Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store – Cathedral City, CA Exposed: Add-On Pressure, High APRs & Botched PDI

Introduction and Scope

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Our focus is the consumer experience at Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store – Cathedral City, CA, a location within a larger, multi-store Southern California dealership group that sells and services a wide range of towables and motorized RVs. This report aggregates and interprets publicly available data—especially recent 1- and 2-star reviews—from the Cathedral City store’s own profiles and broader RV owner communities to highlight patterns of consumer risk and recurring service gaps.

Across the industry, larger multi-location dealers can offer broad inventory and financing options, but they also draw a high volume of reviews that expose systemic issues: aggressive add-ons, delayed paperwork, and long waits for warranty repairs. The Cathedral City location appears to mirror those national patterns. To verify the latest feedback, review the store’s Google Business Profile and sort by “Lowest rating”: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store – Cathedral City, CA (Google Business Profile).

For additional context, independent creators are helping buyers understand dealer tactics; consider exploring the channel of a prominent RV consumer advocate: Liz Amazing’s investigations into RV dealership practices. You can search her channel for the exact dealership you’re considering and topics like pricing transparency, financing pitfalls, and service backlogs.

Where to Find Unfiltered Owner Feedback (Start Here)

• Read recent Google reviews for this exact store location and sort by “Lowest rating” to surface recurring patterns. Start here: Cathedral City Google Business Profile.
• Join RV model-specific owner groups (especially on Facebook) via this research approach: search Google for your RV brand + “Facebook Groups.” Use this query: Find RV brand owner groups (Google Search). Bring pre-purchase questions and ask about dealership service experiences in Cathedral City.
• Browse forums and Reddit to see service backlogs, quality-of-work complaints, and warranty outcomes across brands and dealers.

Have you experienced this location’s sales or service department firsthand? Add your perspective in the comments so other shoppers can learn from it.

Pre-Purchase Reality Check: Get a Third-Party RV Inspection

Before signing anything, arrange a third-party pre-delivery inspection (PDI) by a certified, independent RV inspector—not employed by the dealership. This is your only leverage point to catch leaks, electrical or propane hazards, inoperative slide-outs, delamination, axle alignment issues, or non-functioning appliances before the dealer has your money. If the dealership refuses or discourages an outside inspection, consider that a red flag and walk away. You can locate inspectors here: search for “RV Inspectors near me”.

Many consumers report cancelled camping trips because newly purchased units need immediate repairs and then sit for weeks or months waiting for parts or technician availability. An independent inspection reduces the likelihood of those costly delays. If the Cathedral City location won’t accommodate your inspector on-site, pay for a mobile inspection at delivery and refuse acceptance until critical items are corrected. Again: find local RV inspectors before you step into finance.

Creator-led resources can help you plan your inspection checklist and dealer negotiation tactics. See: consumer-focused RV buying tips by Liz Amazing.

What the Record Shows: Patterns of Complaints at the Cathedral City Store

This section synthesizes claims from recent low-star Google reviews for the Cathedral City location and other publicly available consumer sources. Multiple owners report similar issues around pricing transparency, add-on products, financing, delivery quality, service wait times, and paperwork delays. Below are the most frequently cited themes. To verify, browse the Google profile and sort by “Lowest rating” to read the full reviews at the source: Cathedral City Google Reviews.

Pricing Ambiguity and Add-On Pressure

Several low-star reviewers describe being quoted an attractive price initially, only to see non-optional “packages” and dealership fees added late in the process. Common add-ons mentioned in public reviews across the RV space include paint/fabric protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tire fills, alarm systems, and pre-delivery service packages. Multiple Cathedral City reviewers allege that declining these add-ons requires persistent pushback or risks derailing the deal. Consumers report line items appearing in the final worksheet that were not discussed up front, sometimes labeled as “mandatory.”

• Why this matters: Add-ons inflate the out-the-door price and, if financed, can dramatically increase the total interest paid over the life of the loan.
• Protect yourself: Demand a written, out-the-door price breakdown early and refuse any add-ons you did not request. Get pre-approved financing elsewhere to avoid pressure.

