East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. – Dover, FL Exposed: Title Delays, ‘As-Is’ Risks & Service Backlogs

Introduction: What Our AI-Powered Review Uncovered About East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. (Dover, FL)

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The dealership under review is East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc., located in Dover, Florida. Based on publicly available sources and consumer feedback, this appears to be a privately owned, independent dealership rather than part of a national chain. Its footprint is local/regional in Hillsborough County and the greater Tampa Bay area, with inventory that typically includes used RVs and autos.

Overall reputation signals are mixed to negative, with recurring themes in consumer reports that center on high-pressure sales tactics, “as-is” disclosures leading to post-sale disputes over repairs, delayed titles and paperwork, inconsistent communication, and extended wait times for service work. While some buyers report smooth transactions, recent patterns in 1- and 2-star feedback suggest elevated risk for RV shoppers who do not take precautions.

As you evaluate whether to buy from this store, a good place to begin is their Google Business Profile. You can visit, then sort by “Lowest rating” to read the most recent 1- and 2-star reviews: Google Business Profile: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. (Dover, FL). If you’ve purchased or serviced an RV here, would you share your story below so other shoppers can learn from your experience?

Before You Shop: Research Communities, Independent Advice, and Inspections

Tap Into Owner Communities (Especially Model-Specific Groups)

Before engaging any dealership, read candid feedback from owners of the specific brand and floorplan you’re considering. We recommend joining active, model-specific Facebook groups to find unfiltered experiences and maintenance realities. For privacy and safety, don’t post personal info. To find these communities, use Google searches like: Google Search: RV Brand Facebook Groups and append the make/model you’re considering (for example: “Grand Design Transcend Facebook Group”).

Independent Journalism Shining a Light on RV Dealership Practices

For broader industry context, the Liz Amazing YouTube channel offers consumer-focused insights into RV buying pitfalls, warranty realities, and dealership practices. Start here and then search her channel for the dealership you’re considering: Liz Amazing: RV Consumer Protection and Industry Exposés.

Get a Third-Party RV Inspection—Your Best Leverage

Based on patterns in public complaints, we strongly recommend a third-party, independent RV inspection before committing to purchase. This is your best and sometimes only leverage to get defects corrected prior to paying. After the sale, many buyers report getting pushed to the “back of the line” for warranty or service, leading to canceled camping trips and months-long delays. Find qualified inspectors by searching: RV Inspectors near me. If any dealership refuses a professional, third-party inspection, consider that a major red flag and walk away. Also, ask the inspector to provide a written report and photographs that you can use to require repairs or negotiate price before signing. If you’ve had success or issues with pre-purchase inspections here, tell us in the comments.

For more independent analysis of common dealer tactics and hidden costs, see: Consumer-focused RV buying advice (Liz Amazing).

Patterns of Complaints Reported at East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. (Dover, FL)

Note: The following concerns are synthesized from publicly available reviews, including 1- and 2-star Google reviews you can read by sorting the dealership’s profile by “Lowest rating.” We cite additional research links below to help you verify themes and seek corroborating sources.

Sales Pressure, “As-Is” Sales, and Post-Sale Disputes

Multiple low-star reviews describe high-pressure purchase experiences, including limited time to review contracts, quick turnover to finance, and a heavy emphasis on “as-is” terms that can leave buyers with little recourse once defects emerge. Consumers have reported feeling that pre-existing issues were minimized during the sale or discovered only after taking delivery. In the RV context, “as-is” can be especially risky given the complexity of systems (roof seals, slides, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, brakes, tires). If the dealer will not allow a thorough third-party inspection and a comprehensive walkthrough demonstrating every system under load (shore power and generator, fresh-water/gray/black systems, propane appliances, slides, awnings, stabilizers), you should assume material defects may be lurking.

• What to do: Insist on a repair list in writing (“We-Owe”/Due Bill) tied to the inspection report, with a clear timeline and a right to refuse delivery if items are not corrected.
• Verify evidence: Visit the Google Business listing linked above and sort by “Lowest rating.” Also consult: Google results for East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues.

Unexpected Fees and Questionable Upsells

Consumers commonly report add-on fees at signing (documentation, prep, nitrogen tires, paint protection, anti-theft etching, etc.) that were not disclosed earlier. Some reviews also mention dealership-sold service contracts or third-party warranties that did not pay as expected when claims were filed, or that excluded common failures. This is not unique to any one store; it is a widespread RV industry issue. The key is transparency and a true “out-the-door” price before you visit the finance office.

• What to do: Ask for a written, out-the-door quote before stepping on the lot. Decline any add-on you do not want. Obtain copies of all service contract terms and read exclusions before signing.
• Consumer law context: The FTC enforces laws against deceptive practices. See the FTC’s guidance for auto sales and financing practices at FTC.gov.

