Camping World RV Sales- St. Augustine, FL Exposed: Hidden Fees, PDI Misses & Title/Service Delays

Introduction: What Our Research Shows About Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Camping World RV Sales in St. Augustine, Florida is part of Camping World Holdings, a large, national RV dealership chain connected to the Good Sam brand. The chain’s scale and marketing reach make it a common first stop for RV shoppers in Florida’s northeast corridor. However, low-rated public reviews, complaint threads, and consumer forums reveal recurring patterns of sales pressure, post-sale service delays, paperwork errors, and warranty frustrations at this specific location.

To verify or challenge any claim in this report, we strongly encourage you to read the most recent low-star reviews on the store’s Google Business Profile: Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL Google Reviews. Use the “Sort by: Lowest rating” option to see the most serious and recent complaints first. Then compare what you read to the patterns summarized below.

Start Your Research with Owner Communities and Independent Voices

• Search YouTube for independent, consumer-first analysis of RV dealers and buying pitfalls. A strong place to begin is the channel run by Liz, who consistently exposes RV industry tactics. Explore her content here: Liz Amazing’s RV consumer advocacy channel. Use the channel’s search tool for the dealership you’re considering.
• Join model-specific owner communities before you buy. Instead of linking directly to Facebook, use this Google search to find active groups for your target brand (examples: Forest River, Grand Design, Keystone): Find brand-focused RV owner groups.
• For third-party insights and owner narratives, consider forums like r/rvs, r/RVLiving, and RVForums. A curated set of research links is provided later in this report.

Before You Buy: Third-Party Inspection Is Your Leverage

Multiple recent consumer complaints for the St. Augustine location describe problems discovered only after signing—leaks, failed appliances, electrical issues, or damage that should have been caught in a proper pre-delivery inspection (PDI). These issues often led to long waits in the service queue, cancelled trips, and significant out-of-pocket costs. Protect yourself by hiring an independent RV inspector before you finalize paperwork or accept delivery. If a dealer won’t allow a third-party inspection, that is a red flag—walk away.

• Book an independent inspection appointment before you sign. Use a local search: Find RV inspectors near me.
• Make your sale contingent on a clean inspection and written remediation of any defects. Put all promises into a signed “We Owe” form.
• Decline delivery until everything on your punch list is completed and re-verified.

Readers, what issues did your inspector catch—or what did you wish you had inspected? Tell other shoppers in the comments.

Sales and Finance Practices Reported at the St. Augustine Location

High-Pressure Sales and Add-Ons

Recent low-star reviews for Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine frequently describe high-pressure tactics designed to close quickly, sometimes before buyers can fully evaluate the unit on the lot. Shoppers report being pushed toward in-house financing, package add-ons, paint or fabric protection, and branded service plans—often without clear, line-item disclosures in advance. While some add-ons may be useful, consumers describe feeling rushed and upsold under time pressure.

• Ask for an “out-the-door” quote with a complete line-item breakdown before you visit the store.
• Decline any product not transparently explained or required by you—especially on delivery day.
• Use an outside pre-approval from your bank or credit union to reduce pressure and rate markups.

Extended Warranties and Service Contracts

Many consumers mention aggressive pitching of extended service plans (often linked to the Good Sam brand) and “protection packages.” Some complain they did not receive clear coverage terms, or discovered extensive exclusions when seeking repairs. Service contract paperwork can be dense, and cancellations or refunds may be slower or more complicated than expected.

• Request the full contract and coverage schedule before you sign; highlight exclusions and maintenance requirements.
• Compare third-party service contracts and the option of self-insuring repairs.
• Confirm the cancellation policy and how pro-rated refunds are calculated and paid.

For deeper context on dealer upsells and how to recognize them, see independent consumer content such as Liz Amazing’s cautionary videos on RV sales tactics.

Interest Rate Markups and Payment “Packing”

Reports from this location include allegations of finance managers presenting a “monthly payment” that is higher than expected, with costly add-ons embedded or a marked-up interest rate compared to outside lenders. Some buyers only discovered the true APR, term length, or add-ons after signing.

