CrossRoads-Redwood RV Exposed: Leaks, Frame Flex, Recalls—Why We Don’t Recommend It

Introduction: What Shoppers Should Know About the CrossRoads Redwood

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The CrossRoads Redwood is a luxury fifth‑wheel line positioned for extended-stay and full‑time use. Built under the Redwood RV brand (part of CrossRoads/Thor), it markets high-end residential finishes, spacious floorplans, and “four-season” capability. Yet owner forums, public reviews, and recall records point to persistent quality-control problems and long service delays that undercut the premium price tag. While some owners report satisfaction after proactive maintenance and selective upgrades, a substantial number describe initial defects, repeat failures, water intrusion, and warranty friction that can derail travel plans and erode trust in the brand.

To begin your own due diligence, compare experiences across multiple independent sources:

• YouTube search: CrossRoads Redwood Problems
• Google search: CrossRoads Redwood complaints and issues
• BBB search: CrossRoads Redwood and also try “Redwood RV” in the BBB search bar
• Reddit r/rvs: CrossRoads Redwood Problems, plus subreddits r/RVLiving and r/GoRVing
• RVInsider reviews: CrossRoads Redwood Problems
• Good Sam Community: CrossRoads Redwood Problems

Consider also joining owner-run Facebook communities for unfiltered feedback; use this query to find relevant groups: Google: CrossRoads Redwood Facebook Groups. You’ll see real-world problem solving, parts sourcing tips, and candid ownership diaries.

Several independent creators are exposing recurring RV industry issues. For a balanced starting point, watch investigative content on the Liz Amazing YouTube channel and use the channel’s search to look up “Redwood” or the specific floorplan you’re eyeing.

Have you owned or shopped a Redwood? What happened in your case?

Before You Buy: Schedule a Third‑Party RV Inspection

Independent pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is your most powerful leverage—before you sign and the dealer gets paid. A thorough inspector will check roof and sealant, framing, slide mechanisms, electrical and plumbing systems, suspension, brakes, and appliances under load. Without an independent PDI, first trips can be ruined by defects discovered only after delivery, and you may be “in line” for months waiting on warranty parts and labor.

• Search for a certified mobile inspector: RV Inspectors near me
• Have the inspector document issues with photos and serial numbers; make any sale contingent on written completion of repairs.
• Time the inspection close to your delivery date so sealants, hydraulics, and appliances can be tested under real conditions.
• Ask the inspector to verify weights and capacities (pin weight, axle ratings, cargo capacity) against labels and floorplan options.

Independent consumer advocates like Liz Amazing (search her channel for Redwood) frequently highlight inspection checklists and how to hold sellers accountable. This one step can save thousands of dollars and months of missed camping.

Patterns of Reported Defects and Quality Concerns

Frame Flex, Structural Movement, and Slide Openings

Owners of large luxury fifth wheels—including Redwood—have posted about frame flex near the front cap and slide openings, sometimes noticeable as stress cracks in interior trim, bowing of cabinetry, or difficulty opening/closing doors when the coach is hitched/unhitched. Flex can aggravate slide alignment and seal integrity. While frame suppliers evolve designs over time, multiple consumer threads discuss Redwood-specific flex symptoms and adjustments. Verify alignment, inspect for stress marks, and measure pin box height variation across scenarios.

• Search comparisons and owner threads: Reddit: Redwood frame flex
• Broader problem sets and video evidence: YouTube: Redwood frame issues
• General complaint aggregation: Google: Redwood structural issues

Did you encounter structural movement on your Redwood?

Water Intrusion: Roof, Caps, Windows, and Slide Seals

Water ingress is one of the most costly—and health-threatening—failures. Redwood owners report recurring leak points along roof-to-cap transitions, slide topper penetrations, window frames, and underbelly penetrations. In several complaints, leaks were discovered after heavy rain during the first few trips, with dealers booking out weeks or months for reseal and interior repair. Evidence often includes bubbling wall paneling, soft floor near slide openings, and swollen cabinetry.

