General RV Center- Brownstown Township, MI Exposed: Aggressive upsells, PDI misses, repair delays

Overview and Reputation Snapshot

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. General RV Center is a large, family-owned national chain headquartered in Michigan, with dozens of locations across the United States. The Brownstown Township, MI store serves the Downriver Detroit region and is one of the chain’s long-established sales and service centers. While the company markets a “one-stop RV supercenter” experience, public feedback about the Brownstown Township location shows recurring consumer complaints about aggressive sales tactics, pre-delivery quality issues, repair backlogs, paperwork delays, and after-sale support gaps. These are not unique to a single RV dealership; however, the volume and consistency of complaints specific to this location should give shoppers pause.

To see primary-source consumer feedback, start at the dealership’s Google Business profile and sort by “Lowest rating.” Here is the direct link: Google Reviews for General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI (sort by Lowest Rating). You can review the most recent 1- and 2-star reviews and evaluate themes independently. If you’ve purchased or serviced an RV here, what happened in your case?

Independent Owner Communities and Unfiltered Feedback Channels

Before engaging with any dealership, expand your research in owner communities and independent channels to get unfiltered feedback:

• Explore RV owner group discussions by brand on Facebook (via Google Search):
  • Grand Design owner groups (Google Search)
  • Jayco owner groups (Google Search)
  • Forest River owner groups (Google Search)

  Join several brand/model-specific communities for the RV you are considering; owners often post dealer-specific experiences and service timelines.

• YouTube investigations: Search for the dealership and patterns you’re concerned about. We also recommend this channel, which frequently exposes RV industry practices:
  Liz Amazing’s consumer warnings relevant to General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI. Use her channel’s search feature to look up “General RV” and related terms.

If you’ve discovered relevant threads or videos that match or contradict your experience, can you add your findings for other shoppers?

Strong Recommendation: Third-Party RV Inspection Before You Buy

Across many public complaints for this location, buyers describe receiving units with defects discovered only after taking possession—ranging from leaks and slide issues to electrical or propane-related problems. Your best leverage is before you sign the final paperwork. Bring a qualified, independent RV inspector to perform a full pre-delivery inspection (PDI) on the exact unit you intend to buy. If the dealership refuses a third-party inspection, consider that a major red flag and walk away.

• Find RV Inspectors near me (Google Search)
• Insist on testing all major systems during the walkthrough: roof seals, slides, leveling, A/C, heat, water heater, plumbing, propane/CO detectors, appliances, chassis components, and all electronics.
• Do not accept “We’ll fix it after delivery.” Secure written “we-owe” forms for any unresolved items and tie them to a delivery contingency when possible.

It’s common for dealerships to push unnecessary upsells and warranties during financing. Understand every add-on and its coverage limitations before you agree. If you’ve been pitched products you felt you didn’t need, what did you decline and why?

Patterns of Consumer Complaints at General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI

Sales Tactics and Finance Office Add-Ons

Recent and historical buyer reports for this location frequently highlight aggressive upsells: extended service contracts, “ultimate protection” packages, sealants, gap coverage, tire-and-wheel, etching, and more—often bundled or presented as “must-have.” Consumers also report that finance rates can be higher than what their credit profile should merit, implying potential rate markups (a practice in which dealers add points on top of a lender’s approval to increase profit). Shoppers should treat F&I as a high-pressure zone where terms can change quickly.

• Actionable tips:
  • Ask for a detailed, line-item, out-the-door purchase agreement before visiting the F&I office. Refuse to sign any new forms that add products you didn’t approve.
  • Bring a pre-approval from your bank or credit union; compare APR, term, and total cost. Dealers must disclose if a lower rate was approved.
  • Evaluate third-party service contracts independently—coverage often excludes common failure points.
• Research link: Use YouTube to find consumer walkthroughs on dealership finance tactics: YouTube search: General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI Issues. Also see Liz Amazing’s videos referencing General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI for negotiation and inspection strategies.

Low-Ball Trade-Ins and Appraisal Disputes

Multiple public reviewers for the Brownstown Township store describe trade valuations that shifted late in the process or came in significantly below guides and competing offers. While this can reflect condition issues or market fluctuations, the pattern suggests shoppers should protect themselves with independent appraisals and multiple bids before stepping into negotiations.

• Bring written offers from competing dealers and a bank-lien payoff letter (if applicable).
• If your trade value changes at signing, ask to pause and revisit your options. Consider selling outright to maximize proceeds.
• Document condition with photos and service records before appraisal.

Delivery Condition and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Failures

One of the most common themes in low-star reviews for this location is poor delivery condition: water leaks, misadjusted slides, broken latches, trim falling off, missing keys, non-functioning appliances, and unaddressed punch list items despite prior promises. Some buyers report discovery of critical problems on their first trip, leading to cancelled camping plans and immediate service returns—after which the unit may sit for weeks or months awaiting parts and technician time.

