Camping World RV Sales- Monticello, MN Exposed: Hidden Add-On Fees, Rate Padding & Delivery Defects

Introduction: What Shoppers Should Know About Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN operates as part of Camping World, a large, publicly traded national chain (Camping World Holdings) that sells new and used RVs and related services under the Camping World and Good Sam brands. As with many high-volume RV retailers, the Monticello location has both satisfied buyers and a significant number of highly critical public reviews, with recurring complaints centered on sales pressure, add-on fees, financing terms, delivery condition, service delays, and warranty friction.

Because RV purchases are complex, expensive, and heavily dependent on dealer competence, this report is structured to surface the most common and recent consumer concerns specific to Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN, along with concrete steps you can take to protect yourself before you sign anything.

Primary source for recent firsthand feedback: the dealership’s Google Business profile. You can review and verify complaints and timelines directly by sorting reviews by “Lowest rating” here: Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN Google Business Profile.

Independent Owner Communities and Research Channels

Before visiting or negotiating with this store, immerse yourself in unfiltered owner feedback and dealer-specific experiences. Independent communities routinely surface issues buyers don’t hear in the showroom.

• Model-specific Facebook groups: Join groups for the brands/models you’re shopping (e.g., Grand Design, Keystone, Forest River). Use this search to find active communities: Find model-focused Facebook groups via Google.
• YouTube consumer advocates: Liz Amazing has a large library of RV buyer education and exposes dealership pitfalls; search her channel for any store you’re considering: Explore buyer education on the Liz Amazing channel.
• Local word-of-mouth: Ask local RV parks and mobile techs which dealers they see most often for post-sale issues.

Have you dealt with this Monticello store? Add your experience in the comments so shoppers can see real outcomes.

Mandatory Step: Arrange a Third-Party RV Inspection Before You Sign

For this location, multiple recent 1-star Google reviews describe RVs delivered with defects, delayed repairs, or items missing from the “we owe” list. To protect yourself, hire an independent NRVIA-certified or highly experienced inspector to conduct a full pre-delivery inspection (PDI) on the actual unit before you finalize financing or take possession. This is your only real leverage to get defects documented and corrected promptly. If you accept delivery first, your RV may be stuck in a service queue for weeks or months, triggering canceled trips and lost deposits at campgrounds while warranty approvals and parts drag on. Find an inspector here: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.

If Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN refuses to allow a professional third-party inspection on-site prior to closing, that is a major red flag and you should walk away. An honest dealership welcomes independent verification.

Going in prepared? Tell us whether the store allowed third-party inspection and how it went.

Sales Tactics and Pricing Transparency at the Monticello Store

Advertised Prices vs. Out-the-Door Surprises

Recent low-star Google reviews for the Monticello location describe a pattern of add-on fees disclosed late in the process, including high doc fees, prep fees, and aftermarket add-ons bundled into the deal. Several reviewers report driving long distances for an advertised price only to find the final numbers thousands higher after paid “packages” and dealer-installed extras appeared on the worksheet.

• What to do: Demand an itemized, out-the-door price quote in writing before you travel. Decline non-required add-ons. Ask for line-item removal of any pack items you don’t want.
• Why it matters: Once you’re on site and emotionally committed, it’s easier for any dealer to upsell products you don’t need or inflate fees. Keep your leverage by pre-negotiating everything via email/text.

For a reality check on tactics that consumers say are common nationally, watch consumer-focused explainers on dealership add-ons from advocates like Liz Amazing’s RV buyer warnings and search her channel for Camping World.

High-Pressure Closings and “Today Only” Urgency

Several Monticello reviewers reference aggressive “today-only” pricing and repeated sales calls after initial contact. Pressure tactics are designed to accelerate decisions and reduce time for inspections or competitive quotes.

