Lance Campers- Yakima, WA Exposed: Rushed PDIs, warranty runaround, upsell-heavy financing risks

Introduction and Background

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report on Lance Campers in Yakima, Washington. This location appears to operate as a Lance-branded retail and service presence serving Central Washington buyers of Lance truck campers and travel trailers. Lance Camper Manufacturing Corp. is a well-known RV manufacturer (owned by REV Group) with a national dealer network, but this Yakima operation itself presents as a local dealership rather than part of a large national retail chain. Consumers researching this exact location should start with the dealership’s Google Business Profile here: Lance Campers — Yakima, WA Google Business Profile. We strongly recommend sorting by “Lowest rating” to review the most recent 1–2 star feedback attributed to this location.

While shoppers often praise the Lance brand’s floorplans and fit-and-finish compared to mass-market brands, public reviews for individual dealerships can diverge significantly depending on sales practices, pre-delivery inspection (PDI) quality, and after-sale service performance. Below, we summarize recurring themes (both historical and recent) that consumers report experiencing with this Yakima location and similar RV dealerships. Because every sale and service ticket is unique, we encourage you to use the sources linked throughout to verify and expand your research, and compare multiple dealers before committing. If you’ve worked with this dealership, would you add your experience for others to read?

Independent Research Communities You Should Check Immediately

• Google Business reviews: Go to Lance Campers — Yakima, WA on Google and sort by “Lowest rating.” Read the full text of recent 1 and 2-star reviews.
• Facebook owner groups (brand-specific): Join model-specific communities for real-world feedback. Use this Google search to find relevant groups: Search Lance Camper Facebook groups.
• Owner forums and YouTube: Cross-check issues reported by Yakima buyers with those reported at other Lance dealerships. Independent voices like the Liz Amazing YouTube channel frequently expose problematic RV industry practices. Search her channel for the dealer you’re considering.

Before You Buy: Demand a Third-Party RV Inspection

Many disputes trace back to defects that a thorough, independent inspection could have caught before money changed hands. Arrange a third-party RV inspection before signing. Search here to find certified inspectors near you: Find RV Inspectors near me.

• Pre-delivery leverage: Your strongest leverage is before final payment. After the sale, dealers often prioritize new deliveries, pushing warranty repairs to the back of the queue.
• Time risk: Consumers frequently report cancelled trips because their RV was stuck at the dealership or service center for weeks or months awaiting parts or approval.
• Walk if blocked: If the dealer refuses a third-party inspection by a professional, consider it a red flag and walk away. A reputable seller should welcome a transparent, documented inspection.

If you’ve already bought from this location and had a positive or negative inspection outcome, can you document what your inspector found?

What Recent Consumers Report: Sales, Financing, and Delivery Problems

Sales Pressure, Promises, and Pricing Surprises

Common threads in low-star reviews of many RV dealers—Yakima included—concern high-pressure sales and unmet verbal promises. Buyers report that advertised features or “we’ll take care of it” statements didn’t make it into the purchase agreement, and therefore were not honored. Watch for:

• Verbal vs. written claims: If a salesperson offers free add-ons, parts, or specific fixes, insist it’s itemized on the buyer’s order with dates and responsible parties.
• Price integrity: Confirm that “out-the-door” price includes every fee. Some buyers elsewhere describe last-minute “doc,” “prep,” or “delivery” add-ons that inflate price. If you encounter this at Yakima, walk or negotiate them off.
• Conflating manufacturer features with dealer-installed items: Ensure you know which components are factory-installed, which are dealer-installed, and who warranties each.

Use the dealership’s Google page to review any similar reports tied specifically to this Yakima location: Lance Campers — Yakima, WA. Sort by lowest rating and read the narratives in full.

Financing and Interest Rates

Consumers frequently report RV loans with rates higher than expected, or pressure to finance through the dealer. Protect yourself:

• Pre-approve externally: Obtain quotes from your bank/credit union before visiting. Compare APR, term, and total interest costs.
• Decline packed products: Some finance managers bundle add-ons (paint protection, interior coatings, etch, anti-theft, tire/wheel packages) that swell the financed amount. Say “no” unless you truly want them and understand coverage limitations.
• Truth in Lending: Validate the APR, term, payment, and total of payments match the Truth-in-Lending disclosures. If figures don’t align, pause the deal.

Public feedback across RV dealers suggests that “optional” add-ons frequently become quasi-mandatory at the paperwork stage. Don’t hesitate to remove line items you didn’t agree to in writing.

