Camping World RV Sales- Coldwater, MI Exposed: Price games, junk fees, forced financing, flawed PDIs

(Serious Concern)

The single strongest step you can take is a third-party, independent inspection before you sign or take possession. This inspection is your only real leverage to get defects addressed before the dealer is paid. Without it, buyers sometimes report cancelled camping trips or RVs stuck at the dealership for weeks or months awaiting parts or approvals after issues emerge post-sale. Find vetted inspectors near you here: Google: RV Inspectors near me.

• Do not waive Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI): Insist on accompanying the inspector and documenting defects in writing (with photos) before signing final paperwork.
• Refusal is a red flag: If Camping World RV Sales–Coldwater, MI will not allow a third-party inspection, walk away and save yourself potential thousands and lost time.
• Hold payment until issues are resolved: Your leverage declines dramatically after funds are disbursed.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple public complaints about Camping World locations center on aggressive sales tactics, shifting numbers, or “we can only honor that price if you finance with us” conditions. On the Coldwater, MI Google Business Profile, low-star reviews frequently reference sales pressure and concerns about out-the-door price clarity. Before you go, create a written, line-item out-the-door quote including taxes, doc fees, prep fees, freight, and any mandatory add-ons. At delivery, compare each line item to your quote and reject last-minute “surprises.”

• Ask for the advertised VIN-specific price in writing.
• Refuse to negotiate monthly payment; negotiate out-the-door price only.
• Record all promises in writing, signed by a manager.

(Moderate Concern)

Consumers often report being pushed to buy overpriced add-ons of questionable value. Extended service contracts, interior/exterior “protection,” tire/wheel packages, and alarm/GPS add-ons can add thousands. If you want coverage, shop third-party options independently and compare coverage terms, exclusions, deductibles, and cancellation rights. Extended service plans are not warranties; they are service contracts with strict rules that can deny claims for maintenance non-compliance or pre-existing conditions.

• Decline packages you don’t understand; request specimen contracts before deciding.
• Ask for the cash price (no add-ons) and compare.
• Beware bundles that obscure individual line-item cost.

For an eye-opening perspective on common dealership add-on tactics, search videos on Liz Amazing’s channel and apply her tips to your Coldwater visit.

(Moderate Concern)

Several reviewers across Camping World locations describe broken promises about included accessories, repairs to be completed prior to delivery, or missing items when they pick up. At the Coldwater location, low-star reviews flag concerns about timelines for promised fixes and accessory availability upon delivery. The safest approach is to use a written “We owe/ Due Bill” listing every promise with a completion date and a signature from a manager.

• Do not accept “we’ll ship it later”—require a dated due bill.
• Confirm timelines in writing; email is fine if acknowledged by a manager.
• At delivery, inventory everything and take timestamped photos.

(Serious Concern)

Some buyers report being told they must finance through the dealership to secure a certain price or to “qualify” for manufacturer incentives. While dealers can set their policies, consumers should know that dealerships often earn reserve (a commission) on marked-up interest rates. Get pre-approved at a local credit union before your visit. If Camping World Coldwater presents a higher APR, ask them to beat your pre-approval without extending term length or adding products.

• Compare APR as well as total interest paid over the life of the loan.
• Check whether “discounts” disappear if you decline add-ons.
• Request a copy of the Retail Installment Sales Contract before signing.

(Moderate Concern)

Owner complaints commonly cite confusion over what extended service plans actually cover and how hard it can be to get claims authorized. GAP can be useful for low down payment borrowers, but check your auto/RV insurer first—some policies include similar coverage. Make sure you understand pro-rated refunds if you sell or pay off early.

• Demand sample contracts and read exclusions; watch for “wear and tear” carve-outs.
• Never finance products you do not want; insist on declination forms with $0 charges.

(Serious Concern)

Public reviews of various Camping World outlets frequently allege low trade values and last-minute valuation “adjustments” at contract signing or delivery. For Coldwater shoppers, protect yourself by getting firm, written trade-in offers from competing dealers and instant cash-buyers before negotiations. Provide full, truthful disclosures and photos so you can hold the dealer to a binding number.

• Bring maintenance records and recent inspection findings to support your valuation.
• Secure a backup offer so you can walk if the trade value changes.
• Keep the trade and purchase as separate negotiations to maintain clarity.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple owners across the industry report taking delivery of RVs with known issues—leaks, non-functional systems, trim damage, appliance failures—despite being told the unit passed PDI. Low-star reviews for the Coldwater store echo concerns about units that needed immediate repairs after purchase. Arrange a third-party inspection and do a full walk-through with every system powered and pressurized, in daylight and rain if possible. If issues are found, delay delivery and have items fixed before funds are disbursed. Search inspectors here: RV Inspectors near me.