• Video walk-throughs of water damage patterns: YouTube: Redwood leak problems
• Owner forums discussing slide wiper and bulb seal failures: Good Sam: Redwood water leak threads
• Mixed professional and DIY fixes documented on: RVInsider: Redwood water damage

Slide-Out Mechanisms and Alignment (Schwintek/Hydraulic)

Reports cover crooked travel, binding, and out-of-sync motors on gear-driven slides as well as hydraulic leaks on larger slides. Misaligned slides can chew seals, scrape flooring, and let in wind-driven rain. Some owners needed repeated dealer “recalibrations” and motor replacements within the first year, while others fixed recurring issues with upgraded controllers or improved seal management. Always run slides multiple times during inspection and look for visible racking.

• Search issues by mechanism type: Google: Redwood slide-out problems
• Owner troubleshooting videos: YouTube: Redwood slide alignment

Plumbing Leaks, PEX Connections, and Tank Sensor Failures

Intermittent water leaks at PEX fittings and pump-room manifolds are recurring threads. A pinhole at a fitting can drip into underbelly insulation, masking the leak until flooring warps. Many owners also complain that factory tank sensors read inaccurately (perpetually 2/3 full, for instance), complicating boondocking and trip planning.

• General reports and fixes: Reddit r/RVLiving: Redwood plumbing problems
• Complaint summaries: RVInsider: Redwood plumbing issues

Electrical, 12V/120V Distribution, and HVAC Performance

Owners describe loose connections at breaker panels, poorly crimped 12V lugs, and intermittent GFCI trips traced to miswired outlets. HVAC complaints include insufficient ducting to bedroom/bath, short-cycling thermostats, and poor return air sealing. In hotter climates, reported delta-T performance sometimes struggles without aftermarket duct sealing and supplemental fans.

• Search detailed electrical/HVAC threads: Good Sam: Redwood electrical problems
• Video diagnostics and upgrades: YouTube: Redwood HVAC issues

Hydraulic Leveling and Jack Leaks

Hydraulic systems can weep at fittings or lose pressure under load. Complaints include jack retraction failures, reservoir aeration, and slow leaks that leave the coach unlevel overnight. Warranty replacements occur, but owners report extended downtime waiting for parts. Inspect hard lines and cylinders for oil residue and operate the system multiple times.

• Owner reports and timelines: Google: Redwood hydraulic leveling problems

Suspension, Axles, Brakes, and Tires

Heavy fifth wheels place serious demands on running gear. Threads cite worn equalizers, bushing failure, premature tire wear, hot hubs, and braking power concerns—especially on units loaded near GVWR. Upgrades to heavier-duty shackles, wet bolts, cushioned equalizers, and disc brakes are common solutions owners pursue to restore margin of safety. Always verify true axle ratings and tire load index against the yellow “as built” weight sticker.

• Owner experience and upgrade discussions: Reddit: Redwood axle problems
• General complaint searches: Google: Redwood brake problems

Interior Craftsmanship: Cabinetry, Trim, and Fit/Finish

Despite high MSRPs, multiple 1‑star reviews and forum posts recount loose moldings, stapled (not screwed) joints backing out, misaligned cabinet faces, and veneer chips. Some owners report discovering sawdust behind panels and inside ducting, indicating rushed assembly. While many issues are fixable, the volume at delivery suggests inconsistent factory QC.

• Review compilations: RVInsider: Redwood quality issues
• Video walkthroughs documenting fit/finish: YouTube: Redwood build quality

Appliances: Refrigerators, Ovens, Fireplaces, and Washers

Appliance suppliers vary by model year. Owners report refrigerator cooling failures (both absorption and residential types), oven ignition quirks, and fireplace control board faults. Warranty outcomes depend on whether the appliance is covered by the RV manufacturer or the appliance OEM—tracking serial numbers and registering products immediately helps.

• General owner complaints: Google: Redwood appliance problems

What component has failed most often on your unit?

Windows, Doors, and Weather Seals

Reports include fogged dual-pane windows (lost seal), entry door misalignment that chews weatherstripping, and wind noise around frames. Cold-weather claims are sometimes undermined by leaky returns and gaps around pass-throughs. Seal integrity directly ties to water intrusion risk and energy loads on HVAC—inspect carefully.

• Owner fixes and replacement vendors: Good Sam: window seal problems

Recalls and Safety Notices

NHTSA recall records for Redwood-branded fifth wheels over multiple model years reflect the industry’s broader pattern: component recalls for awning hardware that may detach while in motion, propane line fittings that could leak, suspension components with improper torque or defective welds, and labeling errors that misstate cargo capacity. Not every Redwood unit is affected; recalls are VIN-specific. However, buyers should run a VIN check and confirm recall completion with documentation before taking delivery.

