Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals- East Montpelier, VT Exposed: PDI Failures, Title Delays & Poor Service
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Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals- East Montpelier, VT
Location: 2419 US Rte 2, East Montpelier, VT 05651, United States
Contact Info:
• sales@mekkelsenrv.com
• rentals@mekkelsenrv.com
• Main: +1 802-223-3684
Official Report ID: 4539
Overview and Reputation: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals in East Montpelier, Vermont is a locally owned, independent dealership (not a national chain). The business name indicates both sales and a rental operation, suggesting two distinct consumer experiences to consider: purchasing and ownership support on one side, and short-term rentals on the other. This report focuses on the East Montpelier, VT location only.
Public reviews and forum posts present a mixed picture: some customers report satisfactory sales experiences and helpful staff, while a meaningful number of low-star reviews highlight recurring frustrations around service timelines, pre-delivery inspection quality, paperwork/title delays, upsells, and communication gaps after the sale. Because these patterns directly affect buyer risk, the bulk of this report concentrates on the most serious, verifiable consumer concerns and how to protect yourself.
Start your review audit by visiting the dealership’s Google Business Profile and sorting by “Lowest rating” to see the most recent 1- and 2-star feedback: Google Business Profile for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT. You can corroborate everything in this report by reading those first-hand accounts directly.
In addition to Google reviews, we recommend collecting unfiltered owner feedback across communities and watchdog sites. These are essential tools to validate claims, see patterns, and preview how issues are handled at this specific store location.
Where to Hear Real Owners: Groups, Forums, and Independent Voices
Join brand-specific Facebook groups and forums
Join multiple Facebook groups focused on the specific RV brands you’re considering (e.g., “Grand Design Owners,” “Keystone Montana Owners”). Ask owners about their experiences with this dealer’s prep, service support, and warranty help in Vermont and nearby. For quick access, use this Google search and then enter the brand(s) you’re evaluating: Search for RV brand Facebook groups.
You should also search brand-agnostic forums to compare service experiences across dealers:
- RVForums.com (use the site search to look for “Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT” and the brand you’re shopping)
- RVForum.net and the Good Sam Community
- Reddit communities like r/rvs, r/GoRVing, and r/RVLiving
We also suggest learning from independent industry watchdogs and educators on YouTube. One standout resource is the Liz Amazing channel, which covers buying traps, PDIs, service bottlenecks, and warranty pitfalls. Try these:
- Liz Amazing’s videos on dealership pitfalls and PDIs
- See consumer-first tutorials on RV inspection checklists
- Search Liz Amazing’s channel for your target RV dealer or brand
If you’ve dealt with this East Montpelier location, what happened during and after the sale? Add your story in the comments so others benefit.
Before You Buy: Insist on a Third-Party RV Inspection
(Serious Concern)
Across the RV industry, many of the most expensive problems originate from inadequate pre-delivery inspections (PDIs) and rushed dealer prep. Several low-star public reviews referencing Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals in East Montpelier echo common national pain points: customers discover defects after taking delivery, then face long waits for repairs, parts, or manufacturer authorization. Your best leverage is before you sign, when the dealer still wants your money and can prioritize fixes.
- Hire an independent NRVIA-certified inspector or a highly rated local technician. Start here: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.
- Make the sale conditional on an acceptable third-party inspection and written acceptance of required fixes, with target completion dates.
- Do not allow the unit to leave the lot until all punch-list items are corrected and verified by you (and your inspector, if needed).
- If the dealer refuses a third-party inspection, walk away. That’s a major red flag at any dealership.
- If you already purchased, schedule a comprehensive post-sale inspection immediately. Document everything with photos and emails.
We’ve seen buyers lose entire camping seasons because their RV sat for months at a dealership awaiting parts or authorization after delivery defects became apparent. Protect yourself up front.
High-Risk Patterns Reported in Public Reviews and Forums
The following sections compile recurring consumer risks commonly reported for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals in East Montpelier, VT through public reviews, along with well-known industry problems to watch for. You can verify or dispute these patterns by reviewing the lowest-rated Google reviews directly: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — Google reviews (sort by Lowest rating). If you’ve experienced similar or different issues at this location, would you share your experience below?
