Coastal Rv’s & Auto Sales- Montesano, WA Exposed: Financing Markups, Title Delays & PDI Failures

Serious Concern

Across the RV industry—and reflected in low-star reviews for many local dealers—buyers frequently discover major defects after delivery. The most effective leverage you have is before you sign and take possession. Arrange a third-party inspection by a certified RV inspector who is not affiliated with the dealership. A thorough pre-purchase inspection (including roof, seals, slide-outs, electrical, propane, undercarriage, brakes, and moisture intrusion) can prevent thousands in future repair costs and reduce the risk of cancelled camping trips because your RV is stuck in the service bay.

• Search for a qualified inspector near Montesano: Find RV Inspectors near me.
• If the dealer resists or refuses any independent inspection, treat that as a major red flag and walk away.
• Request the inspector to verify all promised features and test critical systems under load (shore power/generator, slides, appliances, water lines, roof seals).
• Document everything with photos and a written report. Make acceptance and final payment contingent upon the inspection results.

Buyers should also be wary of inflated dealer add-ons and “peace of mind” extended warranties that often contain exclusions and onerous claim processes. Get third-party quotes for service contracts and compare coverage terms. If the dealership tries to rush you past the inspection or paperwork review, slow the process down.

Need another option for qualified inspectors? Try: Local RV inspectors in your area. You can also search broader networks and reviews to verify credentials and references before scheduling.

Moderate Concern

Multiple low-star reviews at independent RV lots commonly describe high-pressure tactics and excessive upsells for add-ons like paint protection, fabric guard, theft etching, or dealer-installed accessories. Such complaints often include unexpected fees appearing late in the process or being told certain “packages” are required to buy. While add-ons are not unique to this dealership, buyers should watch for:

• Non-itemized “reconditioning” or “prep” fees that appear inflated.
• Mandatory accessory bundles that are actually optional.
• Offers to “throw in” items, but their cost is then buried elsewhere in the contract.

To neutralize this, require an itemized buyers order with every line-item listed, ask for removal of unwanted packages, and refuse to sign anything with blank fields.

Serious Concern

In critical 1–2 star reviews seen across small to mid-size RV dealers, consumers report unexpectedly high APRs compared with their bank or credit union pre-approvals. It is standard practice for some dealerships to mark up lender buy rates and profit on financing. Pay attention if you experience:

• Pressure to finance in-house with “limited-time” terms.
• Discrepancies between verbal rate quotes and final contract APR.
• Bundled service contracts without clear disclosure that they raise your monthly payment.

Bring an outside pre-approval and be prepared to walk. Have the finance manager present the lender approval letter and the buy-rate details. If the dealership cannot match or beat your pre-approval without add-ons, use your own financing.

Moderate Concern

Some low-star reviewers of independent RV dealers commonly allege significant differences between an initial appraisal range and the final trade-in value during paperwork. Complaints often cite cursory appraisals or late-stage deductions for “reconditioning” and “wholesale” values. Protect yourself by:

• Getting written, VIN-specific appraisals with clear condition criteria.
• Having your RV inspected independently so you can rebut exaggerated “reconditioning” deductions.
• Obtaining trade-in offers from competing dealers or selling private-party to keep leverage.

Serious Concern

Delayed titles and registration problems are a frequent theme in 1–2 star reviews across many small dealerships. Buyers report waiting weeks or months for title transfer and plates, which can derail travel plans. Title delays may also complicate warranty activation or financing. Before signing:

• Confirm the seller’s title is clear (no liens), and require a specific delivery timeline in writing.
• Hold back a portion of funds in escrow until title delivery, if possible.
• Get a signed we-owe or due bill detailing all post-sale paperwork obligations and deadlines.

Serious Concern

Low-star RV reviews frequently mention being surprised by “as-is” terms or limited dealer support after delivery—especially on used units. Even where a manufacturer warranty exists, dealers may cite parts delays or limited tech availability, placing your RV in a months-long queue. To mitigate:

• Have a third-party inspection before funding; make repairs/adjustments a condition of sale.
• Get any promised fixes on a signed due bill with timelines and a loaner/RV-campsite stipend if repairs will prevent usage.
• Confirm whether warranty claims are handled in-house or require external authorization.

If your RV sits for weeks awaiting parts, note that many consumers lose deposits on campgrounds and cancel trips. This is why pre-delivery defects must be addressed before you take possession.

