Jayco-Comet RV Exposed: Leak-Prone Roofs, Lift Cable Breaks, Axle/Tire Trouble and Service Delays

Introduction: What Shoppers Should Know About the Jayco Comet

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Jayco Comet name has historically been associated with compact, lightweight pop-up (folding) campers and small towables marketed under the Jayco umbrella, a brand owned by Thor Industries since 2016. The Comet’s appeal lies in easy towability, camping simplicity, and budget-friendly pricing. However, a broad review of owner reports and consumer complaints suggests recurring issues with weatherproofing, lift systems, axles/tires, materials and workmanship, and after-sale service delays—areas that deserve careful scrutiny before you buy.

To gather unfiltered owner perspectives, consider immersing yourself in active communities and owner groups—especially those dedicated to Jayco and Comet models. You’ll find granular repair diaries, day-one punch lists, and warranty outcomes that rarely appear in marketing brochures.

• Search Google for Jayco Comet Facebook groups and request to join multiple communities. Avoid relying on a single group’s narrative.
• Scan YouTube for “Jayco Comet Problems” to compare visual walkthroughs, teardown videos, and owner testimonials.
• Use Google to survey “Jayco Comet Problems” across forums, dealer sites, and review aggregators.
• On Reddit, compare threads across communities: r/rvs, r/RVLiving, and r/GoRVing.
• For recall checks, start here: NHTSA recall search for Jayco Comet.

Independent creators have been instrumental in exposing quality and service issues industry-wide. If you’re new to this research, visit Liz Amazing’s channel—she consistently highlights inspection strategies, warranty pitfalls, and what to look for on dealer lots. See: Liz Amazing’s investigations into RV build quality, then use her channel search function for the model you’re considering.

Before You Buy: Make a Third-Party RV Inspection Non-Negotiable

Across complaints and forum threads, one theme repeats: once you sign, your leverage is gone. If defects appear after delivery, you can be pushed to the back of the service queue—sometimes for weeks or months—especially during peak season. That’s why a pre-purchase inspection by an independent RV inspector is the most cost-effective risk reducer you have. Ask the dealer to allow a full inspection prior to taking possession; any reluctance is a red flag. Try this search: Find RV inspectors near me.

• Insist on testing the roof and tent materials under water spray. Look for active leaks, pooled water, and failed sealant.
• Operate the lift system repeatedly. Confirm smooth cranking, no binding, and even lifting at all four corners.
• Weigh the unit and check the axle tag. Verify that real-world cargo capacity matches the brochure. Inspect for bent axles or abnormal tire wear.
• Run every appliance on shore power and battery power. Confirm GFCI and CO/LP detectors function; verify converter/charger output.
• Document everything. Photograph serial numbers, VIN, roof seams, and underside frame rust or weld quality.

Several owners report cancelled trips and ruined holidays when new units go straight to the shop and sit awaiting parts or approvals. Don’t let that be you. If you’ve been through this with a Comet, tell us what happened in the comments.

Structural and Weatherproofing Problems

Roof Leaks, Sealant Failures, and Delamination

Multiple owner narratives point to water intrusion as the most consequential issue in lightweight pop-ups, including the Comet. Common patterns include soft roof areas around A/C units, cracked or incomplete sealant lines on roof edges, and bubbling or delamination on laminated side panels where applicable. Left unresolved, moisture causes rot, mold, and costly structural repairs that often exceed what buyers expected when choosing a “budget-friendly” camper.

• Google: Jayco Comet Water Leak Problems
• RVInsider owner reports: Jayco Comet Problems
• Good Sam forum threads: Jayco Comet Leaks
• YouTube: Jayco Comet Leaks

One frequently cited scenario: post-rain inspection reveals damp mattresses at bunk ends, moisture wicking along canvas-to-roof seams, and staining near lift posts. Some owners report discovering the factory caulk was inconsistent at the roof perimeter, or that sealant pulled away after minimal travel. Re-sealing and preventive roof maintenance is expected on all RVs, but owners assert that water entry on near-new units reflects poor factory quality control.

Tent/Canvas Rips, Mold, and Zipper Failures

Fabric systems are a known vulnerability in pop-ups. Reported issues include canvas/soft-wall tearing at corners, window zippers separating, and mildew forming in hidden folds when units are closed damp. Many of these problems are considered “maintenance” by dealers, leaving owners with out-of-pocket costs soon after purchase. Adding to frustration, some owners report limited parts availability for certain canvas and zipper assemblies.