Financing Markups and Higher-Than-Expected Interest Rates

Public feedback around financing often includes complaints about interest rates that ended up higher than expected, short time windows to compare lender offers, and difficulty removing unwanted add-ons from the contract. Dealerships commonly mark up rates over lender buy rates. Buyers who arrive pre-approved may see better terms and less pressure.

• What to do: Bring pre-approvals from your own bank or credit union, and compare the dealer’s offer line-by-line. Decline any add-on you don’t need.
• Verify evidence: See general complaint patterns via: Reddit r/rvs search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues.

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers and Valuation Disputes

Some consumer narratives reference trade-in values that came in far below expectations, followed by little flexibility at negotiation time. Trade-in disputes are common in the RV industry due to variable wholesale markets and condition issues.

• What to do: Obtain multiple written offers (e.g., NADA wholesale guidance, instant-buy services, and other dealers) and bring documented service records and inspection reports to support your value. Consider a private-party sale if trade-in math does not work.
• Verify evidence: Cross-compare local experiences and video discussion via: YouTube search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues.

Delayed Titles, Tags, and Paperwork

Low-star reviews frequently highlight long delays in receiving titles, registration, or tags. In Florida, dealers generally must process title/registration transfers promptly; consumers report that significant delays left them unable to legally operate their RV, led to missed trips, and caused insurance headaches. Extended waits for plates or title, coupled with slow responses from staff, can add substantial stress and financial risk.

• Florida law: The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) oversees title and registration: FLHSMV. If paperwork is delayed beyond statutory timelines, you can file a complaint with FLHSMV or the Florida Attorney General.
• Action steps: Get a firm, written timeline for title/tag delivery. Do not take delivery without proof the title is clean and available. If delays occur, document all communications.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Quality and Post-Sale Service Backlogs

Public reviews often point to RVs delivered with issues that should have been caught during PDI: water leaks, slide malfunctions, non-functioning appliances, soft spots, or electrical faults. Customers then report lengthy waits for service diagnosis and parts, leaving their RV stuck at the dealership for extended periods. The result: canceled vacations, lost campground deposits, and ongoing monthly payments on unusable RVs.

• What to do: Conduct a third-party inspection before delivery and insist on fixing defects before final payment. Verify the generator, slides, roof, seals, ACs, furnace, water heater, refrigerators, leveling system, and brakes actually work. If there are unresolved issues, do not sign.
• Find inspectors: Search: RV Inspectors near me. If a dealer refuses a professional inspection, walk away. And if you’ve lived through a service backlog, let fellow shoppers know what happened.

Technician Experience and Quality Control

Some consumer accounts allege inexperienced service techs, rushed diagnostics, or repeated returns for the same issue. RVs are complex; however, patterns of “fixes that don’t stick” and minimal documentation can be a sign of process or training gaps. For safety-related issues (brakes, tires, suspension, propane, electrical), inadequate repairs pose real hazards.

• What to do: Demand detailed work orders and ask who performed the repair and whether they are certified on that system. If unresolved, escalate to the manufacturer (if applicable) or an independent RV technician.
• Cross-check industry context: See consumer education on common service pitfalls via Liz Amazing’s channel and search her videos for dealership-specific insights.

Communication Gaps and Unkept Promises

Multiple reviews reference difficulty reaching a point person after the sale, delayed callbacks, or disputes about what was promised versus what is documented. In RV transactions, verbal assurances are common; but if they’re not in writing, they’re rarely enforceable.

• What to do: Put every promise in writing on a due bill before signing. Keep a timeline of calls, emails, and texts if follow-up is required.
• Share your experience: If you’ve navigated communication challenges here, add your insights to help other shoppers.

Safety and Product Impact Analysis

Defects reported in consumer reviews can translate into serious safety and financial risks:

• Brakes, tires, and suspension: Worn tires, compromised brakes, or neglected suspension components can cause loss of control or blowouts. Heavy towables and motorized RVs require systems in top condition.
• Electrical and propane systems: Miswired electrical components or propane leaks can lead to fires or carbon monoxide readings. Always test propane appliances with a leak detector and confirm CO/LP detectors are functioning and not expired.
• Water leaks and structural damage: Roof, slide, and seal issues can lead to rot, mold, and costly structural repairs, often not covered by third-party warranties.

Before purchase, run the VIN through recall databases and insist all recalls be addressed prior to delivery. Use NHTSA’s recall search here: NHTSA Recalls Lookup and consult the OEM’s site for brand-specific recall bulletins. If a dealer delays recall work or delivers an RV with unresolved safety defects, you may have recourse under federal and state law.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Based on patterns in public complaints (e.g., deceptive claims, delayed paperwork, warranty disputes), several legal frameworks may apply:

• Florida title and registration requirements: Dealers must process titles and tags in a timely manner. Unreasonable delays can be reported to FLHSMV.
• Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA): Prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce; enforced by the Florida Attorney General: Florida Attorney General.
• FTC Act and Guides: The Federal Trade Commission enforces laws against unfair/deceptive practices, including false advertising or undisclosed fees: FTC.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs written warranties and service contracts. If a service contract is sold but does not perform as represented, this federal statute may apply.