• Countermeasure: Slow the process. Tell the salesperson you’re obtaining a third-party inspection and comparing offers; if they balk, that’s informative.
• Proof source: Sort by lowest ratings on the store’s Google profile to see buyer descriptions of the sales cadence: Monticello Google reviews (sort by Lowest).

Financing, Add-Ons, and Warranty Products

Interest Rates and Payment Packing

Multiple low-star reviews allege that the finance office presented higher-than-expected interest rates and pushed extended warranties, paint/fabric protection, tire-and-wheel, and “lifetime” packages. Buyers later discovered better rates through their own banks or credit unions. Some reviewers say the finance manager implied that certain add-ons were required for loan approval; they are not.

• Protect yourself: Bring a pre-approval from your bank. If the dealership beats it cleanly without bundling add-ons, great; if not, use your pre-approval.
• Review contracts: Look closely for line items labeled VSC, GAP, PPM, or etch, and decline them if unwanted. Verify the APR and the total of payments match the finance menu you agreed to.

Questionable Warranty Coverage and Claims Friction

Owners report confusion between manufacturer warranties, Camping World’s own service plans, and Good Sam products. Common grievances include claim denials for “wear and tear,” delays awaiting “authorization,” and difficulty getting approved repairs scheduled at the Monticello service center. Some buyers also cite problems canceling add-on products post-sale and waiting months for refunds.

• Tip: Request sample contracts before you buy, and read exclusions. Evaluate the net cost versus your personal risk tolerance. Many consumers prefer to self-insure instead of buying complex plans.
• Learn more: Watch discussions on warranty pitfalls and alternatives from advocates like Liz Amazing’s deep dives.

Trade-In Offers and Appraisal Accuracy

Recent low-star reviews for this Monticello store describe trade-in offers that were significantly below expectations even after buyers provided detailed photos and service records. A few owners reported “reappraisals” at delivery with lower numbers than initially discussed, allegedly due to new findings or market shifts.

• Defend your equity: Obtain multiple written offers (Carvana/RV consignment, competing dealers, local classifieds) before visiting. Bring your comps to the negotiation.
• Paper trail: Keep all prior appraisals and salesperson messages. If the number changes on delivery day, you can walk.

Have you seen your trade value change late in the process here? Report the details to help other shoppers.

Paperwork, Title, and Delivery Problems

Delayed Titles, Plates, and MSO

Several Monticello reviewers describe long waits for titles, registrations, or corrected paperwork. Delays can prevent you from legally towing or traveling and may complicate warranty registrations. Some buyers report repeated calls or visits to resolve typos in contracts or to receive “we owe” items promised at closing.

• Before funds release: Verify the VIN, MSRP sheet, purchase/finance contract, and any “we owe” form are accurate and signed by a manager. Photograph everything.
• Escalation: If deadlines slip, document in writing and escalate to management. Consider filing a complaint with the Minnesota Attorney General: Minnesota AG Consumer Division.

Delivery Condition and Missing Items

Multiple 1- and 2-star reviews for this location detail RVs delivered dirty or with defects unrepaired despite assurances. Consumers cite issues such as water leaks, trim coming loose, inoperable appliances, non-functioning slide-outs, soft floors, and items missing from the promised accessory kit or we-owe list. Several owners say they were told the unit had been “fully checked out,” yet basic functions failed on the first trip.

• Solution: Demand a full PDI checklist and perform your own test: water systems under pressure, slide cycles, generator run, HVAC in heat and cool, roof inspection, tires/date codes, brake controller, GFCIs, LP leak test. Bring an inspector: Find local RV inspectors.
• Don’t accept it: If the RV is not as represented, do not sign delivery paperwork. Require the fixes first, or walk.

Service Department Backlogs and Workmanship

Scheduling Delays and Long Downtime

Owners who purchased at this Monticello store report significant delays obtaining service appointments and parts. Several reviewers describe their RV sitting for extended periods waiting for diagnosis, then waiting again for factory or warranty authorizations, leaving the rig unusable for prime camping season. This can result in canceled vacations and lost campsite deposits.

