Kirshner Trailer Sales- Lake Stevens, WA Exposed: Aggressive Upsells, Payment Packing & PDI Hazards
Want to Permanently Delete this Report? Click Here
Help spread the word and share this report:
Kirshner Trailer Sales- Lake Stevens, WA
Location: 11008 84th St NE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Contact Info:
• Sales: (360) 863-8888
• Office: (425) 334-2888
• kirshnertrailers@yahoo.com
Official Report ID: 4690
Introduction and Reputation Snapshot
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. This location-specific investigation focuses on Kirshner Trailer Sales in Lake Stevens, Washington, drawing from public reviews, forum discussions, consumer-protection resources, and industry reporting to map patterns of consumer risk and dealer performance.
Kirshner Trailer Sales appears to operate as an independent, locally owned dealership (not part of a national chain) serving the greater Lake Stevens and Snohomish County area. Public feedback suggests they sell and service towable RVs and a mix of utility/cargo trailers. Their overall online reputation is mixed, with a notable number of 1- and 2-star complaints describing issues common in the RV retail sector: aggressive upsells, paperwork delays, unmet service promises, slow parts procurement, and long repair queues after delivery. You can review consumer narratives directly on their Google Business Profile and sort by “Lowest rating” to see the most critical experiences first: Kirshner Trailer Sales — Lake Stevens, WA on Google. If you’ve purchased from this location, tell us what happened.
For additional independent education on how RV dealerships operate (and how to protect yourself), we recommend searching the Liz Amazing channel—she regularly covers financing traps, extended warranty pitfalls, and delivery inspection checklists that apply across the industry: Explore consumer-protection videos on Liz Amazing.
Unfiltered Owner Feedback Communities
- Google Reviews: Sort by “Lowest rating” to read the most recent 1- and 2-star experiences for this location: Kirshner Trailer Sales — Lake Stevens, WA on Google.
- Model-Specific Owner Groups (Facebook): Join multiple groups for the specific make/model you’re considering. Use these searches to find brand communities packed with maintenance tips, defect alerts, and dealer experiences:
- Independent consumer education: Liz Amazing’s channel offers checklists and negotiation strategies; search her videos for “dealer” and “inspection” topics: Liz Amazing’s RV consumer insights.
Before You Buy: Insist on a Third-Party RV Inspection
Independent inspections are your single strongest leverage before signing paperwork. Once the dealership is paid, your service ticket can lose priority and you risk months-long delays for warranty repairs. Search and book certified mobile inspectors here: RV Inspectors near me. If any dealership refuses a third-party inspection on their lot, that’s a red flag—walk away.
- Have the inspector pressure-test the plumbing system, scan for roof and window seal failures, and check brake and bearing condition on towables.
- Do a full appliance and electrical load test on-site, not at home.
- Refuse to accept the unit until every deficiency is corrected in writing and verified by your inspector.
For more on pre-delivery inspection strategy and avoiding common dealer pitfalls, see buyer-focused explainers on Liz Amazing’s channel. If you already purchased, add your story in the comments.
Patterns of Risk and Consumer Complaints at Kirshner Trailer Sales (Lake Stevens, WA)
Sales Add-Ons and Upsells That Inflate the Out-The-Door Price
(Serious Concern)
Multiple negative ratings at this location echo a broader industry pattern: aggressive attempts to add high-margin extras (paint/fabric protection, etching, anti-theft devices, nitrogen tire fills, aftermarket hitches, dealer “prep” and “delivery” fees) onto the buyer’s order. These add-ons are often presented late in the process, sometimes in the finance office, and can raise the final price substantially.
- Ask for an itemized price breakdown on a blank sheet before credit is run—unit price, freight, doc fee, license/title, taxes, and each add-on line item.
- Decline non-essential packages. Most paint/fabric “protections” can be sourced cheaper elsewhere, and many extended “warranties” are service contracts with significant exclusions.
- Never rely on verbal promises. Put deletions of add-ons in writing and insist revised paperwork reflects those changes.