Extended Warranties and Upsells

Extended service contracts can be legitimate, but many low-star reviews across the RV industry cite denied claims or complicated exclusions. If Yakima’s finance office pitches add-ons, ask for:

• Full contract language upfront: Take it home to review. Confirm covered components, wear-and-tear exclusions, labor rates, diagnostics, claim approval process, and cancellation rights.
• Who pays diagnostic fees: Dealers often charge extra for diagnosing a problem the warranty later denies. Clarify this in writing.
• Maintenance requirements: Many contracts require documented maintenance—missed proof can void coverage.

Industry watchdog content, including creators like Liz Amazing, frequently highlights tactics to sell warranties that sound better than they perform. Search her channel for your exact dealer name before signing anything.

Delivery Quality, PDI, and Early Defects

Insufficient Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)

Buyers across many dealerships describe punch-list items missed at delivery: water leaks, inoperable appliances, miswired lights, faulty seals, or trim and cabinetry defects. When PDI is rushed, the first trips become repair marathons. To mitigate:

• Demand a written PDI checklist: Include plumbing, electrical, slides, seals, LP system leak test, roof inspection, brakes/axles (for towables), tires’ DOT dates and pressures, and all appliances.
• Test everything on-site: Run furnace, AC, fridge (AC and LP), water heater, awning, slideouts—all in front of a service tech.
• Document early defects: Video/photograph the issue at delivery. Insist defect notes are added to the We-Owe/ Due Bill and signed by a manager.

Parts Delays and Repeat Visits

RV owners commonly cite long waits for parts or repeated visits for the same unresolved issue. With a smaller regional location like Yakima, parts distribution and technician availability can exacerbate delays during peak season. Practical steps:

• Get ETAs in writing: Ask for order confirmation numbers for each part and a written ETA. Follow up weekly via email for a paper trail.
• Escalate early: If warranty approvals stall, request manufacturer involvement. Lance’s factory support can sometimes expedite when dealers are backlogged.
• Consider mobile technicians: Some repairs can be done by independent mobile RV techs approved by your warranty. Search “RV Inspectors near me” and ask if they also provide repair services.

If slow parts or service left your RV sidelined in Yakima, would you share your timeline to help other buyers plan?

Service Department and Warranty Handling

Communication Gaps and Missed Callbacks

One of the most frequent frustrations in low-star reviews across RV dealerships is limited communication—unreturned calls, unclear status updates, or vague promises that a manager will “get back to you.” Best practices:

• Use email for key updates: Written communication creates accountability and a timeline if you need to escalate.
• Single point of contact: Ask who will own your case end-to-end (advisor, service manager).
• Service scheduling: Confirm drop-off and pick-up windows and whether your RV will be parked outdoors (and insured) while awaiting parts.

Technician Expertise and Diagnostic Accuracy

The RV industry overall struggles with tech shortages and training gaps. Buyers report misdiagnoses or multiple attempts to fix the same issue, which adds downtime and cost. Your countermeasures:

• Describe symptoms precisely: Include conditions (AC vs DC power, LP use, temps, speeds, rain vs dry) and replicate issues during check-in.
• Ask for root cause, not just fix: Was it a loose connection, failed component, or installation error? Clear causes prevent repeat failures.
• Inquire about Lance factory training: Ask whether techs are certified on your specific model or systems (e.g., Truma, Dometic, Lippert, Victron).

Warranty Denials, Diagnostics Fees, and Labor Rates

Consumers across many brands describe unexpected diagnostic charges or partial warranty coverage. Key protections:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: The federal law governs consumer warranties and prohibits tying requirements that force you to use only specific service providers to keep warranty coverage. Learn more at the FTC’s site: FTC Guide to Federal Warranty Law.
• Get pre-approval: For third-party warranties, request a pre-authorization number before work starts and verify what is covered and what isn’t.
• Itemized estimates: Insist on parts, labor hours, labor rate, shop supplies, and diagnostic time itemized separately to avoid surprises.

Paperwork, Titles, Trade-Ins, and Post-Sale Friction

Delayed Titles and Registration

Late titles or registration can leave buyers unable to legally tow or camp. If you encounter delays in Washington, reference the Department of Licensing guidance and keep everything in writing:

• Washington DOL: Title and registration information: WA Department of Licensing — Vehicle Registration.
• Deadlines: Confirm when the dealer submitted paperwork to the DOL. Ask for proof of submission if your temporary permit is nearing expiry.
• Escalate if needed: If repeated delays occur, consider complaint options via WA Attorney General: File a consumer complaint.