Want to help others avoid surprise fees? Tell readers which add-ons you were pitched and whether you successfully removed them.

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers vs. Advertised Pricing

Trade-in complaints often revolve around alleged “reconditioning” deductions and mid-process valuation changes. Reviews for the Cathedral City location describe scenarios where the advertised sale price is only achievable if the buyer gives up significant value in their trade, or where the trade value presented differs from earlier verbal estimates. This pattern can mimic “yo-yo” dynamics—though often legal, it undermines trust.

• Tip: Get written offers from multiple buyers (including online RV consignment or wholesale bidders) to benchmark your trade before visiting the dealership.

Financing and APR Surprises

Multiple recent low-star reviews commonly describe high APRs and last-minute finance office surprises after hours of negotiation. In the broader RV market, dealers sometimes “mark up” lender interest rates or push extended service contracts, GAP, and protection plans that significantly increase the monthly payment. Some Cathedral City reviewers report learning later that they were financed at a much higher rate than their credit profile warranted—attributed to add-on products embedded in the contract.

• Protect yourself: Arrive with a firm pre-approval from your bank or credit union, and compare the dealer’s offer line-by-line. Decline products you do not want.
• Do not sign under pressure: If paperwork doesn’t match the verbal deal, pause. It’s okay to walk away.

For more on dealer finance tactics and how to push back, see guidance from consumer advocates like Liz Amazing’s channel and cross-check any claims in contract documents.

Delivery Quality and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Gaps

Several Cathedral City reviews describe units delivered with unresolved defects—leaks, inoperative systems, slide issues, cosmetic damage, or missing parts—requiring immediate service visits. Reviewers frequently report that the in-house PDI failed to catch basic problems. When defects surface post-sale, the RV may be unusable for planned trips while waiting for parts and technician time. This is exactly why an independent PDI before acceptance is essential.

• Impact: Trip cancellations, hotel costs, storage fees, and warranty disputes about whether an item is “cosmetic” or “customer damage.”
• Action: Bring an inspector, create a punch list, and require written commitments with completion dates before you take possession.

Find qualified inspectors here: RV Inspectors near me. If blocked from using one, walk.

Service Scheduling Delays and Communication Breakdown

Low-star reviews for Cathedral City frequently mention weeks-long waits for appointments and prolonged repair timelines. Customers say communication can be inconsistent—calls not returned; status updates absent; and estimated completion dates slipping repeatedly. Some reviews assert the RV sat on the lot without progress while parts were on order, with little visibility into timelines.

• Ask for SLAs: Request written repair timelines, parts ETAs, and a named service advisor with reliable contact methods.
• Document everything: Email follow-ups and keep a log of calls and service promises.

Parts Delays and Warranty Claims

Industry-wide parts backlogs exist, but reviewers at this location report feeling stuck between the manufacturer and dealer. Some consumers say they are told it’s a manufacturer issue; manufacturers then point back to the dealer for scheduling. The result: units immobilized during peak season. This appears particularly acute for complex warranty items (slide mechanisms, leveling systems, roof leaks).

Paperwork Issues: Titles, Plates, and Temporary Tags

Multiple negative reviews cite significant delays receiving permanent plates and titles after purchase at the Cathedral City store. California law generally requires prompt submission of registration and title documents by dealers (often within about 20 days under Vehicle Code requirements for reports of sale); prolonged delays can lead to expired temp tags and potential citations for the owner. Poor internal processing or lender communication is sometimes cited as the cause.

• What to do: Before delivery, get written confirmation of when the dealership will submit paperwork and how you will receive plates and registration. Ask for proof of submission.

Advertising vs. Reality: Availability and “Bait-and-Switch” Claims

Several reviewers claim that units advertised online as available or at a specific price were not present upon arrival or were “sold earlier,” followed by efforts to redirect them to a different unit at a higher price or with mandatory add-ons. While inventories change rapidly, these patterns frustrate consumers and erode trust.