• Search by brand/model and model year: NHTSA recalls: CrossRoads Redwood
• Video reports summarizing recall experiences: YouTube: Redwood recall problems

Always verify that safety recall bulletins have been satisfied. Ask the dealer for the “Campaign Completion” paperwork, not just verbal assurances.

Warranty Experience, Service Delays, and Dealer Responsiveness

Consumer narratives describe long wait times for authorization and parts—weeks to months—during which the unit often sits on a dealer lot. Some owners report disputes over what is “warranty-worthy,” particularly concerning sealants (often considered maintenance), slide adjustments, and interior cosmetic defects. A pattern emerges: initial honeymoon, a cluster of failures in the first season, then a long slog through service queues. Dealers often prioritize new deliveries and cash-paying repairs.

• BBB complaints and responsiveness snapshots: BBB: CrossRoads Redwood
• Aggregated owner experiences: RVInsider: Warranty problems
• Community discussions on timelines: Reddit r/GoRVing: Warranty problems

Creators like Liz Amazing (search her channel for RV service delays) document how service backlogs derail travel plans. Keep a diary of issues, save dated photos, and communicate via email for a clear paper trail.

How long did your Redwood warranty repair take?

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumers should know their rights and the limits of RV warranties:

• Magnuson‑Moss Warranty Act requires manufacturers to honor written warranty terms and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. Keep detailed records and insist on written denials or authorizations.
• State “lemon laws” often exclude towable RVs or limit coverage; however, state consumer protection and Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) implied warranties may still apply in cases of repeated repair failures.
• NHTSA oversees safety defects and recall compliance for vehicles and equipment. Complaints about safety hazards (e.g., brake failures, propane leaks, awning detachment) can be filed directly with NHTSA.
• The FTC can investigate false or misleading advertising claims (e.g., overstated “four-season” capability or capacities) that materially mislead consumers.

If you experience repeated failures, file complaints with your state Attorney General and the BBB, and consider a demand letter citing Magnuson‑Moss. Many disputes settle once the manufacturer sees a detailed record and potential legal escalation.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Based on publicly reported experiences, the most significant consumer risks cluster around water intrusion, structural movement, and running‑gear margins. These translate into real-world consequences:

• Mold and rot risk: Leaks often infiltrate hidden cavities. Undetected moisture can compromise structural wood and create health risks for full-timers.
• On-road safety: Brakes, axles, and tires at the limit increase stopping distances and blowout risk. Suspension wear can cause handling instability.
• Trip-killing service delays: Extended downtime waiting for authorization or parts forces cancellations and extra living costs.
• Financial exposure: A $100k+ rig with ongoing defects can lose resale value quickly; prospective buyers scan forums first.

Conversely, owners who pro‑actively inspect and reinforce known weak points—reseal roof and penetrations, upgrade suspension/brakes, fine‑tune slides—report substantially better outcomes. However, many shoppers expect these to be factory‑solid on a luxury fifth wheel.

Price, Depreciation, and Total Cost of Ownership

MSRPs and even negotiated prices for the Redwood line are in the premium tier. Yet multiple owners report significant post‑purchase expenses:

• Immediate fixes: Sealant, alignment, and cabinet rework not covered as “wear/maintenance.”
• Upgrades for confidence: Tires, shocks, cushioned equalizers, disc brakes, surge protection, better battery systems, and monitoring add thousands.
• Downtime costs: Storage, missed reservations, alternative lodging while the rig is at the dealer.

These realities can narrow the Redwood value proposition unless the specific unit is carefully vetted and found to be a “good build” with thorough pre‑delivery remediation.

What Redwood Appears to Have Improved Recently

Owner chatter suggests incremental improvements in fit/finish on some newer model years and better insulation/sealing practices in certain floorplans. Some recall items have been addressed promptly once scheduled. Still, variability between units persists, and even the best factory intent can be undermined by supplier part variation or rushed assembly during peak demand cycles.

For independent voices working to keep pressure on RV quality, consider this overview and search within the channel for your model: Liz Amazing’s coverage of RV build and service realities.