• Bring a firm pre-approval. Ask the dealership to beat it—apples to apples, no add-ons.
• Calculate your own monthly payment from the APR, term, and principal to detect padding.
• Never sign if the paperwork does not match the agreed figures; do not rely on verbal assurances.

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers and Last-Minute Changes

Several reviewers for the St. Augustine store describe trade-in values that dropped late in the process or were significantly below third-party estimates. While market valuation varies by condition and region, last-minute changes and unexplained deductions are a recurring frustration.

• Obtain multiple written trade bids (including from non-dealer buyers) before negotiating.
• Document your RV’s condition thoroughly—photos, maintenance records, recent inspection—to support your trade value.
• Walk away if the numbers shift without credible explanation or inspection-backed rationale.

Surprise Fees: Prep, Freight, and Documentation

Consumers routinely report unexpected “dealer prep,” “freight,” and “documentation” fees. Some fees may be legitimate, but low-star reviews allege line items that inflate the out-the-door price beyond initial verbal or advertised figures.

• Ask for a binding, written out-the-door price before you travel to the lot.
• Do not accept ambiguous fees; ask what the fee buys you in concrete terms.
• Be willing to leave if the final worksheet doesn’t match the pre-agreed OTD total.

Paperwork, Title, and Registration Complaints

Delayed Titles and Temporary Tag Expirations

At the St. Augustine location, a notable share of low-star Google reviews allege delayed titles and registration processing—sometimes causing temp tags to expire before paperwork is completed. In Florida, dealers must follow strict title transfer timelines; failure to do so can leave consumers unable to travel legally and create penalty risks.

• Florida title and registration rules: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
• Insist on written timelines for title submission and ask for proof of submission.
• If temp tags are nearing expiration, escalate in writing and document all correspondence.

Loan Payoff and Lien Release Problems

Some consumers report dealership delays in paying off existing liens on trade-ins, leading to additional interest or delinquency notices. While timing can vary, clear communication and proof of payoff are essential to protect the seller from financial harm.

• Request written confirmation of payoff amount and dealer’s payoff date commitment.
• Ask for proof of payoff submission and lien release tracking details.
• Escalate to your lender if deadlines pass without confirmation.

If you’ve experienced paperwork delays at this location, what resolved it—or didn’t? Add your story so others can learn.

Delivery-Day and PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection) Shortfalls

Units Delivered with Defects or Missing Items

Consumers describe taking delivery at the St. Augustine store only to find inoperable appliances, water intrusion, misaligned doors, nonfunctional slideouts, or missing accessories promised at sale. Some report a rushed or superficial walkthrough that glossed over defects, later requiring immediate service visits.

• Bring your own PDI checklist. Test every system with shore power and water connected.
• Refuse delivery until repairs or missing components are addressed in writing—and completed.
• Video your walkthrough and the functionality of every system for your records.

Back in Line After Purchase

One of the most painful and frequently alleged patterns: once the sale closes, your RV may join a long service queue. Multiple reviews for this store claim waits measured in weeks or months for parts and scheduling. Buyers describe cancelled trips, lost deposits, and ongoing storage issues while the RV sits at the dealership.

• Make the seller perform repairs before final delivery. Your leverage drops sharply after signing.
• If repairs are unavoidable post-sale, get written ETAs and escalation contacts.
• Ask for goodwill accommodations if the unit is unusable for extended periods.

For more background on these patterns, check independent breakdowns of RV service bottlenecks by creators like Liz Amazing (search her channel for “dealer service delays”).

Service Department: Communication, Expertise, and Warranty Handling

Slow Response and Poor Updates

Low-star reviews for the St. Augustine location repeatedly allege unanswered calls and limited progress updates once a unit enters service. Consumers say they often had to chase status updates and escalate to management to get basic information. Limited communication magnifies frustration when repairs drag on.

• Request a single point of contact and a promised update cadence (e.g., twice weekly).
• Follow up via email to create a paper trail for missed commitments.
• Escalate to the general manager if deadlines pass without updates.