Consumers can also submit complaints to the Better Business Bureau to document patterns and attempts at resolution: BBB Search for East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL. If you’ve pursued a legal remedy or filed a complaint, share your outcome to inform others.

How to Protect Yourself If You Still Shop Here

• Insist on a third-party inspection: Your strongest leverage is before you sign. Use an independent NRVIA or seasoned RV technician. Find one here: RV Inspectors near me.
• Demand an out-the-door price in writing: Include every fee, tax, title, registration, and any add-ons you’re accepting. Decline the rest.
• Get a written We-Owe/Due Bill: Tie it to the inspection report and require all items be completed before delivery with a right to cancel if not met.
• Pre-approved financing: Bring at least two pre-approvals and compare APR, terms, and total cost. Decline unnecessary add-ons.
• Check for open recalls: Verify all recalls are closed out before taking delivery; do not accept promises to “do it later.”
• Test every system on-site: Plug into shore power; run generator; fill fresh water; operate slides/awnings; test HVAC and appliances; inspect roof and underbelly; verify tire age and brake function.
• No inspection, no deal: If the dealer won’t permit a professional inspection, walk away. Protect your deposit terms in writing if you’re ordering an inspection.
• Keep records: Save emails, texts, photos, and video of issues. Use written communication for commitments and timelines.
• Look up community feedback: Video guides and owner reports can reveal common pitfalls; for example, see consumer-focused discussions here: Independent RV Buyer Education (Liz Amazing).

Where to Verify and Dig Deeper: Independent Sources

Use these resources to research “East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL” across platforms. Replace spaces with “+” (and “&” with “%26”) as shown:

• YouTube (dealership issues): YouTube search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• Google (complaints/problems): Google search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Problems
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): BBB search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL
• Reddit r/RVLiving: r/RVLiving search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: r/GoRVing search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: r/rvs search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• PissedConsumer (manual search): PissedConsumer – browse and search manually for East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc
• NHTSA Recalls: NHTSA Recalls search (enter your RV’s make/model/VIN)
• RVForums.com: RVForums – use onsite search for East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc
• RVForum.net: RVForum.net – search dealership name
• RVUSA Forum: RVUSA – search for dealership issues
• RVInsider.com: RVInsider search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• Good Sam Community: Good Sam search: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc Dover FL Issues
• Facebook RV Brand Groups (via Google): Search model-specific Facebook groups for the brand you’re buying

Also, for on-the-ground, real-owner insight, visit the dealership’s Google Business Profile and sort by “Lowest rating” to examine the most critical reviews: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. – Google Business Profile. Have you seen recurring issues not mentioned here? Add your findings for other buyers.

Objectivity and Noted Improvements (If Any)

While the weight of recent low-star feedback raises serious concerns, there are also customers who report straightforward transactions and helpful staff. Some reviewers indicate the dealership attempted to resolve problems when contacted. It’s important to note that public reviews often skew negative because satisfied customers are less likely to post feedback. However, the consistency of themes like paperwork delays, post-sale communication struggles, and service backlogs warrants caution.

If you’ve had a positive experience with transparent pricing, timely paperwork, and strong after-sale support at this specific Dover, FL location, please share details to help balance the picture.

Summary: Our Risk Assessment and Recommendation

Publicly documented complaints and the thematic consistency across 1- and 2-star feedback suggest elevated risk for RV buyers at East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. in Dover, FL—particularly around sales pressure, “as-is” disclosures, financing surprises, low trade offers, delayed titles/paperwork, and long waits for post-sale repairs. None of these issues are unique to one dealership, but they are magnified in RV purchases due to the complexity of the product and the cost of remedial work when things go wrong.

Protect yourself by using a third-party inspection before signing, insisting on a written due bill that covers all defects with clear deadlines, and verifying recalls and title status prior to taking delivery. Read the most recent 1- and 2-star reviews by sorting the store’s Google listing by “Lowest rating” here: East Lake Auto & RV Sales Inc. – Dover, FL. If you’ve recently bought or serviced an RV here, what happened for you—was the process smooth or did you encounter obstacles?

Given the concentration of negative consumer feedback and the severity of reported issues—especially around paperwork delays and post-sale support—we do not recommend proceeding with a purchase at this dealership without extraordinary safeguards. Consider comparing other regional RV dealers with stronger, recent, verifiable reviews and transparent inspection policies before you decide.