is the plan administrator? Can you use independent shops? How are labor rates capped? What counts as pre-existing?
- Cancellation: California allows prorated cancellations on many service contracts; get the refund policy in writing.
Communication Breakdowns and Missed Promises
Bakersfield shoppers report difficulty getting status updates from sales and service, especially after funds are transferred. Messages go unanswered, and promised callbacks slip. Ask for the service writer’s direct line, a realistic ETA, and written updates. Escalate sooner rather than later if deadlines are missed.
- Put it in writing: E-mail a summary of conversations and commitments. Written trails are invaluable if disputes arise.
- Escalation path: Service Manager → General Manager → Camping World corporate customer care. Document each step and response times.
Technician Experience and Workmanship
Several reviews cite workmanship issues—repairs that didn’t hold, incomplete reassembly, and items still broken upon pickup. Staff turnover and seasonal overloads can exacerbate inconsistency. Ask whether the Bakersfield shop has RVIA/RVDA-certified techs on your job, and request before/after photos for major repairs.
- Prevention: Independent inspection post-repair. If the dealer resists, reconsider the relationship. Search again for a nearby inspector: Find RV inspectors near you.
- Warranty leverage: Verify whether the OEM allows you to use alternative authorized shops without voiding coverage if local performance is unsatisfactory.
Recall Handling and Safety Items
Dealers are expected to check open recalls at delivery and during service visits. If a recall is open on your VIN, insist on written scheduling and timelines. Some low-star reviews across the chain describe slow recall repairs and parts shortages. Check recall status yourself at NHTSA. Although NHTSA recall lookups are VIN-specific, you can start here and then enter your VIN: NHTSA Recalls Lookup.
- Safety first: Don’t tow or drive with unaddressed brake, suspension, propane, or electrical recalls. Document your request for recall service to establish a paper trail.
- Ask for proof: Require completion documentation with part numbers and repair orders.
Inventory Representation vs. Reality
Some reviews allege that advertised features or condition did not match the actual unit upon inspection or delivery—such as missing options, different floorplans, or undisclosed wear. Insist on a line-item spec sheet tied to the exact VIN, and match it to the Monroney or OEM build sheet. If anything is missing, renegotiate or walk.
- Best practice: Video-record your final PDI and walkthrough; capture serials, roof condition, sealant, and undercarriage.
Selected Evidence Trails and How to Verify
Use these specific search links to investigate this exact location. Replace “Issues” with “Problems,” “Complaints,” or specific concerns (e.g., “Financing,” “Service delays”) to deepen your research. All multi-word names are joined with “+” per the links below.
- YouTube search for Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- Google search for Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- BBB search for Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- NHTSA Recalls portal (start here, then search by your VIN)
- RVInsider search for Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- Good Sam Community search: Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues
- Liz Amazing consumer advocacy channel (search within channel for “Bakersfield” or your RV brand)
- PissedConsumer: Go to PissedConsumer Browse Reviews and search for “Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA”.
- RVForums.com: Use the onsite search at RVForums for threads on this store.
- RVForum.net: Use onsite search at RVForum.net for dealer experiences.
- RVUSA Forum: Use the header search at RVUSA Forum for “Camping World RV Sales Bakersfield CA Issues”.
Cross-check reports across these sites to confirm patterns. And if you’ve had an experience with this Bakersfield location, please weigh in for others’ benefit.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Potential Legal Exposure Areas for the Dealer
Based on recurring consumer complaints—notably around disclosures, add-ons, paperwork delays, and warranty handling—the following legal frameworks may be implicated if allegations are substantiated:
- FTC Act and California Unfair Competition Law: Misrepresentations about pricing, add-ons, or warranties can violate federal and state law. See FTC resources on deceptive practices and add-on junk fees.
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs consumer product warranties; improper denial of covered claims or tying arrangements may be a violation.
- California Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA): Prohibits deceptive practices in consumer transactions; relevant if features, condition, or financing terms are misrepresented.
- DMV and dealer licensing rules: Delays in title/registration or paperwork mishandling can trigger state actions. Consumers can report to California DMV Investigations and the Attorney General’s office.
- NHTSA recall compliance: Allowing a recalled unit to leave without proper disclosure/repair may raise safety liability. Start your recall checks here: NHTSA Recalls.