Sales Process: Add-ons, Upsells, and Fees
(Moderate Concern)
Multiple low-star reviews across the RV sector describe last-minute add-ons (prep fees, “protection packages,” VIN etching, nitrogen in tires, fabric/paint sealant) that inflate the final out-the-door price. Some Mekkelsen RV reviewers note comparable concerns on the East Montpelier lot — such as pressure to accept dealer add-ons or to purchase extended service contracts to “protect your investment.” Buyers should obtain a fully itemized out-the-door quote early, and push back on any product you don’t want or that duplicates manufacturer coverage.
- Scrutinize extended warranties and GAP-type products; many offer limited value, strict exclusions, and deductibles.
- Beware of “mandatory” dealer packages. If it’s truly required, ask for the policy or statute in writing.
- Decline undercoating and paint/fabric add-ons unless you’ve independently validated necessity and value.
- Request written disclosure of every fee and what service it covers.
To see if other shoppers at this location report unexpected add-ons or upsells, review the lowest-rated comments on the profile linked above and scan forums. If this happened to you, tell shoppers what you were offered and how you handled it.
Financing and Interest Rates
(Moderate Concern)
Some consumers report finance office surprises: higher-than-expected interest rates, extended terms, or payment calculations that change from the sales desk to the finance office. This can happen if the dealer “marks up” the rate over the lender’s buy rate and pockets the spread. A few low-star reviews mentioning Mekkelsen RV align with this broader pattern. The fix is simple: arrange financing with a credit union or your bank first, then ask the dealer to beat it in writing.
- Get a pre-approval and know your exact APR/term before stepping into the F&I office.
- Decline financing if the dealer cannot match or beat your pre-approval without add-ons.
- Ensure the contract APR and payment match your expectations before you sign.
Trade-in Values and Appraisals
(Moderate Concern)
Low-ball trade offers are a chronic consumer complaint in the RV market, and owner comments for this East Montpelier location suggest that some shoppers were disappointed by trade valuations. Recognize that dealers must leave margin for reconditioning and carrying costs, but you can reduce the spread by securing written offers from multiple dealers or consignment lots, and by getting an appraisal from a neutral party.
- Clean, repair, and document your RV’s condition; bring service records.
- Get written offers from at least two alternative buyers (including consignment options).
- Be willing to sell privately if the spread is too large.
Paperwork, Titles, and Registration Delays
(Serious Concern)
Title and registration delays lead to real-life consequences: missed trips, inability to insure, and legal exposure if you’re driving with temporary tags that expire. Several low-star reviews on the dealership’s Google profile imply frustration with paperwork turnaround and follow-through after delivery. While DMV and bank coordination can introduce delays, consumers consistently report that poor communication compounds the problem.
- Ask for a written timeline for title transfer and registration before paying in full.
- If financing, request confirmation that lien paperwork has been sent and received.
- Document all follow-ups; escalate to management if deadlines slip.
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Quality and Delivery Readiness
(Serious Concern)
Public reviews often describe units delivered with obvious issues: leaking plumbing, non-functioning appliances, battery/charging problems, slide alignment issues, soft spots, or trim and sealant defects. A portion of low-star feedback associated with Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals points to similar PDI concerns. Because most RVs leave the factory with punch-list items, the dealer’s PDI is pivotal. Weak PDIs shift repair burden to the customer immediately after the sale.
- Attend the PDI in person with a checklist; test every system thoroughly (water, electrical, HVAC, slides, awnings, seals).
- Do not accept delivery until the unit is fully functional in writing.
- Record the PDI with photos/videos.
- Consider hiring a third-party inspector: Find local RV inspectors.
Service Department Delays and Communication
(Serious Concern)
Service capacity constraints are widespread in the RV industry, and several low-star reviews tied to this East Montpelier location describe long wait times for appointments, long repair durations, or difficulty obtaining status updates. Warranty approvals can be slow, and parts availability is a national bottleneck. Still, many customers expect proactive communication and realistic timeframes. When those are missing, frustration spikes and trips are lost.
- Secure a written ETA for diagnostics and for parts once ordered.
- Ask the dealer to file your warranty claim while the unit remains in your possession when safe/possible.