Inexperienced or Overstretched Technicians

Some reviewers suggest misdiagnoses or temporary fixes that fail shortly after pick-up. The RV industry as a whole faces a shortage of master technicians, and big-chain service departments can be overloaded. The result: long repair cycles and repeat visits.

• Ask who will perform your repair and whether they are certified for your brand’s systems.
• Request that all repair notes, part numbers, and diagnostics be included on the final work order.
• For complex jobs, consider an independent specialist if your warranty permits it.

Warranty Authorization and Claim Denials

Consumers at this store report friction when seeking warranty coverage through manufacturers or third-party service plans. Allegations include delays in submitting claims, denials based on fine-print exclusions, and poor coordination among manufacturer, service plan administrator, and dealer.

• Know your rights under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: FTC primer on federal warranty law.
• Ask the service desk to show you the claim submission date and any responses from the administrator or OEM.
• If a claim is denied, request the denial in writing citing the exact contract clause or OEM policy.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Water Intrusion, Electrical Faults, and Propane Issues

Defects reported by consumers at this location—such as water leaks, shorted outlets, battery charging failures, or gas appliance problems—are not just inconveniences; they can pose serious safety hazards, from mold and structural damage to fire or asphyxiation risk. When such defects are discovered post-sale, getting prompt and competent repairs is critical.

• Demand a full PDI with water pressurization, 120V and 12V systems under load, and LP leak tests. Do not skip!
• Confirm that all open safety recalls are cleared before delivery. Federal law prohibits dealers from delivering new units with outstanding safety recalls.
• Use NHTSA’s recall lookups by manufacturer and model: NHTSA recall database.

Chassis vs. House Coverage on Motorhomes

Florida’s lemon law coverage for RVs is limited largely to the chassis in motorhomes; the “house” portion is often excluded. This makes your pre-delivery inspection and warranty understanding even more important, since many common problems occur in the living systems, not the engine or drivetrain.

• Ask the dealer to explain what is covered by OEM chassis warranty vs. house components.
• Document defects early and submit promptly to the appropriate warrantor.
• If you feel misled, consider filing with Florida’s consumer protection authorities.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Deceptive or Unfair Practices

Allegations such as undisclosed fees, misrepresented financing terms, or broken delivery promises may implicate consumer protection laws, including Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA). Consumers can report patterns of unfair or deceptive conduct to state and federal regulators.

• Florida Attorney General – Consumer Protection: Report deceptive trade practices.
• FTC complaint portal: Report fraud to the FTC.

Warranty and Contract Compliance

Dealers and administrators must honor written warranty and service contract terms. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, disclaimers cannot erase written warranties, and service contract misrepresentations may be actionable. The FTC Holder Rule also preserves consumers’ claims and defenses against finance companies in many credit sales.

• Magnuson-Moss basics: FTC guide to the federal warranty law
• FTC Holder Rule: Consumers’ claims and defenses against holders

Title, Temp Tags, and Delivery of New Units

Florida requires timely title transfer, and dealers may face penalties for failing to process paperwork properly. Additionally, dealers cannot lawfully deliver new vehicles with unresolved safety recalls. If you encounter pushback on either point, document your communications and be prepared to escalate.

• Florida title rules: FLHSMV – Titles
• NHTSA – Recalls overview: Recall lookup and reporting

How to Protect Yourself at the St. Augustine Store

• Get a third-party inspection before signing. Use this search to book: Independent RV inspectors near me. If the dealer refuses, walk.
• Demand an out-the-door quote in writing with line items—no surprises at signing.
• Bring your own financing or pre-approval; let them beat it transparently if they can.
• Decline unnecessary add-ons (paint, fabric, nitrogen, GPS, service contracts) unless you have read and want them.
• Check recall status for your exact VINs (towable components and motorized chassis) before delivery.
• Perform a full PDI with water, shore power, generator, furnace, A/C, slides, awning, appliances, LP leak test, brakes, and seals. Don’t rush.
• Get a “We Owe” form with every promise and accessory listed, signed by management.
• Insist on paperwork timelines for title, registration, and lien payoff. Ask for proof.
• Document everything in writing, including phone call summaries sent via email.
• If service is needed post-sale, ask for ETAs, escalation contacts, and written updates. Consider independent warranty-authorized shops when permitted.

