FLORIDA4x4S – Fort Myers, FL Exposed: Bait-and-Switch Pricing, PDI Failures & Title Delays

(Serious Concern)

In the RV market, once funds clear and you take delivery, your leverage drops dramatically. Multiple dealers push warranty deflection or service scheduling delays after the sale. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection (including roof, seals, slides, frame, suspension, appliances, generator, electrical, plumbing, and a full moisture intrusion scan) is the best way to force repair commitments prior to closing. Require a signed “We Owe” with specific parts, labor, and deadlines—or be prepared to walk. If you don’t, you risk cancelled trips and months of downtime while your RV waits for parts or approval in a crowded service queue. Use local searches to find inspectors: certified RV inspectors nearby. For additional buyer education on pitfalls, see Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel and search her videos for pre-delivery inspections and dealership experiences.

(Serious Concern)

In consumer reviews across the RV sector—and in public comments tied to this dealership—buyers frequently report discrepancies between an online price and the in-store “out-the-door” number. Unexpected fees (prep, freight, mandatory add-ons, “protection packages,” nitrogen tires, paint sealants, GPS trackers, or interior coatings) can inflate costs substantially. Carefully request a printed, itemized buyer’s order before any credit pull and ensure the online price matches the written quote. If a price can’t be honored without add-ons, treat it as a bait-and-switch indicator. Verify in the Google Business Profile by selecting “Lowest rating”: FLORIDA4x4S reviews. And if this happened to you, can you describe the add-ons you were offered?

(Moderate Concern)

Extended service contracts and add-on protections are a profit center across many dealerships. Buyers report pressure to purchase warranties that exclude major categories (water intrusion, slide systems, or proprietary electronics) or require burdensome claims processes. Demand a blank sample contract to read at home and verify covered components, deductibles, diagnostics coverage, and whether you can choose your own repair facility. If the finance office says “you must buy this coverage to get the rate,” that’s a problematic tying practice—push back or prepare to walk. For a primer on evaluating dealer warranties, search for real-world breakdowns on Liz Amazing’s RV buyer help videos.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple RV buyers report that finance managers focus on monthly payment rather than APR or principal. This can mask interest rate markups and added products rolled into the loan. Bring pre-approvals from your own bank or credit union and insist on a 3-line, final loan disclosure: APR, term length, and total amount financed. Decline all unwanted add-ons and re-run the contract. Compare dealer financing to your pre-approval so you can walk if terms become unfavorable.

(Moderate Concern)

Some consumers allege they received a fair trade estimate initially, only to have the number cut at signing due to “new findings.” Mitigate this by obtaining written, VIN-specific appraisals with clear condition notes and photos. If the dealership later reduces the valuation without a substantiated, documented defect, be prepared to leave. Consider getting third-party offers from online buyers to set a firm floor value.

(Serious Concern)

Lower-rated consumer reviews often allege that units were delivered with leaks, soft floors, electrical faults, slide malfunctions, worn tires, or non-functional appliances—issues that a thorough PDI should catch. Require a live demonstration: run the generator under load, test roof A/C, furnace, water heater on electric and propane, all faucets, toilet, black/gray tank valves, slide operation, awnings, stabilizers, and exterior lights. Demand photos of roof seals and undercarriage and verify tire DOT dates. Hire your own inspector: find a third-party RV inspector. If a dealer refuses inspection access, treat it as a deal breaker.

(Serious Concern)

Common complaints in the RV industry include long waits for service appointments, repeated “parts on order” messages, and minimal communication while the RV sits. This ties up your capital and can ruin planned trips. If you must proceed with a repair-dependent purchase, set a written deadline and negotiate a holdback or escrow until contracted repairs are complete. Document all commitments on a “We Owe” with signatures and target dates.

(Serious Concern)

Title and registration delays are among the most stressful post-sale issues. Reviewers across dealerships report temporary tags expiring and multiple visits to chase paperwork. Require a written timeline for title transfer, confirm lien release processes, and ask for tracking numbers when documents are mailed. If the dealership handles DMV processing, request a copy of the submission. In Florida, persistent delays can be escalated to the county tax collector or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Keep all communications in writing.

(Moderate Concern)

Several lower-rated reviews for dealerships of similar size describe difficulties reaching a decision-maker after delivery. Sales and service sometimes pass responsibility back and forth, leaving the customer without a single accountable contact. Request one named point of contact, their direct line, and a weekly status email while any post-sale issues remain open. If you’ve encountered this at the Fort Myers location, could you share how you eventually got a response?

(Serious Concern)

If consumer accounts reflect misrepresentation (e.g., false “certified” claims, undisclosed accidents, or mandatory add-ons not clearly advertised), this may implicate state UDAP laws. In Florida, consumers can report unfair practices to the Florida Attorney General and seek remedies under Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA). The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also polices deceptive advertising. Resources: Florida Attorney General – Consumer Protection and Federal Trade Commission.

(Moderate Concern)

Dealers must properly disclose “as-is” status and any written warranty terms under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. If a sales contract promises repairs or coverage not delivered, consumers can file complaints with the FTC and the state AG, and may pursue claims in small claims or civil court. Keep all texts, emails, and marketing screenshots. Learn more: FTC guide to federal warranty law.

(Serious Concern)

Title transfer delays, lien errors, or mileage misstatements can trigger state and federal violations. Florida’s DHSMV enforces title accuracy; odometer fraud carries steep penalties. If your temporary tag expires without resolution, contact the tax collector and consider filing a formal complaint. DHSMV info: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

(Serious Concern)

Undisclosed structural issues, soft subfloors, brake wear, tire age, hitch problems, frame rust, or electrical faults can create immediate safety hazards—especially at highway speeds or under heavy loads. Buyers should verify tire DOT dates (replace at 5–7 years regardless of tread), inspect brake pads and rotors or drum assemblies, and confirm safe tow ratings and weight distribution. Always test trailer brakes and breakaway switch before towing.

(Moderate Concern)

RV manufacturers frequently issue recalls affecting fire risk (propane lines, absorption fridges), electrical shorts, axle alignment, or safety chains. Cross-check every VIN through NHTSA and the OEM site; insist that any outstanding recall be remedied before taking possession. Use: NHTSA recall lookup. If you find recall issues related to inventory at this lot, can you detail what you discovered?

(Moderate Concern)

Keep all texts, emails, and photos. Photograph VINs, odometer readings, tire DOT codes, and any defects at delivery. Send a concise summary email after calls (“Per our conversation today, you agreed to…”). Written records speed up remedies with regulators or courts if needed.

(Moderate Concern)

Escalate to a sales manager, then the general manager. If unresolved, file with BBB, the Florida AG, and (for advertising or finance issues) the FTC. For safety defects, report through NHTSA’s portal. Consider a credit card dispute for undelivered services or chargebacks when applicable and permitted by law. Always consult a qualified attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.