Serious Concern

A recurring complaint at various dealerships is that the PDI was rushed or superficial, with buyers discovering leaks, non-functional appliances, or electrical issues immediately after pickup. Insist on a comprehensive PDI that you can attend, and test everything while on-site:

• Run slides in/out multiple times, check seals, and inspect for water intrusion with a moisture meter.
• Test AC units on a hot day; check temperature differential at vents.
• Pressurize the water system; check for leaks at fittings, water heater, and under sinks.
• Verify propane safety: regulator, detector, and no smell of gas after extended use.

If the dealership does not permit a full PDI or third-party inspection, walk away. You can always find another unit; you cannot easily undo a bad RV purchase.

To locate professionals for a PDI companion inspection: Search certified RV inspectors near you.

Moderate Concern

In lower-rated reviews for independent dealers, customers frequently cite unreturned calls, limited visibility into parts ETAs, and missed appointment windows. Ask up front about the service department’s average turnaround time and how you will receive updates (text, email portal, phone). Require written ETAs for parts and escalation contacts if deadlines slip.

Serious Concern

Some critical reviews at small dealerships allege that units were marketed as “ready to camp” or “fully inspected,” but upon delivery showed signs of prior leaks, soft floors, or non-working systems. Others note promised features or accessories that were missing or substituted. Protect yourself by:

• Bringing a checklist and requiring demonstration of each feature.
• Recording the walkthrough (with permission) to capture what’s promised versus delivered.
• Including feature lists and condition statements in the contract—not just in the ad.

Serious Concern

Complaints seen across RV dealers often blame repeated returns for the same issue, suggesting misdiagnosis or rushed repairs by inexperienced techs. Ask whether technicians are RVTAA- or RVDA-certified, what systems they’re qualified to handle (12V/120V electrical, absorption fridges, slide mechanisms, hydraulics), and whether complex issues are sublet to specialists. Request documentation and photos for any repair billable to you.

Serious Concern

Supply chain constraints can be real, but extended delays should be backed by documentation. Get part numbers, supplier names, and order confirmations. If your RV is inoperable for safety reasons, discuss temporary solutions or written commitments for storage fees and compensation if the dealer cannot meet reasonable timelines.

Moderate Concern

Low-rated reviews for many dealers cite surprise fees. Before committing, ask for a single, all-in out-the-door number that includes tax, title, license, and any dealer fees. Decline unwanted packages and compare against competitor quotes for the same RV to calibrate fair pricing.

Serious Concern

Patterns such as misrepresented condition, failure to honor written promises, deceptive financing practices, and ignoring safety defects raise potential legal exposure under state and federal consumer protections. Key frameworks and agencies include:

• Washington Consumer Protection Act (unfair or deceptive acts). File complaints with the WA Attorney General: Washington State Attorney General — File a Complaint.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (federal warranties). Dealers cannot disclaim implied warranties when a written warranty is provided and must follow clear, conspicuous disclosures: FTC — Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
• Federal Trade Commission (deceptive or unfair practices in commerce): Report to the FTC.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for safety defects and recalls (motorized RVs and safety equipment such as tires, brakes, seat belts, LP systems). Check open recalls and file complaints: NHTSA — Report a Safety Problem.

If a unit is sold “as-is,” be aware that certain representations can still create liability if they’re false or misleading. Insist that any promised repairs or feature guarantees are documented on a signed due bill. If you suspect odometer discrepancies, prior damage, or safety-related defects not disclosed, preserve evidence and consider counsel. Keep all texts/emails and take time-stamped photos.

Serious Concern

Defects reported by RV owners across multiple dealerships—water intrusion, electrical shorts, brake failures, propane leaks, delaminated walls—can escalate into significant safety hazards and financial losses if not addressed promptly. Moisture intrusion, for example, can cause structural rot and mold, jeopardizing both safety and resale value. Slide malfunctions can trap occupants or damage framing. Propane system leaks can lead to fire or carbon monoxide risks. If any of these emerge after purchase:

• Stop using the affected system immediately; document the issue and notify the dealer and manufacturer in writing.
• Check for recalls by VIN and component brand; dealers should not delay recall repairs: NHTSA — Recall Lookup.
• Demand an estimated timeline and parts order confirmations; if safety-critical, request an expedited remedy.

When a dealership’s service lane is backlogged, owners lose planned trips and deposits. This is why a stringent pre-delivery inspection is not optional—it is essential to reduce exposure and protect your first season of ownership.

Moderate Concern

Official advertising and lot presentations seldom reflect the day-to-day realities of service queues, financing markups, or title desk backlogs. Independent sources—YouTube owner reports, forum threads, Google reviews—help reveal patterns that any one shopper might miss. Cross-verify recurring themes, not just single anecdotes. When several unrelated consumers describe similar issues (delayed titles, “as-is” surprises, or repeated repair attempts), that’s a signal to slow down and add protections to your deal structure.