(Moderate Concern)

Several reviewers describe missed delivery dates and vague communication. If you are timing delivery for a trip, build in weeks of cushion. Make your deposit contingent on delivery by a specific date with a written remedy (e.g., deposit refundable and loan cancelled if missed).

(Serious Concern)

An often-cited complaint across Camping World locations is extended repair timelines, especially during peak season, and limited status updates. Coldwater’s low-star Google reviews similarly mention communication gaps and long waits for parts or approvals. If your unit needs warranty work, ask for a written ETA, require photos of the issue and the repair, and request that all parts be ordered before you drop off when possible.

• Keep a written log of dates, names, and what was promised.
• Escalate politely but firmly to a service manager when timelines slip.
• If the RV is unusable, ask for documentation to support trip insurance or credit card dispute while you seek resolution.

(Moderate Concern)

Owner complaints frequently point to repeat visits for the same issue or parts replaced without solving root causes. Ask who will perform your inspection and repairs, what their certifications are (e.g., RVTI, manufacturer training), and demand a written diagnosis with photos and test results. If you’re not confident, seek a second opinion from an independent mobile tech.

(Moderate Concern)

Expect delays if a third-party service contract is involved; authorizations require diagnostic steps and adjuster approvals. Maintain proof of maintenance and usage logs to avoid “owner-caused” denials. If a manufacturer recall applies, that work should be covered—ensure the dealer checks your VIN against open recalls before delivery.

(Serious Concern)

Several low-star reviews across the chain describe delayed titles and registration issues that leave buyers unable to use their RVs legally. Where delays are reported at the Coldwater location, the impact can be significant—missed trips and potential penalties. Protect yourself by confirming title status before paying, and get a written timeline for title and plates with specific remedies if missed.

• Do not accept delivery if the dealer cannot demonstrate clear title and lien payoff for used units.
• Get temporary tags’ expiration in writing and what happens if paperwork is not ready.
• Document all follow-ups by email for a paper trail.

(Serious Concern)

Common RV defects—water leaks, propane leaks, brake/axle issues, chassis wiring faults—can pose serious safety risks and lead to expensive downstream damage (mold, rot, delamination). Water intrusion not only ruins interiors but devalues the unit dramatically. Electrical and propane issues create fire hazards. Suspension or brake defects threaten road safety.

• Insist on testing: Water test, full 12V/120V system check, furnace/AC operation, CO/LP detectors, brake and lighting checks, slide/cap seal inspection.
• Check recalls: Enter your RV’s year/make/model and VIN at NHTSA. Start here: NHTSA recall information.

(Moderate Concern)

Dealers typically check for open recalls at delivery, but buyers should verify directly with the manufacturer and NHTSA. Purchasing a unit with an unresolved safety recall can delay usage and expose you to risk. Require written confirmation that recall checks were performed on your specific VIN.

(Moderate Concern)

When consumer complaints allege misrepresentations, warranty runarounds, or unsafe conditions, potential regulatory touchpoints include Federal Trade Commission oversight of advertising and financing practices, state consumer protection laws, and federal safety recall obligations. Consumers who believe they were misled or sold a unit with unresolved safety defects can consider:

• FTC complaint: The FTC monitors deceptive advertising and add-on practices. Learn more at the FTC’s site: Federal Trade Commission.
• Michigan Attorney General: File a complaint under the Michigan Consumer Protection Act if you suspect unfair or deceptive acts. Start here: Michigan AG Consumer Protection.
• Warranty rights: Understand how the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act applies to written warranties and service contracts. Overview: FTC guide to federal warranty law.
• Safety recalls: NHTSA manages vehicle equipment safety. Research recalls and file complaints at: NHTSA.gov.

If you document patterns (e.g., repeated title delays or systemic add-on bundling that contradicts disclosures), consider consulting a consumer protection attorney. Preserve all communications, quotes, and photos.

(Serious Concern)

Overpaying via add-ons and interest rate markups can add thousands over the loan term. Delivery defects can balloon into major repair costs (water damage, delamination). Title delays can prevent legal use while payments accrue. Protect your wallet by insisting on transparent pricing and independent inspection.

(Serious Concern)

Issues like propane leaks, brake or axle defects, and faulty wiring can cause accidents or fires. Open recalls left unresolved at delivery prolong exposure. Conduct a rigorous safety check and require documented recall status by VIN before you leave the lot.