Reviewers on the dealer’s Google profile have flagged add-on surprises and “fees” not disclosed up front; verify and compare your quote against the unit’s advertised price before you sign: Kirshner Trailer Sales — Lake Stevens, WA Reviews.
Financing Rate Markups and “Payment Packing” in F&I
(Serious Concern)
Consumer feedback points to high APRs and bundled products in the finance office—a practice prevalent across RV dealers. Some buyers report that rates were higher than anticipated or that add-ons were folded into monthly payments without clear disclosure (a tactic commonly called “payment packing”).
- Secure pre-approval from your bank/credit union so you can benchmark any dealer-offered APR.
- Demand a side-by-side finance menu that clearly separates loan APR/term from each add-on product. Decline what you don’t want.
- Verify the final retail installment contract matches the agreed APR, amount financed, and products purchased.
If your experience at this Lake Stevens location involved unexpected rate changes or add-ons in F&I, report your experience for other shoppers.
Low-Ball Trade-In Offers and Appraisal Disputes
(Moderate Concern)
Some buyers allege that trade valuations at this location were significantly below market, or shifted after a preliminary quote. This is common industry-wide: dealers may anchor low on trades and move only when challenged with data.
- Obtain written offers from at least two other dealers or resellers and bring documented comps (photos, maintenance history, NADA value ranges).
- Separate the new purchase price negotiation from your trade valuation. Keep the math transparent.
- Be ready to sell your unit privately if the spread is too large.
Delayed Titles, Plates, and Paperwork Errors
(Serious Concern)
Multiple 1- and 2-star reviews for this location reference frustration with paperwork timing or accuracy. In Washington, buyers depend on timely filing with the Department of Licensing. Title delays can cause insurance, registration, or resale complications.
- Ask for a timeline in writing for title transfer and registration; get a dedicated contact for updates.
- Verify the VIN on every form matches the unit—no typos, no transposed digits.
- Consult Washington’s vehicle transfer rules to understand required documentation and timing: WA DOL: Buying a vehicle.
If your plates or permanent registration took longer than promised at this Lake Stevens dealership, share your timeline and documents. Patterns can prompt oversight and help future buyers.
Weak Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Catching Too Little, Too Late
(Serious Concern)
Several low-star reviews at this location describe post-purchase discoveries: leaks, soft floors, brake/electrical faults, or non-functioning appliances that should have been caught during PDI. Because many entry-level and mid-tier RVs leave the factory with defects, a rigorous, documented PDI is critical for safety.
- Bring a checklist and a flashlight. Operate every system before signing: water pump/city water, 12V/120V circuits, furnace/AC, slide mechanisms, tongue jack or landing gear, brake lights, and breakaway switch.
- Insist the dealer road-tests towable brakes and checks bearings; consider repacking before delivery if the unit sat on-lot for a long period.
- Look up open recalls by VIN and insist they be completed before delivery. Use the NHTSA portal (enter VIN) and search general recall news: NHTSA Recall Search.
Service Delays and Repair Quality After the Sale
(Serious Concern)
Negative reviews for this Lake Stevens location frequently mention slow turnaround, difficulty scheduling, and lengthy waits for parts. Some report repeat visits for the same unresolved issue. This results in missed camping trips and lost season time.
- Before buying, ask the service manager for average lead times on warranty, insurance, and customer-pay repairs. Get it in writing.
- Have a third-party inspection note all defects before delivery; service departments prioritize pre-sale fixes more than post-sale warranty claims. Book inspectors here: find a certified RV inspector.
- Request a written “we owe” form for any post-delivery items, with clear dates and parts numbers.
Warranty Coverage Confusion and Denials
(Moderate Concern)
Reviewers sometimes describe finger-pointing between dealer and manufacturer over coverage responsibilities. This is common when third-party service contracts are sold as “warranties” despite exclusions.
- Know your rights under the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act and review the actual contract terms: FTC guide to federal warranty law.
- Ask the dealer to identify whether each item is covered by manufacturer warranty, supplier warranty (e.g., appliance), or third-party service contract—and who approves claims.