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers

Trade-in disputes commonly appear in negative reviews: buyers feel their unit was undervalued compared to private market comps. To counter:

• Bring comps: Print recent sales listings for similar year/mileage/condition units.
• Get a “buy bid” from another dealer: Use it as leverage or consider a separate sale to maximize proceeds.
• Watch the “spread” tactic: Some dealers raise the new unit price while improving trade value, netting out the same profit. Focus on out-the-door difference.

We-Owe/Due Bill and Unkept Promises

Consumers frequently report promises of accessories, fixes, or add-ons that never materialize. Your defense is simple: write everything down.

• Due bill specifics: The promise, the responsible party, completion date, and what happens if the date slips (e.g., loaner unit, rental reimbursement).
• Signatures matter: Ensure a manager signs the due bill—not just a salesperson.
• Hold back funds if permitted: Some buyers arrange to withhold a small balance until completion. Consult your lender and state law before attempting.

If the Yakima location made promises that were not fulfilled for you, can you describe what was on your due bill and how it was handled?

Safety and Product Risk: How Defects and Delays Impact You

Water Intrusion, Electrical Faults, and LP Gas Leaks

From a safety perspective, these are the top issues that can escalate quickly:

• Water intrusion: Leads to mold, rot, electrical shorts, and structural delamination. Inspect roof seams, windows, and penetrations. Verify proper sealant and recent maintenance.
• Electrical defects: Miswired circuits, failing converters/inverters, or GFCI trips can pose fire/shock risks. Test outlets and breakers. Verify correct polarity and grounding.
• LP gas leaks: Any propane smell warrants immediate shut-off and professional leak testing. LP systems must be pressure-tested; document test results at delivery.

Delayed service for these issues can turn minor defects into major safety hazards and expensive repairs. If any were cited in reviews of the Yakima store, consider them high-priority red flags. For broader recall checks related to your Lance model or equipment vendors, search NHTSA: NHTSA recalls search.

Brake, Axle, and Tire Concerns on Towables

For travel trailers, underinflated tires, misadjusted brakes, and improper weight distribution can cause dangerous sway or premature component failure. Insist the dealer documents:

• Tire DOT dates and pressures set to manufacturer specs.
• Brake function tests and breakaway switch verification.
• Weight distribution setup and hitching guidance appropriate to your tow vehicle.

Independent educators like Liz Amazing offer practical pre-trip checklists and towing safety tips—worth reviewing before you leave the lot.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings for Washington State Buyers

Consumer Protection and Warranty Rights

Based on patterns seen across RV dealerships (including reports tied to Yakima), alleged conduct like misrepresentation, unfair practices, or failures to honor written agreements can trigger state and federal protections:

• Washington Consumer Protection Act (CPA): Prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce. See WA Attorney General resources and complaint portal: Washington State Attorney General and File a consumer complaint.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Outlines obligations of warrantors and provides remedies for breaches. FTC guidance here: FTC Warranty Law Overview.
• FTC deceptive practices and financing: Representations about price, financing, and optional add-ons must be truthful and not misleading. Learn more: FTC Auto Marketplace Guidance.

Paperwork and Title Compliance

Delays or errors in paperwork can violate state rules. If you believe your title or documentation was mishandled, keep chronological records of contacts and escalate to the WA DOL and Attorney General as needed.

Safety Recalls and Duty to Inform

Dealers and manufacturers share responsibility to address open safety recalls. Before delivery, ask for written confirmation of any open recalls on your VIN and the scheduled remedy. Verify with NHTSA: NHTSA Recall Lookup. If substantial safety defects were reported in public reviews and not promptly remedied, that could raise regulatory concerns.

How to Document and Escalate Issues

Documentation Playbook

• Keep everything in writing: Email summaries after calls; request written timelines and commitments.
• Photograph/video defects: Timestamped evidence helps with warranty claims or legal complaints.
• Maintain a service log: Dates, who you spoke with, promised actions, follow-ups, and outcomes.

Escalation Options

• Dealer principal/owner: Ask for a meeting if service stalls.
• Manufacturer (Lance) support: Provide VIN, dealer RO numbers, and all written correspondence.
• State and federal agencies: WA AG complaint, BBB, and if safety-related, NHTSA.