• Reddit: Jayco Comet canvas problems
• Good Sam: canvas leaks and zipper issues
• YouTube: Jayco Comet canvas repair

Chassis, Suspension, Axles, and Tires

Axle Underrating, Bent Axles, and Premature Tire Wear

Owners of lightweight campers frequently discover that their loaded weight approaches or exceeds the axle’s practical limits, especially when factory options are added. Symptoms include inner-edge tire wear, hot hubs, and difficulty maintaining alignment. Reports specifically referencing the Comet allege bent axles after minor pothole impacts and repeated tire replacements within a single season. Tire blowouts on small-diameter OEM tires are also commonly reported in this class.

• Google: Jayco Comet axle problems
• NHTSA recall/complaint search: Jayco Comet
• YouTube: Jayco Comet tire blowout

Ask your inspector to measure camber, check spring hangers and shackle wear, and verify tire load ratings versus real-world weight. Consider proactively upgrading to higher-load tires if clearances allow. If you’ve had axle or tire failures on your Comet, add your story for other shoppers.

Brake Wiring, Breakaway Switch, and 7-Pin Harness Issues

Small towables can suffer from inconsistent brake performance due to wiring splices, poor grounds, or damaged connectors. Some owners report intermittent trailer brake activation, a dead breakaway switch battery, or improperly routed wiring near the tongue that chafes. These are safety-critical defects; test the system on a safe road and verify manual brake controller override performance before purchasing.

• Google: Jayco Comet brake problems
• Reddit: Comet brake wiring

Lift System and Bunk-End Reliability

Crank/Lift Cable Failures and Lift Post Alignment

Pop-up lift systems are a recurring pain point across brands. On the Comet, owners have described cable fraying, binding during operation, uneven corner lift, and occasional gear or winch failures. A mis-synced roof can twist frames and open water intrusion paths at corners. Lift-system repairs are labor-intensive because components are embedded in cabinets and underfloor channels.

• YouTube: Jayco Comet lift cable problems
• Good Sam: Comet lift system threads
• RVInsider: Comet issues

Bunk Rail Support and Bed-End Collapse Risk

Pop-out bunks rely on metal support rails and secure latching into the sidewalls. Reports include rails slipping, mounting points loosening in soft wall materials, and bedding getting wet due to mis-seated canvas flap overlaps. A compromised bunk support creates injury risk. Inspect rails, fasteners, and latching angles; load-test with adults during the inspection, not after your first trip.

• Reddit: bunk support problems
• YouTube: Comet bunk-end issues

Interior Systems and Component Quality

Plumbing Leaks, Fittings, and Water Pump Problems

Owners cite PEX fittings that drip under vibration, water pump cycling or “hammering,” and stress cracks at sink drains. In a small camper, minor leaks can cause outsized damage. Inspect under-sink fittings for mineral residue, test the pump with faucets open and closed, and verify the water heater pressure relief is dry. Keep in mind that water damage claims are often denied as “maintenance-related.”

• Google: Jayco Comet plumbing problems
• Good Sam: water pump issues

120V/12V Electrical, GFCI, and Converter Failures

Electrical complaints include dead outlets on GFCI-protected circuits, converter/charger failures that kill batteries, and improperly sized or loose fuses that lead to intermittent power. Heat marks around converters or a persistent fan running at idle can hint at trouble. Because pop-ups store batteries in confined spaces, confirm ventilation and secure tie-downs.

• YouTube: Comet electrical problems
• RVInsider: electrical issues

LP Appliances, CO/LP Alarms, and Venting

Furnace ignition hiccups, fridge faults on propane mode, and frequent CO/LP detector alarms show up across owner reports. While some alarms are due to low battery voltage, others relate to real venting issues or leaks. Always perform a bubble test on LP connections, confirm appliance vents are clear, and note that operating a propane fridge in windy conditions can produce sporadic flame-outs without proper shielding.

• Google: Jayco Comet propane problems
• Reddit: furnace and CO/LP alarms

Fit, Finish, and Materials

Cabinetry, Trim, and Fasteners Backing Out

Owners often report misaligned cabinet doors, trim gaps, finish blemishes, and screws that back out after a few trips. While these are not unique to the Comet, their frequency matters because a “budget” trailer leaves little room for rework time and parts. Inspect under dinette benches and in hard-to-see corners for stapled joints and sloppy adhesive work.