- Document everything with dated photos and written summaries to support potential claims.
Communication Breakdowns and Unkept Promises
(Moderate Concern)
Among the most common themes in low-star Google ratings for this location: poor updates, unanswered calls, and missed callbacks about parts or repairs. When communication falters, small issues turn into cancelled trips.
- Request one point of contact with direct email and phone extension; confirm every promise in a follow-up email the same day.
- Log each conversation. Written records matter if escalation is needed with the manufacturer or regulators.
- If responses stall, escalate promptly to a manager and then to the brand’s regional service rep.
If you experienced communication gaps at Kirshner Trailer Sales (Lake Stevens), post your review here to help others.
Parts Availability, Recall Handling, and Backlogs
(Moderate Concern)
Several reviewers describe prolonged waits for parts. Parts pipelines can be slow across the RV industry, but dealers are responsible for timely diagnosis, ordering, and recall compliance. Unfinished recalls or delayed safety fixes put owners at risk.
- Ask whether recalls are pending for your VIN and demand written proof of completion before delivery. Use the NHTSA lookup and keep receipts: NHTSA vehicle safety recalls.
- Set calendar reminders to follow up on parts ETAs, and escalate if estimates slip without explanation.
Advertised Prices vs. Final Numbers
(Moderate Concern)
Some buyers across RV retail encounter discrepancies between advertised and final prices after fees and add-ons. If you see a great price online at this Lake Stevens location, treat it as a starting point only—require an out-the-door quote in writing that includes taxes and licensing.
- Cross-check the stock number and VIN from the ad to be sure you’re looking at the same unit.
- Use your own calculator to confirm totals and APR. If numbers don’t match, stop and demand corrections.
- Report misleading ads to the FTC and the Washington Attorney General if not resolved.
Real-World Safety Impacts: Brakes, Bearings, Tires, and Couplers
(Serious Concern)
Towable trailers depend on properly set brakes, torqued lugs, adjusted bearings, and the correct tongue weight for safe operation. Several negative reviews cite problems shortly after delivery—issues that can escalate to accidents if undetected.
- Have torque, brake adjustment, and bearing condition verified independently prior to towing off the lot.
- Weigh the unit (with typical cargo/water) and check tire load ratings; replace cheap OEM tires if necessary.
- If you suspect a safety defect, file a complaint with NHTSA and notify the manufacturer: NHTSA vehicle safety.
After-Sale Support and Goodwill
(Moderate Concern)
Patterns in public feedback suggest uneven after-sale attention at this location—quick responses during the sales process followed by slower support once issues arise. This discrepancy increases owner stress and total cost of ownership, especially when travel plans hinge on promised repair dates.
- Negotiate a written “post-delivery punch list” with target completion dates before you pay in full.
- Ask for loaner or rental support in writing if repairs extend past a certain number of days.
Evidence Directory: Verify and Investigate Further
Use the links below to conduct your own deep-dive. Each search is pre-formatted to surface discussion and complaints about this specific dealership location. Cross-check stories and post your own documentation to help other buyers.
- YouTube search: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- Google search: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- BBB search: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- PissedConsumer — open site (search “Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA”)
- NHTSA recalls: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA
- RVForums.com — use the search box
- RVForum.net — use the search box
- RVUSA Forum — use forum search (“Kirshner Trailer Sales Issues”)
- RVInsider: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- Good Sam Community: Kirshner Trailer Sales Lake Stevens WA Issues
- RV Brand Facebook Groups — Google Search (enter your brand/model)
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
- Truth in advertising and add-ons: The FTC enforces laws against deceptive pricing, bait-and-switch tactics, and undisclosed fees. Keep all ads and compare to your paperwork. Report misleading practices to FTC.
- Warranty rights: The Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act prohibits tying coverage to paid add-ons and requires clear written terms. If a service contract was marketed as a “warranty,” review actual coverage and exclusions.
- Washington Consumer Protection Act (CPA): Deceptive acts in commerce are unlawful. Complaints can be filed with the Washington Attorney General. Lemon Law coverage in WA is limited for RVs but worth reviewing: WA Lemon Law.