- Escalate via email if promised callbacks don’t occur; documentation matters for potential complaints.
- If you feel de-prioritized after purchase, consider a mobile RV tech for certain repairs.
Have you experienced service delays here? Post your timeline and resolution to help others.
Warranty Denials or “It’s the Manufacturer’s Problem” Responses
(Moderate Concern)
Buyers sometimes report being bounced between dealer and manufacturer. While OEMs control authorization, the dealer is typically your first-line coordinator for warranty claims. In low-star reviews, customers occasionally allege that issues were dismissed as “normal” or “within spec.” If that’s what you encounter at this East Montpelier location, escalate with photos, service bulletins, and, if necessary, file complaints with appropriate agencies (see Legal section below).
- Request a copy of the diagnosis and the OEM’s response in writing.
- Reference your warranty booklet; invoke the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act if applicable.
- Consider a second opinion from an independent RV service pro.
Parts Availability and Backorders
(Moderate Concern)
Several owner narratives across the RV market (including those referencing this dealership) cite long waits for parts. Some delays are manufacturer-driven, but you can mitigate downtime by asking for the part number, tracking status yourself, and seeking alternative suppliers when possible.
- Ask for the OEM part number; check multiple sources for availability.
- Request partial delivery and installation (e.g., temporary fix) when safety permits.
- Document the RV’s unusable status during wait times if seeking compensation later.
Rental RV Condition and Return Disputes
(Moderate Concern)
Because Mekkelsen RV also rents units, a subset of online feedback touches on cleanliness, pre-trip orientation thoroughness, and post-return deposit disputes. If you’re renting from this East Montpelier location, a clear, detailed checkout and return process reduces conflict.
- Do a full walkaround with photos and video at pickup and return.
- Test major systems before leaving the lot; ask questions during the orientation.
- Get fuel/propane/cleaning expectations and fees in writing.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
(Serious Concern)
Defects involving LP systems, brakes, tires, axles, slide mechanisms, and electrical systems carry serious safety risks: fires, carbon monoxide exposure, brake failure, or tire blowouts. When PDIs miss these items or when repairs are delayed, the risk shifts to the consumer. This is especially critical with heavier fifth wheels or motorized units traveling Vermont’s mountainous routes.
- Ask the dealer to confirm in writing that all open safety recalls are remedied before delivery.
- Independently check recalls via VIN at NHTSA: NHTSA recalls search (enter the RV’s VIN/brand/model for accurate results).
- Carry a quality tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and test propane/CO detectors.
- Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible; verify it is charged and not expired.
For broader safety education, independent creators like Liz Amazing often demonstrate pre-trip system checks, PDI walkthroughs, and what to look for on delivery day. See: How to spot safety-critical defects before you sign.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
(Serious Concern)
Consumer complaints around warranty handling, failing to honor advertised promises, and misrepresentation of fees can implicate state and federal protections. If you experience unresolved issues at Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals in East Montpelier, the following pathways exist:
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Prohibits tying warranty coverage to specific services and requires warranties be honored as written. More at the FTC: FTC overview of Magnuson-Moss.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Complaints for deceptive or unfair practices. File a report: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program: For state-level consumer protection and mediation. Start here: Vermont AG Consumer Assistance Program.
- NHTSA: For safety defect complaints and recalls. File a vehicle equipment safety complaint: Report a safety problem.
- Better Business Bureau: While not a government regulator, BBB records can support patterns of complaints. Search this dealer: BBB listing for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT.
If you pursued any of these channels due to issues with this dealership, could you share the outcome for others considering a purchase?
Evidence and Research Links (Verify and Explore)
Use these pre-formatted searches to verify patterns, read complaints, and find video accounts specifically referencing the East Montpelier location:
- YouTube: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
- Google: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Problems
- BBB: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
- PissedConsumer: search for “Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT” on-site
- NHTSA Recalls: enter VIN or RV model for recall status
- RVForums.com: search for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT
- RVForum.net: search for the dealership and brand
- RVUSA Forum: search for dealership issues
- RVInsider: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
- Good Sam Community: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals East Montpelier VT Issues
And again, review the dealership’s Google Business Profile for direct consumer quotes and to “Sort by Lowest rating”: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT.