• Expectation management: Ask the service manager—before buying—what the current average lead time is for both warranty diagnosis and common parts (refrigerators, jacks, slide motors, ACs).
• Backup plan: Many owners use mobile RV techs for non-warranty work to avoid dealer queues. Confirm whether your warranty or service plan reimburses outside providers.

Quality of Repairs and “Fix-It-Again” Visits

Low-star reviews allege incomplete or incorrect repairs, with some issues recurring on the first subsequent trip. Examples mentioned in recent feedback include water intrusion returning, slide adjustments not holding, misdiagnosed electrical problems, and items reinstalled improperly after repair.

• What helps: Provide clear documentation, photos, and a written punch list. Require a test drive and system demo before pickup from service.
• If safety-related: For brake, axle, propane, or structural issues, file a complaint with NHTSA: NHTSA Safety Complaints & Recalls.

Communication, Follow-Through, and Customer Care

While some customers report responsive staff, many of the most recent 1-star Google reviews for Monticello cite poor communication: messages not returned, uncertain timelines, and callbacks promised but not delivered. Several buyers say they were told parts “were on order” for months with few updates, only to find the order hadn’t been placed or required additional approvals.

• Fix: Communicate in writing (email/text) and summarize phone calls with a follow-up message. Ask for ETAs and order confirmations in writing.
• Escalate: If you are not receiving updates, escalate to the service manager, then the store GM. Keep a dated log for potential complaints or chargebacks.

Patterns Reported in Recent 1-Star Google Reviews (Monticello, MN)

These are recurring themes summarized from low-star reviews you can read by sorting by Lowest rating on the store profile: Camping World RV Sales — Monticello Google Reviews.

• Units presented as “fully inspected” but delivered with leaks, non-functioning appliances, or electrical faults.
• Add-on fees and packages discovered late in the process, increasing the out-the-door price.
• Finance office pushing warranties and protections; buyers later found better loan terms elsewhere.
• Delays obtaining titles/plates, incorrect paperwork, and slow resolution of clerical errors.
• Service backlogs with poor ETA communication; RVs out of service for weeks or months.
• We-owe items not delivered or missing accessories at pickup; repeated promises without follow-through.
• Confusion and friction in warranty claims handling between dealer, third-party plans, and manufacturers.

If you’ve experienced similar issues at the Monticello store, post your story in the comments to help others verify patterns.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer Protection Laws That May Apply

Based on the public complaints described above, the following legal frameworks may be relevant if disputes arise:

• FTC Act and FTC Auto Rules Guidance: Misrepresentations in advertising, pricing, or financing can raise concerns under Section 5 (unfair or deceptive acts). See the FTC’s guidance on dealer practices: Truth in Advertising (FTC).
• State UDAP (Unfair/Deceptive Acts and Practices): Minnesota’s consumer protection statutes prohibit deceptive trade practices. File complaints with the Minnesota Attorney General: MN Attorney General Consumer Protection.
• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act: Governs written warranties on consumer products; misrepresenting coverage or failing to honor written warranties can prompt legal action: FTC Guide to Federal Warranty Law.
• NHTSA Reporting: Safety-related defects (brakes, tires, steering, propane systems) should be reported to NHTSA: NHTSA Recalls and Safety Issues.

Document everything. Save emails, texts, invoices, PDI checklists, and photos. If you financed the RV and were misled, consult an attorney on potential remedies, including state law rescission or damages.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Why Defects and Delays Matter

RV defects aren’t mere inconveniences—they can be dangerous and expensive. Electrical faults can cause fires; water intrusion can lead to rot, structural weakness, and mold; brake or axle problems can cause loss of control; propane system leaks can be life-threatening. If the dealer delays diagnosis or parts orders, owners may lose a significant portion of the camping season while making loan payments on an inoperable RV.