• Insist on a thorough PDI performed with you present. Run water for at least 30–45 minutes to look for leaks, and extend/retract each slide multiple times.
• Check tire date codes, battery health, LP system pressure test, detector expiration dates, and operation of brakes and breakaway switch.
• Do not accept delivery unless all agreed corrections are completed or documented.

To corroborate this theme, review the dealership’s lowest-rated Google feedback: General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI reviews (sort by Lowest Rating). If you’ve experienced a PDI miss at this store, what did they overlook?

Title, Temporary Tag, and Paperwork Delays

Buyers have reported long waits for titles, registrations, and corrected paperwork, in some cases beyond the expiration of temporary tags. Extended title delays create legal and logistical headaches—particularly if you intend to travel across state lines or need timely registration for insurance and campground reservations.

• Before signing, ask for a clear timeline, the title status (in-hand vs. on order), and which party handles state filings.
• Follow up in writing weekly after delivery until you receive everything. Document any expired temp tags or forced downtime.
• If you face unreasonable delays, consider filing a complaint with the BBB profile for General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI and the Michigan Attorney General (links in the Legal section below).

Service Backlogs, Warranty Repairs, and “Parts on Order” Stalls

Service-center delays are a frequent complaint: customers report month-long waits for diagnostic appointments, followed by prolonged periods waiting for manufacturer authorizations and parts. For seasonal campers, a single defect can wipe out peak-season plans. At this location, many reviewers describe poor communication while units are in the shop—minimal updates, unexpected delays, or incomplete repairs leading to repeat visits.

• Ask for lead times (diagnostics, approval, parts, repair completion) in writing before you buy, and again when opening a repair order.
• Document every service promise on the repair order; avoid verbal-only assurances.
• Consider using a mobile RV technician for simpler warranty-eligible fixes when possible, if the manufacturer allows it.

For further context, watch independent consumer educators like Liz Amazing’s RV service timeline discussions (relevant to General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI shoppers) and compare with the lowest-rated experiences on Google.

Communication, Responsiveness, and “We-Owe” Follow-Through

Another recurring pattern involves communication breakdowns: missed callbacks, “we-owe” items that drag on, and staff turnover that resets conversations. These issues are common in high-volume dealerships, but they meaningfully affect owners whose rigs are sidelined, who need warranty sign-offs, or who are managing registration deadlines.

• Use email for all commitments; restate phone agreements back to the dealership in writing.
• Ask for a single point of contact and their supervisor’s info in case of delays.
• Set clear deadlines for we-owe items and escalate when dates are missed.

Pricing Transparency and “Out-the-Door” Surprises

Some consumers report add-on fees surfacing late in the process—“prep,” “inspection,” “delivery,” “protection,” “etching,” or “nitrogen.” While dealers can charge fees, buyers should be shown them upfront, not at signing. Request a single-page, out-the-door price breakdown early and compare across multiple dealers.

• Refuse fees you don’t recognize; many are negotiable or removable.
• Get competing out-the-door quotes for the same VIN or identical build.
• Review all buyer’s order paperwork before placing a deposit.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer Protection and Warranty Law

If a dealership misrepresents coverage, fails to honor written promises, or delays essential paperwork, consumers can seek recourse under federal and state laws:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA): Governs written warranties on consumer products. If warranty service is repeatedly unsuccessful or unreasonably delayed, consumers may have claims. Overview: FTC Guide to Federal Warranty Law (MMWA).
• FTC Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices (UDAP): Prohibits deceptive sales/advertising. If you were told add-ons were “required” to get financing, that can raise UDAP questions. See FTC resources: FTC Rules and Guidance.
• Michigan Attorney General: File complaints regarding deceptive practices and unresolved disputes. Start here: Michigan AG Consumer Complaints.
• Better Business Bureau: Track dispute patterns and file complaints: BBB page for General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI.

Keep detailed records: contracts, texts/emails, repair orders, and photos. Written evidence is vital. If a unit presents recurring failures substantially impairing use, value, or safety, discuss remedies with counsel familiar with RV warranty disputes.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

How Reported Failures Affect Safety and Financial Risk

PDI misses and delayed warranty repairs carry real-world consequences:

• Water intrusion: Leads to rot, mold, and electrical shorts—expensive to fix and harmful to health.
• LP gas system defects: Leaks or faulty regulators can lead to fire or CO incidents. Inspect with a manometer and confirm detector functionality.
• Brake or axle issues: Misadjusted brakes, bearing failures, or alignment problems become high-risk on highways.
• Electrical faults: Inverters, converters, GFCI circuits, and shore-power connections can pose fire risks if miswired.

Owners should verify recall status for the specific brand and VIN they are buying. Dealers sell many brands; recalls may be open. Search here: NHTSA Recalls lookup (start your search and then enter the RV brand/VIN). If you identify an active safety recall, confirm in writing that the fix has been completed before delivery.