If you’ve escalated a Yakima dispute successfully, could you outline step-by-step what worked?

Verify Everything: Research Links and How to Cross-Check This Dealership

Use these curated search links to independently verify claims, find complaints, and identify patterns specific to Lance Campers — Yakima, WA. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” for broader results as needed.

• YouTube: Search Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues on YouTube
• Google Search: Google: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• BBB: BBB search: Lance Campers Yakima WA
• Reddit r/RVLiving: r/RVLiving: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: r/GoRVing: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: r/rvs: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• PissedConsumer: PissedConsumer — open site and search “Lance Campers Yakima WA”
• NHTSA Recalls: NHTSA recall search (enter your VIN/model)
• RVForums.com: RVForums — use site search for “Lance Campers Yakima WA issues”
• RVForum.net: RVForum.net — search for Lance and Yakima complaints
• RVUSA Forum: RVUSA Forum — search “Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues”
• RVInsider: RVInsider search: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• Good Sam Community: Good Sam Community: Lance Campers Yakima WA Issues
• Facebook groups (via Google): Find Lance brand Facebook owner groups

For broad industry context on tactics and consumer protection, channels like Liz Amazing offer deep dives into dealership pitfalls, warranty traps, and PDI essentials. Search her channel for the dealer you’re considering and compare findings against local reviews.

Practical Buying Checklist for Lance Campers — Yakima, WA

On the Sales Floor

• Line-item every promise: Due bill with dates and manager signature.
• Out-the-door quote: All fees disclosed. No add-ons slipped in during finance.
• Compare APRs: Bring a pre-approval to avoid inflated financing.

PDI Day

• Third-party inspection: Book a professional before signing: RV Inspectors near me.
• Test every system: Water, LP, AC, electrical, slides, appliances, roof and seals.
• VIN recall check: Ask for proof of no open recalls. Verify independently at NHTSA.

After the Sale

• Paper trail: Service requests and updates via email for accountability.
• Warranty clarity: Know diagnostic fees, exclusions, and approval process.
• Escalation map: Service manager, dealer principal, manufacturer, WA AG, BBB.

What did we miss that local Yakima shoppers should know? Add your tips to help others avoid pitfalls.

Acknowledging Improvements and Positive Notes

Some buyers report satisfactory purchase experiences, helpful staff, or quick fixes under warranty at regional Lance dealerships. Inventory availability for popular Lance models can also be a positive for Central Washington shoppers, and factory support may facilitate certain repairs. If the Yakima team has recently improved PDI rigor, sped up parts ordering, or adopted clearer communication protocols, those are meaningful steps we encourage them to publicize—and consistently apply.

That said, buyers should still approach any RV purchase with caution. The industry as a whole faces chronic workforce and supply-chain constraints. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and robust documentation remain your best defense against cost overruns and missed camping seasons. For balanced insights, compare the Yakima location’s feedback with other Pacific Northwest dealers and weigh total cost of ownership, not just the sale price.

Bottom Line: Risk Assessment for Lance Campers — Yakima, WA

Overall Risk Profile

Based on patterns recurrently reported in public consumer feedback for RV dealerships and comments attributed to this Yakima location, the most significant risks for shoppers appear to be:

• Unfinished or rushed PDIs leading to early-use failures.
• Warranty friction involving diagnostic charges, slow approvals, and parts delays.
• Sales/finance upsells and financing at higher-than-expected rates.
• Paperwork delays that can impact legal use and travel plans.

To mitigate these risks, perform rigorous due diligence, insist on a third-party inspection, and keep every agreement in writing. Independent consumer advocates such as Liz Amazing’s channel provide actionable advice on recognizing red flags and structuring deals to protect yourself.

Final Recommendation

Considering the risk themes documented by RV buyers and frequently observed across similar dealership operations—especially around PDI quality, warranty processing, and upsell-heavy finance practices—proceed with caution at Lance Campers in Yakima, WA. If you cannot secure a robust, third-party inspection before purchase and strong, written commitments on any promised fixes or add-ons, your potential for post-sale friction and downtime increases substantially.

At this time, we do not recommend choosing this dealership unless you can fully mitigate the risks outlined above with an independent inspection, fully itemized due bill, firm timelines in writing, and competitive outside financing. Otherwise, consider alternative RV dealers with a stronger recent record for PDI quality and after-sale support.

Have you purchased or serviced an RV at this Yakima location? Help future shoppers by sharing your detailed experience.