• Check for recalls: Search the unit’s VIN on NHTSA before purchase and again before delivery. If a vehicle has open recalls, demand they be addressed before you sign: NHTSA VIN Recall Lookup. You can also search recall trends with the dealership name (broad research format): NHTSA Recalls — research with dealership name.
• Total cost exposure: When rushed into overpriced add-ons, buyers sometimes pay thousands more in interest over the life of the loan. If repairs drag past warranty windows, owners may face out-of-pocket costs for chronic issues.

Avoid becoming a cautionary tale: bring an independent inspector prior to closing: Find certified inspectors near you.

Where to Verify and Dig Deeper (Evidence and Research Links)

Use the exact searchable formats below to find dealership-specific videos, complaints, and forum threads. Replace spaces with “+” as shown for best results:

• YouTube: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• Google: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Problems
• BBB: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• PissedConsumer (search “Camping World Monticello MN” on site)
• NHTSA Recalls: research with dealership name
• RVForums.com (use site search for “Camping World Monticello”)
• RVForum.net (use site search for dealer name)
• RVUSA Forum (search dealer issues)
• RVInsider: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• Good Sam Community: Camping World RV Sales Monticello MN Issues
• Liz Amazing on YouTube (search for the dealership)

If you’ve found useful threads or videos about this location, drop links in the comments so others can verify.

Balanced Notes: Positive Experiences and Any Signs of Improvement

Although this report focuses on recent negative patterns to protect buyers, there are positive reviews for the Monticello store that praise specific salespeople, same-day fixes for minor issues, or competitive pricing after negotiation. Some customers say managers stepped in to resolve communication gaps or to expedite parts once escalated. Camping World corporately has also publicized service investments and a growing mobile service footprint. Still, even in positive reviews, owners often emphasize the importance of doing a personal PDI and getting every promise in writing.

• What to look for: A named point of contact who stays with you through delivery and your first service visit.
• Documented commitments: Written ETAs, “we-owe” lists with dates, and escalation paths if timelines slip.

Action Checklist for Buyers at Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN

• Get a real OTD quote: Demand itemized out-the-door pricing in writing before visiting.
• Secure your own financing: Bring a pre-approval to avoid rate padding and add-on conditioning.
• Third-party inspection: Hire an independent pro to inspect your exact unit pre-signing: Search local RV inspectors.
• Don’t accept defects at delivery: If the RV isn’t right, don’t sign. Require repairs first.
• Read every contract: Avoid add-ons you don’t want; insist on removing them from the deal sheet.
• Protect your trade: Get multiple written offers and keep your paperwork to avoid last-minute reappraisals.
• Create a communications record: Use email/text; store confirmations, ETAs, and order numbers.
• Know your rights: For serious disputes, contact the MN Attorney General and consider filing with the FTC and NHTSA for safety issues.

What did we miss? Help future buyers by sharing your Monticello experience.

Final Assessment and Consumer Recommendation

Public feedback specific to Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN shows recurring red flags: unexpected add-on fees, aggressive upsells, higher-than-expected finance terms, delivery-condition problems despite claimed inspections, and slow, communication-challenged service queues that leave RVs sidelined. Some customers do report positive outcomes and helpful staff, particularly when they prepared thoroughly, negotiated diligently, and escalated concerns early. Even so, the overall pattern in recent low-star reviews warrants heightened caution and strong buyer discipline.

Bottom line: Given the volume and consistency of serious complaints, we do not recommend proceeding with a purchase from Camping World RV Sales — Monticello, MN unless you secure a third-party inspection before signing, obtain a clean, itemized out-the-door quote, and are prepared to walk away if any pressure tactics or paperwork discrepancies emerge. Shoppers may wish to compare alternative dealerships with stronger service reputations and transparent pricing before making a final decision.

For more buyer education and dealership transparency efforts, consider searching the advocate channel here for additional insights: Learn from Liz Amazing’s RV consumer guides.