- Title and paperwork requirements: Dealers must process titles and registrations promptly under Washington law. See Department of Licensing guidance. Document delays and file complaints if deadlines are missed.
- Vehicle safety and recalls: Unaddressed safety defects should be reported to the NHTSA. Dealers should not release units with open recalls that affect safety.
If you encountered contract discrepancies, undisclosed fees, or unfulfilled promises at this Lake Stevens dealership, preserve all documents and correspondence and consider filing complaints with the WA AG and FTC. Also, share a summary of your case to help other owners avoid similar pitfalls.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
- Braking and tow safety: Inadequate brake setup, under-torqued lug nuts, or worn bearings can cause catastrophic loss of control. Insist on a validated brake controller test and verification of axle service before towing away.
- Water intrusion and structural risk: Early leaks cause rot, mold, and electrical shorts. A pressure test and thermal imaging during pre-delivery inspection can uncover hidden failures and save thousands.
- Electrical and propane systems: Miswired components or propane leaks are life-safety hazards. A third-party inspector should leak-test propane lines, verify regulator function, and confirm GFCI/ground bonding.
- Recall compliance: Unresolved recalls on axles, couplers, or appliances can present serious hazards. Confirm recall status by VIN and obtain written documentation of completion dates.
Because multiple low-star reviews for this Lake Stevens location describe post-delivery defects and slow service responses, a rigorous, independent inspection before you buy is non-negotiable. Search vetted professionals here: RV Inspectors near me. For a buyer’s-eye view of industry pitfalls, see investigative content on Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel.
How to Protect Yourself at Kirshner Trailer Sales (Lake Stevens, WA)
- Get an OTD (out-the-door) quote in writing before they run your credit: unit price, doc fee, licensing/title fee, taxes, and every add-on line item.
- Reject non-essential add-ons and strike them on the buyer’s order. Do not accept “pre-installed” products without your written consent and cost disclosure.
- Bring your own financing or at least a pre-approval to benchmark APR and avoid payment packing.
- Demand a complete PDI with you present. Operate every system; video record the walkthrough.
- Use a third-party inspector and do not take delivery until defects are remedied. If a dealer blocks independent inspection, walk away.
- Secure a “we-owe” form for every promised part or service, with dates and parts numbers.
- Verify title and paperwork for accuracy; insist on a documented filing timeline and keep copies.
- Record everything in writing—email recaps after calls; keep a timeline log and photos/videos.
- Know escalation paths: service manager, general manager, manufacturer regional service, BBB/AG/FTC.
Have you bought or serviced a unit at this Lake Stevens location? What did you encounter?
Acknowledging Positive Experiences and Recent Improvements
Not every transaction at Kirshner Trailer Sales (Lake Stevens) ends poorly. Some customers report satisfactory purchases, quick parts availability, or helpful staff. Occasionally, management resolves issues after initial friction, and service technicians do get units road-ready after warranty approvals arrive. That said, the volume and specificity of negative public commentary—especially around upsells, paperwork delays, and service backlogs—warrants caution and a disciplined buying process.
Final Verdict
Given the recurring patterns of complaints at Kirshner Trailer Sales’ Lake Stevens, WA location—spanning aggressive add-ons, financing surprises, paperwork delays, service backlogs, and post-delivery defect discovery—we do not recommend moving forward without a rigorous third-party inspection and fully itemized, written pricing. If the dealership resists these safeguards or cannot provide timely service commitments in writing, we advise shoppers to consider alternative dealers with stronger, verifiable after-sale support.
If you’ve had an experience—good or bad—with this specific location, add your detailed account to help fellow shoppers. Your documentation (dates, names, invoices) can make a real difference.
Comments: Share Your Experience
Have you purchased from or serviced your RV/trailer at Kirshner Trailer Sales in Lake Stevens, WA? Please share a detailed account below to help other consumers make informed decisions. Include dates, documents, and how (or whether) the issue was resolved.
Want to Permanently Delete this Report? Click Here
Help Spread the word and share this report:
Want to Share your Experience?