Pre‑Purchase Checklist and Negotiation Leverage

• Hire an independent inspector: Start here: Find RV Inspectors near me
• Demand a water test: Pressurize water, run all fixtures, and perform a rain test or hose test on slides and caps. Inspect underbelly for moisture.
• Cycle everything thrice: Slides, jacks, HVAC, fireplace, fridge, oven, microwave, GFCIs, inverter/charger, and battery disconnects.
• Weigh your expectations: Compare yellow sticker against your use case; verify tow vehicle compatibility with real pin weight and projected cargo.
• VIN recall check: Confirm via NHTSA recall search and get proof of completion.
• Put it in writing: Make the deal contingent on correction of all inspector findings and successful re-inspection.
• PDI video/photo pack: Date-stamp everything. If disputes arise, documentation wins.

Community research is essential. Supplement with:

• YouTube: CrossRoads Redwood Issues
• BBB: Redwood RV
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Redwood complaints
• Manual search on PissedConsumer: enter “Redwood RV” or “CrossRoads Redwood” in the site’s search box
• Forums with onsite search: RVForums.com, RVForum.net, RVUSA Forum (search “CrossRoads Redwood Problems”)

Own a Redwood? Tell us what you wish you knew before buying.

Representative Owner Complaints You Can Verify

Below are common complaint themes echoed across public platforms. Use the links to explore specifics and timelines. Search results often include 1‑star Google reviews of dealers that mention product defects—and sometimes factory escalations.

• Early-life leaks and seal failures: Google: Redwood water leaks
• Slide‑out racking and controller issues: YouTube: Redwood slide problems
• Leveling hydraulics losing pressure: Google: leveling system problems
• Interior finish quality misses at delivery: RVInsider: quality problems
• Warranty delays and denials: Reddit: warranty issues

As you read owner narratives, note patterns: the same leak points, the same slide room types, the same supplier part numbers. Repetition is a red flag that an issue is systemic, not a one-off.

Service Reality Check: Why Third‑Party Inspection Is Your Only Leverage

Dealers often triage service work by urgency and profitability. Once your money has cleared, your leverage decreases sharply. An independent PDI with a written “fix list” forces the dealer and manufacturer to address issues before delivery. If you live far from the selling dealer, insist on factory authorization for mobile techs near you. And remember, missed trips are costly—campground change fees, fuel, and opportunity loss.

Search now to line up an inspector before you make any binding commitments: Find an RV inspector near you.

Have service delays cost you reservations?

Balanced Notes: Not All Units Are Lemons

We do see reports of Redwood owners who—after a rigorous PDI, strategic upgrades, and meticulous maintenance—enjoy comfortable, extended stays. Some units appear to be built on “good days” with fewer defects at delivery. Redwood also seems to have acted on specific recalls within typical industry timeframes. However, that variability is precisely why proactive inspection and aggressive pre‑delivery remediation are essential.

How to Use Public Data for Self‑Protection

• Verify a VIN for recalls before you sign: NHTSA Redwood lookup
• Corroborate complaints across multiple platforms: Reddit, BBB, RVInsider, and YouTube.
• Ask to speak with the dealership’s service manager before purchase; request their current lead time for warranty work and average parts wait.
• Bring a moisture meter and IR thermometer to your walkthrough; test suspect areas.
• If the dealer resists a thorough PDI, consider that an early warning sign.

Have tips to add for fellow shoppers?

Summary and Final Recommendation

Publicly available owner reports and recall summaries indicate that the CrossRoads Redwood line, while richly appointed and spacious, exhibits recurring problems that can be costly and time‑consuming to resolve. The most consequential categories—water intrusion, frame flex/structural movement, and running‑gear margins—carry both safety and financial risks. Many buyers expect the “luxury” badge to equate to superior QC, but the preponderance of consumer complaints suggests that consistency in assembly and dealer support remains a weak spot. Some owners achieve satisfaction through rigorous inspection, warranty persistence, and targeted upgrades, yet that path is neither cheap nor easy.

Given the weight of verifiable complaints and the high stakes of extended downtime, we cannot recommend the CrossRoads Redwood as a first‑choice purchase for most consumers at this time. If you proceed, do so only with an independent PDI, a firm written remediation list, and a willingness to invest in critical upgrades—or consider alternative brands/models with stronger reliability records and service networks.

If you own or have owned a Redwood, your firsthand insight can help other shoppers. Share your experience below.

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Owners and shoppers: contribute your on‑the‑ground experience, timelines, repairs, and outcomes. Your input helps others make informed decisions.