• RVInsider: Comet quality problems
• YouTube: Comet quality issues

Flooring Bubbles, Soft Spots, and Adhesive Failures

Linoleum lifting near doorways, soft spots by kitchen areas, and bubbling around screw heads appear in some owner descriptions. These flaws are sometimes exacerbated by minor leaks or condensation. A diligent crawl-and-tap test can reveal soft flooring. Look underneath at exposed subflooring for water staining or delamination layers.

• Good Sam: floor soft spot discussions
• Google: Comet flooring problems

Warranty, Service, and Parts Delays

Dealer Backlogs and Long Repair Timelines

A dominant pain point across the RV industry—and reported by Comet owners—is prolonged repair timelines. After taking delivery, some customers encounter lengthy waits for appointments, inspection approvals, and parts shipments. Trips get cancelled while the unit sits at the dealership during prime camping months. This underscores why a pre-purchase, third-party inspection is your only real leverage. If you’ve experienced monthslong delays, please share timing details to help others.

• BBB search: Jayco Comet
• Scan consumer escalations on PissedConsumer (use their site search for “Jayco Comet”): PissedConsumer main site
• Google: Comet warranty problems

Claim Denials and “Maintenance” Classifications

Owners frequently report that water intrusion, sealant upkeep, canvas care, and certain lift adjustments are categorized as maintenance and excluded from warranty coverage. Some also describe being told damage stems from user error (improper setup or towing), which leaves them paying for repairs they believe are manufacturing or assembly defects. To protect yourself, document pre-delivery condition thoroughly and insist that known defects be remedied in writing before handover.

• Reddit: warranty denials
• RVInsider: warranty complaints

Safety Recalls and Technical Bulletins

Recall activity varies by model year and specific configurations. Potential recall categories affecting small towables include incorrect tire placards, axle component noncompliance, LP system issues, lighting/wiring defects, and brake actuator failures. Not every Comet is affected, but buyers should run the VIN through NHTSA and confirm all remedial work is complete prior to purchase. If a dealer claims “no recalls,” request documentation and compare to NHTSA records.

• NHTSA recall database: Jayco Comet
• YouTube: Comet recall discussions

Creators like Liz Amazing often highlight open recalls being discovered during inspections; search her channel for the specific model year you’re reviewing and compare findings.

Owner-Reported Costs and Depreciation

Repair Cost Exposure

Common repair ranges reported by owners of lightweight pop-ups and small towables include: $350–$900 for roof resealing and spot membrane repairs, $600–$1,500 for lift cable/winch work depending on access, $700–$1,200 for axle replacement (parts vary widely), and $100–$250 per tire for higher-quality replacements. While exact costs vary by region and shop, the pattern is clear: “cheap to buy” can become “expensive to own” if foundational systems are compromised.

• Google: Jayco Comet repair costs
• Good Sam: lift cable cost

Resale Risk

Water intrusion history, patched canvas, and evidence of lift or axle repairs can depress resale value. Shoppers increasingly request pre-purchase inspections, meaning more defects will be surfaced and factored into price negotiations. If you plan to resell within a few years, keep meticulous maintenance logs and photo evidence of proper storage—these can help mitigate buyer fears.

• Reddit: Comet resale value
• RVInsider: Comet reviews

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Based on consumer complaints about workmanship, water intrusion, lift failures, and dealer delays, several legal pathways may be relevant:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. Requires clear warranty terms and good-faith fulfillment. If covered defects aren’t repaired within a reasonable number of attempts or time, you may have remedies. Keep detailed records and written timelines.
• State Lemon Laws. Some states include RVs or the “house” portion; others do not. Even if excluded, “lemon” principles may be echoed in state consumer protection statutes. Consult an attorney who handles RV cases in your state.
• Implied Warranties under the UCC. If the unit is not fit for ordinary use due to defects, implied warranty claims may apply, unless effectively disclaimed.
• NHTSA Safety Complaints. Safety-related defects (brakes, axles, LP systems) should be reported to NHTSA. Multiple similar complaints can trigger investigations or recalls.
• FTC and State Attorneys General. Advertising that materially misrepresents durability, load capacity, or features could be scrutinized under unfair/deceptive acts and practices laws.