Acknowledging Improvements and Resolutions

Balanced reporting means noting positives where they appear. Some customers credit staff at this location for resolving issues after escalation, assisting with manufacturer authorizations, or accommodating schedules. The store also benefits from the chain’s purchasing power and inventory—useful if you want multiple floorplans to compare on-site. That said, even reviewers who received help often emphasize that persistence was required and that timelines extended beyond expectations. If you received excellent support here, what made it work, and who stepped up?

Practical Protection Steps If You Proceed

• Get a third-party PDI before signing: Search RV Inspectors near me. If the dealership won’t allow it, walk.
• Demand out-the-door pricing in writing: Break out each fee and add-on; remove items you don’t want.
• Finance smartly: Bring your own pre-approval and compare. Ask the dealer if a lower rate was approved by any lender.
• Lock down we-owe items: Every promise in writing with completion dates and a remedy if missed.
• Do a live systems test: Water, electrical (12V and 120V), LP, brakes, slides, appliances. Video-record the walkthrough for documentation.
• Recall and TSB check: Run the VIN in the NHTSA database and brand-specific resources. Confirm recall work completed before handover.
• Plan for service lead times: Ask for average diagnostic-to-completion intervals and parts-order timelines; get it in writing.
• After delivery, re-inspect at home: Document any defects within the first 24–72 hours and submit a warranty claim immediately.

For deeper buyer education, consider consumer-focused commentary from independent voices such as Liz Amazing’s guidance for General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI shoppers, then use her channel’s search to find content aligned with your concerns.

Where to Verify and Cross-Check Claims (Curated Research Links)

Use these direct research links with the dealership name embedded to audit reported issues, compare experiences, and find recall or warranty discussions. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed.

• YouTube search: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• Google search: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• BBB results for General RV Center Brownstown Township MI
• Reddit r/RVLiving: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• PissedConsumer (open and search for “General RV Center Brownstown Township MI” inside)
• NHTSA Recalls search (start with General RV Center Brownstown Township MI, then use your specific brand/VIN)
• RVForums.com (use site search for General RV Center Brownstown Township MI)
• RVForum.net (search for General RV Center Brownstown Township MI)
• RVUSA Forum (search for General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues)
• RVInsider search: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• Good Sam Community search: General RV Center Brownstown Township MI Issues
• Google search: RV Brand Facebook Groups (add your specific brand/model)

Finally, revisit the local Google feedback and click “Sort by Lowest rating” to review the latest 1- and 2-star narratives specific to this store: General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI (Google reviews). When you’re done, would you add your outcome for future shoppers?

Additional Red Flags and Buyer Watchouts

Refusal of Independent Inspection

If the dealership resists or refuses a third-party PDI, that’s a critical warning sign. With RVs, a missed leak or slide issue can lead to thousands in damage within weeks. You should never be pressured to accept delivery without an independent inspection opportunity. Find qualified inspectors here: RV Inspectors near me.

Vague or “Bundled” Add-Ons

Extended service contracts and protection packages can be costly and limited in coverage. Ensure you understand deductibles, exclusions (water intrusion, sealants, “wear items”), maximum payouts, and claim authorization procedures. Compare with third-party contracts or choose to self-insure.

Handover Without Functional Demonstration

Demand a live demonstration of every system at delivery. If a critical system can’t be demonstrated (e.g., A/C won’t run, water heater won’t fire), delay delivery. “We’ll fix it later” undermines your leverage and may relegate you to the back of the service queue once payment clears.

Context: Why RV Dealers Struggle With Quality and Service

Many RVs are built quickly and shipped with cosmetic and functional defects. Dealers operate within manufacturer approval systems that slow repairs, and service centers face chronic technician shortages. A large chain like General RV Center may have resources, but also high volumes that strain service bays and parts departments. This structural reality makes your pre-delivery inspection and clear documentation crucial. Independent educators such as Liz Amazing’s channel for RV buyers considering General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI regularly highlight these industry-wide constraints and how to navigate them.

Bottom Line for General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI

Based on public reviews and common complaint themes at this store—aggressive F&I upsells, trade-in disputes, PDI misses, post-sale repair delays, and paperwork holdups—buyers should approach with rigorous due diligence. These issues are solvable, but only if you retain leverage before delivery and keep everything in writing. Prioritize an independent inspection and insist on proof of problem resolution before you sign. If you’ve purchased here recently, how did your inspection and after-sale support go?

Final Assessment

Given the concentration of serious complaints cited in public forums and low-rated Google reviews specific to General RV Center—Brownstown Township, MI, we do not recommend proceeding without a third-party inspection, full out-the-door pricing in writing, and verified, documented resolution of all punch-list items before delivery. If the dealership cannot meet these conditions—or resists a professional independent inspection—consider other RV dealers with stronger service capacity and more consistent after-sale support.

Comments and Owner Experiences

Your firsthand experience helps other RV shoppers make informed decisions. Please share what went right (or wrong), how long repairs took, and any tactics that protected your wallet and your camping season.