Deposit Refunds and Cancellation Disputes

Some low-star reviews describe challenges getting deposits refunded after a deal falls through or when defects are discovered prior to delivery. Consumers say they were given inconsistent timelines or needed to escalate to management. Terms around non-refundable deposits should be made crystal-clear before you leave any funds. Get promised refunds in writing with dates.

Technician Expertise and Quality of Work

Several reviewers allege workmanship issues post-repair—items returned still inoperative, new cosmetic damage, or temporary fixes that failed on the first trip. While RV systems are complex, repeated returns for the same issue point to training or workload constraints. Verify the store’s technician certifications and ask whether a senior tech will oversee critical repairs (roof, structural, slide mechanisms, propane systems).

Recall Handling and Safety Items

Consumers in the RV market frequently report delayed recall remedies due to parts availability and scheduling bottlenecks. Several reviews for Cathedral City mention difficulty getting recall work prioritized, leaving owners driving with unresolved safety defects. Always run your VIN through the recall system and ask for written proof that recall work is completed before you take delivery. If there’s a known open recall, ask for a loaner or a firm repair date before accepting the RV.

After-Sale Support and “Ghosting” Concerns

It’s not unusual to see reviews complaining that responsiveness drops after the sale is complete. Multiple Cathedral City reviewers claim delayed responses from their salesperson or finance contact when seeking help post-purchase. To counter this risk, route all critical questions to service in writing and ask for a single point of contact.

If you’ve had difficulty reaching staff after buying here, let other shoppers know how you finally got help and which channels worked best.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Based on complaint patterns described above, the following legal frameworks may be implicated if allegations are accurate:

• FTC Act and related FTC guidance: Deceptive or unfair practices related to advertising, pricing claims, and add-on disclosures may draw FTC scrutiny. See the Federal Trade Commission and its materials on auto dealer practices and the FTC Business Guidance.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs consumer warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty terms and tie-in sales. Learn more at the FTC’s Magnuson-Moss overview.
• California Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act/CLRA: California statutes protect consumers from misrepresentations and ensure warranty remedies for covered defects. See the California Attorney General’s consumer resources.
• California DMV and title/registration rules: Dealers are required to process paperwork promptly; significant delays can violate state requirements and harm consumers. If delays occur, consider filing a complaint with the DMV Investigations Division.
• Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR): If workmanship is substandard or repairs are mishandled, a complaint may be filed with the BAR, which oversees automotive repair facilities in California.
• NHTSA Recalls: Unresolved recall defects can present serious safety risks. Consumers can report safety issues directly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Consider documenting every interaction, saving all contracts, and keeping a timeline. If you suspect unlawful practices, you can also contact a consumer-protection attorney. And if you have a story that illustrates potential legal issues, share it with readers to help others protect themselves.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Service gaps and delivery defects aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous and financially devastating. Common failure points described by RV buyers across the market include:

• Water leaks: Roof, slide, or plumbing leaks can cause mold, rot, and electrical shorts. Early detection during a thorough PDI is essential to avoid long-term structural damage.
• Propane system faults: Loose fittings, defective regulators, or burner issues pose fire and carbon monoxide risks.
• Brake/axle/tire problems: Misadjusted brakes, under-torqued hubs, or incorrect tire inflation can lead to blowouts or loss of control at highway speeds.
• Electrical system defects: Inverters, converters, batteries, and wiring faults can cause fires or leave you stranded.
• Slide mechanisms and leveling systems: Mechanical failure can immobilize the unit or cause structural misalignment.

When a unit is delivered with undetected defects, owners often face immediate warranty repairs. If those repairs are backlogged or parts are delayed, planned trips and deposits are lost. That is why third-party inspections and detailed walk-through demonstrations are essential before acceptance.

How to Protect Yourself at This Location

• Insist on an independent PDI: Book a professional inspector to meet you at the Cathedral City lot. If refused, walk. Find one here: RV Inspectors near me.
• Demand an OTD price early: Ask for a line-item out-the-door quote in writing. Decline add-ons you don’t want.
• Arrive with financing: Get a credit union pre-approval and treat the dealer’s offer as optional.
• Check recalls by VIN: Require proof that all open recalls are closed before delivery. Document who signed off and when.
• Inspect on delivery day: Operate slides, run all appliances, check for leaks, test brakes (if towable, verify brake controller function), and note any cosmetic issues. Do not accept “we’ll fix it later” for major items.
• Get timelines in writing: If anything remains, obtain a signed punch list with firm completion dates.
• Document everything: Email key staff and save responses; maintain a repair log, photos, and video.