Do you have a PDI checklist or tips for navigating this dealership? Post your best advice for fellow shoppers.

Where to Verify These Patterns: Research Links

Use these pre-formatted searches and resources to dive deeper into real consumer experiences with Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL. Replace “Issues/Problems/Complaints” as needed, and use forum search boxes for sites that don’t support query links.

• YouTube results: Camping World RV Sales St. Augustine FL Issues (YouTube)
• Google search: Camping World RV Sales St. Augustine FL Problems (Google)
• Better Business Bureau: BBB search for Camping World RV Sales St. Augustine FL Complaints
• Reddit r/RVLiving: r/RVLiving search
• Reddit r/GoRVing: r/GoRVing search
• Reddit r/rvs: r/rvs search
• PissedConsumer: Browse and search for Camping World RV Sales St. Augustine FL (use site’s search box)
• NHTSA recalls: Check for recalls connected to brands sold here
• RVForums.com: Use site search for Camping World St. Augustine
• RVForum.net: Search for Camping World St. Augustine
• RVUSA Forum: Search dealer experiences
• RVInsider.com: RVInsider search
• Good Sam Community: Good Sam community search
• Google Business Profile (sort by lowest rating): Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL reviews

What Consumers Say About This Specific Location

Review themes from the St. Augustine store’s lowest-rated Google reviews in the past 12–24 months include: slow or unresponsive service after the sale; long waits for parts; delivery-day defects that should have been caught during PDI; pressure to accept add-ons; higher-than-expected APRs or monthly payments; title and temp tag delays; and difficulty canceling or obtaining refunds on service contracts. While every review is a single data point, the repetition across multiple independent reviewers signals a pattern prospective buyers should take seriously. To evaluate these claims firsthand, read the one- and two-star reviews and compare dates, manager responses (if any), and whether issues were eventually resolved.

After you review those low-star reports, how consistent are they with your own experience at this store? Contribute your perspective for balance.

Context and Counterpoints

For objectivity, it’s fair to acknowledge that some consumers post positive experiences: friendly salespeople, quick turnarounds, or managers who step in to resolve problems. A big chain like Camping World handles high volume, and outcomes vary by staff, technician availability, and the specific RV brand and model. That said, the density of serious complaints tied to the St. Augustine location indicates a risk profile that is higher than many shoppers expect—especially if you are not prepared with an independent inspection and a firm plan for verifying every figure and fee.

Balanced research helps. Use creator-driven resources—such as Liz Amazing’s investigations into RV buying pitfalls—to learn what to ask and how to protect yourself during the sales, delivery, and service phases.

Final Recommendation

Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL, operates under the powerful Camping World brand and can offer selection and nationwide service ties. Yet the volume and severity of recent consumer complaints for this location—spanning sales pressure, undisclosed fees, delivery defects, delayed titles, and prolonged service delays—indicate elevated risk for unwary buyers. Shoppers should approach this dealership with a firm, methodical process that includes an independent inspection, strict documentation, and refusal to sign until everything promised is complete and verified.

Based on the patterns documented in public reviews and forums for the St. Augustine store, we do not recommend buying here unless the dealership first agrees to: (1) a full third-party inspection before any paperwork is signed; (2) a written, line-item out-the-door price; (3) documented proof of recall clearance; and (4) in-writing remediation of all defects before delivery. If these conditions are not met, consider alternative Florida RV dealers with stronger recent track records on transparent pricing, timely paperwork, and post-sale service responsiveness.

Already purchased or serviced an RV at this location? Share what happened and what you’d do differently next time.

Comments

Your firsthand experience at Camping World RV Sales – St. Augustine, FL can help other RV shoppers make safer choices. What went right or wrong for you? What should others watch out for? Add your comment below.