If you believe you experienced unlawful practices, document everything and file complaints with the FTC, California Attorney General, and the BBB. Include your sales paperwork, texts/emails, and repair orders. For public record and pressure, also post a detailed review on Google and relevant forums.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
How Reported Failures Affect Safety
Post-delivery defects commonly cited—water intrusion, brake or suspension issues, propane leaks, electrical shorts, slide misalignment—carry serious safety and financial risks. Water damage can compromise structural integrity and cause mold; propane and electrical faults pose fire/explosion hazards; brake/suspension faults endanger occupants and other motorists; slide failures can trap occupants or fail on the highway. These issues can escalate rapidly if not detected pre-delivery.
- Consumer action: Have an independent inspector run pressure and leak tests, check electrical load, confirm recall clearance, and scrutinize undercarriage, axles, brakes, and tire DOT dates. If a dealer objects, walk. Use: RV Inspectors near me.
- Financial risk: Out-of-pocket costs for recurring leaks or slide repairs can exceed thousands, and diminished resale value is common after water damage.
Sales and Service Tactics to Watch For
Upsells and “Menu” Selling
Expect heavy promotion of extended warranties, paint/fabric protection, tire-and-wheel, and interior coatings. Some buyers report that declining these products leads to slower paperwork or pressure. Remember: Extended warranties are optional and negotiable. Ask for each add-on’s price and written terms before you enter the finance office.
- Compare: Price third-party extended service contracts directly and verify claims satisfaction record via BBB and forums.
- Math check: Focus on total out-the-door cost, not just monthly payment. Many negative reviews cite payment “packing” or surprise add-ons discovered later.
Delivery-Day Rush and Incomplete Walkthroughs
Consumers often describe rushed walkthroughs. Slow it down. Run every system, light, switch, and appliance. If anything is non-functional, refuse delivery until corrected. Video the entire process. Have the dealership sign your punch list.
How to Hold This Bakersfield Store Accountable
Pre-Purchase
- Shop the 1-star reviews first: Go here and sort by “Lowest rating”: Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield, CA.
- Independent inspection: Make it a strict condition of sale. If refused, walk.
- Financing: Bring preapproval and a calculator. Decline unwanted add-ons.
- Contract details: Put delivery condition, due-bill items, timelines, and penalties in writing.
Post-Purchase
- Escalate smartly: Service writer → Service manager → GM → Corporate. Keep a log of dates and promises.
- Document everything: Photos, videos, emails. This is essential for BBB, AG, or warranty disputes.
- Owner communities: Compare symptom lists and repair bulletins. Consider sharing your experience so others learn: Contribute your story to the comments.
- Consumer advocates: For wider context, see investigative RV videos on Liz Amazing’s channel and search for your brand and this location.
Objectivity Note: Any Signs of Improvement?
Some Bakersfield reviewers note individual staff who were helpful or a service advisor who advocated to get parts faster; a few report satisfactory resolution after escalation. It’s also common to see managerial replies to negative Google reviews offering direct contact. While such outreach is positive, consumers emphasize that results vary and timelines can still be protracted. To the store’s credit, visibility in public replies may help accountability—but you should base decisions on the full picture provided by 1- and 2-star narratives as well as any positive updates.
Key Takeaways for Shoppers in Bakersfield
- Delivery quality is the make-or-break moment: Don’t sign or fund until every system works. Independent inspection is non-negotiable.
- Expect strong upsell attempts: Protect your budget; decline products you don’t need and confirm any you accept are fairly priced and actually beneficial.
- Plan for service delays: If possible, avoid buying with an imminent long trip; negative reviews frequently mention canceled camping plans due to slow repairs.
- Know your rights: FTC, Magnuson-Moss, California CLRA, and DMV dealer rules exist to protect you. Document and escalate when necessary.
- Do your homework: Cross-verify issues using the research links above and watch consumer advocate content like Liz Amazing for practical checklists and negotiation tips.
Have you bought or serviced at Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield? What happened in your case?
Final Recommendation
Given the volume and consistency of negative themes in recent low-star reviews for Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield, CA—especially around after-sale defects, service delays, upsells, communication lapses, and paperwork timing—prospective buyers should proceed with extreme caution. If this store will not allow a third-party inspection and ironclad, written delivery conditions, we do not recommend purchasing here; consider other California RV dealers with stronger service reputations and documented post-sale support.
Comments
Have you purchased or serviced an RV at Camping World RV Sales — Bakersfield, CA? Your first-hand story—good or bad—helps other shoppers make informed decisions. Please include month/year, model, and how any issues were resolved.
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