Notable Complaints by Category and How to Respond
Communication Gaps After the Sale
(Moderate Concern)
Some low-star reviewers referencing this location describe difficulties getting callbacks, updates, or clear timelines for next steps. To counter this, consolidate communications to email where possible and request written ETAs. If no resolution, escalate to the service manager or general manager; if needed, involve the OEM’s regional representative and document the trail for potential complaints to the Vermont AG or BBB.
Customer Expectations vs. Dealer Promises
(Moderate Concern)
Complaints occasionally allege that promises made during sales (inclusions, add-ons, timelines) were not honored post-sale. The best defense is a detailed, signed “We Owe/You Owe” document capturing every promised item, with dates. If disagreements arise, your signed agreement is key.
Quality of Repairs and Return Visits
(Serious Concern)
Some consumer posts suggest repeat visits were needed because initial repairs didn’t “hold” or did not fully address the root cause. Ask for technician notes and photos; if the issue recurs, request a senior tech review, and consider escalating to the OEM for guidance on service bulletins or known fixes. Independent inspections can corroborate inadequate repair attempts.
Service Scheduling and Seasonality
(Moderate Concern)
Vermont’s compressed camping season means service backlogs spike in spring and early summer. If you buy from this East Montpelier dealer, secure a contingency plan for service. Ask about mobile tech partners and emergency triage policies. Consider timing your purchase to allow for fixes before peak season.
What This Dealership Appears to Do Well (From Mixed Reviews)
For balance, public comments also include positive experiences: reports of courteous sales staff, straightforward negotiations, and satisfactory repairs when parts are available. Some long-time customers express loyalty, suggesting the store has helped them over multiple years. If you’ve had a solid experience at this location, please share specific details (pricing transparency, timeline accuracy, service quality) so shoppers can see both sides.
Action Plan: How to Buy Safely from Mekkelsen RV (or Any Dealer)
- Line up third-party financing to anchor rate and term.
- Demand a written, itemized out-the-door quote with every fee explained.
- Decline add-ons you didn’t request; research any product you are unsure about.
- Schedule a professional third-party PDI at the lot; make the sale contingent on inspection results and corrective actions. Find help: RV Inspectors near me.
- Capture all promises on a “We Owe/You Owe” signed by management, with due dates.
- Confirm in writing that all recalls are completed before delivery, or you won’t take possession.
- Get title/registration timelines in writing; request a single point of contact.
- If disputes arise, use email for a paper trail and escalate promptly to OEM support and state agencies if necessary.
Perspective from Consumer Advocates
If you are new to RV buying, spend time with independent advocates and educators who expose common pitfalls, including dealer games and inspection gaps. Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel is a practical primer on how to protect yourself; search her channel for the dealer and brands you’re considering: Explore consumer protection topics for RV buyers.
Final Assessment for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT
The public record for this location, especially when you sort Google reviews to show the latest low-star ratings, suggests that while some buyers feel well-served, a significant number experienced post-sale friction around PDIs, paperwork timelines, service scheduling, and communication. These are not unusual problems in the RV industry, but they materially impact your first season of ownership and your total cost of ownership.
Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals is an independent, local Vermont dealership. That can mean more personalized attention for some buyers and limited service capacity at peak times. Success here appears to hinge on how proactive you are: insisting on an independent inspection, locking in financing and pricing transparency, getting everything in writing, and preparing a service plan for peak season constraints.
Once more, read the dealership’s own review feed to determine whether the patterns described here align with your risk tolerance: Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals — East Montpelier, VT. And if you have a first-hand story — positive or negative — help the next buyer by detailing it in the comments.
Recommendation: Based on recurring reports of delivery prep issues, paperwork delays, and service bottlenecks visible in public reviews for Mekkelsen RV Sales & Rentals in East Montpelier, prospective buyers should proceed with heightened caution. Secure an independent pre-delivery inspection, refuse unnecessary add-ons, get all promises in writing, and be prepared to walk if third-party inspections are not allowed. If red flags appear during your research or negotiation, consider evaluating other Vermont or nearby New England dealerships with stronger, recent low-star-to-high-star ratios and documented service responsiveness.
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