If you believe your Comet has unresolved safety defects or systemic warranty violations, file complaints with applicable regulators and consider mediation/arbitration clauses in your paperwork. Your documentation—dated photos, repair orders, correspondence—will be critical.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Water intrusion undermines structure and can lead to mold in small, poorly ventilated spaces. Lift-system failures pose crush and entrapment risks during setup. Axle and tire issues raise the likelihood of roadside emergencies. Electrical faults elevate fire risk. Individually, each problem is manageable; together, they amplify safety and financial risk, particularly for first-time owners expecting “car-like” reliability.

It’s fair to acknowledge that many owners have years of good use after performing diligent maintenance and targeted upgrades. Accessories like better tires, improved sealants, and proactive canvas care can stabilize the ownership experience. Still, the pattern of early defects and slow service response—reflected among multiple public complaints—warrants caution. If any of these issues have affected you, add your perspective to help fellow shoppers.

For broader context on RV quality and what to inspect on delivery day, see Liz Amazing’s quality checklists and buyer warnings, then search her channel for Comet-specific insights.

Pre-Purchase Checklist: Jayco Comet Focus Areas

• Roof and Seams: Flood-test with a hose, inspect around A/C cutouts, corners, and lift posts. Document any bubbling or soft spots.
• Canvas/Soft Walls: Open every window and zipper; check for stitching integrity, fit at bunk ends, and mold/mildew odors.
• Lift System: Raise/lower multiple times; listen for grinding or uneven pitch. Inspect winch/cable access panels for metal shavings.
• Axle/Tires: Measure camber, inspect for uneven tire wear, verify load ratings against CAT scale weights. Consider tire upgrades.
• Brakes/Lights: Test on a quiet road; confirm controller override works. Check harness for chafing and solid grounds.
• Electrical: Verify converter output, test GFCI trip/reset, confirm all outlets function on shore and battery power.
• LP/Appliances: Bubble-test LP connections; run furnace, water heater, and cooktop. Simulate wind on fridge vent if possible.
• Floor/Cabinets: Tap-test flooring; stress test cabinet joints and hinges. Check for staples protruding or trim gaps.
• Recalls: Run the VIN through NHTSA and demand proof of completion.

Not comfortable doing this yourself? Hire a credentialed inspector: search “RV Inspectors near me” and schedule before signing. If the dealer resists, that signals elevated risk. If you’ve had a pre-buy inspection catch serious defects on a Comet, what did it save you?

Owner Communities and Research Sources

Triangulate your research across multiple platforms to avoid bias and reveal patterns:

• YouTube: Jayco Comet Problems
• Google: Jayco Comet Issues
• BBB: Jayco Comet
• Reddit r/rvs: Comet problems
• RVInsider: Comet problems
• Good Sam: Comet problems
• Facebook communities: find Jayco Comet Facebook Groups via Google and join several for balanced feedback.

Also consider independent investigative voices. We recommend browsing Liz Amazing’s channel and using her search bar to look up Jayco Comet content, checklists, and buyer traps.

Balanced Notes: Any Improvements or Positive Signals?

Some owners report satisfactory experiences after addressing initial punch-list items and maintaining roof/canvas care diligently. Dealers with strong service departments can make a meaningful difference in outcomes. Certain component issues (like converters or pumps) are vendor-related and common across brands, not unique to Jayco. Nevertheless, the concentration of water intrusion, lift complexities, and chassis wear complaints makes the Comet a “high-touch” ownership proposition—suited to hands-on maintainers more than set-it-and-forget-it travelers.

Final Verdict

For buyers considering a used Jayco Comet today, the risk profile is tied to two variables: prior owner care and your willingness to rigorously inspect and maintain. If a pre-purchase inspection reveals a dry structure, a smooth lift system, healthy axle geometry, and properly functioning electrical/LP systems, a Comet can serve basic camping needs. But the weight of public complaints about leaks, lift failures, axle/tire wear, and slow warranty service suggests caution—especially for first-time RVers who plan tightly scheduled trips right after delivery.

Based on aggregated owner reports, complaint patterns, and recall/safety considerations, we do not recommend the Jayco Comet for risk-averse shoppers or those unwilling to undertake substantial inspection and maintenance. Consider alternative models or brands with stronger verified build quality and dealer service reputations, and always verify with a third-party inspection before committing.

If you own or owned a Comet, your firsthand experience can help prospective buyers make an informed decision—what went right or wrong for you? Add your voice in the comments.

Comments

Have you owned a Jayco Comet? Did you encounter any of the issues discussed above, or did yours hold up well? What did your dealer and the manufacturer do when problems arose? Post your experience so other shoppers can benefit.