If you used the Cathedral City store recently, what steps most helped you avoid problems?

Small Signs of Improvement

Some reviewers note that specific staff members worked hard to resolve issues once escalated, and a handful of low-star reviews indicate that managers eventually authorized refunds on certain add-ons or expedited parts orders. The dealership’s responsiveness appears inconsistent, however: outcomes vary based on the advisor, department, and whether the customer persists. If you proceed with this location, escalate respectfully and quickly if timelines slip, and keep all confirmations in writing.

For coaching on escalation and documentation, you might also learn from consumer creators highlighting dealership accountability tactics, like these RV buyer protection videos by Liz Amazing.

Research Links and Evidence Paths

Use the following curated searches and forums to verify claims and find deeper owner narratives specifically about Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store – Cathedral City, CA. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed to broaden results.

• YouTube search: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA Issues
• Google search: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA Issues
• BBB lookup: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City CA Issues
• PissedConsumer: Browse and search for Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City (use the site’s search box)
• NHTSA recalls search (use VIN or brand; dealership context)
• RVForums.com (use onsite search for the dealership and model-specific issues)
• RVForum.net (search for dealer and brand discussions)
• RVUSA Forum (search “Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City Issues”)
• RVInsider search: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City
• Good Sam Community search: Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store Cathedral City
• Owner Facebook Groups (search your RV brand)

Reminder: always confirm you are reading about the Cathedral City location specifically. The dealership group has multiple Southern California stores and experiences can vary by site.

Context and Objectivity: How to Read Low-Star Reviews

Some low-star reviews are highly emotional, written at the worst moment in a buyer’s journey. Others are detailed, time-stamped narratives with documentation. Both matter, but the detailed reviews with dates, service orders, and names are the most helpful for verifying patterns. When you check the Cathedral City location’s Google profile, scan for these specifics and compare across multiple reviewers to identify repeated problems. Use the “Sort by Lowest rating” function to surface the most critical experiences quickly and compare them with neutral and positive reviews for balance.

Bottom Line for Shoppers

• Expect add-on pressure and negotiate hard: Insist on a clean, out-the-door price with all fees enumerated.
• Plan for potential service delays: If defects appear, you may wait weeks for parts and technician availability.
• Guard your financing: Enter the F&I office with a pre-approval and decline non-essential products.
• Paperwork vigilance: Confirm title/registration timelines and demand proof of submission to avoid plate delays.
• Inspect, inspect, inspect: Hire an independent inspector and do not accept the unit until major punch-list items are resolved in writing.

If you’ve had success—or setbacks—at this Cathedral City location, what would you do differently next time?

Final Assessment

The Cathedral City store’s online footprint shows a recurring pattern of consumer complaints about pricing transparency, add-on sales pressure, financing surprises, delivery quality issues, service backlogs, and paperwork delays. While some customers eventually receive satisfactory resolutions and individual staff members earn praise, the weight of low-star feedback signals that buyers here need to prepare meticulously: independent inspections, firm OTD pricing, strong documentation, and external financing are musts.

Based on the concentration of negative, detailed consumer reports and the seriousness of alleged post-sale service delays at the Cathedral City location, we do not recommend first-time or risk-averse RV buyers proceed with this dealership without extraordinary safeguards. If you cannot secure an independent inspection, transparent OTD pricing, and written service timelines before signing, consider shopping other Southern California dealerships with stronger recent service reputations.

Comments: Help Fellow RV Shoppers

Have you purchased from or serviced your RV at Mike Thompson’s RV Super Store – Cathedral City, CA? What happened, and how was it resolved? Your experience can help other buyers. Please share your story, including dates, department interactions, and outcomes.